Cheetahs persist in the wild in the remote Awdal region of Somaliland

Abstract Although cheetahs Acinonyx jubatus were once widespread in the Horn of Africa, their presence Somaliland has not been confirmed since 2010, and they have presumed extirpated recent years. During 2021–2022 Cheetah Conservation Fund Ministry Environment Climate Change carried out two rapid surveys Awdal region western to investigate status cheetah this area. The team collected socio-ecological data from 26 villages for a total 13 days. In both years people most reported sightings cheetahs, also received multiple reports predation on small livestock (sheep goats) by cheetahs. We investigated presence. This led finding set tracks, which we followed > 250 m, large feline scrapes, approximately size expected cheetah. 2020 2022 direct evidence form mature carcasses. first instance was as having shot defence livestock, second apparently poison-baited. Both accompanied photographic records. combination social ecological means that can confirm wild Somaliland. will now prioritize work with local communities understand mitigate human–cheetah conflict continue distribution throughout