A cheetah can only run at its full speed for a short period of time, typically around 20 to 30 seconds.
This is because they are built for short bursts of speed and their bodies generate a lot of heat during this time.
The cheetah's incredible speed is due to a combination of factors, including:
- Powerful muscles: Cheetahs have extremely powerful leg muscles that allow them to accelerate rapidly.
- Lightweight build: Their slender body and long legs help them achieve high speeds.
- Flexible spine: Their flexible spine allows them to take large strides.
- Large lungs: They have large lungs that allow them to take in more oxygen, which is essential for sustained speed.
While they can reach speeds up to 70 mph, they can't maintain this speed for long. After a short burst, they need to slow down to cool down and avoid overheating.
This short burst of speed is still enough for them to catch their prey. They use their speed to quickly close the distance to their prey, then they use their sharp claws and teeth to bring it down.
