Cheetahs, known for their remarkable speed, are predators of the African savannas. These lithe big cats have developed specialized dietary needs and hydration strategies to thrive in their environments. Their diet and hydration habits provide insight into their unique ecological role.
Their Primary Diet
Cheetahs are carnivores. They primarily hunt medium-sized ungulates. Their preferred prey includes gazelles (such as Thomson’s and Grant’s), impalas, and other antelope species. These animals provide the necessary nutrients and energy for the cheetah’s active lifestyle.
While medium-sized ungulates form the bulk of their diet, cheetahs are opportunistic predators. They also prey on the young of larger animals like warthogs, kudu, hartebeest, oryx, and sable. Smaller animals such as hares, rabbits, and game birds can supplement their diet, especially when larger prey is scarce. Cheetahs rarely scavenge and prefer to eat freshly killed prey.
Hunting Strategies
Cheetahs use hunting techniques that capitalize on their speed. Unlike many other large cats, they are primarily diurnal, hunting during the early morning and late afternoon. They often use elevated positions, like termite mounds, to scan the landscape for potential prey. Once a target is spotted, a cheetah will stalk it, creeping within 60 to 100 meters before initiating a high-speed chase.
Their acceleration is swift, reaching speeds up to 110 km/h (68 mph) in short bursts. The pursuit is brief, lasting around 20 seconds and not exceeding one minute, covering an average distance of 170 meters. During the chase, the cheetah uses its dewclaw to trip the prey, knocking it off balance. Once the animal is on the ground, the cheetah delivers a bite to the throat, clamping down on the windpipe.
Hydration Habits
Cheetahs have adapted to survive in environments where water sources can be scarce. They obtain much of their moisture directly from the body fluids of their prey. This allows them to go for extended periods without needing to drink freestanding water.
Despite their ability to derive moisture from prey, cheetahs do drink water when it is available. They use various water sources, including rivers, waterholes, and temporary puddles. In some arid regions, cheetahs can obtain moisture from the blood of their kills, though this is not a primary source. Cheetahs may only need to drink once every four to ten days. However, in hot climates, their need for direct water intake can increase, sometimes requiring water daily.