Although there are a lot of species in the animal kingdom that are monogomous, some even for life, who will not take another mate when their mate dies, it has recently been found that female cheetahs are not a monogomous animal, and in fact, may have sexual relations with several different mates who father several litters of baby cheetahs, during their lifetime. 

Scientists say that while this serial “dating” in the cheetah world may be beneficial to the gene pool and ultimate survival of the species because it limits chances of inbreeding, it can also be a dangerous thing for the female cheetah herself, since having sex with multiple mates can expose her to disease and parasitism that she may not normally be exposed to if she were just with one mate for either an extended period of time or for life like some other animals. 

Can you believe that the estimates of cheetahs left in this world now who have the ability to produce offspring is down to a shocking ten thousand?  I have to admit, I didn’t even know the cheetah was close to being endangered.  Which brings to mind the interesting story I saw in the paper today about a man who is a nature trail guide, wakes up in his own bed in his home to find a cheetah on him. 

He had the wrestle the darn thing to the ground and wait for authorities to get there!  It was found that the poor creature was suffering malnutrition and was weak though, which explained its unusual behavior.