Cheetahs are the fastest land mammals with a sprinting speed of up to 75 mph. . Their sleek frames, long legs and flexible spines give them an aerodynamic advantage. “Cheetah are so fast because their body is built for speed," says Dr. Laurie Marker, founder of the Cheetah Conservation Fund. "Their large nostrils and lungs take in more oxygen than other cats, allowing them to run longer distances." With retractable claws for grip, cheetahs can swerve around obstacles and make quick turns when chasing prey.

Cheetahs have adapted to survive on Africa’s savannas and deserts, subsisting mainly on antelopes and gazelles. “They require a wide range of habitats from open grasslands to dry woodlands", says wildlife biologist Luke Dollar. To cool down in hot temperatures they pant like dogs or lie stretched out on their backs with their bellies exposed to the air. They also use their long tail as a rudder while running, helping them change direction swiftly without losing momentum.

Cheetahs have unique black spots that act as camouflage against predators such as lions, hyenas and wild dogs; each cheetah has its own individual pattern of spots just like human fingerprints! The females usually live alone or with cubs while males form coalitions which allow them to defend larger territories from intruders. Sadly though due to habitat loss and poaching numbers are declining rapidly; there are currently only 7100-12000 cheetahs left in the wild according to National Geographic estimates.

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