Discover, Appreciate, & Understand the Animal World!
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We believe that if people know more about the world’s creatures they will better care for them. That’s why we add new animals for you to discover – each and every day! Learn about any animal using the search box below or subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Also, be sure to check out our growing list of Animal Quizzes and Web Stories.
Discover Your Favorite Animal Today!
Latest from A-Z Animals
Where Is New York State? See Its Map Location and Surrounding States
Located in the Northeast United States, New York State is one of the most famous states in the country, probably because of its shining star city, New York City. But… Read More
By Patrick MacFarland 10 mins ago
Top 10 Places to Spot Moose Across the U.S. This Fall
Found throughout parts of the northern United States is the mighty moose species, known for their towering antlers and captivating presence. As the vibrant colors of fall spread, creating all-new… Read More
By Trinity Londos 52 mins ago
Termites in Oregon: Types, Risks, and How to Prevent Them
Termites progress from an egg to a nymph and then to an adult. Oregon termites (Isoptera) are common because the weather is damp and humid. Most people hate to hear… Read More
By Lisa Bohler 57 mins ago
What is Tennessee Known For? 22 Things Tennesseans Love About Themselves
Curious about what makes Tennessee stand out from those other states? These are the 22 things that Tennesseans love about themselves and that Tennessee is known for. From people to… Read More
By Nina Phillips 1 hour ago
Male vs Female Luna Moth: 3 Key Differences
Luna moths are some of the most iconic members of their species. Their large green wings and striking eyespots combine to create one of the most elegant moths of all… Read More
By Alanna Davis 2 hours ago
Discover the Oldest Church in Michigan
The Basilica of Sainte Anne de Detroit is an iconic landmark in Detroit. It is one of three churches in Michigan that is a Minor Basilica. Designated by Pope Francis… Read More
By Devika Khosla 2 hours ago
How Deep Is the Illinois River in Oklahoma?
The Illinois River flows from a spring in the Ozark Mountains. It winds its way from far northwestern Arkansas through the hills of northeastern Oklahoma, eventually joining the Arkansas River… Read More
By Tavia Fuller Armstrong 2 hours ago
10 Incredible Christmas Markets Only in Texas
From German-inspired markets to cowboy-themed festivals, Texas offers unique holiday traditions across the state. These festive community events typically provide open-air stalls selling unique gifts, decorations, seasonal treats, and warm… Read More
By Niccoy Walker 2 hours ago
5 Best Homemade Dog Cakes Your Pet Will Love
What better way to celebrate your dog than with a cake that's just for them? Maybe it’s a birthday, a gotcha day, or a holiday. Whatever the excuse, treating your… Read More
By Jennifer Magid 3 hours ago
The 7 Main Types of Animals And Their Characteristics
There are many different types of animals in the world, but some of the largest categories include:
Mammals
The official mammal class is Mammalia. Animals that are considered mammals include warm-blooded vertebrates that have hair or fur and whose babies drink milk. Unlike other animal types like birds and insects, all mammal babies drink milk that comes from their mother’s bodies. This is one of the key ways to know if an animal is a mammal.
See the complete list of mammals.
Reptiles
Lizards, dinosaurs, crocodiles, turtles, and snakes – all belong to that ancient and stout class of animals known as the reptiles. This is a diverse group with more than 10,000 different species and a huge representation in the fossil record. Once the dominant land vertebrates on the planet, reptiles still occupy just about every single ecosystem outside of the extreme north and south.
See the complete list of reptiles.
Fish
Fish are aquatic vertebrates. They usually have gills, paired fins, a long body covered with scales, and tend to be cold-blooded. “Fish” is a term used to refer to lampreys, sharks, coelacanths and ray-finned fishes, but is not a taxonomic group, which is a clade or group containing a common ancestor and all its descendants.
See the complete list of fish.
Birds
Birds, members of the class Aves, include more than 10,400 living species. Their feathers distinguish them from all other classes of animal; no other animals on earth have them. If you see an animal with feathers, it’s undoubtedly a bird. Like mammals, birds are warm-blooded vertebrates with four-chambered hearts. However, they are more closely related to reptiles and are believed to have evolved from dinosaurs.
See the complete list of birds.
Amphibians
The official class of amphibians is Amphibia. To have the classification of an amphibian, an animal must be a vertebrate, require water to survive, be cold-blooded, and spend time both on land and in water. Though other animals only live on land or in the water, amphibians have the unique ability to thrive equally in both. Amphibians cover over 6,000 different species across the globe, but about 90% are frogs.
See the complete list of amphibians.
Invertebrates
The definition of an invertebrate is any animal that does not have a backbone or vertebral column. The most prolific and easily recognizable members of the invertebrate family are insects. It’s estimated that upwards of 30 million individual species of invertebrates may exist accounting for between 90-95 percent of all organisms on the planet.
See the complete list of invertebrates.
Insects
All insects are part of the taxonomical phylum Arthropoda, and they are collectively referred to as arthropods. It is common to see this name misspelled as “anthropod,” but this is not the correct term. They can be found in nearly every environment on the planet, and they currently account for over half of all known living organisms in the world. They have undergone many cycles of evolution depending on the resources available to them.
See the complete list of insects.
Explore Types of Wild Animals from Around the World
We track thousands of animals from every continent and corner on earth, and are adding more every day!
- African Animals – Africa is home to some of the most incredible and dangerous animals in the world.
- Asian Animals – Asia has the world’s longest coastline, and an amazing diversity of exotic animals, birds, and more.
- Central American Animals – Discover the the nearly 400 different animals we track in Central America today.
- Eurasian Animals – Eurasia has some of the rarest animals in the world, like Siberian Tigers and Snow Leopards.
- European Animals – We track over 500 different animals in Europe, including wolves and bears.
- North American Animals – North America has many beautiful national parks that house some of the rarest animals on earth.
- Marine (Ocean) Animals – The ocean is teaming with life, from the smallest shrimp to the largest animal ever – the Blue Whale!
- Oceanian Animals – Oceania has many islands, and the world’s highest concentration of marsupials.
- South American Animals – Home to the stealthy Jaguar, the friendly Capybara, and many more!
See Endangered and Extinct Animals Lists
A-Z Animals follow’s the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species definitions of threatened and endangered animals. Please consult the lists below to learn more about which animals need our help the most
- Extinct – Species that no longer exist on earth
- Extinct in the Wild – Species that are only known to survive in captive or cultivated environments
- Critically Endangered – Animals that face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild
- Endangered – Animal species that face a high risk of extinction in the wild
- Vulnerable – Animal species that face a risk of extinction in the wild
- Near Threatened – Species that are facing population challenges and likely to become vulnerable to extinction soon
- Least Concern – Animals with strong populations that are not expected to face extinction risk in the near future
- Data Deficient – Species where we lack adequate information to assess the risk
- Not Evaluated – Animal species that have not been evaluated yet
Types of Animals By Letter: Explore A to Z Animal Lists
See lists of animals that start with every letter of the alphabet, from A to Z. We track all types of animals like lions and tigers, dogs and cats, even dinosaurs and spiders. Choose your favorite letter below to see all animals that start with it today.
Animals that Start with A
Example: The Atlantic Salmon
Animals that Start with B
Example: The Blue German Shepherd
Animals that Start with C
Example: The Chow Shepherd
Animals that Start with D
Example: The Double Doodle
Animals that Start with E
Example: The English Shepherd
Animals that Start with F
Example: The Figeater Beetle
Animals that Start with G
Example: The Golden Dox
Animals that Start with H
Example: The Hyacinth Macaw
Animals that Start with I
Example: The Indian Elephant
Animals that Start with J
Example: The Jamaican Iguana
Animals that Start with K
Example: The Kokanee Salmon
Animals that Start with L
Example: The Lizardfish
Animals that Start with M
Example: The Mountain Lion
Animals that Start with N
Example: The Norrbottenspets
Animals that Start with O
Example: The Owlfly (Ascalaphidae)
Animals that Start with P
Example: The Pyrador
Animals that Start with Q
Example: The Quagga
Animals that Start with R
Example: The Rockfish
Animals that Start with S
Example: The Spiny Hill Turtle
Animals that Start with T
Example: The Timor python
Animals that Start with U
Example: The Uaru Cichlid
Animals that Start with V
Example: The Vizsla
Animals that Start with W
Example: The Walleye Fish
Animals that Start with X
Example: The Xerus
Animals that Start with Y
Example: The Yellowjacket (Yellow Jacket)
Animals that Start with Z
Example: The Zebrafish (Zebra Fish)
Everything To Know About Pet Dogs, Cats Birds, and More
Some of the most popular types of animals on earth are pets. A pet is a domesticated animal that lives with a person or family, usually in a house. The most common pets include dogs, cats, fish, and birds, but there are also many amazing exotic pets like reptiles, lizards, and more! Horses, goats, and pigs can also be pets too.
Pet Dogs
Dogs are the most popular type of pet on earth with nearly 500 million worldwide. Thats almost one dog for every 15 people on earth! There are hundreds of different dog breeds. The Irish Wolfhound is the largest dog breed, and was bred to hunt wolves. Chihuahuas are the smallest, and were likely bred for companionship or to hunt small rodents. The most popular dog breeds are below.
Irish Setter
Has a beautiful coat that's flowing and feathered!
Boston Terrier
Friendly, lovable and very strong!
Golden Retriever
Trusting, kind and gentle!
Pet Cats
Cats are the second most popular pet on earth with nearly 400 million worldwide. Thats almost one pet cat for every 20 people on earth! You can read about the hundreds of different cat breeds, from the large to the small. The most popular cat breeds are below
Abyssinian
One of the oldest cat breeds in the world!
Australian Mist
The only cat breed to originate in Australia.
Ragdoll
One of the larger breeds of domestic cat!
Pet Product Reviews
Pets are important members of our families and should be cared for. The AZ Animals team reviews the latest research on pet health, consults veterinarian best practices, and works directly with vet health specialists to review the best products for your dog, cat, and other pets. We’re excited to share our expert pet product recommendations with you, including the best dog food, best cat food, and best tanks for your pet fish
More Animal News, Facts, Rankings, and More!
Leopard vs. Cape Buffalo: Who Would Win in a Fight?
Africa has a wide assortment of wildlife thriving in its various environments. Leopards are deadly predators that share a range with cape buffalo in parts of this continent, and they… Read More
By Kyle Glatz 3 hours ago
How Often Do You Water Poinsettias? 9 Critical Tips for a Thriving Plant (Even After the Holidays)
Poinsettia plants are a sure sign of the holiday season's arrival. In much of North America, there are attention-grabbing displays in garden departments or the front of supermarkets with a… Read More
By Isaac Peterson 3 hours ago
How Wide Is Lake Pepin?
About Lake Pepin A scenic view of Lake Pepin on the Mississippi River in early autumn. States such as Minnesota and Wisconsin are no strangers to beautiful lakes. One of… Read More
By Kirstin Harrington 4 hours ago
Pekingese Lifespan: How Long Do These Dogs Live?
The average Pekingese lifespan is between 12 to 14 years. This lifespan is about average for a smaller breed, as they tend to live longer than bigger dogs. Their primary… Read More
By Kristin Hitchcock 4 hours ago
Independent Cities Vs. Counties: 3 Key Differences
Have you heard about the independent cities in Virginia and are curious how they exist outside of a county? This is because they are something known as county equivalents. They… Read More
By Nina Phillips 4 hours ago
Where Is Arkansas? See Its Map Location and Surrounding States
Today, we head to the southern-central United States to visit a landlocked state. Arkansas is the 29th-largest state by area, and is famous for being the only one that produces… Read More
By Telea Dodge 4 hours ago
Witness Insane Power When This Rhino Gets Angry and Flips Over a Rhino Calf
When we think of the power that the animal kingdom can provide, it is easy for our minds to go to the king of the jungle or to the largest… Read More
By Hannah Crawford 5 hours ago
Discover The Only Gorgeous Covered Bridge in Minnesota
One may think that a state known for its endless bodies of water would have several covered bridges. While at one point, there were dozens of these beautiful pieces of… Read More
By Kirstin Harrington 5 hours ago
How to Use Diatomaceous Earth to Get Rid of Bed Bugs
You do not have to travel to pick up bedbugs; they can be gotten from any cloth-covered furniture. Bedbugs are parasitic insects that most people associate with dirty rooms or… Read More
By Lisa Bohler 5 hours ago
11 Incredible Christmas Markets Only in Ontario
The holidays are a fun time in Ontario, Canada. There is so much to do and explore, but a favorite for residents and visitors is the many Christmas markets. They are… Read More
By Nixza Gonzalez 5 hours ago
Great Dane Training Guide: Recommended Cues, Timelines, and More
Great Danes are typically known as "gentle giants." However, that doesn't mean that they don't require any training. In fact, due to their larger size, training is exceptionally important. Otherwise,… Read More
By Kristin Hitchcock 6 hours ago
Watch a Hyena Group Try to Bully a Lioness Before the Male Lion Arrives and Lays Down the Law
While hyenas are often known as being ugly animals, they can also be labeled as the bullies of the animal kingdom. Any chance they get they will steal other’s lunches… Read More
By Hannah Crawford 6 hours ago
105 Great Japanese Cat Names and Their Meanings
Japan is a beautiful country with a rich history—and a notable love for cats. As a result, when it comes time to name your new cat or kitten, you may… Read More
By Megan Martin 7 hours ago
The 13 Most Expensive Sires in the World (and the Stud Fee for Each)
The Thoroughbred industry is a hugely popular industry, and the richest race in the world is currently the Saudi Cup which is worth $20 million. Therefore, it’s no surprise to… Read More
By Hannah Ward 7 hours ago
Discover the 10 States that Get the Most December Snow
A white Christmas is something that many people dream of. Some states get snow every winter, and the residents wake up on Christmas morning to find a winter wonderland outside.… Read More
By Lisa Bohler 8 hours ago
13 Secretly Amazing Places to Retire in Ohio
20% of the population of Ohio lives in rural areas. When you think about places to retire in Ohio, larger cities like Cincinnati and Cleveland come to mind. But when… Read More
By Lisa Bohler 8 hours ago
How Strong Are Ants? Relative Strength Compared to Humans and Other Animals
Ever had ants invite themselves to your picnic? Sometimes you don't notice that little trail of tiny, black-bodied insects until they're making off with larger, more visible items — the… Read More
By Adam Segaller 8 hours ago
Reindeer vs. Wolf: Who Would Win in a Fight?
Reindeer, also called caribou, are a large deer species that mainly live in the northern reaches of Greenland, Russia, North America, and other parts of Western Europe. Typically, wolves must… Read More
By Kyle Glatz 8 hours ago
Labs as Hunting Dogs: 6 Pros and 4 Limitations
If you're searching for a hunting dog, chances are high that you've heard Labrador Retrievers mentioned. Known for their gregarious personality and easy-going companionship, labs are popular dogs. This personality… Read More
By Beth Brown 9 hours ago
Discover the 4 Most Devastating Bridge Collapses in Arizona
Arizona has more than 8,000 bridges. Unfortunately, almost 400 of them are deemed structurally deficient or in poor condition. Despite the poor conditions of some of these bridges, several of… Read More
By Deb Butler 9 hours ago
See all of A-Z Animals News and Information.
Animal Reference Guides And Educational Resources
We believe if people are more educated about the world’s animals, they will better car for them. That’s why we are building the world’s greatest animal encyclopedia, completely free to you. Please take a moment to learn more about animals today using these helpful guides and resources:
- Reference Library – See helpful information on conservation, classification, animal evolution, and more
- Glossary – A list of scientific and technical animal terms, with definitions
- Animal Habitats – Learn all about different animal habitats
- Diet – The different animal diets like omnivores, herbivores, and carnivores defined with examples
- Behavior – Learn all about animal intelligence, communication, community, language, migration, and more.
Animal Encyclopedia With Facts, Pictures, Definitions, and More! FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the 6 types of animals?
The 6 types of animals are mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and invertebrates. Additionally, animals are classified in many different ways, which you may learn about in this complete guide to animal classification.
What are the 10 most popular animals?
The 10 most popular animals on AZ Animals are:
How many animals are there?
There are over 1 million known animal species and more than 98% of those are insects, which are indeed animals.
