The Tano Bora, or “The Magnificent Five,” were a coalition of five male cheetahs that roamed the Masai Mara National Reserve and its surrounding conservancies. This extraordinary group challenged the typical solitary nature of male cheetahs, forming an unlikely alliance that captivated the hearts of wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike.A Brother Hood Beyond BloodTypically, cheetah cubs, after a period of maternal tutelage, strike out on their own or form pairs with siblings. Yet, the Tano Bora defied this norm. This coalition of five unrelated males—Olarishani, Olonyok, Winda, Leboo, and Olpadan—came together, defying the usual solitary or paired existence.

The two brothers, Olarishani and Olonyok, formed the heart of the coalition. Their bond, forged in the crucible of the African savanna, was the foundation upon which the group was built. Another pair of brothers, Winda and Leboo, joined forces, bringing their unique skills and strengths to the group. The final member, the solitary Olpadan, completed the quintet, his presence adding both power and mystery to the coalition.

Why these five chose to form such an unusual alliance remains a mystery to biologists and wildlife enthusiasts. Perhaps it was a strategic move to increase their hunting prowess and territory defense, or perhaps it was simply a bond forged in the harsh realities of the African savanna.

A Fall From GraceThe smallest of the Tano Bora, Olpadan arrived in the Masai Mara from the Serengeti with his sister, Siligi. Just a month after parting ways with her, he encountered his four future brothers in December 2016. Fearless and feisty, Olpadan quickly established himself as the dominant male, leading hunts and guiding the coalition across challenging terrain. However, his dominance often manifested in aggressive outbursts, particularly towards Olonyok. Thankfully, Olarishani, Olonyok’s brother, stepped in to protect his sibling, and eventually, due to his superior hunting skills and calming influence, became co-leader of the coalition alongside Olpadan.The Tano Bora’s hierarchy remained stable until early 2019, when the dynamic shifted. Winda and Leboo began targeting Olpadan, focusing their attacks on his sensitive areas. The severity of one such attack necessitated veterinary intervention, resulting in Olpadan undergoing orchiectomy surgery.

A change in the top spot triggered a hierarchical reshuffle. Olpadan, once the dominant male, was relegated to the lowest position. He was forced to endure the consequences of his past aggression, feeding last and losing his influence over the coalition’s hunting strategies.

Surprisingly, Olonyok, who had been a frequent target of Olpadan’s bullying, did not harbor resentment. Instead, he displayed remarkable tolerance, sharing meals and engaging in grooming sessions with his former tormentor. This unexpected act of kindness highlighted the complex social dynamics within the Tano Bora.

A Lonely End for the Once Mighty OlpadanOlpadan, once the dominant leader, was now a shadow of his former self. With shattered pride, he began to leave the coalition for short periods, only to return, tail between his legs. In one instance, he was seen following two foreign cheetahs, displaying submissive behavior. However, his attempt to join their group was unsuccessful.

When Olpadan tried to leave the coalition again in June 2021 to mate with a younger male named Kijana, the Tano Bora responded harshly. Upon his return, a fierce confrontation ensued, leaving Olpadan severely injured in his right eye.

Despite his injury, Olpadan managed to survive as a solitary cheetah for several months. However, his luck ran out on January 26, 2022, when he was found dead with injuries consistent with a cheetah attack. While the exact circumstances of his death remain unclear, some speculate that the Tano Bora may have been involved.

A Fractured Legacy: The Fall of the Nne BoraAfter Olpadan’s tragic demise, the remaining four cheetahs, now known as the Nne Bora (“Magnificent Four”), carried on. Olarishani and Winda continued to lead the group, displaying increased harmony and cooperation during hunts. The brothers successfully hunted large prey, including topi and wildebeest, by employing a strategic approach: one cheetah would stalk the prey while the others would assist in the final attack.

However, the harsh realities of the wild soon caught up with the Nne Bora. In early 2022, Olarishani was found with severe bite wounds, believed to have been inflicted by another cheetah. Despite veterinary intervention, Olarishani succumbed to his injuries on February 13, 2022.

The exact circumstances surrounding Olarishani’s death remain unclear. While some speculate that he may have been involved in a territorial dispute, the absence of his brother, Olonyok, during his final moments adds a layer of mystery to the story.

A legacy interrupted: The Tano Bora’s Enduring Impact The Tano Bora were an anomaly in the cheetah world. While they were a formidable force in the savannah, their complex social dynamics ultimately led to their downfall. Olpadan, the dominant male, struggled to coexist with other males, while Olarishani’s peaceful nature may have hindered his ability to protect the coalition.

Now, the remaining three cheetahs, known as the Tatu Bora, continue their journey in the Masai Mara, led by the experienced Winda.

Despite their untimely demise, the Tano Bora’s legacy endures. Their story serves as a testament to the power of unity and the extraordinary nature of the African wild. Their tale continues to inspire and captivate wildlife enthusiasts worldwide, reminding us of the delicate balance of the savannah and the importance of conservation efforts.