Which Animal Is the Fastest on Earth?

While this question appears simple, it’s more complex than it seems. Should we consider the fastest creatures on land, in the ocean, or in the sky? Numerous birds can soar at speeds far exceeding those of terrestrial animals. Should we prioritize an animal’s maximum burst speed or its sustained speed over extended distances?

In this article, we’ve categorized the fastest animals into three groups: land, sea, and air, highlighting the top five in each. We’ve included both peak and average speeds where possible. Discrepancies in data might result in variations compared to other online rankings.

Discover the top contenders among the fastest animals on Earth, considering the vast diversity of approximately 8.7 million species. Our ranking is based on each animal's peak speed.

5 Fastest Animals on Land

1. Cheetah

Cheetahs captivate with their stunning fur, stealthy movements, and remarkable speeds of up to 70 miles per hour (120 kilometers per hour). They can accelerate from zero to 60 mph (97 kph) in just three seconds, rivaling a Corvette. However, their endurance is limited, maintaining such speeds for only about 60 seconds. Typically, they run at around 40 mph (64 kph). Cheetahs are widely regarded as the fastest land animals globally.

Cheetahs possess several physical traits that enhance their speed, such as non-retractable claws for better traction and specialized foot pads. Found primarily in Africa, their declining populations are concentrated in the southern and eastern regions. They rely on their speed to catch agile prey, like the blue wildebeest, which can run up to 50 miles (80 kilometers) per hour.

2. Pronghorn

If you travel to Wyoming, you might spot a pronghorn. Often mistaken for an antelope, this hoofed mammal is actually related to antelopes and goats. Pronghorns are the fastest land animals in North America and the second-fastest globally, reaching speeds of 60 mph (98 kph). They can sustain this pace for up to half a mile, outlasting most other sprinters. Their speed and stamina likely evolved to escape predators.

3. Goitered Gazelle

Next up is a medium-sized gazelle commonly found in regions of Asia, including northwest China, southern Kazakhstan, and Mongolia. These graceful animals derive their name from a laryngeal swelling resembling a goiter. Capable of reaching speeds up to 60 mph (97 kph), their swiftness is essential as they are often hunted. This species currently holds the Guinness World Record for being the "fastest antelope."

4. Springbok

Native to Southern Africa, the springbok can sprint at 55 mph (88 kph) in short bursts. This medium-sized antelope is also renowned for its agility, such as sharp turns and impressive leaps, which help evade predators like cheetahs.

5. American Quarter Horse

Quarter horses were selectively bred for speed. Their name reflects their ability to outpace other breeds in races of a quarter mile or less, as noted by the American Quarter Horse Association. As the world's most popular horse breed, they can reach speeds of 55 mph (88 kph), making them a favorite in ranching and racing communities.

According to standards established in a 1940 meeting of the American Quarter Horse Association, genuine quarter horses must complete a quarter-mile (402-meter) run in 23 seconds or less. If they fail to meet this requirement, they must showcase other ranching skills to qualify.

5 Fastest Animals in the Air

1. Peregrine Falcon

Peregrine falcons claim the title of the fastest animal on the planet, reaching staggering speeds of up to 200 mph (320 kph) or more during high-speed dives to catch prey. The record for the fastest bird dive belongs to a peregrine falcon named Frightful, who clocked 242 mph (389 kph) in a 1999 experiment. These birds are widespread, inhabiting every continent except Antarctica.

2. Saker Falcon

The Saker falcon, native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, is a skilled hunter capable of reaching speeds up to 200 mph (320 kph) while chasing prey. When not hunting, it prefers gliding through the air. As the national bird of Hungary and Mongolia, it shares a close relationship with the peregrine falcon.

3. Golden Eagle

These majestic raptors are commonly found in the western United States and hold the distinction of being the "official national animal" of more countries than any other creature, including Germany, Mexico, and Kazakhstan. Golden eagles can glide at speeds of up to 120 mph (193 kph) and dive at 150 to 200 mph (241 to 322 kph) to capture prey. They primarily hunt rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs but will defend their young or prey by attacking larger mammals if necessary.

4. Gyrfalcon

The Gyrfalcon is a bird few will ever encounter, as it inhabits the remote Arctic regions of Canada and Alaska. Pronounced "JER-falcon," its plumage varies from snowy white to deep brown. Known for diving speeds of around 130 mph (209 kph), it is also considered the fastest bird in level flight, reaching speeds of 50 to 68 mph (80 to 109 kph).

5. Mexican Free-tailed Bat

Though not a bird, this medium-sized bat is designed for speed with its short fur and elongated wings. Found across the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America, these bats can travel up to 100 miles (161 kilometers) nightly at an average speed of 60 mph (96 kph). A 2016 study revealed that Mexican free-tailed bats (also known as Brazilian free-tailed bats) can reach speeds of 99 mph (160 kph) in level flight, surpassing all birds and other bats.

5 Fastest Animals in the Sea

1. Sailfish

The sailfish rivals the cheetah in speed, holding the title of the "fastest fish over short distances." It has been recorded reaching speeds of 68 mph (109 kph) during speed trials, as noted by Guinness World Records.

Sailfish possess sharp bills to stun or kill prey and feature large dorsal fins, inspiring their name. With an average weight of 220 pounds (100 kilograms), they streamline their bodies by folding their fins back, transforming into torpedo-like shapes for maximum speed.

2. Blue Marlin

This massive fish can weigh up to 2,000 pounds (900 kilograms) and measures around 16 feet (5 meters) in length. With average speeds of 50 mph (80 kph) and the ability to reach 68 mph (110 kph), they are among the fastest in the ocean. Recognized by their rounded, pointed bills, they are also highly sought after as big game fish.

3. Swordfish

Swordfish achieve their impressive speeds of 62 mph thanks to oil-producing glands that reduce drag. Their average speed is 40 mph. Known for their sword-like bills, which can grow up to 5 feet (1.5 meters), they inhabit the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans and migrate thousands of miles.

4. Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin tuna, though smaller than bluefin at around 400 pounds (190 kilograms), are among the fastest swimmers in the ocean. They maintain constant motion, reaching speeds of 50 mph (80 kph) by tucking in their vibrant yellow fins.

5. Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

Atlantic bluefin tuna are massive, weighing over 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms) and measuring up to 10 feet (3 meters) long. Their powerful muscles and streamlined bodies enable them to swim at speeds of 43 mph (69 kph), aiding their extensive migrations from the Gulf of Mexico to Europe and back.