What do cheetahs eat to survive?

Cheetahs are carnivorous animals that primarily prey on medium-sized ungulates such as gazelles, impalas, wildebeest, and zebras. These ungulates provide the cheetahs with essential nutrients and energy to sustain their fast-paced lifestyle and hunting strategies. Smaller animals like rabbits, hares, and birds may occasionally be part of their diet, but they rarely consume large animals such as giraffes or elephants.

Cheetahs are ambush predators, which means they rely on speed and agility rather than strength to capture their prey. Their muscular bodies and long, slender legs allow them to reach incredible speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour) in short bursts. Once they spot a potential target, cheetahs stalk their prey carefully until they get within striking distance.

When the cheetah gets close enough, it accelerates rapidly and chases down its prey. The cheetah's claws are not retractable like those of other big cats; instead, they have semi-retractable claws that provide extra traction during high-speed chases. Once the cheetah catches up with its prey, it uses its strong jaws to deliver a powerful bite that usually severs the prey's windpipe or jugular vein, leading to a quick death.

After capturing their prey, cheetahs typically consume it on the spot. They eat the meat and internal organs, leaving the skin, bones, and hooves for scavengers. They prefer fresh kills and avoid consuming carrion, so they generally make multiple kills within their territory to ensure a consistent food supply.