The cheetah is the world’s fastest land mammal. It can reach up to 96km/h in only three seconds, and a speed of up to 121km/h! These daylight hunters feed on various buck and other small game like hares.
Cheetahs usually have litters of three cubs and nurture them for up to two years, teaching them hunting techniques. Male cheetahs live alone or in small groups, often with their mates. Their life span in the wild is 10–12 years.
Found naturally only in eastern and southern Africa, the African cheetah is listed on the IUCN as ‘vulnerable.’ There are also Asiatic cheetahs that live in remote parts of Iran.
Interestingly, cheetahs don’t roar like other big cats, but rather bark when communicating, or growl when facing a threat.
The distinct black ‘tear marks’ cheetahs have running down their faces actually protect their eyes from the glare of the sun while hunting.
These cats are sadly victims to the illegal wildlife trade, as they are still very much sought after as exotic pets, especially in the Middle East. As with any wild animal that is domesticated, changes to their diet, environment and suppression of natural instincts lead to them suffering and ultimately dying.
To learn more, get involved or help, visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CFF).
Sources: CFF and National Geographic
Image: Unsplash
