Speed is an essential attribute for survival in the animal kingdom. While some animals are built to run faster than others, others rely on their wings to soar through the sky. In this article, we will explore the top 20 fastest animals on earth, ranging from land mammals to birds of prey.
Cheetah
The cheetah is the fastest land animal, capable of sprinting up to 75 mph in just a few seconds. It has a slender build, long legs, and a flexible spine that allow it to make sudden turns and chase down its prey with ease.
Pronghorn Antelope
The pronghorn antelope is the second-fastest land animal, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph. It has longer legs than any other North American mammal, which helps it outrun its predators.
Sailfish
The sailfish is the fastest swimming fish, clocking in at 68 mph. Its long, slender body and powerful tail give it the ability to move quickly through the water.
Mexican Free-Tailed Bat
The Mexican free-tailed bat holds the title for the fastest animal in flight, flying at speeds of up to 99 mph. Its streamlined body and large wingspan allow it to reach such incredible speeds.
Spur-Winged Goose
The spur-winged goose is the fastest flying water bird, reaching speeds of 88 mph. It has strong wings that enable it to fly long distances quickly.
Frigatebird
The frigatebird is the fastest bird in level flight, clocking speeds of up to 95 mph. Its long, narrow wings and sleek body allow it to fly effortlessly through the air.
Peregrine Falcon
The peregrine falcon is the fastest bird in a dive or stoop, reaching speeds of up to 240 mph. It tucks its wings in close to its body to increase speed as it plummets toward its prey.
Kangaroo
The red kangaroo is the fastest marsupial, bouncing along at speeds of up to 44 mph. Its powerful hind legs enable it to cover vast distances in short periods.
Greyhound
The greyhound is the fastest domesticated dog, capable of running up to 45 mph in short bursts. Its lean muscles and aerodynamic build make it the perfect racing dog.
Sailplane
The sailplane holds the title for the fastest gliding animal, reaching speeds of up to 155 mph. It has an incredibly light body and large wingspan that enable it to soar through the sky effortlessly.
Gazelle
The Thomson's gazelle is the second-fastest antelope, reaching speeds of up to 50 mph. It has strong, muscular legs and can run for extended periods without getting tired.
Black Marlin
The black marlin is one of the fastest fish in the sea, with a top speed of 82 mph. Its large size and muscular body enable it to swim long distances quickly.
Anna's Hummingbird
Anna's hummingbird is the fastest bird in sustained flight, reaching speeds of up to 61 mph. Its small size and rapid wing movements allow it to move quickly through the air.
Serval
The serval is the fastest wild cat, running at speeds of up to 50 mph. It has a lanky build and long legs that enable it to outrun its prey.
Gyrfalcon
The gyrfalcon is the largest falcon and the fastest bird of prey, reaching speeds of up to 130 mph. Its powerful wings and streamlined body make it a skilled hunter in the arctic regions where it lives.
Blue Wildebeest
The blue wildebeest is the second-fastest antelope, reaching speeds of up to 50 mph. It is a large, muscular animal with long legs and a powerful stride.
Brown Hare
The brown hare is the fastest hare, reaching speeds of up to 47 mph. Its long, powerful legs and light body make it a difficult target for predators.
White-Throated Needletail
The white-throated needletail is the fastest bird in level flight, reaching speeds of up to 105 mph. Its aerodynamic build and powerful wings enable it to move quickly through the air.
Golden Eagle
The golden eagle is one of the fastest birds of prey, reaching speeds of up to 200 mph while diving. Its large talons and sharp beak make it a formidable hunter.
Springbok
The springbok is the fastest antelope, reaching speeds of up to 62 mph. It has long, slender legs and incredible agility, enabling it to evade predators with ease.
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