An alligator can run up to about 20 miles per hour (32 kilometers per hour) but only in very short bursts, typically around 30 feet or so. These short sprints are usually used for ambushing prey or when feeling threatened. However, alligators quickly tire and cannot sustain high speeds over longer distances. More commonly, they reach running speeds of around 9 to 11 miles per hour for slightly longer distances but they are primarily sprinters rather than endurance runners. Their body structure is optimized more for swimming, where they can swim up to 20 miles per hour. On land, alligators are fast but only for short bursts to launch surprise attacks or escape danger briefly.
