White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus)

The White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) holds the record as the fastest bird in level flight, capable of reaching speeds over 169 km/h (105 mph). This migratory swift breeds in Central Asia and winters in Australia, demonstrating incredible aerial agility as it hunts insects mid-flight. Its streamlined body, long curved wings, and distinctive needle-like tail feathers make it perfectly adapted for high-speed maneuvers. While peregrine falcons dive faster, the needletail maintains its record-breaking speeds during horizontal flight, making it one of nature's most impressive avian speedsters. These birds spend nearly their entire lives airborne, only landing to nest.