This super-fast big cat can reach sprint speeds of 104 kph (65 mph). The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is the quickest land animal on record. Thanks to its flexible spine, it can take strides that are seven to eight meters (23 to 26 feet) long, with its hind legs sweeping out in front of its front legs in midair. It also boasts non-retractable, long, blunt claws like running shoe spikes, which maximize traction.
Animal Olympics: The Fastest Critters on Earth
ReplyDeleteUsain Bolt might be the world’s fastest man but animals big and small would handily beat him
by Katherine Harmon
http://www.scientificamerican.com/slideshow.cfm?id=animal-olympics-fastest
This super-fast big cat can reach sprint speeds of 104 kph (65 mph). The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is the quickest land animal on record. Thanks to its flexible spine, it can take strides that are seven to eight meters (23 to 26 feet) long, with its hind legs sweeping out in front of its front legs in midair. It also boasts non-retractable, long, blunt claws like running shoe spikes, which maximize traction.