The Strongest Animal Bites Ranked
The human bite force reaches a maximum of 11 bar, where a bar (in English: Bar) is a universal unit of measurement used to quantify bite pressure, alongside pounds per square inch (psi). In the animal kingdom, several species possess jaw strength significantly exceeding that of humans, with some exhibiting bite forces over 20 times stronger than a human bite.
The strongest animal bites are as follows, ranked from the most powerful to the least:
Crocodile
The crocodile boasts the most powerful bite in the terrestrial animal kingdom, with three specific species leading the way:
- Nile Crocodile
The Nile crocodile has the most powerful bite of all, measuring a formidable 344.7 bar. This impressive force is attributed to its long and robust jaws, which are designed for capturing prey. Coupled with numerous sharp teeth, it is nearly impossible for prey, such as birds, antelopes, and zebras, to escape once caught.
- Salties (Saltwater Crocodile)
The saltwater crocodile’s bite force is approximately 254.4 bar. Its powerful closing muscles enhance the jaw’s strength, enabling it to seize and capture large prey like water buffalo efficiently.
- American Crocodile
The American crocodile features a bite force of about 146.5 bar. As the largest reptile in North America, the strength of its bite is bolstered by its sturdy jaws and numerous continuously shedding teeth, providing the capability to hunt effectively throughout the year.
Hippopotamus
The hippopotamus has one of the strongest bites among land animals, reaching around 125.8 bar. This immense biting power is due to its large jaws and sizable teeth, which can grow up to 60 cm long. Despite being primarily herbivorous, hippos utilize their formidable bites to defend themselves against threats from other animals and humans.
Jaguar
The jaguar is known for being one of the fiercest animals in the wild, with a bite force of approximately 138 bar, nearly double that of a regular tiger. This strength is attributed to its robust jaw muscles, which aid in hunting and self-defense as these solitary animals rely on stealth and strength to capture prey.
Gorilla
The gorilla possesses a substantial bite force of 89.6 bar. This remarkable strength is a result of the powerful muscles in its neck and its adaptation to a diet consisting of tough vegetation found in the wild.
Grizzly Bear
The bite strength of the grizzly bear ranges from 80 to 82 bar. Its formidable physical structure and muscled body contribute to its powerful bite, allowing it to thrive in the demanding environments of North America, where it coexists with many predatory species.
Spotted Hyena
The spotted hyena exhibits a bite force of around 75.8 bar, making it one of the strongest bites among mammals. Their robust skulls and large bodies enable them to crush the bones of their prey, effectively allowing them to consume every part, including bones, during failed hunts.
Hyenas are social animals that live in large family groups known as clans. They often hunt in packs, targeting large herbivores. Their powerful bites help them efficiently break down their prey, often leaving little behind after consumption.
Tiger
The tiger possesses the strongest bite among felines, with a measured force of around 72.4 bar, nearly twice that of a lion. This potency enables it to pierce through skulls easily and enhances its reputation as one of the deadliest predators in the big cat family.
This impressive biting force allows tigers to expand their dietary options, including those with hard shells. Unlike lions, tigers are solitary hunters, necessitating a stronger bite to effectively secure their prey.
Lion
The lion’s bite strength is approximately 44.8 bar. While this is not vastly superior to that of domestic dogs, it is reinforced by the lion’s physical prowess and resilience, aiding in both subduing prey and self-defense.
Lions are unique among cats for their social behaviors, often forming large prides. When hunting, they work collaboratively and systematically to catch prey such as buffalo or small elephants, allowing them to achieve successful hunts without the need for an exceptionally powerful bite.