cheetah

This beautiful cat is the fastest land animal in the world.Whith its grayhound-like body,flexible spine ,and long tail, it can sprint at up to 110kph but is built for speed rather than endurance and canot keep this up for more than 400m. Chases usually only last about 20 seconds. In fact, the cheetah is usually  so exhausted after a chase that she needs to recover for about half an hour before she can consume her pray or take it to her cubs. During this time she is vulnerable to scavengers - typically lions,wild dogs,hyaenas ,baboons, or vultures- who will steel her catch. The males fare a little better as they form small groups and hunt together.


Size: Length, body, 110-150cm (tail 65-90cm)

Distribution: sub-saharan Africa and southwest Aisa

Identifacation: Long, slender legs, Long tail and lithe body. Tawny-golden coat with solid spots