January 18, 2026
Our long-term observations of cheetahs in the wild have shown that the most successful cheetahs in the Mara are those that have adapted to various anthropogenic factors. For example, cheetahs accustomed to the presence of tourist vehicles are capable of mating during the day, taking advantage of any opportunity. However, to observe this behavior, guides must maintain distance and silence, giving the animals space and time.
For three days, Ranger, aged 3 years and 8 months, followed Neema, aged 10.5 years. We observed one daytime mating on the second day of courtship. On the morning of the third day, Neema left Ranger. Interestingly, the male showed no interest in the female that day, but whenever she tried to leave, he chased her and displayed aggression, which Neema neutralized with a submissive stance.
Female cheetahs are receptive for only three days, and a pair can mate during all three days, increasing the female’s chances of successful fertilization. Because female cheetahs are promiscuous, a female can mate with two or more males in a single cycle. Neema was likely in late estrus when Ranger found her. Their behavior indicated that they knew each other and had mated before. Mid-April will reveal whether the matings were successful. However, it’s important to remember that it’s very difficult for a female who gives birth at over 10 years of age to raise a litter.
