Alligators are predators and can move very fast in short bursts to catch their prey. They are capable of running at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour (mph) over short distances on land. In the water alligators can swim at speeds of up to 20 mph.
One of the fastest recorded speeds for an alligator was achieved by a 10-foot-long (3 meter) alligator that ran at a speed of 12.9 mph (20.8 km/h) over 50 yards (46 m). This speed was recorded in a controlled environment and is likely faster than what an alligator can achieve in the wild.
The speed of an alligator is dependent on its size and length. Larger alligators can reach higher speeds than smaller alligators. Alligators also have a strong tail that they use to propel themselves through the water.
Alligators are not the only reptiles that can move quickly. Some lizards such as the whiptail lizard can run at speeds of up to 20 mph (32 km/h). The world’s fastest snake is the black mamba which can slither at speeds of up to 12.5 mph (20.1 km/h).
While alligators can move quickly they are not built for sustained speed and will eventually tire if they keep running or swimming. When alligators are chasing prey they will often go for short bursts of speed followed by periods of rest.
What is the maximum recorded speed of an alligator?
The maximum recorded speed of an alligator is 28 miles per hour.
What is the average speed of an alligator?
The average speed of an alligator is 10 miles per hour.
How long can an alligator sprint for?
An alligator can sprint for short bursts of up to 20 seconds.
How does an alligator move on land?
An alligator moves on land by walking or crawling.
How does an alligator move in water?
An alligator moves in water by swimming or treading water.
What is the top swimming speed of an alligator?
The top swimming speed of an alligator is 8 miles per hour.
How does an alligator turn around in water?
An alligator turns around in water by turning its body in a spiral motion.
How does an alligator move its tail while swimming?
An alligator moves its tail from side to side while swimming.
How much of an alligator’s body is underwater while swimming?
Approximately two-thirds of an alligator’s body is underwater while swimming.
How often do alligators need to surface to breathe while swimming?
Alligators need to surface to breathe every 30 to 60 seconds while swimming.
How far can an alligator travel underwater before needing to surface?
An alligator can travel up to 100 yards underwater before needing to surface.
What is the average depth that an alligator can dive to?
The average depth that an alligator can dive to is 10 feet.
How long can an alligator hold its breath underwater?
An alligator can hold its breath underwater for up to two hours.
What is the maximum depth that an alligator has been recorded diving to?
The maximum depth that an alligator has been recorded diving to is 20 feet.
What is the average length of an alligator?
The average length of an alligator is 11 feet.
