Cheetah: The Fastest Land Animal

The cheetah is renowned for being the fastest land animal, capable of reaching speeds up to 100 km/h in short bursts covering distances of around 500 metres. Found primarily in parts of Africa and some areas of Iran, cheetahs are built for speed, with a lightweight body, long legs, and a flexible spine that allows them to stretch their stride significantly. Their distinctive black tear-like streaks running from the inner corners of their eyes down to their mouth help reduce glare from the sun and improve focus during high-speed chases. Despite their impressive abilities, cheetahs face numerous threats, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and declining prey populations, making them vulnerable to extinction. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect this incredible species and ensure their survival for generations to come.