Cheetah looking over its back as it walks on grass.
ANIMALS

CHEETAH

  • Conservation Status: Threatened
  • Long and lanky, cheetahs are the sprinters of the cat world. Their body is designed to run fast for short distances, allowing them to catch prey that other big cats can’t get.

    The cheetahs’ ability to run starts with their flexible spine. It allows their front legs to stretch far forward on each stride. Cheetah claws are hard and sharp like cleats, giving them great traction when they run. 

    Cheetahs are quite vocal. They make a unique, bird-like sound called a “chirrup” when excited. Mothers use the same sound to call to their cubs. They also purr, growl, snarl, hiss, cough, moan, and bleat, but cheetahs cannot roar like lions or tigers do.

    Enjoy the view of our cheetahs and their view of the African Plains beyond, in African Outpost.

    ShopZoo Dia de Los Muertos collection
    Twist on Tradition

    Celebrate Día de los Muertos and wildlife

    Preferred Hotels
    Preferred Hotels

    Places to Stay

    Kid and Elephant
    October 1-31

    KIDS FREE

    San Diego Zoo Safari Park Autumn Festival Banner
    Weekends in October

    AUTUMN FESTIVAL