Cheetah Facts (Cheetah Information)

Cheetah Facts to Better Understand This Endangered Species

The animal kingdom is full of unique and wonderful animals. Every animal has its place and by learning about them we can have a better understanding to where they fit in. Facts about cheetahs will help us understand more about this endangered species.

Education is important and if the children of today understand the urgency of protecting species, they can do something about it as the leaders of tomorrow. Schools need to educate children on endangered animals and exposure to cheetah facts might spark a future career.

A Little More Information on Cheetahs

Want to know more about cheetahs? There are so many cheetah facts to explore, ranging from their physical appearance to the kind of food they hunt. The cheetah is unfortunately an endangered species and needs protection, unless it will go extinct. Let’s take a look at some cheetah facts to get the ball rolling: 

  1. The cheetah is part of the big cat family. They are mammals, like humans, meaning they are warm blooded and give birth to live young.
  2. The cheetah is carnivore, which means it hunts and eats meat. Cheetahs are fast and hunt prey smaller than them, like antelope or buck. They use their speed to outrun the prey they are hunting and then drag it down with their claws. The prey is then killed with a bite to the neck.
  3. Of the big cats (lion, tiger, leopard) the cheetah is the smallest. They are built with a small head and long tail – this is to assist with their speed for hunting prey. The average size of an adult cheetah is up to 135 cm in length, up to 90 cm high and with a tail that can reach 90 cm. Male cheetahs can weigh up to 65 kg, while the female will reach a weight of up to 55 kg.
  4. The cheetah is the fastest land mammal and when going full speed can reach a velocity of over 100 km per hour. Its slim build and spotted coat help the cheetah when hunting. The combination of camouflage and speed make it a very efficient hunter.

The internet and public libraries are a great source for those looking for more cheetah facts. Local wildlife sanctuaries will also gladly supply cheetah information. By learning more about cheetahs we can help save them from extinction and preserve them for future generations to see.

 

Are you interested in volunteering at the Dell Cheetah Centre and helping us save the cheetah?

Our volunteer programme is designed to introduce you to the fascinating wildlife African has to offer as well as the incredible cheetah, and to work closely in all aspects of reserve management.

Find out how you can help >>

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