Eaton RL. 1970. Group interactions, spacing and territoriality in

Eaton RL. 1970. Group interactions, spacing and territoriality in cheetahs. Zeitschrift für Tierpsychologie
27:481-91.
Keywords: 1KE/Acinonyx jubatus/cheetah/population regulation (natural)/spatial use/territorial behaviour/
interaction/population/group size/size/mortality/predation
Abstract: A study of cheetah group interactions reveals a spacing technique that works on a "time-plan".
Marking appears to act as a means of defending any time. In this way, groups space themselves out, but
this spacing system is not necessarily a population regulatory mechanism. The relationship between
group size and mortality, and predation on cheetah as the factor most likely limiting cheetah numbers are
discussed. A definition of territoriality is offered, and it is advocated that the "time-plan" of spacing is a
special case of territoriality.