It is mainly terrestrial but can also climb trees, especially when escaping from predators. It moves loosely through rocky country, where it can spend the day hidden among the rocks. Solitary and territorial, sets its boundaries by spraying shrubs with urine mixed with anal gland secretions. It is mostly silent, but can communicate using a hoarse yap. Its relative small size makes it a putative victim of larger predators, specifically leopards and possibly lions.
Great eagles can prey on cubs.
Its longevity is 8-10 years. It can procreate all year round, though the peak of births is in the rain season. Gestation lasts 2-2.5 months. The cubs, from 1 to 4 in each litter, are delivered under cover and hidden in rock crevices or hollow trees. Two weeks later they open their eyes, and at 4-6 weeks they start eating meat.