Top 10 Fastest Land Animals in the World

1. Cheetah

Cheetah can run at a whooping top speed of 75 mph (120 km/hr) which is faster than most super cars. But Cheetahs cannot run for too long because they will run out of breath very soon. Cheetahs are one of the great predators among other big cats because of their speed and strong jaws and sharp claws.

2. Pronghorn Antelope

Now, this is 2nd fastest land animal in the world. It has an average speed of 61 mph (98 km/hr). This antelope is able to run at high speeds longer than the cheetah due to the larger lungs and heart.

7. Quarter Horse

It is the fastest horse breed in the world. The name has been given to it because of its ability of gaining lead among its competitors in about a quarter mile or less. It has an average speed of 48 mph (77.2 km/hr).

6. Thomson’s Gazelle

It is native to Africa where it is one of the most common specie of gazelle. This handsome gazelle is named after explorer Joseph Thomson. It can run up to 50 mph (80 km/hr).

5. Lion

Lion is no doubt one of the most famous animals in the world and also is best known as king of the jungle. It can run to top speed of 50 mph (80 km/hr). They have lifespan of 10 to 14 years.

4. WildeBeest

Wildebeest can also run up to the top speed of 50 mph (80 km/hr). They are among those animals that rely on team work for survival. They have very strong bodies and strong sharp horns. They use their horns for defending and for mating wars. Wildebeests are found in East Africa. Lifespan is about 17 to 21 years.

3. Springbok

Springboks are desert antelopes of Africa. They have an average speed of 56 mph (90 km/hr). An interesting fact about these antelopes is that they never have to drink water as they are able to get all the moisture they need from the plants they eat.

8. Cape Hunting Dog

These dogs are endemic to African Continent. Also known as painted hunting dog, it has an average speed of 45 mph (72 km/hr). These dogs live and hunt in groups which allow them to hunt other animals much bigger than their own size.

9. Elk

They have very big horns and considered as one of the largest species of deer. Elk has an average speed of 45 mph (72 km/hr). They are found in North America as well as in Asia. They weigh about 420 to 520 pounds and their average lifespan is 10 to 13 years.

10. Coyote

Also known as prairie wolf or American Jackal, it has an average speed of 43 mph (69 km/hr). Coyote is found throughout North and Central America. Coyote mostly eats small mammals like mice and rabbits. But large packs of coyotes can hunt down prey as large as elk.