In this article, we’ll answer the question:
“How fast is an alligator on land?”
First, you’ll find a short summary explaining the speed of alligators on dry land followed by details about which is faster: alligators or humans. There’s also information about what to do if an alligator is chasing you, how far alligators can run on land, and if crocodiles are faster than alligators.
Alligators are in the order crocodilian in the genus of Alligator of the family Alligatoridae. There are two extant species: the American alligator and the Chinese alligator, which are found in the wild and kept in a zoo.
How Fast Is An Alligator On Land?
An alligator can run up to 35 mph on land in short bursts and a sustained speed of 11 mph on dry land.
Are Alligators Faster Than Humans On Land?
Alligators are faster than humans on land; however, most humans can outrun an alligator because alligators tire quickly. An alligator can run up to 35 mph in short bursts while the average human can run up to 15 mph for long distances.
What to Do If An Alligator Is Chasing You?
You should run away in a straight line if an alligator is chasing you on land. Alligators can move quickly in short bursts, but tire easily, which is why you should avoid running in a zig-zag pattern.
How Far Can An Alligator Run?
An alligator can run for 100 feet at a sustained speed of 11 miles per hour before the alligator gets tired. If an alligator runs approximately 25 miles per hour then the reptile will tire out after a quarter of a second, which equates to about 9 yards or 8 meters.
Are Alligators Faster Than Crocodiles On Land?
Alligators are faster than crocodiles on land. Alligators can run up to 35 mph on dry land while crocodiles run up to 20 mph in a sprint.
Learn More About Alligators
Now that you know more about alligators and running on land, you may also be interested in these other educational guides on these reptiles:
- What do alligators eat?
- What eats alligators?
- Are alligators dangerous?
- Are alligators friendly?
- Where are alligators in Florida?
Alligator Speed On Land Summary
You now know how fast is an alligator on land.
As you discovered in this guide, an alligator can run up to 35 mph on land in short bursts and a sustained speed of 11 mph on dry land. However, most humans can outrun alligators because an alligator cannot run for very long distances.
I’m the lead editor and writer for Animal Answer Guide. I enjoy sharing expert knowledge on the various characteristics of common species within the five distinct groups of animals: amphibians, birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles.
