Cheetahs live and hunt mainly in open grasslands and bushy areas in parts of Africa and the Middle East. Cheetahs eat small- to medium-size animals, such as hares, impalas, wildebeest calves, and gazelles.

Where do cheetahs hunt their prey?

Approaching Prey

A cheetah will always approach its prey from a downwind position so its scent does not give them away. It uses the natural undulations and peaks of its habitat, such as hills and termite mounds, to cover as it approaches. A cheetah has to stay out of sight until it is time to pounce.

How do cheetahs hunt?

They hunt by sight. Once they spot prey they will sneak up as close as they can and then use their superior speed to catch the prey. Cheetahs will usually eat their meal as fast as possible before a lion or a pack of hyenas can take it away.