What is the fastest animal in the world?
The world’s fastest animal is undoubtedly the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus). This bird is especially known for its incredible speed when it pounces on its prey. The peregrine falcon can reach a speed of up to 320 kilometers per hour when plunging, which makes it the fastest animal on Earth.
Speed of peregrine falcon
The peregrine falcon’s speed is based on its aerodynamic body structure and powerful wings. When a peregrine falcon spots prey, it soars high into the air and then swoops down with incredible speed. During the dive, the peregrine falcon folds its wings tightly around its body, which reduces air resistance and enables top speed to be reached.
Comparison with other fast animals
Although the peregrine falcon is the fastest animal when it swoops down, there are also other animals that are very fast in their own way. Here are some examples:
- Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus): The world’s fastest land-moving animal, which can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour on short distances.
- Orca (Orcinus orca): The fastest marine mammal that can swim at speeds of up to 56 kilometers per hour.
- Gray heron (Ardea cinerea): One of the fastest flying birds, which can fly at a speed of up to 50 kilometers per hour.
Peregrine falcon habitat and distribution
The peregrine falcon has spread almost all over the world, except for the extreme arctic regions and some tropical rainforests. It especially thrives in open areas such as the coast, mountains and vast plains. Peregrine falcons often build their nests on high cliffs or in man-made structures such as skyscrapers.
Peregrine falcon food
The peregrine falcon is a powerful predator, using its speed and agility to prey on other birds such as pigeons and ducks. It can also prey on small mammals and insects. The peregrine falcon uses its sharp claws and beak to kill and dismember its prey.
Sources
You can read more information about the peregrine falcon’s speed and lifestyle from the following sources:
