DNA Reveals the Extinct ‘American Cheetah’ Wasn’t Actually a Cheetah | National Geographic

A recent study has determined that the extinct Miracinonyx trumani, often called the 'American cheetah,' is not closely related to modern cheetahs but instead shares more genetic similarities with the American puma. By analyzing DNA and chemical compositions from fossils, researchers concluded that these ancient felines adapted to their habitats in varying ways and likely had diverse diets.