The cheetah is endangered. They are found mainly in Africa, although very small populations do exist in Asia and Iran. They prefer open and semi-arid savannas. Cheetahs average a length of 4 feet and stand about 3 feet high at the shoulder. Males weigh up to 120 pounds. It is the swiftest land mammal in the world, reaching speeds up to 70 mph in short spurts. They are the only cat without fully retractable claws, which allows great traction when running, with the claw acting like a cleat. A cheetah will approach its prey as quietly as possible, then dart in pursuit, toppling the quarry with a hit from the front paw that trips the prey. It will then seize the animal by the throat to kill it. Cheetahs will often lose their prey to lions, leopards, hyenas, or wild dogs.