The Saharan Cheetah: Critically Endangered

The Saharan cheetah is so rare and elusive that it rarely enters the spotlight as an endangered species. Scientists know very little about this incredibly rare animal-- only that it hangs on the brink of extinction, with its total world population estimated at no more than 250 individuals. The Saharan cheetah's only hope for survival will come from diligent support from conservationists.

Classification

Saharan cheetahs do not form an independent endangered species. Rather, they are a subspecies of Acinonyx jubatus-- the single classification that includes all eight subspecies of cheetah. Saharan cheetahs are formally classified as Acinonyx jubatus hecki, and are also known as Northwest African cheetahs.

Appearance

Saharan cheetahs are strikingly different from other subspecies of cheetah. Unlike other cheetahs, which have tawny, golden coats, the Saharan cheetah has extremely short fur that is a creamy or nearly white color. Its spots range in color from light brown on the legs to black on the spine. Unlike other cheetahs, Saharan cheetahs do not have spots on their faces, and they often lack the facial stripes that mark other members of the species.

Distribution

One of the greatest threats to the Saharan cheetah's survival is the fragmented nature of its tiny, remnant populations. The subspecies appears to cling to survival in Algeria, Niger, Benin, and Burkina Faso. It is possible, but unlikely that the animal persists in Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Senegal, and Togo, but no scientists have recorded no recent signs of them in those regions. Most Saharan cheetahs live in isolated populations of 10 or fewer individuals, with no natural way of breeding with other groups.

Adaptations

The Saharan cheetah is most remarkable in its capacity to survive in conditions that most other predators would find intolerable. It has evolved to be nocturnal, unlike other cheetahs, which gives it an opportunity to hunt in avoidance of the scorching heat of the Sahara. Scientists believe that it rests in caves during the day time. Saharan cheetahs do not have a need to drink water; they have evolved to survive entirely on fluids found in their prey.

Behavior

Like other cheetahs, Saharan cheetahs are not generally social. However, young males may live in groups together to maximize hunting ability, and mothers and cubs can live together for a few years. Territories tend to be small and female-dominated. Little is known about the Saharan cheetah's hunting behavior, but it likely consumes a diet of hare, addax, and a few hardy species of gazelle.

Future

The future of the Saharan cheetah looks bleak, and it will take a miracle-- or a considerable amount of attention from conservationists-- to save these hauntingly beautiful animals. Saharan cheetah populations continue to decline due to habitat loss, population fragmentation, climate change and poaching. The subspecies' best chance of survival must come from ongoing attention and support from government initiatives, nonprofit support, and cooperation from local farmers and nomads.

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature offers more information about the Saharan cheetah.