Spots and StripesAdult cheetahs are easy distinguished from other cast by their solid black spots. The color and spots are a form of camouflage which helps cheetahs hunt prey and hide form other predators. Until about three months of age cheetah cubs have a thick silvery-grey mantle down their back. The mantle helps camouflage the cubs by imitating the look of an aggressive animal called a honey badger. This mimicry may help deter predators such as lions, hyaenas, and eagles from attempting to kill them.