Alligators and crocodiles are known for their aquatic prowess, but their speed on land often surprises people. Understanding how fast these large reptiles move once they leave the water reveals interesting aspects of their biology and behavior.
Alligator Versus Crocodile Land Speed
Alligators and crocodiles can achieve impressive speeds on land, though these bursts are short-lived. American alligators can reach top speeds of 11 to 20 miles per hour (mph) in short bursts. Younger, smaller alligators can reach up to 35 mph, though adults typically move around 11 mph.
Crocodiles generally have a slight edge, with some species reaching up to 22 mph. For instance, the Nile crocodile can run between 19-22 mph, the American crocodile about 20 mph, and saltwater crocodiles 15-18 mph. These speeds are not sustained over long distances, as both animals tire quickly due to their body structure.
How They Move on Land
Alligators and crocodiles use several distinct forms of terrestrial locomotion. The “belly slide” or “sprawl” involves moving forward with their belly on the ground, typically for short distances or when transitioning to/from water. For more efficient travel, they use a “high walk,” lifting their bodies and tails off the ground with limbs positioned underneath, similar to mammals. This posture allows for better clearance and stability.
The fastest terrestrial movement is the “gallop,” a powerful burst where they lift their entire body off the ground, using synchronized, bounding leg motions. This gait is more common in smaller crocodile species and younger individuals, allowing them to reach their top speeds briefly. While alligators can gallop, the high walk is their primary overland travel method. Their muscular tails, used for propulsion in water, also aid in providing momentum and balance during terrestrial movements.
Factors Influencing Their Speed
Several factors influence the land speed of alligators and crocodiles. Terrain plays a significant role; flat, firm surfaces allow for faster movement, while rough, muddy, or steep landscapes can hinder their mobility. Body size and age also affect speed, with younger and smaller individuals often being faster and more agile than larger, older adults.
Ambient temperature is another important factor, as these cold-blooded reptiles rely on external heat. Higher temperatures increase their metabolic rate, leading to better muscle function and faster movement, while colder conditions can slow them down. Their motivation also influences speed, as they exert maximum effort when fleeing a threat, pursuing prey, or defending territory, compared to routine travel.
Safety and Common Misconceptions
Despite their ability to move surprisingly fast on land for short distances, it is a common misconception that alligators and crocodiles are slow and clumsy. Their natural instinct when threatened by humans is often to retreat to the safety of the water, where they are significantly faster and more agile.
The notion that one should run in a zigzag pattern to escape a charging crocodilian is a myth; running in a straight line as fast as possible is the most effective way to create distance. Most encounters where these animals appear to “charge” are often short lunges, particularly if their nest or young are approached. Maintaining a respectful distance from these powerful reptiles is always the best safety practice to avoid provoking a defensive reaction.