Well known as the fastest land mammal on earth, the Cheetah can reach speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. At home on the open savannahs of Africa, the Cheetah lives in groups. Cheetahs possess several dog-like characteristics both in the shape of their canine-like teeth and paws. Unlike other cats, their claws do not retract. Cheetah numbers are dwindling because of man's growing need for pasture land as well as a weakness in the Cheetah's genetic make-up.
© 1997 E Patrol Foundation