Mammal · GBIF taxon 2435270
Cheetah
Acinonyx jubatusAlso known as Hunting Leopard
Cheetahs are specialized diurnal hunters that rely on extreme acceleration and keen eyesight to chase down agile prey across open plains. Black facial tear streaks absorb sunlight glare, helping them spot distant gazelles before launching bursts of speed that can reach over 100 kilometers per hour. Females lead solitary lives raising litters in dense cover, while males often form small coalitions to defend territory against rivals.
MammalPredatorDiurnal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Thomson's Gazelles
- Impalas
- Springboks
Predators
- Lions
- Spotted Hyenas
- Leopards
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, illegal pet trade, low genetic diversity
HabitatsSavannas, open grasslands, arid shrublands, deserts
Life span10–12 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderCarnivora
- FamilyFelidae
- GenusAcinonyx
- SpeciesAcinonyx jubatus
Native
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- Large wild carnivore; maintain a safe distance inside safari vehicles and never approach on foot.
- Why it is dangerous
- Equipped with strong jaws, sharp teeth, and high agility capable of inflicting severe defensive wounds if cornered or threatened.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Recognized by a slender build, small head with dark tear streaks, and solid black spots over a tawny coat.
- What to do
- Never approach wild big cats on foot; remain inside protected vehicles and follow guide instructions.
- What to notice
- Identified by solid round black spots, dark tear marks from eyes to mouth, and a tall, slender frame.
- Support conservation
- Observe quietly from designated wildlife tracks to avoid interrupting hunting, feeding, or cub-rearing behaviors.
Responsible observation
- Safari Etiquette: Remain seated inside tour vehicles and avoid loud noises that could disturb hunts.
- Give Space: Keep distance around mother cheetahs with cubs to prevent stressing the family.
Competitor (c) Raja bandi, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Raja bandi · cc-by
Primary Prey (c) Bob, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative National Park Service / Public domain · cc0
Close Relative (c) Adeilson Melo, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Adeilson Melo · cc-by
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