Cheetahs are the fastest land mammal reaching a maximum speed of 70 mph within four seconds. This speed can only be maintained for up to 450 metres.
They have semi-retractable claws which act as running spikes and at full speed their stride is up to 7 metres.
All cheetahs are closely related. Around 12,000 years ago the population dramatically fell, resulting in a reduction in the genetic variation.
Although the population recovered it has left the species vulnerable to disease. There are remaining populations in Southern Africa, Northern-East Africa and a small population in Iran.
Cheetahs have on average 3-5 cubs per litter. Cubs have a long mane called a mantle. They will stay with their mum for around 18 months. Cubs are vulnerable to predation by lions and hyenas. Female cheetahs are promiscuous so one litter can be fathered by several different males.
The biggest threat to cheetahs is the illegal pet trade. Cheetah cubs can be sold illegally for over $40,000 but it can cost four times this amount to rescue them. Other threats include habitat loss, poaching and disease.
Guard dogs are used to protect livestock from cheetah, this in turn protects cheetah from being shot by farmers.
