Fastest animal in the world: Peregrine falcons are the fastest birds

Peregrine falcons are the fastest birds and the fastest animals on Earth today—they reach these top speeds while diving during flight. These birds of prey are quick for their large size. Discover the fastest animals on Earth, from the cheetah to the peregrine falcon, and learn how speed helps them survive in the wild. Know which is the fastest animal in the world. Their speed records, unique abilities, and fascinating facts about the creatures that dominate land, air, and sea. The peregrine falcon is the fastest animal, reaching 389 km/h. The cheetah rules the land, while a tiny mite is the fastest by body size.