2. Camouflage: Cheetahs have a spotted coat with tan or yellowish fur covered in black spots. This coloration provides excellent camouflage in the grasslands and savannas where they live, allowing them to approach their prey without being easily detected.
3. Hunting: Cheetahs primarily hunt during the day when visibility is better. They use their keen eyesight to spot potential prey, focusing on gazelles, wildebeest calves, impalas, and other fast-moving species. They prefer to target younger, inexperienced, or weaker individuals within the herd.
4. Chase: Once they have identified their target, cheetahs begin the chase. They typically initiate the chase from a distance of around 100-300 meters (328-984 feet). As they approach their prey, they gradually increase their speed and can maintain it for short distances.
5. Takedown: When they get close enough to their prey, the cheetahs employ a tripping technique to bring down their target. They extend one front paw to trip the prey's legs, causing it to stumble or fall to the ground.
6. Restraint and Bite to the Throat: Once the prey is on the ground, the cheetah quickly grabs it with its claws and teeth to maintain control. They deliver a quick and precise bite to the throat or lower back, severing the spinal cord or causing death by strangulation. Cheetahs use their incredible jaw strength to suffocate their prey instead of crushing their windpipe.
7. Consuming the Prey: After the prey is subdued, the cheetah will rest for a few moments before beginning to feed. They start by eating the soft internal organs, such as the liver, kidneys, and heart, which are high in nutrients and energy. They may then consume other meaty portions of the carcass.
8. Sharing with the Group: Cheetahs typically hunt alone, but they may share their kills with other cheetahs in their coalition or with their cubs if they have any. However, they are usually very protective of their prey and may fiercely defend it from scavengers or other predators.