Cheetah
- scientific name
:
Acinonyx jubatus - top speed
:
112 km/h - order
:
Carnivora
Size
Cheetahs are slender and streamlined big cats, with a body length of about 3.5 to 4.5 feet and weighing between 46 to 160 kg. They are recognized by their distinctive black spots on a pale golden background.
LifeSpan
In the wild, Cheetahs usually live to 8 to 10 years, while those in captivity can live slightly longer. Their short lifespan is often due to high mortality rates among cubs and competition with larger predators.
Conservation Status
Cheetahs are listed as Vulnerable, primarily due to habitat loss and poaching. Their populations have dwindled, and conservation efforts focus on protecting their remaining habitats and reducing human-wildlife conflict.
Distribution
Cheetahs are found in parts of Africa, inhabiting a range of habitats from grasslands to savannas. They are known for their incredible speed, which enables them to chase down prey such as gazelles and impalas, but their speed is limited to short sprints.
Coevolution
Cheetahs have fascinated humans for centuries, with their incredible speed and sleek appearance. They have also been associated with grace and elegance in art and culture. Conservation efforts aim to ensure the survival of this unique big cat.
Nutrition
Cheetahs are obligate carnivores, primarily preying on small to medium-sized ungulates. Their hunting style involves stalking and sprinting, making them one of the most formidable sprinters in the animal kingdom.
Lifestyle
Cheetahs are mostly solitary animals, except during mating and when a mother raises her cubs. They are known for their exceptional speed, capable of reaching 112 km/h in short bursts, allowing them to catch prey through a burst of acceleration.