What are some cheetah facts for kids?


Quick Answer

Cheetahs are the fastest animals in the world, but they can only run at top speed for a few minutes before slowing down. Cheetahs don't growl like other big cats, they purr. Cheetahs have excellent eyesight during the day, but they have poor vision at night.

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What are some cheetah facts for kids?
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Full Answer

Predator cats, such as white lions and leopards, hunt for food when the sun is down, but cheetahs hunt during the day. Cheetahs back away from fights with larger predators because of their blunt claws and lightweight bodies, and they give up food to predators to avoid confrontations.

Animals Time explains that cheetahs can get up to a running speed of 62 miles per hour within 3 seconds. These creatures have larger nostrils for breathing in more oxygen when running. Their heartbeat increases anywhere from 60 to 150 breaths each minute while running. Because cheetahs can only run in short bursts, other animals, such as hyenas, are able to outrun them. Cheetahs are vulnerable to many predators, and the cubs often fall prey to other animals.

Female cheetahs are shorter than the males, and the males are very territorial. Females hunt alone, but cubs often join the mothers during hunts. Females give birth to three to five cubs on average.

Cheetahs live in Africa, Pakistan and Iran. They prefer to live in spots where there is abundant vegetation.

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