The cheetah may be found in open grassland and nearby forests in many parts of Africa, the Middle East, and south-central Asia, where it hunts by day, from the ground, and seeks antelope and other grazing animals. Sexual maturity is reached about 20-23 months. Mating can occur any time of the year. Gestation lasts for 91-95 days. Litter size can be 1-8 cubs, but the average is three.
Cheetahs live alone or in small groups numbering up to six individuals.
Females live alone except when raising cubs and are not territorial. Adult male litter-mates sometimes stick together to form 'coalitions', but unrelated males may also sometimes form groups to defend larger territories. Instead of hiding near a water hole or along a game track, like other cats. It quietly stalks their prey, then runs it down, being the fastest mammal in the world often achieving speeds more than 80 mph for short distances. Chases last from 20 seconds to one minute, only half are successful.