Thomson's Gazelle (Eudorcas thomsonii)

A quintessential symbol of the African savanna, the Thomson's gazelle is renowned for its incredible speed and agility. Capable of reaching bursts up to 55 mph (88 km/h), this slender antelope relies on its velocity to evade its primary predator, the cheetah. Its signature behavior, "stotting" or leaping high in the air while running, may signal fitness to predators or warn the herd. This combination of rapid acceleration, sharp zig-zag turns, and endurance makes it one of the most graceful and successful survivors on the open plains.