Update on three of the Miracle 8

Many of you have asked about the Miracle 8 cheetahs and how they are thriving in the wild. Recently, Kevin shared a video on the Lion Whisperer Members Channel addressing this topic. While we don’t receive updates on all eight cheetahs—respecting their transition to new homes and independence—there’s exciting news about the three males residing at Amakhala Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape. These three are well-known thanks to their regular appearances on WildEarth TV. Having watched their journey on the channel, we decided it was time to pay them a visit.

A Visit to Amakhala Game Reserve

Amakhala, established in 1999, is a picturesque reserve and ideal cheetah habitat. Though lions are present, their small pride size creates a favourable environment for cheetahs to thrive. In December 2022, Amakhala welcomed the three Miracle 8 males, forming a strong coalition. After a long journey from Dinokeng, the cheetahs acclimatized in a boma for a month before being released.

Since their release, the coalition has remained inseparable, flourishing on the reserve’s western side, far from the lion territory.

Although a resident female cheetah occupies the eastern section, the males haven’t ventured toward her yet. Excitingly, Amakhala recently introduced another female, currently in a boma on the western side, where she’ll be released soon.

An Unforgettable Reunion

Our visit began with a drive to the western side of the reserve, where the cheetahs had been spotted earlier that day.

Before long, we saw familiar heads pop up in the grass—there they were! Seeing them again was an emotional and thrilling moment. Magnificent and muscular, they looked in peak condition—confident and relaxed.

Over three days, we enjoyed multiple sightings of the cheetahs, often accompanied by Natalie, Amakhala’s head of ecology. She explained that while the coalition is carefully monitored, intervention is minimal unless injuries occur. They have become formidable hunters since their release and have taken down prey like kudu, wildebeest, and zebra, though they seem particularly fond of ostrich.

Living Their Best Lives

While we miss the Miracle 8, we’re thrilled to see the boys thriving as truly wild cheetahs.

Their transition to Amakhala has been a remarkable success, a testament to their resilience and the reserve’s careful management.

A heartfelt thank you to Natalie Fowler, our guide Keenan, and the entire team at HillsNek Lodge for their incredible hospitality during our visit.