#1: Gravity's Master - The Peregrine Falcon
The fastest animal on Earth, period.
When it comes to sheer velocity, the Peregrine Falcon reigns supreme, becoming the fastest animal on the planet during its hunting dive, or 'stoop.' Reaching speeds exceeding an astounding 240 mph (386 km/h), it transforms into a living missile. This bird of prey utilizes gravity and its highly evolved aerodynamic body to achieve these incredible speeds, striking its avian prey mid-air with lethal force.