cheetah capture and immobilisation handbook - Cat Specialist Group

(2.5) Human safety
Although cheetahs will not attack a human in the wild, they are still wild animals and as
such can be dangerous when captured or cornered. Because of this, cheetahs should
always be given some space when they are confined in small areas, to avoid getting into
dangerous situations. Care should be taken when approaching trapped cheetahs, as they
will become very stressed and may strike out at the observers. This is particularly
important to be aware of when using traps with vertical bars, as cheetahs can get their
legs through the bars and can potentially cause quite serious injuries if people get too
close. Keep people around the traps to a minimum, and be careful and observant at all
times.
Important points regarding physical capture: a summary
• Traps should be set ensuring that there is adequate shade and water for
captured animals, and food must be provided if the animal is held for several
days
• Traps MUST be checked regularly (at least daily, preferably early in the day,
especially in a hot location)
• All possible efforts must be made to capture all members of a social group at
the same time
• People and domestic animals etc. should be kept away from trapped cheetahs
as much as possible.
• Take care not to stress the animal in the trap, and be observant about human
safety
11