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.
Discover Your Favorite Animal Today!
Latest from A-Z Animals
Vole vs Mole: The 7 Key Differences
Key Points: Voles and moles exhibit similar behavior in tunnel digging. Voles are a type of small rodent while moles are not. While moles spend their entire lives below ground,… Read More
By Heather Ross 1 hour ago
25 Dog Facts for Kids
Key Points Dogs are a great family pet and kids are always curious to learn more about their furry companions. Fun canine facts for kids range from where dogs even… Read More
By Rebecca Bales 2 hours ago
Porpoise vs Dolphin: 5 Ways That These Sea Mammals Are Different
Key Points: Dolphins are often mistaken for porpoises and vice versa. Both of these animals are mammals living in oceans across the world. The major differences between these mammals are… Read More
By Rebecca Bales 4 hours ago
The 6 Most Venomous Snakes In Florida
Key Points: 7,000-8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes each year in the United States, but only an average of 5 are fatal. Of the 6 most venomous snakes in… Read More
By Cindy Rasmussen 7 hours ago
Hawk Predators: What Eats Hawks?
Key Points: As formidable as hawks are, they are generally no match for eagles. Foxes may also place hawk nests under surveillance and may help themselves to a youngster learning… Read More
By Emmanuel Kingsley 8 hours ago
Types of Hawks in New York — With Pictures!
Home of the Big Apple itself, you may not think of hawks when you think of New York. In fact, when you think of New York, the only bird you… Read More
By Megan Martin 9 hours ago
4 Exotic Invasive Snakes In Florida That Aren’t Burmese Pythons
Key Points Boa constrictors are native to Latin America and since the 1970s have become quite numerous in Florida. Anacondas were first spotted in Florida's Everglades in 2003, but no… Read More
By Volia Schubiger 19 hours ago
Do Snakes Have Emotions? How Can You Tell?
When you think of getting a cute, cuddly pet, a snake is probably not the first animal to cross your mind. That’s not their persona at all. Pet snakes have… Read More
By Abdulmumin Akinde 20 hours ago
The Top 10 Largest Birds of Prey
Key Points: The bald eagle does not carry the title of the largest bird of prey, but it is certainly the most majestic. It takes five years for a bald… Read More
By Rebecca Bales 21 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 Axanthic Ball Python
Animals that Start with B
Example: The Black Dragon Lizard
Animals that Start with C
Example: The Chartreux
Animals that Start with D
Example: The Decorator Crab
Animals that Start with E
Example: The Eurasian Nuthatch
Animals that Start with F
Example: The Fruit Bat
Animals that Start with G
Example: The Green Bee-Eater
Animals that Start with H
Example: The Hooded Oriole
Animals that Start with I
Example: The Ibis
Animals that Start with J
Example: The Jaguarundi Cat
Animals that Start with K
Example: The Kodiak Bear
Animals that Start with L
Example: The Least Flycatcher
Animals that Start with M
Example: The Magyarosaurus
Animals that Start with N
Example: The Numbat
Animals that Start with O
Example: The Ornate Box Turtle
Animals that Start with P
Example: The Pygmy Rattlesnake
Animals that Start with Q
Example: The Quahog Clam
Animals that Start with R
Example: The Rainbow Kribs (Kribensis)
Animals that Start with S
Example: The Shiranian
Animals that Start with T
Example: The Torkie
Animals that Start with U
Example: The Urechis unicinctus (Penis Fish)
Animals that Start with V
Example: The Vampire Crab
Animals that Start with W
Example: The Walrus
Animals that Start with X
Example: The Xiongguanlong
Animals that Start with Y
Example: The Yellow Aphids
Animals that Start with Z
Example: The Zebu
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.
Boston Terrier
Friendly, lovable and very strong!
Irish Setter
Has a beautiful coat that's flowing and feathered!
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!
Caracal vs. Lynx: What Are 8 Key Differences?
The caracal is a species of cat native to portions of Africa and Asia. A lynx is any of several species of medium-sized wild cats that belong to the genus… Read More
By Jennifer Gaeng 24 hours ago
Monkey Spirit Animal Symbolism & Meaning
Are you a monkey at heart? The monkey spirit animal represents intelligence, playfulness, and curiosity. This animal can also be a symbol of mischievousness and trickster energy. If you have… Read More
By Crystal 1 day ago
Parrotlet vs Parakeet: Which is the Best Pet?
Parrotlet and parakeets are two adorable little birds of the parrot family are both kept as family pets. They are the two smallest birds in the parrot family, but one… Read More
By Deborah Bagley 1 day ago
Groundhog vs Gopher: 5 Key Differences
You may not know the differences between a groundhog vs gopher- but you’re likely here to find out! There are many differences between these two common household pests, including their… Read More
By August Croft 1 day ago
Black Burmese Cat vs. Bombay Cat
What is the difference between the black Burmese cat and the Bombay cat? The black Burmese cat is one of the rarest colors of the breed. They are medium-sized cats… Read More
By Chanel Coetzee 1 day ago
The 12 Largest Venomous Snakes in the World
Key Points: 3,500 species of snake exist on the planet, 600 of which are venomous. Venomous snakes range in size from tiny to quite large. The largest venomous snake can… Read More
By Taiwo Victor 1 day ago
Do Caracals Make Good Pets? A Tough Cat to Tame
Key Points Although caracals can be affectionate and friendly, they are also capable of engaging in acts of random destruction much like kittens. In captivity, they are capable of living… Read More
By Jennifer Haase 2 days ago
Jack Russell vs Parson Russell: What Are The Differences?
Jack Russell, also known as Jack Russell terrier, and Parson Russell, also referred to as Parson Russell terrier, are both breeds of terriers who closely resemble each other. Both are… Read More
By Jeremiah Wright 2 days ago
What Do Hawks Eat?
Hawks are powerful, fierce birds of prey. These efficient predators are carnivores that feed on small mammals, fish, and insects. Hawks are skilled hunters and can take down prey by… Read More
By Niccoy Walker 2 days ago
Frog Predators: What Eats Frogs?
Frogs are tailless, slimy-looking amphibians belonging to the order Anura. They mostly have bulgy eyes jutted out from the surrounding surface. Frogs make croaking sounds and have webbed solid hind… Read More
By Emmanuel Kingsley 2 days ago
7 Poisonous Frogs In Florida In 2024
Only one frog species in Florida is considered deadly, but others may cause illness. In Florida, there are around 27 species of endemic frogs. Florida is known for being the… Read More
By Emilio Brown 2 days ago
Cane Corso vs. Great Dane: What are the 8 Key Differences?
Both the cane corso and the Great Dane can be a good fit for your family looking for a new pup. If you're interested in learning about the differences between… Read More
By Jennifer Gaeng 3 days ago
Weasels vs Ferrets: 5 Key Differences Explained
Weasels and ferrets are both small, carnivorous mammals that are characterized by an elongated body and a pointed snout. Both animals also often have white markings on them that can… Read More
By Hannah Ward 3 days ago
Why Do Cats Knead Blankets
Why do cats knead blankets? Cats exhibit a lot of mysterious behavior, and this is just one of the many questions cat parents often ask about their beloved kittens. You… Read More
By Abdulmumin Akinde 3 days ago
Male vs. Female Border Collie: 7 Key Differences
Border collies are loyal, hardworking, smart, and energetic canine friends. They were originally bred to herd sheep and help their owners on the farm, but they can also be well-rounded… Read More
By Amber LaRock 3 days ago
6 Most Beautiful Dog Breeds
Key Points Dogs are trusted companions and apart from being a friend can serve many other purposes. Many dog breeds are used to provide various services, such as security, seeing-eye,… Read More
By Marisa Wilson 3 days ago
7 Animals That Went Extinct In 2022
Unfortunately, animals go extinct every single year, often due to human activity. As we move towards a more sustainable future, we can hopefully change our track record as a species!… Read More
By Colby Maxwell 3 days ago
51 Snakes Found in Mississippi (6 are Venomous)
Key Points There are more than 50 types of snakes in Mississippi and six of them are venomous. It's important to practice caution any time you come across a snake… Read More
By Tracy Graham 4 days ago
Rams Vs Sheep: What’s The Difference?
Answering the question of what the difference is between Rams VS Sheep, the answer is clear because they are the same thing! Ram is the name given to a male… Read More
By Peralee Knight 4 days ago
California’s Poisonous Snakes
There are no snakes in Alaska, but California makes up for it! Of the 46 different kinds of snakes in California, nine of them are dangerously poisonous (venomous). What kind… Read More
By Cindy Rasmussen 4 days 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.
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.
