If you know one thing about cheetahs, it’s likely their status as the fastest land animal in the world. They boast the longest and most flexible spine of any cat species, making possible speeds of up to 75 miles an hour. Like a coiled spring, they can accelerate from zero to 60 in just three seconds, faster than most cars. Their lithe, spotted bodies were built to run, and to run more perfectly than any animal alive.

Cheetahs aren’t the bullies of the feline playground. They purr, not roar. They aren’t designed to fight hard or defend territory. And all this can leave them vulnerable.

For most of a year, I’ve worked with writer Rachael Bale on a