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What Makes Cheetahs the Fastest Mammal on the Planet

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Author Jan Otte

Slow pan of female cheetah among bushes. Cheetah Imag via Depositphotos.

Cheetahs are renowned for their incredible speed, which makes them the fastest mammals on Earth. Their ability to reach and sustain such high speeds is a result of various unique physiological and anatomical adaptations. Here, we delve into what makes cheetahs such extraordinary sprinters.

Muscular Build and Skeletal Structure

Cheetah Image, Via Unsplash.

Powerful Leg Muscles

Cheetah Image, Via Unsplash.

Cheetahs have exceptionally strong and powerful leg muscles that provide the necessary force for rapid acceleration. These muscles are highly efficient at converting energy into explosive speed, enabling cheetahs to reach 60-70 miles per hour in a matter of seconds.

Flexible Spine

Slow pan of cheetah walking across grassland. Cheetah Image, Via Unsplash.

The cheetah’s spine is incredibly flexible, acting like a spring during running. This flexibility allows for a greater stride length, meaning cheetahs can cover more ground with each step. Their spine’s elasticity helps them to stretch their bodies out and then contract them in rapid succession, contributing to their speed.

Specialized Limb and Claw Structure

A cheetah walks between grass and bushes in the savannah of Kenya. Cheetah Image, Via Unsplash.

Long Limbs

Cheetah Image, Via Unsplash.

Cheetahs possess long, slender limbs that are built for speed. Their legs are longer in proportion to their bodies compared to other big cats, allowing for an extended stride and more powerful propulsion with each leap.

Non-Retractable Claws

cheetah in Masai Mara national reserve. Cheetah Image via Depositphotos.

Unlike other cats, cheetahs have non-retractable claws that function like cleats. These claws dig into the ground, providing extra grip and traction during high-speed chases. This adaptation helps prevent slipping and enhances their ability to make quick, sharp turns while pursuing prey.

Enhanced Respiratory and Circulatory Systems

Portrait of cheetah. Close-up view of big cat and the fastest land animal. Cheetah Image via Depositphotos.

Enlarged Nasal Passages

Male cheetah sitting in grass and looking for its pray in Masai Mara, Kenya. Cheetah Image via Depositphotos.

Cheetahs have large nasal passages that allow for a greater intake of oxygen. This is crucial during a high-speed chase, as their muscles require a significant amount of oxygen to sustain such rapid movements.

Large Lungs and Heart

A pair of cheetahs move steathily through the long grass of the Masai Mara in search of prey. Selective focus on front animal. Cheetah Image via Depositphotos.

The size of a cheetah’s lungs and heart are larger relative to its body size compared to other mammals. This enables efficient oxygen distribution throughout the body and supports the intense physical exertion required during a sprint. Their hearts pump more blood per beat, ensuring that their muscles receive ample oxygen.

Tail for Balance and Steering

Cheetah hunting down prey. Wmarinovich/ Deposit Photos
Cheetah hunting down prey. Image via Depositphotos

Long, Muscular Tail

Cheetah male walking and looking for prey. Cheetah Image via Depositphotos.

A cheetah’s tail is long and muscular, acting as a rudder to steer and maintain balance during a chase. The tail helps counterbalance the body, allowing for sharp turns and quick directional changes without losing speed or stability.

Burst of Speed

cheetah yawning
Image Credit: Hu Chen; Unsplash

Cheetahs rely on short bursts of speed rather than long-distance endurance. They typically hunt during the day, using their keen eyesight to spot prey from a distance. Once they lock onto a target, they approach stealthily and then accelerate rapidly to catch their prey within a matter of seconds.

Energy Conservation

Slow pan of cheetah sprinting through grass

While cheetahs can reach incredible speeds, they can only maintain them for about 20-30 seconds. After a sprint, they need to rest and cool down, as the exertion generates a significant amount of body heat. Their hunting strategy is therefore highly efficient, targeting quick, decisive chases rather than prolonged pursuits.

Aerodynamic Body Shape

Young adult cheeteh in the Masai Mara. Spacefor your text. Cheetah Image via Depositphotos.

Sleek, Streamlined Build

Cheetah running at full speed in South Africa (Acinonyx jubatus)

Cheetahs have a sleek, streamlined body that minimizes air resistance. Their small, rounded head, narrow waist, and slim body all contribute to reducing drag while running at high speeds. This aerodynamic shape allows them to move swiftly through the air with minimal resistance.

Conclusion

Slow pan of female cheetah among bushes. Cheetah Image, Via Unsplash.

Cheetahs are equipped with a remarkable set of adaptations that make them the fastest mammals on the planet. Their ability to reach and sustain such high speeds is a result of various unique physiological and anatomical adaptations.

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