Cheetah vs leopard: How to tell the difference

Cheetahs and leopards are both spotted wild cats, but they are from different evolutionary lines. To differentiate between the two, experts advise focusing on physical characteristics, hunting habits, and habitats.

Physically, cheetahs are slim and built for speed, featuring long legs for running and a body geared towards rapid acceleration. Their coats display solid black spots. In contrast, leopards are stocky and muscular, equipped for strength, stealth, and climbing trees. Their coats, however, feature distinctive rosettes with darker centers.

One notable facial feature that aids identification is the cheetah's black streaks, or tear marks, which run from their eyes down their mouth sides. These stripes may function like sunglasses, reducing glare from bright sunlight. Leopards lack these specific markings on their faces.

Differences in claw structure are another clue. Cheetahs have semi-non-retractable claws, acting like cleats for traction during their high-speed chases. Leopards, on the other hand, have fully retractable claws, useful for climbing and gripping prey.

Hunting techniques also vary. Cheetahs are sprinters that rely on speed to catch prey, chasing it over open plains at speeds up to 112 km/h. Leopards, however, are ambush predators that prefer stealth and stealth to catch prey in denser habitats. They climb trees to stash their kills, a strategy reflecting their robust, climbing-capable physique.

Finally, leopards have a wider range of habitats, thriving in jungles, forests and rocky areas, while cheetahs prefer open spaces like plains and grasslands.