Stalking Cheetah

We spent most of the day with this female cheetah and her cub while they stalked the game in the mara. This shot is done early in the morning and they finally got their kill in the middle of the afternoon. A long time to wait for your breakfast!
The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is an atypical member of the cat family (Felidae) that is unique in its speed, while lacking climbing abilities. The species is the only living member of the genus Acinonyx. It is the fastest land animal, reaching speeds between 112 and 120 km/h (70 and 75 mph) in short bursts covering distances up to 460 m (1,500 ft), and has the ability to accelerate from 0 to 103 km/h (64 mph) in three seconds, faster than most supercars. Recent studies confirm the cheetah's status as the fastest land animal.
The word "cheetah" is derived from the Sanskrit word citrak?ya, meaning "variegated body", via the Hindi c?t?.
The cheetah normally prey on smaller antelope and are alone amongst big cats in that they will only eat fresh kill they will not touch carrion at all.