The cheetah, a species of cat, is found only in Africa. Cheetahs, which are carnivores, are diurnal. They eschew larger animals like zebras and prey on gazelles and impalas instead. The cheetah's spotted fur is excellent camouflage. Quickly accelerating, cheetahs can attain speeds of 120mph. That is astounding. However, they can only run short distances before they must rest.