Current estimates of total cheetah populations are 10-12K with about 1200
in captivity. Most captive cheetah breeding is documented via an official
studbook so that the exact relationship(s) (if known) can be determined and
considered when planning pairings/transfers between zoos. THere also has
been a recent problem with captive cheetahs being carriers of Brucellosis
(sp?) which is passed from mother to offspring (if Iremember my facts
straight) and can lead to blindness. Cheetahs hunt and find their zoo
food by sight not smell, so this can become a serious problem for the
captive cheetahs (and their keepers).
The IUCN Cat Specialist Group is an excellent source for information.
Susan Meiers
