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Description
Cheetah are both diurnal and nocturnal. Records from Etosha and the Kalahari confirm their nocturnal habits. These cats rely on their considerable speed over short distances of up to 400 metres when hunting. The long legs have non-retractable claws which provide on additional grip on the ground and aid their swift, sideways, jinking movements. Hunting is also aided by excellent sight. This species is not dangerous to man. When encountered on foot, a cheetah will look long and hard in your direction and then move off at great speed. They can, however, be aggressive under captive conditions and it is always advisable to handle them with care. A whack in the face with those long claws will not easily be forgotten.
Mortality is high in cubs, which fall victim to lion, spotted hyaena, wild dogs and leopard, as well as to large eagles, within the first three months of being born. Adults are sometimes killed by lions. The numbers of cheetah are surprisingly low in areas with suitable prey, for example the Kruger National Park. Competition from other carnivores could be a limiting factor. Cheetah are found in a wide range of habitats although they prefer open grassland and light woodland. The voice is a chirping, bird-like call, with hissing and spitting, low growls and purring.
Diet
A carnivorous species. Preys on medium-sized antelope, guinea fowl, hares, springhares, porcupines, bustards and ostrich, and is prone to attack domestic stock. Prey is run down at considerable speed and often bowled over by having the hind legs knocked out from under it. Death is brought about by strangulation. It will not eat carrion or anything that has not been freshly killed. It is thought to be fairly independent of water, but will drink readily when water is available.
Faeces
Not unlike that of the leopard. Remain dark in colour.
Spoor: Distinctive track clearly showing the claws which are non-retractable. A narrower track than that of the spotted hyaena, with toes more evenly spaced.