A high density of cheetahs prowls the southeastern open plains of the Serengeti. In the grass lies a cheetah mother with her cubs. The mother breaths with a calm pace while she nurses her young. These restful family moments are occasionally interrupted when the female has to hunt to feed her cubs. Left alone, her offspring is exposed to the savagery of predators. She needs both good skills and fortune to raise her young to adulthood.
Mortality in young cheetahs is high, and only a scarce number make it through their first year of life. After this time, the mother leaves her young. They have to become independent straight away, as dangers continues to lurk. To survive without their mother, they must be able to kill for themselves. Cheetahs are the fastest hunters of Africa. With their long slim legs and muscled torso, they outrun any prey. The elegant feline targets animals that stray from their herd. After a tiring yet successful chase, cheetahs have not much time to rest, as other predators are on the watch to steal their food. Even scavengers such as vultures and hyenas can gain the upper hand over this slender feline built for speed.