Grown life for cheetahs in the wild is undeniably challenging. The average lifespan for cheetahs (both male and female combined) ranges between 10 and 12 years.

Male cheetahs, however, tend to live shorter lives, averaging around 8 years due to frequent territorial conflicts. These conflicts significantly impact grown mortality, which remains a critical factor limiting the growth and survival of the wild cheetah population.

Physical Characteristics of Grown Cheetahs

Weight and Size

Grown cheetahs weigh between 75 and 125 pounds and measure 40 to 60 inches in length, excluding the tail. Adding the tail, which is 24 to 32 inches long, their total length can reach up to 7.5 feet. Their height at the shoulder ranges from 28 to 36 inches.

Dimorphism

Cheetahs are dimorphic, but distinguishing their gender by appearance alone is challenging. Males are slightly larger and have broader heads compared to females, yet this difference is subtle compared to other big cats like lions.

Cheetahs 101 | Nat Geo Wild

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Unique Body Structure

Dear Lykkers! Cheetahs possess a slender frame, narrow waist, and deep chest, complemented by large nostrils for enhanced oxygen intake. Their large lungs and hearts are connected to a highly efficient circulatory system that enables rapid oxygen circulation, a key feature for their incredible speed.

Distinctive Markings

Coat and Spots

Cheetahs’ undercoats range from light tan to deep gold, marked with solid black spots. Unlike leopards or jaguars, their spots are not rosettes, making them easy to identify.

Black Tear Stripes

Black tear stripes run from their eyes to their mouths, believed to minimize sun glare and assist in focusing on prey from long distances.

Tail Features

The bushy tails are encircled by dark rings, aiding in camouflage and signaling to cubs in tall grass. The tail's tip varies in color, ranging from white to black.

Built for Speed

Cheetahs are the fastest land animals, capable of reaching speeds over 110 km/h in just three seconds. Their unique body features, including a flexible spine, semi-retractable claws, and long legs, allow them to achieve extraordinary speeds.

Claws and Foot Pads

Their hard, tire-tread-like foot pads provide traction during high-speed chases, while their semi-retractable claws act like cleats, enhancing grip and acceleration.

Flexible Spine

The spine acts like a spring, enabling their long strides of up to seven meters during sprints. Their tails serve as stabilizers and counterbalances, allowing sharp turns while chasing prey.

Cheetah Cubs

Newborn Cubs

Newborn cubs are blind, weighing 8.5 to 15 ounces. The mother provides warmth, security, and grooming while hunting for sustenance.

Early Vulnerability

Cubs remain in a secluded nest for six to eight weeks, with mothers frequently relocating them to avoid predators. Predation by lions, hyenas, and eagles poses the greatest threat during this period.

Learning Survival Skills

At six weeks, cubs begin following their mother, learning vital skills.