Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum
Endangered Animals
Cheetah
Acinonyx jubatus
Animal Class:
Mammals
Diet:
Carnivore
Status in the Wild:
Endangered
Born to Run
Cheetahs are the world’s fastest land animal and are capable of reaching speeds of 70 miles per hour. They can reach top speed in only three seconds! Cheetahs can cover 22 feet in a stride. Only one foot touches the ground at a time, and at two points in the stride, no feet touch the ground.
Taking a Breather
After a chase, cheetahs need about 30 minutes to catch their breath before they can eat.
Racing for Survival
Once a common animal found on four continents, cheetahs are now facing extinction. Habitat loss and a reduction in prey are threatening the cheetah’s survival.
