Cheetah - Acinonyx jubatus
Nearly all of these photos are of the same male cheetah that we encountered almost on a daily basis. The other cheetah is a female that we spotted early (and I do mean early) one morning.
Did You Know?
The cheetah is the fastest land animal, able to reach speeds up to 120km/h over a short distance. They have the ability to go from 0-100 km/h in three seconds. Cheetahs are the only existing member of their genus Acinonyx. his cat is also notable for modifications in the species' paws. It is one of the few felids with semi-retractable claws. The low genetic variability is thought to be the result through a prolonged period of inbreeding following drastic population decline during the last ice age.
The black "tear marks" running from the corner of its eyes down the sides of the nose to its mouth keep sunlight out of its eyes and aid in hunting and seeing long distances. The cheetah is able to run as fast because of its large nostrils that allow for increased oxygen intake, and an enlarged heart and lungs that work together to circulate oxygen efficiently, respiratory rate can increases from 60 to 150 breaths per minute. Their semi-retractable claws provide traction, while the tail act like a rudder helping to keep balance as they make sharp turns while pursuing prey.
Unlike true big cats of subfamily Pantherinae, the cheetah can purr as it inhales, but cannot roar. By contrast, the big cats can roar but cannot purr, except while exhaling.
The black "tear marks" running from the corner of its eyes down the sides of the nose to its mouth keep sunlight out of its eyes and aid in hunting and seeing long distances. The cheetah is able to run as fast because of its large nostrils that allow for increased oxygen intake, and an enlarged heart and lungs that work together to circulate oxygen efficiently, respiratory rate can increases from 60 to 150 breaths per minute. Their semi-retractable claws provide traction, while the tail act like a rudder helping to keep balance as they make sharp turns while pursuing prey.
Unlike true big cats of subfamily Pantherinae, the cheetah can purr as it inhales, but cannot roar. By contrast, the big cats can roar but cannot purr, except while exhaling.