What food does a cheetah eat?

Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) primarily feed on a diet consisting of medium- to large-sized mammals. Here is the list of animals that feature in a cheetah's menu:

1. Gazelles: Gazelles are often the preferred prey for cheetahs. Grant's gazelle (Gazella granti), Thompson's gazelle (Eudorcas thomsoni), and Springboks (Antidorcas marsupialis) are some examples.

2. Impalas: Impalas (Aepyceros melampus) are another favorite food source for cheetahs.

3. Wildebeest: Cheetahs sometimes hunt and prey upon young or vulnerable wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus).

4. Hares: In certain areas, cheetahs may include hares (Leporidae) in their diet.

5. Small Antelopes: Depending on the region and availability, cheetahs hunt smaller antelopes like Dik-diks (Madoqua kirkii).

6. Birds: Cheetahs have occasionally been known to hunt and feed on ground birds like ostriches (Struthio camelus), bustards, guineafowl, and francolins.

It is important to note that cheetahs generally target ungulates weighing between 20 to 60 kg (44 to 132 lbs). They are selective hunters and often go after animals that are young, injured, or less agile within the herd. This enables cheetahs to successfully chase and capture their prey using their exceptional speed and strength.