cheetahs

The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is a large carnivorous feline native to Africa and parts of Iran, renowned for its speed and agility. It is the fastest land animal, capable of reaching speeds around 60 to 70 mph in short bursts and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a few seconds. Its lean, flexible body, long legs, a long tail, and distinctive black tear marks running from the eyes to the mouth improve focus and balance during high-speed pursuit. The coat is tan with solid black spots, providing camouflage in grassy habitats.

Range and habitat: In Africa, cheetahs occupy savannas, grasslands, and open scrub. The Asiatic cheetah subspecies is now found only in Iran and is critically endangered; overall, the species is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.

Behavior and hunting: Cheetahs are typically diurnal or crepuscular, preferring open terrain to spot prey. They hunt gazelles and other small to medium antelope; after a stealthy approach, they sprint to capture prey, with pursuits lasting only short distances. After a kill, they eat quickly to minimize competition or theft by other predators.

Reproduction and life history: Females are solitary or raise cubs; males often form small coalitions. Gestation lasts about 90 to 95 days; a litter usually contains 3 to 5 cubs. Cubs are vulnerable to predation by lions and hyenas and require dense cover. In the wild, cheetahs live about 10 to 12 years; some live longer in captivity.

Conservation: Threats include habitat loss, fragmentation, decline of prey, and human-wildlife conflict. Protected areas, anti-poaching measures, and community-based conservation have helped in some regions. Captive breeding and translocation projects aim to stabilize populations, while the Asiatic cheetah remains critically endangered with only a few individuals in Iran.