Unprecedented Discovery: Mummified Cheetahs Found in Saudi Caves

• Scientists discovered seven naturally mummified cheetahs and 54 skeletal remains in caves near Arar, northern Saudi Arabia.
• Radiocarbon dating indicates the cheetahs lived between 130 and over 1,800 years ago, a rare find for the region.
• Natural mummification occurred due to the caves' dry air and stable temperatures, protecting the remains from decay and scavengers.
• This discovery marks the first time DNA from naturally mummified large cats has been analyzed, revealing genetic links to modern Asian and Northwest African cheetahs.
• The findings offer crucial insights for future conservation and potential reintroduction efforts for cheetahs, which vanished from the Arabian Peninsula decades ago.

Why It Matters: Naturally mummified cheetahs found in Saudi caves provide unprecedented insights into ancient populations and conservation.