Northwest African cheetahs are being pushed to the brink of extinction. At ZSL, we're working with partners to protect them and restore their habitats.
ZSL's Cheetah Conservation
Help us overcome the threats they face
What do Northwest African cheetahs look like?
Cheetahs can grow up to 1-1.5 metres, not counting their tails, which can reach up to 80cm long! A cheetah's long tail is used for balance, and also comes in useful to help cubs follow their mother through long grass.
With impressive, powerful legs and large muscles, cheetahs are perfectly adapted for their famous running power - they can go from 0 to 60mph in three seconds flat!
Dotted markings on their fur help cheetahs to blend into their surroundings when hunting - perfect natural camouflage. The pattern is unique to each cheetah, just like a human fingerprint.
Northwest African Cheetah Facts
Did you know, cheetahs don't roar? Instead, they gently purr and 'chirrup', just like domestic cats. Their name comes from the Hindi word 'Chita' meaning 'the spotted one', and they can run a fierce speed of 60 miles per hour!
Cheetahs are under threat from the Illegal Wildlife Trade
Fighting the Illegal Wildlife TradeEvery one of us can help protect animals from illegal trade
7 things you can do to help prevent the Illegal Wildlife Trade
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