No matter where in the world you go you’ll be surprised at the number of incredible wildlife species that exist. Some are common in many countries, and others are indigenous only to certain areas. Regardless of which continent they call home, each animal is special in its own unique way.

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Some of the most interesting animals are those that possess seemingly unreal levels of speed. They’re able to defend themselves, prey upon other animals, or merely travel at rates no human being can ever hope to compete with. With that in mind, we thought it would be fun to seek out the 10 quickest animals on the planet and find out how fast they can really go!

10. Yellowfin Tuna

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The yellowfin tuna is often found in both tropical and subtropical seas around the world and usually swim within 330 feet of the surface. They have been known to range in size up to 94 inches in length and can weigh up to 440 pounds. Also known as the ahi tuna, the yellowfin can swim up to 46 miles per hour and is often sought after by sport fisherman.

9. Wahoo

The wahoo is another type of fish found in both tropical and subtropical oceans. The Hawaiian name for the wahoo is the “ono” and in some Caribbean and Central American areas it is referred to as the “Peto.” The wahoo is another incredibly popular fish sought after by sport fisherman and it can swim up to 47 miles per hour.

8. Thomson’s Gazelle

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There are dozens of gazelle species, but the Thomson’s gazelle is one of the most popular. This incredible animal usually stands around 24-35 inches tall and weighs no more than 40 pounds. Also known as the “tommy,” this distinct creature can run at speeds up to 50 miles per hour.

7. Lion

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While most of us see lions in our local zoos, these big cats can still be found in the wild in certain parts of Asia, India, and Sub-Saharan Africa. The average male lion lives approximately 8 years while females can live up to 14 years if they are in a properly monitored habitat. The average lion runs up to 50 miles per hour.

6. Wildebeest

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The wildebeest, also known as a gnu, is native to Africa and is related to the bovidae family (including antelopes, goats, and other animals). The average wildebeest stands approximately 4.5 feet tall and can weight up to 500 pounds. They’re quicker than they appear they might be, running at speeds up to 50 miles an hour.

5. Swordfish

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The swordfish is an amazing creature. These cold blooded creatures are born with special organs that are used to keep their eyes and brains warm. The heat they generate actually improves their vision and makes it easier for them to hunt for their next meal. Commonly found in the northwest Pacific, the swordfish can swim at speeds up to 60 miles per hour.

4. Pronghorn Antelope

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Despite its name, the pronghorn antelope is not actually an antelope. It is a special mammal known as an antilocapridae and can usually be found in the western and central sections of North America. The slender animals usually stand around 5 feet tall and can weight in as heavy as 132 pounds. They’ve been clocked running as fast as 61 miles per hour.

3. Sailfish

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Sailfish can be found in just about any warm watered ocean around the world. They usually grow to around 4 feet in length during their first year of life and have been clocked swimming as quickly as 68 miles per hour.

2. Marlin

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The marlin is yet another fish sought after by sport fishermen in tropical areas. The difference here is that most sport fishermen release the marlin after it is weighed – you’ll rarely find it on a restaurant menu unless you’re in an incredibly upscale establishment. Different marlin species exist, ranging in size from 6 to 16 feet in length. They’ve been known to weigh anywhere from 150 – 1,500 pounds and can swim up to 68 miles per hour.

1. Cheetah

We’ve all seen pictures of the cheetah bounding across land at incredible speeds. While the cheetah, unlike most cats, can not climb, it can run as fast as 75 miles per hour – making it the fastest animal found on land today.

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Keep your eyes peeled for some of these incredible creatures as you tour the world. Perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to see one up close and personal someday!