In late November, I had found a very pregnant female cheetah who I was fortunate to see again over a week's time. Unfortunately, I had to leave for meetings in Nairobi for more than a week following this period. Since my return to the field I have not seen her again, but expect that she had given birth while I was away. Early this morning, I chose to detour from the sighting location that I usually pass by to check for her on this route, but would take it on my way back in the afternoon. Well, I am elated that I did! Even though I did not see her, fresh spoor (tracks) in the exact location and direction where I had seen them during her presence in November, had resurfaced. This gives me hope that they may be hers, indicating that she is, in fact, still in the area. I will have to return and try confirm its her, of course, but finding the natural signs of a study animal can be just as rewarding, sometimes, as seeing them physically.
