Wild Cats:

There are 36 species of wild cats scattered throughout the globe. Any one species is usually found in only one or two continents. Wild cats are found at almost every area on the globe. Listed below are some of the most well-known species of the cat family. They range from small and swift to enormous and powerful. All cats look somewhat similar but due to different habitats and hunting techniques they have evolved into many different forms. For more information and pictures of wild cats click here.

Cheetah: These cats are known mainly for their great speed (60 mph!). This cat is found mainly in Africa. Cheetahs usually hunt by day instead of at night like many other cats. It follows its prey from a distance and selects old, or slow prey.
Lion: The lion is set apart mainly by its size and distinctive furry mane around its head. They live in Africa and belong to large groups of lions called prides. Hunting is a team effort with a few lions herding the prey into a hidden group.
Bobcat: The bobcat is very small compared to most wild cats. It looks almost like a domestic cat. They mainly live in North America. It usually prefers to eat rabbits and other small mammals, occasionally hunting larger animals such as deer if prey is limited.
Tiger: The tiger is the largest of the cat family and is identified by its unique striped body. It is found mainly in India and South Asia. Tigers usually hunt at night. Their prey includes wild boar, deer, and occasionally smaller prey if the larger is not in abundance.
Leopard: The leopard is identified by its spotted coat. These cats are found in Africa, India, and much of Asia. These cats hunt usually at night. Their prey includes any thing from deer and wildebeest to hare and even insects.

By Nathan Baumgartner

Last modified November 8, 2004