The race for survival: can cheetahs beat extinction with the help of guard dogs?
* The word “cheetah” means “spotted one” in the Hindi language. The cat’s spotted coat helps it blend in with the tall grasses of the African plains. This camouflage helps the cheetah hide from predators. * Many large cats use their excellent sense of smell to track down their prey. Cheetahs, however, rely on their keen eyesight. They (tan spot their next meal as far away as 5 kilometers (3 miles). * When a cheetah runs and leaps in the air, it uses its long tail to help steer its body in the desired direction. The tail also helps the airborne cat keep its balance. CRITICAL THINKING: * Human activities such as farming and logging can affect all animal’s habitat. What are some other factors that could affect an animal’s habitat? CROSS-CURRICULAR CONNECTIONS: LANGUAGE ARTS: Have your students research an endangered or threatened animal. Then, haw’ them write a news article about why an animal may become extinct, and what scientists and communities are doing to help save the species.
