It is vulnerable to habitat destruction through agricultural expansion and the resulting loss of natural prey. It is difficult to breed in captivity. Lincoln Park Zoo participates in the Cheetah Species Survival Plan. Prey is suffocated with a bite to the underside of the throat. Hunts during the heat of day, avoiding competition with larger cats.
Females are solitary except when raising cubs, and follow migratory herds of gazelles.
Most males are territorial, marking with urine, feces and scratch marks. Males often live in permanent groups of 2-4, sometimes composed of littermates. Prey is hunted by stalk and chase. The cheetah is the fastest living land mammal, reaching speeds of over 60 mph for brief periods. Capable of climbing.