What Are The 10 Fastest Birds In The World?

When it comes to speed in the avian world, the peregrine falcon reigns supreme. Known for its impressive diving speed of over 200 miles per hour, this majestic bird of prey is truly a marvel of nature. But what about other birds that exhibit remarkable speed and agility?

1. Peregrine Falcon

The peregrine falcon holds the title of the fastest bird in the world, with its incredible diving speed making it a formidable predator in the skies. Its streamlined body and powerful wings allow it to achieve speeds that leave other birds in the dust.

2. Golden Eagle

Coming in at a close second is the golden eagle, known for its impressive speed and agility when hunting prey. With a wingspan of over 7 feet, this magnificent bird can reach speeds of up to 150 miles per hour while in flight.

3. White-throated Needletail

The white-throated needletail is another speedy bird that deserves a spot on this list. With its swift and agile flight patterns, this bird can reach speeds of up to 105 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest birds in the world.

4. Eurasian Hobby

The Eurasian hobby is a small but mighty bird known for its impressive speed and aerial acrobatics. With a top speed of around 100 miles per hour, this bird is a true marvel to watch as it darts through the sky with precision and grace.

5. Frigatebird

The frigatebird is a true master of the skies, known for its exceptional speed and agility while hunting for fish. With a wingspan of over 7 feet, this bird can reach speeds of up to 95 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest birds in the world.

6. Swift

The swift, as its name suggests, is a bird built for speed. With its slender body and long wings, this bird can reach speeds of up to 70 miles per hour while cruising through the air in search of insects to feed on.

7. Spur-winged Goose

Despite its somewhat clumsy appearance, the spur-winged goose is surprisingly fast when it takes to the skies. With a top speed of around 88 miles per hour, this bird is not to be underestimated when it comes to its flying abilities.

8. Red-breasted Merganser

The red-breasted merganser may spend most of its time in the water, but this bird is also a proficient flyer when it needs to be. With a top speed of around 81 miles per hour, this bird can move quickly through the air in search of its next meal.

9. Canvasback

The canvasback is a duck known for its impressive speed and agility while in flight. With a top speed of around 70 miles per hour, this bird can dart through the air with ease as it navigates its surroundings in search of food.

10. Frigatebirds

Rounding out our list of the top 10 fastest birds in the world are the frigatebirds. With their sleek bodies and long wings, these birds can reach speeds of up to 95 miles per hour, making them formidable predators in the skies above the ocean.

Photo of author

Don Atkins

Don Atkins is a proud Canadian and experienced biology teacher living in Toronto. With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Saskatchewan under his belt, Don has 10 years of teaching experience and is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. He also volunteers at the Northeastern Avian Rescue, using his expertise to help birds in need. Don's enthusiasm for ornithology is undeniable, and he loves nothing more than to share it with those around him.