* Warm temperatures: Cheetahs thrive in hot, dry climates with average temperatures ranging from 68-86°F (20-30°C).
* Seasonal rainfall: They require some rainfall to maintain vegetation and support their prey. However, they can survive in areas with both wet and dry seasons.
* Open terrain: Cheetahs need open spaces to run and hunt their prey. They avoid dense forests and mountainous regions.
Specific regions where cheetahs are found:
* Africa:
* East Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, Ethiopia
* Southern Africa: Namibia, Botswana, South Africa
* West Africa: Niger, Chad
* Iran: A small, isolated population survives in the Dasht-e Kavir desert.
It's important to note that climate change is a serious threat to cheetah populations as it can lead to habitat loss, altered prey availability, and increased competition for resources.