What bird is the fastest animal on Earth in a dive?

The peregrine falcon is the fastest animal on Earth in a dive.

Its spectacular hunting dive, called a stoop, begins when the falcon climbs high above its prey. It then folds its wings into a streamlined shape and dives steeply, using gravity and aerodynamic control to build extraordinary speed. The dive is much faster than the bird’s level, flapping flight.

Reported peak speeds vary because measuring a wild bird in a high-speed dive is difficult. A frequently cited 2005 measurement recorded about 389 km/h (242 mph), while other researchers note that some earlier claims were not independently confirmed. Even with that caution, the peregrine remains the standard answer for the fastest animal in a dive.

The falcon’s body has several adaptations for this attack. Bony structures around its nostrils help manage airflow, and a transparent third eyelid protects each eye while preserving vision. Rather than simply colliding with prey, it may strike with a clenched foot or hit one wing to reduce the risk of injury.