Cheetah Cubs Colouring

A watchful cheetah sits tall on a broad rock while two young cubs rest safely beside her. Cheetahs live mainly in the open savannas and dry grasslands of Africa, with a very small remaining population in Iran. Their slim bodies, long legs, flexible spines and long tails are specially suited for fast running. A cheetah can sprint faster than any other land animal for a short distance, although it must rest after such an energetic dash. Adults stand about 70 to 90 centimetres at the shoulder, usually weigh around 34 to 64 kilograms, and often live for approximately 8 to 12 years in the wild. Cheetah mothers raise their cubs without help from a male. The tiny cubs are born with a soft grey mantle of longer fur along their backs, which helps them blend into grass. They follow their mother, learn to notice danger and gradually practise the skills needed to find food. Brothers and sisters play, chase and tumble, building balance and speed. Youngsters may stay with their mother for roughly a year and a half before becoming independent. In this picture, the rock gives the family a high lookout over the grassland. The adult sits between the cubs, and all three are calm, close and fully visible. For realistic colours, make the coats golden tan or sandy yellow. Colour each open spot dark brown or black, but keep the belly, chest and muzzle pale cream. Cheetahs also have dark tear marks running from the inner corners of their eyes toward their mouths. The cubs can be slightly lighter than the adult. Try warm grey and brown on the rock, green or straw-gold on the grass, and soft blue in the open sky. Younger colourists can fill the large body areas first and return to the little spots afterward. Use gentle circular strokes for furry coats and straight strokes for blades of grass. You may add a sunrise, distant birds or small flowers, but keep plenty of bright space around this speedy, caring family.

◫ A4 size✎ Bold outlines♡ Ages 3–8

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