While studying facts about cheetah perhaps the first question arises is that how fast can a cheetah run! Very few people are aware of the exact speed of this fastest animal. Cheetah is actually the large-sized feline that inhabits across Africa, Asia and Middle East. These cats are by far the fastest runner on land in the animal kingdom. This article demonstrates you exactly how fast can cheetahs run.
How Fast Can a Cheetah Run?
Cheetah runs at a speed of about 112 to 120 km/h (70 to 75 mph). They cannot retain this much speed for a long time. With this speed cats tend to cover a distance of 500 metres (1,600 feet), with an exceptional adeptness to accelerate from 0 to over 100 km/h (62 mph)in just three seconds.
The body temperature quickly escalates whilst running. Because of their small size in comparison to the other cats (Tigers and Leopards), the speed is the only defense weapon these cats hold. The fast-running capability not only facilitates cats to escape from the nearby predators but it also assists them to attack their prey.
Cheetahs normally kill medium sized prey that is compatible to their own body size; however, sometime they are forced to run the risk of catching a larger prey. This is too dangerous for these cats since they may die in process.
Read in Detail: How Fast Can a Cheetah Run?
One of the most common preys is Thomson’s gazelle which is of course a very fast-dodgy runner. These cats need to sprint within seconds to catch these animals and also in short bursts. Cheetah generally stalks its prey within 10 to 30 metres (33 to 98 feet), after which it sprints. They typically give up when the prey is not caught within a minute. The success rate is only 50%. Cheetah needs to be robust all the time for if they can’t run fast they can’t eat.
Read More: Cheetah Facts For Kids
Cheetahs are incompetent to climb upright trees though they have been occasionally found to reach accessible branches. These types of cats inhabit in Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, Kruger National Park, Khorasan (Iran), Namibia, and Baluchistan (Pakistan). They are akin to reside in open places like savannahs, grasslands, and mountainous terrain.
Now you’re well aware of how fast can a cheetah run!
Learn more: