Cheetahs are classified as vulnerable, but they are likely to move up to the Endangered classification very soon.
There are six classifications. Each has different criteria, such as population size, geographic range, and the possibility of extinction.
The classifications are:
Least concern, which means that the species are still abundant
Vulnerable: this means that there is a large population decline in the wild and the possibility of extinction in the next 50 years
In danger of extinction: the population decline is over 50%, their habitat is shrinking and they are losing numbers due to different threats such as poaching, lack of space, death by humans
Critically endangered: A population decline of more than 80%. A very small population that may not be sustainable for reproduction and the possibility of extinction in 10 years.
Extinct in wild: Species that only remain in captivity
Extinct: None of the surviving species
Cheetahs are in danger of extinction as the last census estimated that there are only 7,500 animals left in just 10% of their previous geographic range. This is due to the loss of habitat due to the increase of farmland taking over their areas. New roads, new cities, new industry. With the loss of habitat it means the loss of prey species. So sometimes cheetahs take farm livestock, such as sheep, goats, or young cattle.
This makes them enemies of many farmers who will shoot them on the spot. Even if the cheetah is only passing through these lands. Cheetahs have large ranges, more than 500 to 1,500 square kilometers, and travel long distances. But since they are diurnal and travel during morning and night, farmers are more likely to see cheetahs. The uninformed farmer will shoot them immediately as a preventive measure.
One method that informed farmers are using to protect their livestock is the use of guard dogs such as Anatolian Sheepdogs. These dogs stay with their flock and protect them from predator attacks. The cheetah then has to go back to being wild prey. But with these numbers declining, the cheetah finds itself in a tough spot.
Poaching is a small problem, but it is still a problem. The cheetah dies for its skin. Although they are protected and the skins are not allowed in many countries, these skins are still sold on the black market.
Cheetahs do not do well in protected areas as they can become prey for lions and hyenas. These two species will kill young animals that cannot travel with their mother or carry prey killed by cheetahs. Sometimes killing the adult cheetah. Therefore, cheetahs are more likely to use unprotected areas and come into contact with farmers. A cruel cycle.
1900 Range and estimated number: 100,000
2017 rank and numbers: 7,500
Possible extinction by 2027?
Is it too late to save an animal that has taken 4 million years to reach its current form? We can blame many things for its decline, but man is ultimately the problem and the solution.