1.
A cheetah can have up to 15 cubs in a litter.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Cheetahs have 3-6 cubs in litter.
2.
How much time does it take a cheetah to accelerate from walking speed to running speed?
Correct Answer
A. Less than two seconds
Explanation
A cheetah is known for its incredible speed and agility. It can accelerate from a walking speed to its top running speed in less than two seconds. This rapid acceleration is due to the cheetah's powerful leg muscles and flexible spine, which allow it to cover ground quickly and efficiently. This quick acceleration is essential for the cheetah to catch its prey, as it needs to close the distance rapidly before launching into a high-speed chase.
3.
Lions and leopards kill cheetahs if they get the chance.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Lions and leopards are both apex predators and known to be territorial. When a cheetah enters their territory, they see it as a threat and may attack and kill the cheetah if given the opportunity. This behavior is a result of competition for resources and dominance in the ecosystem. Therefore, it is true that lions and leopards kill cheetahs if they get the chance.
4.
People are overhunting cheetahs for fur and to keep cheetahs out of their houses.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
People are overhunting cheetahs for fur and to keep cheetahs off of their farm land.
5.
Cheetahs can purr like domestic cats.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
While cheetahs belong to the cat family, they cannot purr like domestic cats. Instead, they make a chirping sound, often described as a "cheep" or "chirrup," which is used for communication, especially between mothers and cubs.
6.
Cheetahs produce cubs very frequently. Unfortunately most of them _________________________________ .
Correct Answer
B. Die
Explanation
Cheetahs produce cubs very frequently, however, unfortunately, most of them die.
7.
What is the distinctive black marking that runs from the corner of a cheetah's eyes down the sides of its nose?
Correct Answer
A. Tear stripes
Explanation
These black markings, known as "tear stripes" or "malar stripes," are a unique feature of cheetahs. They are thought to help reduce glare from the sun, improving their vision while hunting in bright conditions.
8.
There is no way a cheetah can defend itself if it is surrounded by a gathering of:
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
A cheetah is a solitary animal and relies on its speed and agility to catch its prey. It does not have the strength or size to defend itself against a gathering of vultures, packs of hyenas, lions, or leopards. Vultures can peck at the cheetah, hyenas can overpower it with their numbers, lions can easily overpower and kill a cheetah, and leopards are strong enough to take down a cheetah. Therefore, if a cheetah is surrounded by any of these animals, it would have no way to defend itself.
9.
Which of the following adaptations helps cheetahs maintain stability while running at high speeds?
Correct Answer
B. Long, muscular tail
Explanation
Cheetahs possess a long, muscular tail that acts as a counterbalance and rudder, enabling them to make sharp turns and maintain balance while pursuing prey at high speeds. Their tails provide crucial stability and control, preventing them from toppling over during rapid maneuvers.
10.
Which of the following statements about cheetahs is FALSE?
Correct Answer
C. Cheetahs have retractable claws.
Explanation
Unlike most other cats, cheetahs have semi-retractable claws. This means their claws are always partially extended, providing them with increased traction and grip for running at high speeds.