Habibi K. 2004. Mammals of Afghanistan,Report 168 p.

The cheetah is very likely to be extinct in Afghanistan. Depletion of prey and the building of highways in its habitat are the main causes of population decline in the country. No sightings have been reported since the 1950s.

Habibi_2004_Mammals_of_Afghanistan.pdf

Hain J. 1994. NAPHA - Raspeco Meeting. 3 p.

The goal of this meeting was to generate guidelines for ethical hunting of the cheetah in Namibia, with an emphasis on sustainable utilization and long-term conservation of the species.

Hain_1994_NAPHA_-_Raspeco_Meeting.pdf

Hamdine O. 2001. Conservation du Guépard (Acinonyx jubatus Schreber, 1776) dans les régions de: L'Ahaggar et du Tassili N'Adjer (En Algérie) Gland Suisse: A.N.N. et UICN; 49 p.

The remaining populations of cheetah in North Africa are in danger of extinction if no measures are taken to protect their prey species and habitat. A conservation action plan is of utmost importance to improve environmental conditions for this "vulnerable" species. Besides caracals and wild cats the cheetah is one of the last felids in northern Africa. Actually there exists no study on the cheetah's ecology in Algeria. The report includes a description of the research site and the cheetah, its present situation in Algeria and recommendations for conservation measures.

Hamdine_ 2001_Conservation_of_cheetahs_in_Algeria.pdf

Hamdine W, Meftah T, Sehki A. 2003. Répartition et statut du guépard (Acinonyx jubatus Schrebert, 1776) dans le Sahara central algérien (Ahaggar et Tassili). Mammalia 67(3):439-43.

Recent data of the presence of the Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus Schreber, 1776) in the central Sahara have allowed to actualize his geographical distribution. Nevertheless, the estimation of population numbers remains vague in the Ahaggar and Tassili n'Ajire's region. The current status of the species in Algeria (according to criteria of the IUCN, 1994) is evoked. A brief analyzes of factors of regressions and the problem of protection of the Cheetah is stated in this study. Although still present in the region, the author considered that the species was on the brink of extinction mainly because of the poaching pressure by local nomads (11 cheetahs officially killed between 1995 and 1998).

Cet article, dans lequel un résumé en français est fourni, résume les données récemment collectées sur la présence du guépard dans les régions de l'Ahaggar et du Tassili N'Ajjer (Algérie). Le lecteur peut se référer au tableau joint pour prendre connaissance des observations de guépard. Bien qu'encore présent dans la région, l'auteur considère que l'espèce est au bord de l'extinction principalement en raison de la pression de braconnage exercée par les nomades (11 guépards ont été officiellement tués entre 1995 et 1998).

Hamdine_et_al_2003_Status_and_distribution_of_the_cheetah_in_central_Algeria.pdf

Hamilton,P.H. The leopard Panthera pardus and the Cheetah Acinonyx jubatus in Kenya.

Ecology, status, conservation and management of the leopard and the cheetah in Kenya. Detailed description of the status of the two species. The author estimates the number of cheetahs up to three times as high as Myers (1979) did, so up to 3600 individuals.

Hamilton_1981_Leopard_and_Cheetah_in_Kenya.pdf         

Hamilton_1981_The_Leopard_and_the_Cheetah_in_Kenia_1.pdf

Hamilton_1981_The_Leopard_and_the_Cheetah_in_Kenya_2.pdf

Hamilton,P.H. Status of the cheetah in Kenya, with reference to sub-Saharn Africa. Book chapter.

For over 20 years the cheetah has been regarded by numerous respected wildlife authorities as on the brink of extinction in Kenya. This survey, however, suggests that the status of the species is probably better in Kenya and Africa then is generally believed. It also suggests that some aspects of the cheetah's ecology and behavior may have been misunderstood. The cheetah survey indicated that the species' distribution in Kenya has apparently changed little since 1962 despite the spread of human settlement. The cheetah continues to survive in areas where its extinction by 1980 had been predicted and is even a nuisance as a stock-raider. In most of Kenya's rangelands, where the leopard has declined from poaching, the cheetah appears to be thriving and my have benefited from the reduction of other predators. The evidence suggests that the cheetah is less of an open country animal than is generally believed and actually thrives in bushland, hunting its prey by stealth and benefiting from the protection provided by cover. Its tendency to wander more widely than the leopard and its less predictable habits make it more difficult to poach. Its reluctance to scavenge safeguards it from poisoning and trapping. Because of its timidity, it tends to avoid man and thus can co-exist with nomadic pastoralism better than the leopard. In conclusion, the cheetah emerges not as a feeble and poorly adapted predator "racing towards extinction" but as a remarkably successful predator supremely adapted to maintaining populations at low densities over large expanses of arid and semi-arid lands.

Hamilton_1986_Status_Of_The_Cheetah_In_Kenya.pdf

Happold DCD. 1973. The distribution of large mammals in West Africa. Mammalia 37(1):88-93.

The author presents the distribution of the large mammals present in 16 countries of West Africa based on a bibliographic synthesis and his personal correspondence with mammalogists and foresters. According his research, the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is present in Senegal, Togo, Dahomey, Nigeria, Cameroon, Mauritania, Mali, Upper Volta, and Niger. It is absent in Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Ghana. It is probably absent in Portuguese Guinea and Guinea and its presence is suspected by local authorities in Ivory Coast.

L'auteur présente la répartition des grands mammifères présents dans les 16 pays d'Afrique de l'Ouest basée sur une synthèse bibliographique et sa correspondance avec des mammalogistes et des forestiers. D'après ses recherches, le guépard (Acinonyx jubatus) est présent au Sénégal, au Togo, au Dahomey, Nigeria, Cameroun, Mauritanie, Mali, Haute Volta et au Niger. Il est absent de Gambie, de Sierra Leone, du Liberia et du Ghana. Il est probablement absent de la Guinée Portugaise et de la Guinée et sa présence est suspectée par les autorités locales en Côte d'Ivoire.

Happold_1973_Distribution_of_mammals_in_West_Africa.pdf

Happold DCD. 1987. Mammals of the Sudan and Sahel savannas. In:Happold DCD, editor. The Mammals of Nigeria. Oxford: Oxford University Press; p 271-287.

Chapter 17 lists mammals living in the Sudano-Sahel Savanna. The cheetah is mentioned for the Yankari Game Reserve in Nigeria.

Happold_1987_Mammals_of_Sudano-Sahel_savanna.pdf

Happold DCD. 1987. Checklist of Nigerian mammals (Table). In:Happold DCD, editor. The Mammals of Nigeria. Oxford: Oxford University Press; p 10-16.

Checklist of Nigerian mammals (Table).

Happold_1987_Checklist_of_Nigerian_mammals.pdf

Happold DCD. 1987. Cheetah distribution map. In: Happold DCD, editor. The Mammals of Nigeria. Oxford: Oxford University Press; p 370.

Cheetah distribution map of Nigeria.

Happold_1987_Distribution_map_for_cheetahs_in_Nigeria.pdf

Happold DCD. 1987. Mammals distribution in West Africa (Table). In:Happold DCD, editor. The Mammals of Nigeria. Oxford: Oxford University Press; p 347-353.

Appendix 5 lists mammals for the West African countries. The cheetah is listed for 9 of the 14 countries.

Happold_1987_Mammals_distribution_in_West_Africa.pdf

Happold DCD. 1987. Introduction. In:Happold DCD, editor. The Mammals of Nigeria. Oxford: Oxford University Press; p 1-9.

The introduction describes the enviroment of Nigeria and the properties of the Sahelo Savanna.

Happold_1987_Mammals_of_Nigeria_-_Introduction.pdf

Happold DCD. 2000. Nigerian Mammals. Nigerian Field 65(3/4):193-211.

In this article about mammals in Nigeria, the cheetah is classified among the vulnerable species and of which the populations decline.

Dans cette article sur les mammifères du Nigeria, le guépard est classé parmi les espèces vulnérables et dont les populations sont en déclin.

Happold_2000_Nigerian_mammals.pdf

Harrington FA jr. 1977. "Nature reserves and Felidae in Iran". In: Harrington FAjr, editor. A guide to the mammals of Iran. Tehran: Department of the Environment.

The document includes topographical and cultural maps of Iran, as well as maps of protected areas. Historical and biological information of mammals are given. Although the Asian Cheetah was believed to be in serious danger of extinction in the 1950s, the establishment of several reserves in Iran has helped the Cheetah in its struggle for survival.

Harrington_1977_Nature_reserves_and_Felidae_in_Iran.pdf

Harrison DL. 1981. Family Felidae (Cats). In: Mammals of The Arabian Gulf. p 52-55.

Biological and ecological description of the cheetah. The species was probably already extinct in the Gulf region, where in the past it has been recorded in the area of Kuwait.

Harrison_1981_Family_Felidae_Arabian_Gulf.pdf

Harrison DL, Bates PJJ. 1991. Felidae. In: The mammals of Arabia. 2 ed. Sevenoaks, UK: Harrison Zoological Museum; p 156-172.

Morphological description of the cheetah in Arabia, including skull and dentition. In addition, there is information about the former distribution and last observations of the species in this area. In Oman a specimen was shot as late as 1977, and in Yemen an individual was seen in 1963. The authors consider that it may still have existed in Iraq at that time.

Harrison_&_Bates_1991_Mammals_of_Arabia_-_The_cheetah.pdf

Harrison DL. 1968. Cheetah. In:Harrison DL, editor. The mammals of Arabia: Carnivora, Artiodactyla, Hyracoidea. London: Ernest Benn Limited; p 308-313.

In this extract of the Arabian mammal's book, the author provides a detailed description of the external and cranial characteristics, teeth, Arabian Peninsula distribution with a distribution map and the world distribution of the cheetah Acinonyx jubatus.

Dans cet extrait du livre sur les mammifères d'Arabie, l'auteur donne une description détaillée des caractéristiques externes et crâniennes, de la dentition, de la distribution dans la Péninsule Arabe avec une carte de distribution et de la distribution mondiale du guépard Acinonyx jubatus.

Harrison_1968_Mammals_of_Arabia_-_The_cheetah.pdf

Harrison DL, Bates. 1991. Cheetah. In: Mammals of Arabia. second ed. Sevenoaks, UK: Harrisson Zoological Museum; p 170-172.

In this extract of the Arabian mammal's book, the author provides a detailed description of the external and cranial characteristics, teeth, Arabian Peninsula distribution with a distribution map.

Harrison_&_Bates_1991_Cats_of_Arabia.pdf

Harrison_Mathews_1951_Cheetah_in_Arabia.pdf

Hatough-Bouran A, Disi AM. 1991. History, Distribution and Conservation of large Mammals and their Habitats in Jordan. Environmental Conservation 18(1):19-44.

Some rock drawings of the prepottery neolothic period illustrating cheetah provide the evidence of this occurrence in Jordan during this period. The cheetah occurrence has also been proven thanks to mosaics in the Qasr Hallabat castle (8th century). Now, the cheetah has very probably disappeared in Jordan.

Des peintures rupestres représentant du guépard de l'époque du Néolithique Pré poterie fournit la preuve de son existence en Jordanie à cette période. La présence du guépard a été également été mise en évidence grâce aux mosaïques du château de Qasr Hallabat datant du 8ième siècle, le guépard a fort probablement disparu de la Jordanie.

Hatough-Bouran_&_Disi_1991_Large_mammals_in_Jordan.pdf

Hatt RT. 1959. Cheetah. In:Hatt RT, editor. The mammals of Iraq. Michingan: Ann Arbor. Univ of Michigan; p 46-52.

In this extract, it is said that the cheetah to rapidly approaching extinction in Iraq. It was not uncommon in the low districts of the Tigris and Euphrates at the beginning of the XIXth century. The different sites where the cheetah has been seen are cited: Mesopotamia, Jumaimu, Al Busaiya, Basra, Kuwait and near the intersection of the Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Iraq borders. Arabs hunted for it southeast of Baghdad.

Dans cet extrait, il est dit que le guépard approche rapidement de l'extinction en Irak. Il n'était pas rare dans les districts du Tigre et de l'Euphrate au début du XIX siècle. Les différents sites où le guépard a été observés sont: Mésopotamie, Jumaimu, Al Busaiya, Basra, Koweït et près de l'intersection des frontières de l'Arabie Saoudite, de la Jordanie et de l'Irak. Les Arabes le chassent au sud-est de Bagdad.

Hatt_1959_Felidae_of_Iraq.pdf

Deciding what to eat can be surprisingly complex if you're on of Africa's big five predators. As researcher matt Hayward explains, lions leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs and hyaenas all make calculated decisions about what to hunt - choices that have important implications for the conservation of both predator and prey.

Hayward_2009_Guess_who_we_are_having_for_dinner.pdf

Hayward MW, Hofmeyr M, O'Brien JO, Kerley GIH. 2006. Prey preferences of the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) (Felidae:Carnivora): morphological limitations or the need to capture rapidly consumable prey before kleptoparasites arrive? J. Zool., Lond. 270, 615-627.

As a charismatic carnivore that is vulnerable to extinction, many studies have been conducted on predation by the cheetah Acinonyx jubatus. Cheetah are generally considered to capture medium-sized prey; however, which species are actually preferred and why has yet to be addressed. We used data from 21 published and two unpublished studies from six countries throughout the distribution of the cheetah to determine which prey species were preferred and which were avoided using Jacobs' index. The mean Jacobs' index value for each prey species was used as the dependent variable in multiple regression, with prey abundance and prey body mass as predictive variables. Cheetah prefer to kill and actually kill the most available prey present at a site within a body mass range of 23-56 kg with a peak (mode) at 36 kg. Blesbok, impala, Thomson's and Grant's gazelles, and springbok are significantly preferred, whereas prey outside this range are generally avoided. The morphological adaptations of the cheetah appear to have evolved to capture medium-sized prey that can be subdued with minimal risk of injury. Coincidentally, these species can be consumed rapidly before kleptoparasites arrive. These results are discussed through the premise of optimality theory whereby decisions made by the predator maximize the net energetic benefits of foraging. Information is also presented that allows conservation managers to determine which prey species should be in adequate numbers at cheetah reintroduction sites to support a cheetah population. Conversely, these results will illustrate which potential prey species of local conservation concern should be monitored for impact from cheetahs as several species are likely to be preyed upon more frequently than others.

Hayward_et_al_2006_Prey_preferences_of_the_cheetah.pdf

Hayward MW, Adendorff J, O'Brien J, Sholto-Douglas A, Bissett C, Moolman LC, Bean P, Fogarty A, Howarth D, Slater R, Kerley GIH. 2007. Practical Considerations for the Reintroduction of Large, Terrestrial, Mammalian Predators Based on Reintroductions to South Africa`s Eastern Cape Province. The Open Conservation Biology Journal 1:1-11.

Hayward_et_al_2007_Assessment_of_large_carnivore_reintroduction_to_the_Eastern_Cape.pdf

Hayward_et_al_2007_Carrying_capacity_of_large_African_predators.pdf

Recently, conservation estate in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province has increased 10-fold resulting in large predators being increasingly reintroduced to restore ecological integrity and maximize tourism. We describe the reintroductions of large carnivores (>10 kg) that have occurred in the Eastern Cape and use various criteria to assess their success. Lion Panthera leo reintroduction has been highly successful with a population of 56 currently extant in the region and problems of overpopulation arising. The African wild dog Lycaon pictus population has increased to 24 from a founder population of 11. Preliminary results for spotted hyaenas Crocuta crocuta  also indicate success. Wild populations of leopards Panthera pardus exist on several reserves and have been supplemented by translocated individuals, although deaths of known individuals have occurred and no estimate of reproduction is available. Cheetah Acinonyx jubatus  reintroduction has also been less successful with 36 individuals reintroduced and 23 cubs being born but only 41 individuals surviving in 2005. Criteria for assessing the success of reintroductions of species that naturally occur in low densities, such as top predators, generally have limited value. Carrying capacity for large predators is unknown and continued monitoring and intensive management will be necessary in enclosed, and possibly all, conservation areas in the Eastern Cape to ensure conservation success.

Hayward_et_al_2007_Practical_considerations_for_the_reintroduction_of_large_predators.pdf

Heath D. 1997. Leopard and cheetah management in Zimbabwe.  1-4. Ministry of Environment & Tourism, Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management ZIMBABWE. Ref Type: Serial (Book, Monograph)

The introduction of sport hunting has greatly improved the general acceptance of both leopard and cheetah in Zimbabwe and resulted in a decline in persecution and contributed to an increase in numbers, particularly of leopard. The first experiments with the sport hunting of cheetah have proved successful and resulted in a softening of rancher attitude towards the species. An increase in efficiency in the administration of the hunting of cheetah in 1997 will further increase the commercial utilization of the species and a decline in the numbers being shot on problem animal control.

Heath_1997_Leopard_and_cheetah_management_in_Zimbabwe.pdf

Hedrick PW. 1987. Genetic bottleneck. Science 237(28 August 1987), 963.

The article by R. Lewin about genetic bottlenecks in house flies and supposed genetic bottlenecks in cheetahs may be misleading, particularly when applied to conservation genetics. It appears that captive conditions also contribute to poor breeding quality in cheetahs. Caution is the best approach when interpreting research results for application to conservation genetics.

Hedrick_1987_Genetic_bottleneck.pdf

Hedrick PW. 1996. Bottleneck(s) or metapopulation in cheetahs. Conservation Biology 10(3):897-9.

The "cheetah paradigm" proposes that a low level of genetic variation has resulted in a high probability of extinction for this species, a connection that has recently been questioned. I do not wish to address this controversy further but to suggest that the extent of genetic variation observed in cheetahs, including the recent minisatellite and microsatellite data, is consistent with the equilibrium heterozygosity expected from the small effective population size that may occur because of  metapopulation dynamics, that is, because of extinction and re-colonization of habitat patches. In other words, a severe, ancient population bottleneck or a series of ancient bottlenecks "over time, over space or both, with small populations being founded and surviving, while the larger parent populations died out" at the end of Pleistocene (10,000 to 12,000 years ago) are not the only explanations for the observed pattern of genetic variation in cheetahs. Alternative possibilities are presented.

Hedrick_1996_Bottleneck(s)_or_metapopulation_in_cheetahs.pdf

Hedrick PW, Lacy RC, Allendorf FW, Soulé ME. 1996. Directions in Conservation Biology: Comments on Caughley. Conservation Biology 10(5):1312-20.

The recent review by Caughley (1994) on approaches used in conservation biology suggested that there are two: the small population paradigm and the declining population paradigm. We believe that this division is overly simplistic and that it should not be perpetuated. Both the deterministic factors that reduce population size and the stochastic factors that lead to the final extinction of a small population are critical to consider in preventing extinction. Only through an overall and comprehensive effort, which we call inclusive population viability analysis, can extinction  processes be understood and mitigated. In this context we discuss Caughley's comments about genetics, demography, and general population viability, with particular attention to cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) and Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus sp.).

Hedrick_et_al_1996_Directions_in_Conservation_Biology.pdf

Heeney JL, Evermann JF, McKeirnan AJ, Marker-Kraus L, Roelke ME, Bush ME, Wildt DE, Meltzer DG, Lukas CJ, Manton VJ, Caro TM, O'Brien SJ. 1990. Prevalence and implications of feline coronavirus infections of captive and free-ranging cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Journal of Virology 64:1964-72.

The extent and progression of exposure to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) virus in the cheetah, Acinonyx jubatus, was monitored by a world-wide serological survey with indirect fluorescent antibody titers to coronarvirus. The indirect fluorescent antibody assay was validated by Western blots, which showed that all indirect fluorescent antibody-positive cheetah sera detected both domestic cat and cheetah coronarvirus structural proteins. There was a poor correlation between indirect fluorescent antibody results and the presence of coronaviruslike particles in cheetah faeces, suggesting that electron microscopic detection of shed particles may not be an easily interpreted diagnostic parameter for FIP disease. Low, but verifiable (by Western blots [immunoblots]) antibody titers against coronavirus were detected in eight free-ranging cheetahs from east Africa as well from captive cheetahs throughout the world. Of 20 North American cheetah facilities screened, 9 had cheetahs with measurable antibodies to feline coronavirus. Five facilities showed patterns of an ongoing epizootic. Retrospective FIP virus titers of an FIP outbreak in a cheetah-breeding facility in Oregon were monitored over a 5-year period and are interpreted here in term of clinical disease progression. During that outbreak the morbidity was over 90% and the mortality was 60%, far greater than any previously reported epizootic of FIP in any cat species. Age of infection was a significant risk factor in this epizootic, with infants (less than 3 months old) displaying significantly higher risk for mortality than subadults or adults. Based upon these observations, empirical generalizations are drawn which address epidemiologic concerns for cheetahs in the context of this lethal infectious agent.

Heeney_et_al_1990_Feline_coronavirus_infections_of_cheetahs.pdf

Heim de Balsac H. 1936. Mammiferes: Biogeographie des mammiferes et des oiseaux de l'Afrique du Nord [dissertation]. Faculté des Sciences de l'Universitée de Paris. 47 p.

The author focused his PhD work on zoogeography of mammals and birds in northern Africa. The study area included Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia as well as northern Mauritania and western Lybia. Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus hecki) was mentioned in the mammal list derived from field surveys and a review of literature.

L'auteur se concentre sur son travail de thèse sur la zoogéographie des mammifères et des oiseaux du nord de l'Afrique. La zone d'étude inclus le Maroc, l'Algérie, le nord de la Mauritanie et l'ouest de la Lybie. Le guépard (Acinonyx jubatus hecki) était mentionné dans la liste des mammifères tirée des inventaires et d'une revue bibliographique.

Heim_de_Balsac_1936_Birds_and_Mammals_of_North Africa.pdf

Hein J. 1995. Extracts from a NAPHA-Raspeco Meeting, 24 March 1995 2 p.

The general function of the NAPHA-Raspeco sub-committee is for all involved to look toward plans for the future. The short-term plan includes sub-committee members to encourage other farmers to sign the Compact. With this in mind, it is important that the members of the sub-committee should help in the educational process with NAPHA members, farmers and farm workers in their community.

Hein_1995_Extracts_from_a_NAPHA-Raspeco_Meeting.pdf

Hemmer H. 1979. Fossil history of living Felidae. Carnivore II:58-61.

The cheetah Acinonyx pardinensis  apparently inhabiting most open habitats of the Old World in the whole Villafranchian up to the lower Middle Pleistocene. Remains of this species have been found at several sites in Europe, northern China and India. Fossils cheetahs also exist in some African faunas of Lower Pleistocene or lower Middle Pleistocene age but are still concealed under other generic and specific names. The distributional history and the origin of the modern cheetah are completely unknown at present.

Le guépard Acinonyx pardinensis occupe apparemment la plupart des habitats ouverts de l'Ancien Monde pendant tout le Villafranchien jusqu'au Pléistocène Moyen Inférieur. Les restes de cette espèce ont été trouvé dans plusieurs sites d'Europe, au nord de la Chine et en Inde. Les fossiles de guépards existent également dans des faunes africaines de l'âge du Pléistocène Inférieur ou au Pléistocène Moyen Inférieur mais sont encore cachés sous d'autres genres et noms d'espèce. La distribution historique et l'origine du guépard actuel sont totalement inconnues.

Hemmer_1979_Fossil_history_of_living_Felidae.pdf

The fossil site of Dmanisi (southern Georgia) has yielded a significant amount of hominin remains dated to around 1.8 Ma, in addition to a rich contemporaneous faunal record. Based on topographic information combined with an updated list of the vertebrate faunal assemblage, the corresponding palaeo-landscape has been reconstructed. Over a distance of some kilometres the landscape pattern changed from that of a forested valley floor, to tree savannah and open grasslands, thus providing typical habitats for carnivores hunting in open spaces. Morphological analysis of the elements from a nearly complete cat's foreleg reveals the existence of a large and stoutly built cheetah, Acinonyx pardinensis (Croizet et Jobert, 1828) s.l., in the Dmanisi faunal assemblage. Body mass estimations based on the humerus and metacarpals point to a cat of around 100 kg. The amount of pure meat and associated leftovers produced by the cheetah's hunting activity available for other consumers has been estimated. Within Early Pleistocene ecosystems, the cheetah must be considered as a potential fresh prime meat supplier, above that of any other felid.

Hemmer_et_al_2011_The_cheetah_Acinonyx_pardinensis_at_hominin_site_of_Dmanisi.pdf

Hildebrand M. 1959. Motions of the running cheetah and horse. J Mamm 40(4):481-95.

The cheetah is the fastest of animals for a short dash and the horse has superlative endurance. These animals differ greatly in body size, so it is instructive to compare their ways of running. Analysis was made from slow-motion moving-picture sequences by tracing images of successive frames and arranging them in correct spatial relation to one another. The cheetah can sprint at 70 to 75 mph; the horse can attain 44 mph for 300 yds. The cheetah seldom runs more than 1/4mi., the horse can run at 20.5 mph for 20mi., and its rate of travel declines only slowly as distances increase over 30 mi. The endurance of the Mongolian wild ass is apparently superior to that of the horse. The horse uses the transverse gallop, usually covers 19 to 25 ft. per stride and complete about 21/4 strides per sec. At 35 mph. Its body is suspended once in each stride, during one-quarter of the stride interval. The leading front and trailing hind limbs support the body longer than their opposites. A change of lead usually occurs first for the front feet, but must be anticipated well before the trailing front foot strikes the ground. The forward motion of the front limbs as they pivot on the supporting feet raises the forequarters, but the resulting deceleration of the body is negligible. Its mass and inertia require that the horse minimize the motion of one part of the body relative to another and move its centre of mass in a nearly withers and croups, and the back is relatively rigid. The cheetah uses rotary gallop, covers as much ground per stride as the horse, and at 45 mph completes about 21/2 strides per sec. The body has two long periods of suspension (and probably a short one) in each stride, adding up to half of the stride. The trailing front foot is on the ground a little longer than the leading foot; the two hind feet have about equal periods of support. Changes of lead are smoothly accomplished, and can be initiated an instant before the trailing front foot strikes the ground. The front limbs do not raise the forequarters. Body size is about optimum for maximum speed: it is small enough so body form and motion can be adapted for speed with very little regard for efficiency, yet large enough to gain a long and rapid stride, as noted below. The feet are lifted high. There is pronounced up-and-down motion of shoulders and pelvis, and marked flexion and extension of the spine. Flexion and extension of the back contribute to speed by: (1) increasing the swing of the limbs, thus increasing the distance covered during suspended phases of the stride and increasing the duration of the supported phases; (2) advancing the limbs more rapidly, since two independent groups of muscles (spine muscles and intrinsic limb muscles) acting simultaneously can move the limbs faster than one group acting alone; (3) contributing to increased maximum forward extension of the limbs, which permits their greater backward acceleration before they strike the ground; (4) moving the body forward in measuring-worm fashion; and (5) reducing the relative forward velocity of the girdles when their respective limbs are propelling the body. Speed is the product of stride rate times length. Relative to shoulder height, the length of the cheetah's stride is about twice that of the horse. Factors contributing to its longer stride are: (1) two principal suspension periods per stride instead of one; (2) greater proportion of suspension in total stride; (3) greater swing of limbs, so they strike and leave the ground at more acute angles; and (4) flexion and extension of the spine synchronized with action of the limbs so as to produce progressions by a measuring-worm motion of the body. The rate of the cheetah's stride is faster than that of the horse because: (1) its smaller muscles have faster inherent rates of contraction; (2) its limbs are moved simultaneously by independent groups of muscles; (3) its feet move farther after starting their down strokes before striking the ground, thus developing greater backward acceleration; (4) the forelimbs have a negligible support role and probably actively draw the body forward; (5) the limbs are flexed more during their recovery strokes; and (6) the shoulders and pelvis move forward slower than other part of the body at the times that their respective limbs are propelling the body.

Hildebrand_1959_Motions_of_cheetah_and_horse.pdf

Hildebrand M. 1961. Further studies on locomotion of the cheetah. J Mamm 42(1):84-91.

A high-speed motion picture camera was used to record the gaits of a captive cheetah. A previous study (Hildebrand, J. Mamm., 40: 481-495, 1959) is corrected (in regard to estimated speed and rate stride) and new data presented on motions of the body at the walk, trot and gallop. The slow gallop (pp 33 mph) differs from the fast gallop (pp mph) in that stride is shorter (though scarcely slower), and also in the use of the spine, duration of the support periods, placements of leasing feet and paths followed by the feet between footfalls. Sharp flexion of wrist and ankle joints as their respective girdles pass over them is described and interpreted. The legs are extended relatively far forward (compared to horse) when they strike the ground. Frequent change of lead and sudden stops are described. The sequence of footfalls, phases of the stride and their duration are figured for the walk, trot, slow gallop and fast gallop. Motions of the scapula are described for a walking animal.

Hildebrand_1961_Locomotion_of_cheetah.pdf

Hildebrand M. 1985. Energy of the oscillating legs of a fast-moving cheetah, pronghorn, jackrabbit, and elephant. Journal of Morphology 184:23-31.

Lifelike models of the oscillating legs treated as three-segment systems show the course of kinetic and potential energy over the locomotor cycle for a cheetah, pronghorn, jackrabbit, and elephant running at speeds approaching their maxima. The models can be adjusted to eliminate differences among the animals in time intervals, mass or length of limb, and joint angles. This facilitates analysis of the influence on total energy of each of these variables and of the distribution of mass among leg segments. Fast-cycling legs of the carnivore type have significantly more energy than those of the hoofed type. This may contribute to the lesser endurance that is usual for carnivores that hunt using a high-speed dash.

Hildebrand_1985_Energy_of_oscillating_legs_of_fast-moving_animals.pdf

Hills DM, Smithers RHN. 1980. The "King Cheetah": A historical review. Arnoldia Zimbabwe 9(1):1-6.

The aberrant form of the cheetah, once regarded as a separate species, Acinonyx rex, and known colloquially as the "King Cheetah", is characterized by possession of softer, longer and slier hair and partial replacement of normal spots by dark bars. The teeth of the only authenticated skull known in no way differ from those of the normal cheetah, Acinonyx jubatus. The configuration of the only known skull cannot further examined as it forms part of a mounted specimen. At one time 13 skins of "King Cheetah" were known; one has been destroyed and the present location another is unknown. The provenance of ten of the skins has been established but it seems unlikely that accurate locality data will be found for the remaining three. In addition 11 sightings, one documented by a photograph, are recorded and considered reliable. All specimens and sightings are from a restricted area of the Southern African Subregion bounded by latitudes 17° S and 25° S and longitudes 24° E and 33° E (Map 1.). Specimens of the "King Cheetah" have been recorded sporadically over the past 50 years and no doubt further sightings will be made in future. The authors would be grateful for any reports of the occurrence of this exceptionally handsome and interesting form of cheetah, but we wish to emphasize that the destruction or collection of specimens is neither necessary nor desirable.

Hills_&_Smithers_1980_The_king_cheetah_Historical_review.pdf

Hiscocks K, Bowland AE. 1989. Passage rates of prey components through cheetahs. Lammergeyer 40:18-20.

Feeding trials conducted on cheetah showed that prey components passed through the gut at different rates. In most cases hair and bone occurred in the same scat but in some instances they occurred alone. The staggered and differential passage rate of the prey components can result in a single prey item being counted more than once.

Hiscocks_&_Bowland_1989_Passage_rates_of_prey_components_through_cheetahs.pdf

Hoath R. 2003. Cheetah. In: Hoat R, editor. A Field guide to the Mammals of Egypt. Cairo: The American University in Cairo Press; p 104-105.

After a brief description of the species, the cheetah is now extinct in the Middle East (including Arabia to Iran, Pakistan and India), except for a small population south of the Caspian Sea. It is almost certainly extinct in Arabia. It is very rare in Egypt, possibly extinct. It is restricted to the Western Desert in and around the Qattara Depression (tracks and skins evidence). Its current population is unknown but very low. The last records of specimen alive dated of 1993 and 1994.

Après une brève description de l'espèce, le guépard est maintenant éteint au Moyen Orient (incluant l'Arabie à l'Iran, le Pakistan et l'Inde), sauf pour une petite population au sud de la Mer Caspienne. Il est fort probablement éteint en Arabie. Il est très rare en Egypte, vraisemblablement éteint. Il est restreint à l'ouest du désert dans et autour de la dépression de Qattara (empreintes et signes de présence). Sa population actuelle est inconnue mais très faible. Les dernières observations de spécimens vivants datent de 1993 et 1994.

Hoat_2003_A_field_guide_to_mammals_of_Egypt_-_The_cheetah.pdf

Hofmeyr M, van Dyk G. 1998. Cheetah introductions to two north west parks: case studies from Pilanesberg National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve. Proceedings of a Symposium on Cheetahs as Game Ranch Animals, Onderstepoort, 23&24 October 1998; 71 p.

Two major introductions of wild free-ranging cheetah have taken place in the North West Province. Case histories of the re-introduction of cheetah into both Pilanesberg National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve are given including population demographics, prey and habitat selection. Combined detail on re-introduction techniques and recommendations for future introduction efforts are given.

Hofmeyr_&_van_Dyk_1998_Cheetah_introductions.pdf

Houser_et_al_2009_Home_range_of_cheetah_in_Botswana.pdf

Houser_et_al_2009_Spoor_density_as_measure_of_true_density.pdf

Howard JG, Donoghue AM, Barone MA, Goodrowe KL, Blumer ES, Snodgrass K, Starnes D, Tucker M, Bush M, Wildt DE. 1992. Successful insuction of ovarian activity and laparoscopic intrauterine artificial insemination in the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus). Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 23(3):288-300.

An exogenous gonadotropin regimen and a laparoscopic intrauterine artificial insemination (AI) technique, previously developed in the domestic cat, were adapted and assessed for effectiveness in the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus). Seven female cheetahs were given an injection of either 200 or 400 IU pregnant mares' serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and either 125 or 250 IU human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) 80 hr later. At 42.5-47.0 hr after hCG, all females were evaluated laparoscopically for fresh ovarian corpora lutea (CL). Ovulation was induced successfully in all cheetahs (range: 3-13 CL among females). However, two morphologicallv distinct CL types were observed: 1) large-sized CL that appeared more related to the low gonadotropin dose; and 2) small-sized CL that were detected more often in the high gonadotropin dose group. Six of the females were laparoscopically inseminated by depositing electroejaculated/processed sperm transabdominally into the proximal aspect of each uterine horn. The AI procedure was simple and rapid, generally requiring only 30 min after laparoscope insertion. One female, induced to ovulate with 200 IU PMSG and 125 IU hCG and inseminated in utero with 10 x 10⁶ motile sperm at 42.5 hr post-hCG, produced a pregnancy and a single live cub after a 95-day gestation. Laparoscopic AI appears to have considerable potential as a tool for assisting captive propagation of the cheetah.

Howard_et_al_1992_Artificial_insemination_in_cheetahs.pdf

Howard JG, Munson L, McAloose D, Kriete M, Bush ME, Wildt DE. 1993. Comparative evaluation of seminal, vaginal, and rectal bacterial flora in the cheetah and domestic cat. Zoo Biology 12(1):81-96.

To determine the status and potential impact of microorganisms on reproductive health, bacterial cultures were evaluated from cheetah seminal, vaginal, and rectal swabs and the results compared to those from clinically healthy, domestic cats. Aerobic bacteria were isolated in the semen from 26 of the 40(65.0%) cheetahs and 25 of the 27 (92.6%) domestic cats. Gram-negative organisms predominated in the electroejaculates of both species. accounting for >70% of the total bacterial isolates. The most common seminal organism in both species was haemolytic Escherichia coli. Bacteria were isolated from vaginal samples obtained from 49 of the 67 (73.1%) cheetahs and 46 of the 49(93.9%) domestic cats. Gram-negative organisms dominated. representing >63%of the vaginal bacteria. and again hemolytic E. coli was the most prevalent isolate in both species. None of the cheetah or domestic cat vaginal cultures contained Mycoplasma spp. or Ureaplasma spp. Numerous gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria were identified in rectal cultures of 73 cheetahs and 60 domestic cats, but haemolytic E. coli clearly was the most common isolate. Within each species, a comparison between electroejaculates that were positive vs. negative for haemolytic E. coli growth revealed no differences in sperm concentration. sperm motility ratings. or the proportion of structurally abnormal spermatozoa Neutrophils were not detected in any of the 67 felid ejaculates, and the presence of seminal haemolytic E. coli was unrelated to fertility, on the basis of past ability to sire young or fertilize oocytes in vitro. Vaginal cytologic evaluations in both the cheetah and domestic cat indicated that hemolytic E. coli was not associated with a pathologic inflammatory response. Overall fecundity and proven ability to produce young were similar between females producing positive or negative vaginal cultures for E. coli. These findings indicate that commensal bacteria exist in the reproductive tract of the cheetah and domestic cat, and these organisms constitute normal, apparently innocuous bacterial microflora in the semen and vagina.

Howard_et_al_1993_Bacterial_flora_in_cheetah_and_domestic_cat.pdf

A study on the impact of capture and captivity on the health of Namibian farmland cheetahs was carried out by MUNSON and MARKER-KRAUS (1997) and the Cheetah Conservation Fund. The study demonstrated that significant liver damage is incurred by cheetahs during the first week following capture, and that progressive renal damage may occur over time. The aim of this study was to find a way of reducing stress for several days in recently captured cheetahs without handling or depending on oral medication.

Huber_et_al_1999_Method_of_stress_reduction_in_cheetah_translocations.pdf

Huber Ch, Walzer C, Slotta-Bachmayr L. 2001. Evaluation of long-term sedation in cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) with perphenazine enanthate and zuclopenthixol acetate. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 32(3):329-35.

Two long-acting neuroleptics were used to tranquilize nine captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Perphenazine enanthate (3.0 mg/kg) and zuclopenthixol acetate (0.6 mg/kg) were each administered to separate groups of three cheetahs in a double blind trial. Both products were administered together to a third group of three animals at the same dosages. Behavioral effect, duration of effect, and possible side effects were observed by a predefined protocol. Under standardized holding conditions, the cheetahs were observed 5 days before drug administration and 14 days after administration. Daily activity was defined and statistically evaluated by a U-test. A significant reduction of activity was observed after administration in all three trials. Zuclopenthixol acetate at 0.6 mg/kg alone and in combination with perphenazine enanthate caused inappetence, ataxia, extra pyramidal reactions, akathisia, and prolapse of the third eyelid. Zuclopenthixol acetate should not be used in cheetahs. Perphenazine enanthate did not cause Inappetence, reduced appetite, or any of the previously mentioned side effects when used alone. It produced satisfactory tranquilization and is suitable and safe for cheetahs at 3.0 mg/kg. This dosage should be varied depending on health, age, and temperament of the individual cheetah.

Huber_et_al_2001_Sedation_in_cheetah.pdf

Despite the cheetah being the fastest living land mammal, we know remarkably little about how it attains suchhigh top speeds (29 m s)1). Here we aim to describe and quantify the musculoskeletal anatomy of the cheetahforelimb and compare it to the racing greyhound, an animal of similar mass, but which can only attain a topspeed of 17 m s)1. Measurements were made of muscle mass, fascicle length and moment arms, enabling calculationsof muscle volume, physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA), and estimates of joint torques and rotationalvelocities. Bone lengths, masses and mid-shaft cross-sectional areas were also measured. Several speciesdifferences were observed and have been discussed, such as the long fibred serratus ventralis muscle in thecheetah, which we theorise may translate the scapula along the rib cage (as has been observed in domesticcats), thereby increasing the cheetah's effective limb length. The cheetah's proximal limb contained many largePCSA muscles with long moment arms, suggesting that this limb is resisting large ground reaction force jointtorques and therefore is not functioning as a simple strut. Its structure may also reflect a need for control andstabilisation during the high-speed manoeuvring in hunting. The large digital flexors and extensors observed inthe cheetah forelimb may be used to dig the digits into the ground, aiding with traction when galloping and manoeuvring.

Hudson_et_al_2011_Functional_anatomy_of_the_cheetah_forelimb.pdf

The cheetah is capable of a top speed of 29 ms)1 compared to the maximum speed of 17 ms)1 achieved by theracing greyhound. In this study of the hindlimb and in the accompanying paper on the forelimb we have quanti-fied the musculoskeletal anatomy of the cheetah and greyhound and compared them to identify any differencesthat may account for this variation in their locomotor abilities. Specifically, bone length, mass and mid-shaftdiameter were measured, along with muscle mass, fascicle lengths, pennation angles and moment arms to enableestimates of maximal isometric force, joint torques and joint rotational velocities to be calculated. Surprisingly thecheetahs had a smaller volume of hip extensor musculature than the greyhounds, and we therefore propose thatthe cheetah powers acceleration using its extensive back musculature. The cheetahs also had an extremely powerfulpsoas muscle which could help to resist the pitching moments around the hip associated with fast accelerations.The hindlimb bones were proportionally longer and heavier, enabling the cheetah to take longer stridesand potentially resist higher peak limb forces. The cheetah therefore possesses several unique adaptations forhigh-speed locomotion and fast accelerations, when compared to the racing greyhound.

Hudson_et_al_2011_Functional_anatomy_of_the_cheetah_hindlimb.pdf

Hufnagel E. 1972. Cats (Felidae). In: Libyan mammals. The Oleander Press; p 41-44.

The cheetah is very rare in Libya and the number of individuals is declining. 30 years of observational data (from 1932 to 1969) are resumed in this document. A map shows the localities of the observations. The cheetah was already so rare at that time that every sighting was an event and got a lot of attention. Some skull measurements of three skulls from Libya are presented. The skulls were given to the Museum of Natural History in Vienna.

Hufnagel_1972_Cats_of_Libya.pdf

Hugh-Jones ME, de Vos V. 2002. Anthrax and wildlife. Rev sci tech Off int Epiz 21(2):359-83.

Although livestock anthrax is declining in many parts of the world, with an increasing number of countries probably truly free of the disease, anthrax remains enzootic in many national parks and even in some game ranching areas. These infected areas can present a persistent risk to surrounding livestock, which may otherwise be free of the disease, as well as a public health risk. The authors use as examples the national parks in southern Africa, the Wood Buffalo National Park in northern Alberta, Canada, and the deer ranching counties in south-west Texas, United States of America, to present the range of problems, epidemiology, and control procedures. While many advances have been achieved in the understanding of this disease, research is required into the genotypic grouping of anthrax isolates, improved field diagnostic techniques, and oral vaccines, as well as to provide a better understanding of spore survival in soil and the ecology of the disease under natural conditions. In cheetahs, anthrax remains a rare event.

Hugh-Jones_&_de_Vos_2002_Anthrax_in_wildlife.pdf

Hunter L, Skinner JD. 1995. Cannibalism in male cheetahs. Cat News:13-15.

Large felids defend their territories rigorously from conspecifics of the same sex. Occasionally such encounters result in the death of combatants but cannibalism in these clashes appears to be rare. The research on cannibalism in male cheetahs is part of an ongoing project examining the behavioural ecology of re-introduced cheetahs and lions in the Phinda Resource Reserve in northern Natal Province, South Africa.

Hunter_&_Skinner_1995_Cannibalism_in_Male_Cheetahs_CatNews_23.pdf

Hunter L. 1995. The re-introduction of cheetahs into Phinda Resource Reserve, northern Natal, South Africa Pretoria: Mammal Research Institute; 7 p.

To date, Phinda has released 15 cheetahs (8:7) as well as 13 lions to the reserve. All cheetahs were wild-caught and originated from Namibia except for a single male captured in Botswana. In addition to radio-collars, all animals were marked with a transponder chip. The animals were soft-released. They spent 8-10 weeks in a pen. Females always dispersed after the release. Unfamiliar males bonded up during the pen period and then stayed together. The survival was fairly good although some animals died due to human activities and other predators.

Hunter_1995_Re-introduction_of_cheetahs_into_Phinda_Resource_Reserve.pdf

Hunter L. 1996. Re-introduction of lions and cheetahs in South Africa. Cat News:14-15.

In southern Africa, the increasing popularity of ecotourism has resulted in the establishment of wildlife reserves in areas formerly used for intensive livestock and crop farming. In 1992, the Phinda Resource Reserve began a large-scale project to attempt the re-introduction of lions and cheetah into northern Natal, South Africa. The project has been successful in initiating the re-establishment of these two species. Both have bred quickly and the survival of the litters has been high. A long-term management plan is underway to exchange individuals of both species with other reserves in South Africa to minimize inbreeding of both founder populations of about 30 individuals each.

Hunter_1996_Reintroduction_of_Lions_and_Cheetahs_in_South_Africa_CatNews_24.pdf

Hunter L. 1996. Secondary re-introductions of large cats in South Africa. Cat News:14.

Populations of lions and cheetahs established by re-introduction in the Phinda Resource Reserve in northern Natal, South Africa, are providing individuals for other re-introduction efforts in the region. This is an encouraging sign that such projects have potential in the gradual restoration of species across their former range.

Hunter_1996_Secondary_reintroductions_of_large_cats_in_South_Africa_CatNews_25.pdf

Hunter L. 1996. Clash of the cheetahs. BBC Wildlife.

A recorded case of cannibalism between competitive cheetah's males. An established pair of male cheetahs in South Africa’s Phinda Resource Reserve attacked and killed a single male in their home range and proceeded to feed from the carcass. The territorial pair fought very aggressively, inflicting severe injuries before killing their victims with a suffocating bite on the throat.

Hunter_1996_Cannibalism_in_cheetahs.pdf

Hunter L. 1996. Re-introduction of lions and cheetahs in South Africa. Cat News 24:14-5.

In southern Africa, the increasing popularity of ecotourism has resulted in the establishment of wildlife reserves in areas formerly used for intensive livestock and crop farming. In 1992, the Phinda Resource Reserve began a large-scale project to attempt the re-introduction of lions and cheetah into northern Natal, South Africa. The project has been successful in initiating the re-establishment of these two species. Both have bred quickly and the survival of the litters has been high. A long-term management plan is underway to exchange individuals of both species with other reserves in South Africa to minimize inbreeding of both founder populations of about 30 individuals each.

Hunter_1996_Reintroduction_of_Lions_and_Cheetahs_in_South_Africa_CatNews_24.pdf

Hunter L. 1996. Secondary re-introductions of large cats in South Africa. Cat News 25:14.

Populations of lions and cheetahs established by re-introduction in the Phinda Resource Reserve in northern Natal, South Africa, are providing individuals for other re-introduction efforts in the region. This is an encouraging sign that such projects have potential in the gradual restoration of species across their former range.

Hunter_1996_Secondary_reintroductions_of_large_cats_in_South_Africa_CatNews_25.pdf

Hunter,L. 1998. Early post-release movements and behaviour of re-introduced cheetahs and lions, and technical considerations in large carnivore restoration. Proceedings of a Symposium on Cheetahs as Game Ranch Animals, Onderstepoort, 23&24 October 1998; 82 p.

Although re-introduction and translocation have been widely practiced management techniques employed with large carnivores, post-release monitoring of such attempts in the past has been poor, particularly of African species. Where such monitoring has occurred, success has generally been low and frequently, the reasons for failure were not well understood. Such failures have led many authors to conclude that the factors affecting success are not well enough understood to justify relocation as a method for conserving and managing large carnivores. Between March 1992 and April 1994, Phinda released 13 lions and 15 cheetahs sourced from locally abundant populations in South Africa and Namibia. Here, I attempt to assess the importance of the first 12 week following release in the process of re-establishment by released felids. Based on these observations, I include management and technical recommendations for translocation and re-introduction project of large carnivores.

Hunter_1998_Post-release_behaviour_of_cheetahs_and_lions.pdf

Hunter L. 1998. Do male cheetahs commit infanticide? Cheetah News:4-5.

Three arguments explaining why the infanticide in cheetahs was never seen and is not favourable are proposed: (i) there is no guarantee that the female would remain in their territory after the loss of litter; (ii) females can conceive, on average, less then three weeks after losing cubs; and (iii) females can conceive while still with dependent cubs.

Hunter_1998_Do_male_cheetahs_commit_infanticide.pdf

Hunter L. 1998. Pride of Phinda. BBC Wildlife October 1998, 20-23.

Hunter_1998_Pride_of_Phinda.pdf

Hunter L. 1999. Large felid restoration: Lessons from the Phinda Resource Reserve, South Africa, 1992-1999. Cat News 31:20-1.

In this long-term continuing study, lions and cheetahs are being re-introduced to Phinda Resource Reserve and other sites in South Africa by means of 'soft-release' techniques. All individuals underwent a pre-release captivity period of 6-8 weeks at the release site. The greatest cause of mortality to re-introduced felids was a result of human activity, particularly poaching.

Hunter_1999_Large_Felid_Restoration_Phinda_South_Africa_CatNews_31.pdf

Hunter L. 2002. The cheetahs of Phinda. Africa Geographic:50-65.

As I watched the fluffy trio using their resting mum as a climbing frame, I realized they were the first cubs born to resident cheetahs in the region since 1940s.  The mother cheetah, a female that I call Umame, was part of a concerted effort to re-introduce the species to northern KwaZulu-Natal after an absence of 50 years. Prior to 1990, Phinda had been a mixed bag of small game and livestock farms where the most common large mammal was the domestic cow. When the farms were consolidated into a 170-square-kilometre tract, Phinda's field staff removed the cattle and began replacing them with all the wild mammals known from the region before Europeans colonized it. In March 1992, six cheetahs - Umame among them - arrived from Namibia. In all, 17 cheetahs were released in Phinda between 1992 and 1994.

Hunter_2002_The_cheetahs_of_Phinda.pdf

Hunter L, Skinner JD. 2003. Do male cheetahs Acinonyx jubatus commit infanticide? Trans Roy Soc S Afr 56(1):79-82.

Infanticide, in which males kill unrelated juveniles presumably to advance their genetic contribution, has been documented in many felids, a notable exception being the cheetah Acinonyx jubatus. Males apparently always tolerate cubs during encounters between females with litters but indefinite paternity has confused the issue in previous reports. We observed cheetah females with cubs interact with known sire and non-sire males, and infanticide never occurred. Sires and non-sires also did not differ in the frequency of different aggressive behaviours directed towards females and cubs during encounters. We suggest that cheetahs are unusual among wild felids in that males do not kill unrelated cubs and discuss possible reasons why infanticide does not occur in the species.

Hunter_&_Skinner_2003_Do_male_cheetah_commit_infanticide.pdf

Hunter L. 2004. Trip Report - Islamic Republic of Iran Global Carnivore Program; 20 p.

Visits by Luke Hunter and George Schaller to different protected areas and wildlife refugees in Iran (Bafgh, Naybandan, Daranjeer, Kalmand, Kiamakai) and Khar Touran National Park are reported. Objectives of the trip were: Firstly: Identification of suitable field site to initiate telemetry research of asiatic cheetah and associated mammalian fauna, and secondly: attendance at the 'International Workshop on the Conservation of the Asiatic Cheetah' Jan 20-22, 2004, Mehdishahr, Semnan Province. Conclusions are: Bafgh Protected Area has the greatest potential of the five CAPC sites for the proposed telemetry work on cheetahs and associated species. A selection of suitable sites have been identified to focus capture efforts as well as a candidate area in the park to establish a small research base. The dedication and enthusiasm of DoE scouts is generally excellent. However, there is a clear need to increase capacity in basic field work.

Hunter_2004_Trip_report_-_Islamic_Republic_of_Iran.pdf

Hunter LTB, Skinner JD. 1995. A case of cannibalism in male cheetahs. African Journal of Ecology 33, 169-171.

The present research is part of an ongoing project examining the behavioural ecology of re-introduced cheetahs and lions in the Phinda Resource Reserve, South Africa. Between march 1992 and may 1993, Phinda released five male and seven female cheetahs wild caught in Namibia and Botswana. Two males and a single female have been radio-collared and monitored since their release. A two-male coalition caught another male cheetah in their territory while pursuing some impalas, and attacked and killed him with savage throttling and repeated mauling of the hindquarters. This behaviour was maintained during 45 min, before proceeding to open the carcass and feeding on it for 25 min.

Hunter_&_Skinner_1995_Case_of_cannibalism_in_male_cheetahs.pdf

Hunter_et_al_2007_First_telemetry_study_on_cheetahs_in_Iran.pdf

Hunter M.  The Great and Lesser Wild Cats of Egypt.  2004.

In Egypt, the cheetah is very rare, and may be extinct. If still in Egypt, it is restricted to the Western Desert in and around the Qattara Depression. While hunting, habitat disturbance and the reduction in prey have at the very least brought the population down to a critical level, sightings have been reported as late as 1994.

Hunter_2004_The_Great_and_Lesser_Wild_Cats_of_Egypt.pdf

Huntington S. 2000 Sep 5. Cheetahs always win! If animals competed in the Sydney Olympics, Humans would be sad because...  Newspaper.

A record-breaking Olympic runner can go about 27 miles per hour. But ordinary domestic cats can go faster than that, 30 m.p.h. A rabbit in full flight reaches about 45 m.p.h. Pronghorn antelopes can run faster than 60 m.p.h. And the fastest runner of all is the cheetah, at over 70 miles an hour.

Huntington_2000_Cheetahs_always_win.pdf

Husain T. 2001. Survey for the Asiatic cheetah, Acinonyx jubatus, in Balochistan province, Pakistan Barbara Delano Foundation; Report, 39 p.

The cheetah was believed to have disappeared from Pakistan, according to the 1996 IUCN Cat Specialist Group's Cat Action Plan. But in recent years, the author has collected a number of reports and records suggesting the possibility that some cheetah might continue to survive in remote areas of Pakistan's westernmost desert province of Balochistan. A high priority project was started in October-November 2000 on the potential cheetah habitat and data and information about all the different species of cats, especially the cheetah, leopard, caracal, manul, sand cat, fishing cat and the leopard cat has been collected and compiled. The cheetah was common in many visited areas, but, except a not warranted report of a shot cheetah in 1998, from all accounts the cheetah is extinct since at least 20 years in these areas.

Husain_2001_Survey_for_Asiatic_cheetah_in_Pakistan.pdf