Cheetah
Acinonyx jubatus
Also known as: Hunting Leopard
The Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is the fastest land mammal, built for incredible bursts of speed on open grasslands. Recognisable by its slender body, long legs, and distinctive black 'tear' markings, cheetahs specialise in hunting small to medium-sized ungulates using short, high-speed chases.
Did you know?
Cheetahs can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just a few seconds, but they tire quickly and rely on stealth and timing to get close to prey. Quick Facts
Detailed Information on the Cheetah
Weight
50 kg
Height
80 cm
Length
130 cm
Top Speed
110
km/h
Social Structure:
Solitary/Coalitions (Males)
Activity Pattern:
Diurnal
Trophic Level: Apex Predator
Migration: Resident
Population Trend: Decreasing
Main Threats:
- Habitat loss
- Human conflict
- Lack of genetic diversity
Maasai Mara (Kenya)
Okavango Delta
Family: Felidae
Order: Carnivora