Native to Africa and parts of the Middle East, the cheetah is best known for its incredible speed and agility, capable of reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour in just a few seconds. They have a slender and streamlined body, with long legs, a small head, and a long tail for balance and maneuverability. Cheetahs are predators, relying on their speed and hunting skills to catch prey. They primarily feed on small ungulates, such as gazelles and springboks, but also hunt smaller prey such as hares and birds. They hunt during the day and are successful in about half of their hunts. They are also able to go without water for long periods, which is useful in their arid habitats. 

Due to habitat loss and hunting, cheetahs are considered vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The establishment of protected areas, anti-poaching patrols, and captive breeding programs contributes to the survival of this species.