The Fastest Animals on Earth

The golden eagle can dive at speeds of 240-320 km/h. It has been a symbol of power and freedom across cultures from ancient Rome to modern Mexico, and features on the flags of four nations.

The fastest bird in level flight reaches 170 km/h. This Asian swift spends most of its life airborne, even sleeping on the wing, and was once classified as a "impossible speed" record until documented with modern equipment.

The fastest land animal reaches 112 km/h in short bursts, accelerating faster than most sports cars. Its non-retractable claws work like cleats, and its flexible spine allows a stride of up to 7 metres.

The fastest fish in the ocean reaches over 110 km/h. Its iconic dorsal fin is thought to reduce drag and help herd prey. It's the ultimate apex predator of open tropical waters.

North America's pronghorn antelope runs at a sustained speed of 88 km/h, faster than any predator on the continent. Scientists believe it evolved its incredible speed to outrun now-extinct American cheetahs.

The springbok of southern Africa can reach 88 km/h and is famous for "pronking" — leaping straight up to 3.5 metres into the air. It's the national animal of South Africa.

Africa's apex predator reaches 80 km/h in short bursts. Despite its reputation as the king of beasts, the lion's hunting is largely done by females, who use coordinated ambush tactics rather than raw speed.

American Quarter Horses have been clocked at 88 km/h over short distances, making them the fastest domestic horses in the world over a quarter mile — hence the name. They are the most popular breed in the United States.

The gnu can reach 80 km/h and maintains its pace over long distances — crucial for surviving the annual Serengeti migration, one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth.