Cheetahs to roam free on island

An area on Sir Bani Yas is to be devoted to the predators. If they adapt well, they will be released into the wild.

ABU DHABI // Two African cheetahs will join other exotic species in the Sir Bani Yas Island nature reserve. The big cats, to be imported within a year, will be fitted with radio tags so they can always be located. "They're going to be allowed to roam free once they're acclimatised," said William Heinecke, chief executive of Minor, which operates the Desert Islands Resort and Spa on Sir Bani Yas.

"You set up salt licks out where they will come. During the day, when it's hot, they hang around the trees but once it cools off you can see them. Often you set up observation points." An area on Sir Bani Yas is to be devoted to the predators. If they adapt well, they will be released into the wild. Cheetahs are the fastest land animals in the world, chasing their prey at speeds of up to 110 kph.

The spotted cats are considered a vulnerable species in the wild. The pair to be brought to Sir Bani Yas is the species closest to its lost Arabian cousin still available. Mr Heinecke said he did not fear for any humans infringing on cheetah territory. "I'm sure they're going to be well fed and provided with lots of area," he said. "Most of these animals are very shy." Cheetahs now live mostly in southern Africa, although many are kept in zoos around the world. They are distinguished by their black spots and black "tear" marks that run from the corners of their eyes to the bottom of their chins. An adult cheetah weighs about 65kg and, because of its speed, has virtually no predator besides man.

The cats are declining in numbers due to a loss of habitat and prey. @Email:[e-mail]