Build and Body Shape Leopards have a more robust, muscular build with shorter legs and a broader head. Cheetah Built for speed, cheetahs have a lightweight, aerodynamic body with long, slender legs and a small, rounded head.
Spot Patterns Cheetahs have solid black spots that are evenly distributed over a tan or golden coat. Leopards have rosettes, which are irregularly shaped spots with a central spot inside each rosette.
Tail The cheetah’s tail is long, slender, and has black rings. Leopards have shorter tails with a bushier appearance and fewer rings compared to cheetahs.
Running Speed Cheetah Known as the fastest land animal, cheetahs can reach speeds of up to 60-70 miles per hour. Leopards are not built for high-speed chases but are strong climbers and are more stealthy in their approach.
Habitat Preferences Cheetah Prefer open savannas and grasslands where they can utilize their speed to hunt. Leopard Adaptable to a variety of habitats including forests, savannas, and mountains.
Behavior and Hunting Cheetah Primarily diurnal (active during the day) and use their incredible speed to chase down prey. Leopard Primarily nocturnal (active at night) and use stealth and strength to ambush prey.
Vocalizations Cheetahs can make a distinctive high-pitched chirping sound, which is quite different from the roar-like calls of other big cats. Leopards make a variety of sounds including growls, roars, and a distinctive rasping call known as a "sawing" call.