Animals that Start with S

“The Saanen is known as the queen of the dairy goats.” This dainty white goat is prized for its lovely looks, high milk production, and sweet temperament. Saanen goats originally came from a region in Switzerland famous for its dairy production. One of the most popular goat breeds, the Saanen goat does well in most […] Read More

The Saarloos Wolfdog make very good watchdogs and are very devoted to the people in their family. The Saarloos Wolfdog breed was created in 1932 when Leendert Saarloos mated a German Shepherd with a captive Eurasian Grey Wolf. Leendert Saarloos then mated the result of the first pair again with the German Shepherd father. This […] Read More

“The most prominent feature of the saber-toothed tiger was its long, sharp, canine teeth. It would hide in the grass, lie in wait, and then pounce on its prey to deliver a fatal bite.” The saber-toothed tiger roamed freely in the Americas from around 2.5 million years ago until the species went extinct around 11,700 […] Read More

Sable Fur Has Long Been Cherished for Its Texture and Color With their smooth, finely tinted coats, sables have long been objects of desire — or, at least, their fur has. The Sable is a forest-dwelling animal that sports a lush, silky coat and spends most of its time alone. Today, sables are animals that […] Read More

One of the most interesting facts is that the German Shepherd was created from crosses of several European herding dogs in 19th century Germany. The intention of the original breeder, Captain Max von Stephanitz, was to create an ideal herder. The classic image of the German Shepherd looks a lot like Rin-Tin-Tin: tall, muscular, and […] Read More

“The Saiga is called the large-nosed antelope.” Thriving in the harsh dry grasslands of Central Asia, this unique-looking antelope is instantly recognizable by its sizable nose with wide-set nostrils. The saiga’s snout is used for dust filtration, a necessary tool in its dry habitat. These antelope have been listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN’s […] Read More

Saint Berdoodles are a very playful breed and enjoying playing around with their families. The Saint Bernard and the Poodle were bred to create the Saint Berdoodle. Also called the Saint Berpoo, St. Berpoo, St. Berdoodle, and Saint Bernard and Poodle Mix, this mixed breed is a wonderful companion dog. They are loyal, friendly, and […] Read More

Originally, the Saint Bernard was bred as a working dog in the Alps. Though they no longer have to work in this weather, their coats are just as thick, and their body offers just as much muscle. Saint Bernard dogs are large and extraordinarily muscular working dogs originating from the Western Alps in Italy and […] Read More

The Saint Shepherd is incredibly intelligent and are quick learners. They make great guard dogs. Saint Shepherd is a hybrid dog and is a crossbreed between Saint Bernard and the German Shepherd. Both the parent dogs are rather large, making the Saint Shepherd an incredible breed. When they are full-grown, these dogs weigh approximately 120 […] Read More

“Some species of salamander can lay up to 450 eggs at one time” There are 600 plus species of salamander in the world. Salamanders are carnivores that are active at night. Many salamanders burrow in the mud to make their home under a rock near a body of water. Some species of salamander lay eggs […] Read More

Millions of pounds of salmon are harvested every year as a source of nutrition. Every year, when conditions are right, the salmon undertakes a remarkable journey upstream to reproduce with others and create the next generation of fish. This is accompanied by a massive physical transformation in which its color and body shape change to […] Read More

The Salmon shark is sometimes called “Pacific Porbeagle” because its appearance is almost indistinguishable from the porbeagle species. In fact, before realizing it was a separate species, the salmon shark was incorrectly identified as a porbeagle. The salmon shark is also commonly mistaken for a great white shark and has been nicknamed “mini great white” […] Read More

The origin of the name Saluki is not entirely clear. Some people have tried to associate it with the name of various cities or Sumerian or Arabic words. Alternative names for this breed include the Persian greyhound, Arabian hound, and gazelle hound. Arabians nicknamed them “el hor,” meaning “the noble,” and prized them as much […] Read More

Samoyeds were bred in Serbia to herd reindeer, pull sleds, or hunt. They are a basal breed and are part of the Spitz dog group. Samoyeds have very thick white fur that helped keep them warm in the frigid Siberian temperatures. Their coat features two layers, a long and straight topcoat, and a dense undercoat. […] Read More

Sand crabs, also known as mole crabs or sand fleas, burrow backward just beneath the surface of sandy beaches to hide from predators and look for prey. If you happen to be walking along an untouched virgin beach near the ocean, you may notice these unusual animals hidden directly beneath the sand with only their […] Read More

The sand lizard is one of the rarest reptiles in Europe, but wildlife officials are working to establish new populations. If you are hiking in sandy areas along the Jurassic Coastline, watch for a sandy-brown lizard with dark splotches that is about 20 centimeters long to run across your path as it may be fa […] Read More

“The Sand Tiger Shark only looks ferocious!” Though the sand tiger prowls the oceans with cold, staring eyes and a mouthful of sharp teeth, and the most gruesome part of its life cycle happens before it’s even born, the shark is actually peaceable. It also tolerates captivity, and those sharks one sees swimming round and […] Read More

Saola Classification and Evolution The Saola is a species of Antelope natively found in the forests on the border of north-central Vietnam and Laos. They are one of the most recently discovered large mammals in the world but are now also believed to be one of the rarest with estimated population numbers just in the […] Read More

Schools of sardines can be miles long and are often visible from an airplane. Sardines are a group of herring fishes that encompass five distinct genera and at least 21 unique species. One of the most common sardines used in cooking and food preparation is the Pacific Sardine, also known as Sardinops caeruleus. Sardines are […] Read More

“The Satanic leaf-tailed gecko is a lizard that looks like a leaf!” One of the most spectacular examples of camouflage in the animal kingdom, the Satanic leaf-tailed gecko looks so much like a dead leaf that a person can be staring at it in a tree and simply not see it. The tail doesn’t just […] Read More

“Able to eat plants that other flock and herd animals cannot digest.” The savanna goat is a very new species developed by man in the 1950s. It was originally bred from Boer goats of South Africa for their meat quality. These goats feature short white coats and dark grey or black skin perfect for sunny […] Read More

The sawfish, also known as the carpenter shark, is a tropical ray fish that swims along the shallow coasts of warm marine areas. Fully-grown sawfish are titanic in size and can weigh well over 1,000 pounds. The sawfish’s distinctive spiked snout has been the source of many myths and false facts, leading to a lot […] Read More

Prized for its exceptional beauty and astonishing vocal mimicry, the scarlet macaw is one of the most iconic and beloved parrots around the world. They make their home in the dense rainforests of the Americas, where their loud squawking can be heard for miles around. But despite being a species of least concern, the destruction […] Read More

Schipperkes are sometimes called Belgium barge dogs because they hunted rodents on barges. Schipperkes are sturdy, active dogs with a sense of mischief. With its pointed ears and curious eyes, this dog is always on alert. Its temperament is friendly and playful. Though it is best known for having a black coat, they have coats […] Read More

The Schneagle is a mixed breed, that comes from a purebred, the Beagle, and another mixed breed, the miniature Schnauzer. This means that the possibilities of this dog, genetically and personality-wise, are difficult to predict. The Schneagle is a hybrid dog that comes from the Miniature Schnauzer and the Beagle. A rather small, and sometimes […] Read More

Schnoodles are very intelligent and may inherit the suspiciousness of their Schnauzer parent. Schnoodles are a hybrid dog that is made by crossing a Poodle and a Schnauzer. Since Poodles come in three sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard), and Schnauzers also come in three sizes (Miniature, Standard, and Giant), there is a lot of variation […] Read More

The scimitar-horned oryx is thought to be the animal that inspired ancient unicorn myths   The scimitar-horned oryx is also known as the scimitar oryx or the Sahara oryx. It has been considered extinct in the wild since 2000, but conservationists are working to reintroduce them to their native habitats. It is a […] Read More

Scorpions are a predatory species of arachnid with eight legs and a long tail with a stinger at the end. Two of the scorpion’s eight legs are in the form of pincers that look a bit like lobster claws. Scorpions are well-distributed all over the world, and they live on every continent except for Antarctica. […] Read More

Scorpion Fish has sharp spines that are covered in poisonous mucus that allow them to attack if necessary. The scorpionfish, also known as Scorpaenidae, is a large family of fishes and usually includes hundreds of members. Most fishes from this family are venomous and can sting predators to defend themselves. The sting from this fish […] Read More

The Scottish Terrier can be crossed with other breeds to produce unique mix or designer dogs, like the Mini Scottish Fox Terrier or the Scottish Cocker. The Scottish Terrier is a miniature, short-legged breed with a big personality and self-confident style. It was originally bred in the Scottish Highlands, probably sometime between the 15th and […] Read More

“The rare South American frog with the unfortunate name, loose skin, and impressive size.” First, you will want to know how this frog got its nickname. The scrotum frog gets this name because it has many folds of wrinkly skin, like a part of the male anatomy. But all this skin serves a purpose. The […] Read More

The sea anemone is a fascinating, colorful creature. There are over 1,100 recorded species. You’ll find them at depths of over 32,000 feet in oceans all over the globe. Despite this, the biggest and most diverse creatures tend to live in shallow tropical waters. The animal can be transfixing with its rainbow of colors, but […] Read More

Poor swimmers, but great at camouflage, sea dragons are a unique type of pipefish! While their names may not suggest it, sea dragons are fish that are actually poor swimmers who typically drift with the currents instead of putting forth the effort to swim. This often bright-colored type of fish lives in the ocean around Australia […] Read More

Soaring high above the waters with their majestic wings spread out, the sea eagle is a group of large birds of prey that lives close to seas or lakes, feeding mostly on fish. There are 10 recognized species, including the well-known white-tailed eagle, bald eagle, and Steller’s sea eagle. With their huge size and impressive […] Read More

“One of the Largest Animals in New Zealand” They can dive to deep depths, they can walk on all fours, and they love to frolic and play! They’re sea lions, an amphibious species of marine mammals. Sea lions can survive in disparate climates and have well-developed social structures that often mimic that of humans. In […] Read More

The sea otter spends most of its life at sea. These charming marine mammals are a contrast of extremes. Floating freely on its back, the sea otter seems like the very picture of serenity, but they are quite voracious predators and need to eat a lot to sustain their lifestyle. They are also very good […] Read More

Sea Slugs are tiny animals known for their bright colors and intricate patterns. One of the most important facts to remember about sea slugs is there are over 2,000 species. TThey are found in both shallow and deep areas of oceans. In Asia, sea slugs are a form of cuisine. 3 Incredible Sea Slug Facts! […] Read More

The sea squirt is a highly evolved marine animal with a spine, although it looks like a plant. The sea squirt is a potato-shaped marine animal that also looks like a tube. Most sea squirts live underwater, permanently fixed to a hard surface. But some can move up to 1.5 cm per day. They can […] Read More

The great migratory sea turtle roams the world’s open oceans, supremely well-adapted for an aquatic lifestyle. From the first moment it hatches, the life of the sea turtle is a constant struggle for survival. Even if it survives the formidable odds on its journey to the sea, it must then navigate a treacherous world of […] Read More

Sea urchins are also called sea hedgehogs, sand dollars and sea biscuits. Sea urchins are animals that are typically small, spiny and round. They live in all the earth’s oceans, at depths ranging from the tide line to 15,000 feet. Because they cannot swim, they live on the sea floor. Their main defense against more […] Read More

“Seagulls are symbols of versatility and freedom in traditional Native American cultures.” Among the most tenacious and clever foragers on the planet, the seagull is a family of birds that lives near the coast. There are more than 50 documented species found all over the world. The most common species you’re probably familiar with are […] Read More

“The seahorse has a head that resembles a horse, the tail of a monkey, and a pouch like a kangaroo. And that’s just the beginning of ways seahorses are completely unique in the animal kingdom!” The seahorse is a small family of vertebrate species that is found in the tropical shallows and temperate waters around […] Read More

Lithe, limber, and agile, the seal is a master of aquatic locomotion. The seal’s paddle-shaped flippers and unique physiology enable it to thrive in even the most perilous aquatic conditions. They are inquisitive, social, and communicative mammals with a penchant for both the land and sea. Once hunted relentlessly, their numbers have been on the […] Read More

While it is unfortunately common for wild animal species to go extinct, it is a much less worrisome problem among domesticated creatures. Yet the Sealyham Terrier’s genetic stock includes the White Cheshire Terrier, unfortunately now beyond rescue, among its progenitors. The Sealyham Terrier is the brainchild of breeder Captain John Tucker Edwardes and is named […] Read More

“One of the fastest whales in the ocean.” Hunted until there was only a handful left in the world, this sleek baleen whale has made an impressive comeback, even though it is still classified as endangered under the IUCN Red List. 4 Incredible Sei Whale Facts! Read on for some fascinating facts about the sei […] Read More

The Senegal parrot is a gregarious and playful bird of surprising intelligence that resides in West Africa. Their docile personality and colorful plumage make them very popular for adoption in the exotic pet trade. This is bolstered by the ease with which they can be trained to perform tricks and commands. 3 Amazing Senegal Parrot […] Read More

Serval Classification and Evolution The Serval is a medium-sized species of cat that is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, mainly in covered areas that are close to water. Thought to be most closely related to the African Golden Cat and the Caracal, the Serval is one of the most distinctive felines on the African continent with […] Read More

Sharks are known especially by a cartilaginous skeleton. Sharks make up a family of elasmobranch fishes. They also have about five to seven slits at the side of their head for their gills. Their pectoral fins are not fused to their heads. Experts believe that there are about 500 species that form about 14 to […] Read More

“A Sharp-tailed snake uses its spiny tail to hold down its slippery prey” Sharp-tailed snakes or Sharptail snakes are also called Pacific brown snakes or gentle brown snakes. Their range includes the western part of the United States and continues up into British Columbia in Canada. These snakes spend a lot of their time hiding […] Read More

“Sheep were one of the first and most successful domesticated animals in the world.” With sweet faces, gentle personalities, and endless amounts of fluffy white wool, it’s no surprise that sheep are some of the most popular livestock animals in existence. There are more than one billion domestic sheep and several subspecies of wild sheep […] Read More

The Sheepadoodle was designed to be a good pet for allergy sufferers since the Poodle is hypoallergenic. The Old English Sheepdog and the Poodle were mixed together to create the Sheepadoodle. Also known as Sheep-a-poo, Sheepdoodle, Sheepdogpoo, and Sheeppoo, this breed was designed to be a good pet for allergy sufferers, since the Poodle is […] Read More

What do you get when you breed a German Shepherd with a poodle? A Shepadoodle! Shepadoodles belong to the hybrid group of dogs. They are intelligent, brave, and devoted to their owners. The history of the Shepadoodle dates back to the 1960s. They were bred to work alongside the military police in the US Army. […] Read More

The Shepkita is built to be an extremely hard-working breed. Their intimidating stature and bark make them incredible guard dogs. Also known as the Akita Shepherd, Shepkita is a hybrid dog. It is a crossbreed between the Akita and the German Shepherd, giving them a loyal and stoic nature. They are also extremely hard working. […] Read More

The Shepweiler is one of the most hard-working guard dogs you can find. If you’re looking for a loyal and protective working or guard dog, then you can do no worse than the Shepweiler. This uncommon hybrid is produced from the crossing of two different breeds: the Rottweiler and the German Shepherd. The Rottweiler is […] Read More

Shiba Inus are one of six native dog breeds from Japan. They are a hunting dog that was bred for flushing out small animals and birds. Shiba Inus, or Shibas as they’re often called, as a small- to medium-sized breed. Their coat is often a mix of black, white, sesame, tan, and red. During World […] Read More

Shih Poos are sometimes called “teddy bear dogs” because of their resemblance to the stuffed toy. A Shih Poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle, and is not recognized as a breed in its own right by the American Kennel Club. Shih Poos tend to be affectionate and playful dogs. […] Read More

Shih Tzu is a Chinese word meaning “little lion,” and it’s the name of a toy dog breed under the scientific name Canis Lupus. The Shih Tzu is thought to have originated from the cold mountains of Tibet, thus the long double-coat. It has coat colors of brown, white, gold, black, brindle, grey, or a […] Read More

Standing tall on its long, stilt-like legs, the shoebill stork cuts an imposing figure as it stalks slowly through the dense wetlands for its prey without making a sound. Although it was once classified as a stork, it’s actually more closely related to the herons, hamerkop, and pelicans within the completely separate order of Pelecaniformes. […] Read More

The Shollie is a great mix between playful and protective! Shollies are a hybrid, or designer, dog breed. They are a mix between a German Shepherd and a Border Collie. These dogs are energetic, devoted, and loyal. They are a large dog breed that sheds quite a bit and requires a large amount of exercise. […] Read More

The motto of the Shrew can truly be “Live fast, die young.” Frankly, shrews are a bit weird. They are tiny, with the Etruscan shrew being only 1.375 inches long, making it the smallest land mammal on earth. Because of that small size, these insectivores must constantly eat. If one doesn’t eat even for a […] Read More

Shrimp are crustaceans, and they are closely related to lobsters. However, they are just 2 cm long, despite the many species into which they are broken. Only a fraction of their species are available commercially, and they are hunted by the majority of carnivores and omnivores in the ocean. Their taxonomy classifies them as decapods, […] Read More

Did you know that Siamese kittens are born with no point markings? Siamese cats have a special enzyme in their bodies that is temperature-sensitive, and it allows the pigment of their fur to collect in cooler parts of their bodies, such as their ears, paws, tails, and faces. Siamese cats are a smart, loyal, sweet-tempered, […] Read More

The Siamese fighting fish, also known as the betta, is second only to the goldfish in popularity as a home aquarium pet. It is an aggressive, colorful fish that is native to Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia by way of the Mekong Delta. It is also present in Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and Malaysia and is […] Read More

The Siberian cat, also known as the Siberian forest cat, is an ancient breed that dates back hundreds of years. While popular in its native Russia, where it has become an important element of various fairy tales and folklore, the Siberian didn’t arrive in the United States until 1990, after the fall of the Soviet […] Read More

Siberian Huskies are the 12th most popular dog breed in the United States today, and it’s easy to see why. This strikingly beautiful breed is one of the few that have blue eyes, and their lovely, thick coats come in a variety of colors such as grey and white, red and white, and agouti. They […] Read More

The Siberian ibex is the “Sure-footed Goat of Siberia” The Siberian ibex amazes onlookers for at least two reasons. First, you can’t watch it scaling the cliffs of its mountain habitat without holding your breath. How does such a large animal climb such sheer rock faces without plunging to its death? Even baby ibexes jump […] Read More

Many a Siberian retriever has one blue eye and one brown eye. Siberian Retrievers are an attractive hybrid mix that has been bred by crossing a Labrador retriever with a Siberian husky. Both parent lines are medium to large working dogs, but their temperaments are very different: Labs are known for their friendly, almost goofy […] Read More

A regal symbol of strength, power, and fortitude, the Siberian tiger is one of the fiercest predators in the world. With its immense size and powerful body, the Siberian tiger prowls the dense forests of Eastern Asia in search of prey. Specially adapted for the frigid climate in which it resides, it is a sophisticated […] Read More

One of the first things that people notice about Siberpoos is that they don’t have the sharply pointed ears of a traditional husky. Instead, these dogs have the floppy, rounded ears of their standard poodle parents. If you’ve ever owned a husky, you’ve probably wished that they would shed a little less. Many designer dog […] Read More

“The chicken with unique, fluffy feathers.” Also known as the Chinese silk chicken, for its country of origin, this bird may be most known for its exotic plumage and unique appearance, but it has more to offer than looks. This exceptional brooder will happily sit on a clutch of other chicken, duck, or goose eggs. […] Read More

The first silky terriers were imported from Sydney, Australia, into the U.S. during World War II. The feisty silky terrier was developed in the 1800s in Sydney, Australia because people wanted a dog to live in their small homes. This terrier has human-like hair, and it loses about the same amount of hair daily that […] Read More

The silver dollar fish is a fish that is endemic to the rivers and tributaries of South America. Although closely related to the piranha, silver dollar fish are generally peaceful. People don’t tend to fish for or consume them, but these freshwater fish are popularly kept in aquariums around the world. An Incredible Fish: Five […] Read More

The Silver Labrador has blue eyes at an early age, until about 6-8 months, before their eyes turn yellow! For decades now, Labradors are topping the American Kennel Club (AKC)’s annual list of most popular dog breeds. Silver Labradors, which accompany yellow, chocolate, and classic black Labradors, are increasing in popularity, as well.The only real […] Read More

The sixgill shark is a silent predator that stalks the deep and dark oceans. It’s also a genus of ancient prehistoric sharks that contains three distinct species. By far the best-known species is the bluntnose sixgill shark, which can sometimes be observed near Puget Sound or Vancouver Island. Due to their solitary and elusive nature, […] Read More

Skate fish are a family of animals, of which there are more than 200 described species across the world. Generally abundant across the world’s waters, skates are often caught as byproducts from trawlers, and some species are now critically endangered. Skates are also known for having meat that can match a scallop in consistency and […] Read More

The Skink Lizard are the second largest group of lizards in the world. They live in diverse locations globally. While some skinks lay eggs, others give birth to live babies called skinklets, and at least one species does both. Most of these reptiles live under piles of leaves and logs where they can quickly burrow […] Read More

The skipjack tuna is among the most abundantly caught fish species in the world. If you’ve ever eaten canned tuna, then there’s a good chance it’s skipjack. Because of its prolific breeding and short lifespan, skipjack stocks are replenished quickly every year, despite the sheer numbers caught. But stocks must be carefully monitored to prevent […] Read More

“A skunk’s spray can be detected at distances of up to1.5 miles.” Skunks are omnivores eating a diet of insects, fruit, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. This animal is best known for its ability to spray an odorous (stinky) liquid from its scent glands. They use the spray as a defense against predators. Skunks […] Read More

Skye terriers are the oldest terrier breed, dating back at least 400 years. Skye terriers are as well-known for their stubborn but intensely loyal personalities as they for their distinctive double coat and low-to-the-ground appearance. Originally bred as vermin-hunting dogs by farmers in the remote Hebrides Islands, these medium-sized dogs quickly became favorites with the […] Read More

The sleeper shark contains an anti-freeze protein that enables them to survive in cold waters. The sleeper shark is a family of deep-sea predators found all over the world. The name of this shark comes from their reputation as slow-moving and sluggish animals, but some studies suggest they are in constant motion, traveling a few […] Read More

“The Sloth is the world’s slowest moving mammal.” Sloths are animals that live in the treetops of Central and South American rain forests. They spend their days foraging and eating leaves, buds and twigs. These slow-moving mammals sleep 15 to 20 hours and only move as far as about 40 yards each day. But they […] Read More

The slow worm is a greyish brown lizard, even though they are often mistaken for snakes. Despite their forked yet flat tongue, their eyelids are a giveaway that these reptiles are lizards. To get away from the predators that come after them, they make their movement smoother by dropping their tails low as they move […] Read More

The classification of Slug refers to one of the 100s or possibly 1000s of species of gastropod mollusk found throughout the world. The term slug is polyphyletic, meaning it applies to a group of organisms that are generally linked under one name based on their shared characteristics and not due to sharing a common ancestor. […] Read More

Smooth Fox Terriers are expert diggers and won’t give up until they find what they’re looking for! Smooth Fox Terriers are lively dogs with a friendly temperament. This breed dates back to England in the mid-1800s. They accompanied British royalty on foxhunts. These dogs were experts at driving foxes out of their holes. The Smooth […] Read More

Slow-moving but always fascinating, the snail is one of the most ecologically diverse animals on the planet. Belonging to the phylum of Mollusca, it’s found almost everywhere in the world, from high mountains to simple botanical gardens to deep undersea rocks. The shell is the defining feature of the snail. This is the one thing […] Read More

Snakes are a form of legless reptiles, covering over 3,000 different species around the world. Also known by the scientific name “serpentes,” they are easily noticeable by their elongated body that seemingly looks like a head with a long tail. Their bodies are incredibly strong, though this strength is used for multiple purposes. Snakes have […] Read More

Unlike other turtles, a common snapping turtle is not able to fit its whole body into its shell. Snapping turtles can live to be 30 years old in the wild. Their living area spreads from southeastern Canada all the way down through the central and eastern parts of the United States and into the state […] Read More

Snorkies are known for their funny, attention-getting antics. Snorkie Introduction A Snorkie is the result of breeding a Yorkshire Terrier and a Miniature Schnauzer. The history of the Snorkie is mostly unknown. This breed falls into the hybrid group of dogs. Snorkies have a friendly, loyal temperament and greatly enjoy following their owner around the […] Read More

The Snow Leopard is the elusive cat of the Himalayas This beautiful and endangered cat, listed as vulnerable under the IUCN Red List, is well-adapted for life in the cold atmosphere of the Central Asian mountains, including the Himalayas. It has a thick coat whose beauty attracts poachers and huge paws that serve the same […] Read More

The snowshoe cat is beautiful and unique. From snuggling with loved ones to her delightful eyes, this cat is a great companion. Snowshoe Traits: What to Know Before You Buy Take a look at a few facts to know if you’re interested in getting a snowshoe. Snowshoe Physical Characteristics The snowshoe is of note for […] Read More

A snowshoe hare can run as fast as 27mph. Snowshoe hares live in the northern United States as well as all over Canada. They are herbivores eating flowers, grass, leafy plants, and bark. While their coats are bright white in the wintertime, they turn brown in the spring. Snowshoe hares sleep on and off during […] Read More

The snowy owl, whose scientific name is Bubo scandiacus, is a large, majestic owl with striking white plumage and luminous yellow eyes. Snowy owls are birds that spend most of their time in the treeless and frigid tundras surrounding the North Pole, but they can occasionally be spotted in the lower regions of Canada and […] Read More

The Somali cat, also called the Fox Cat, is a medium to large longhaired African breed which inherited a recessive gene for long hair from the Abyssinian. It evolved from Abyssinians which were exported to North America, Australia, and New Zealand in the 1940s, though it was commonly believed longhaired non-Abyssinian cats or a cousin […] Read More

The song sparrow is one of the most common birds in North America. As its name says, this bird is known for its lovely call. It is a pretty bird with chestnut brown and soft gray stripes. You are likely to see this bird in wooded areas and suburban gardens. 5 Incredible Song Sparrow Facts! […] Read More

“The blithe throstle” Though it’s a plain-looking little bird with plumage in colors of brown and buff, the song thrush is renowned for the beauty of its song. Indeed, it is so melodic that poets such as Wordsworth and Thomas Hardy have written poems to it. Yet this thrush, like so many others, is a […] Read More

“The South China tiger is a powerful predator, an expert hunter, and an old cultural symbol of regal strength.” This subspecies is also perhaps the most imperiled tiger in the world. In precipitous decline since the 20th century, it is now confined to a very small range in China, and the only known live specimens […] Read More

With its sharp spade-like limb, the aptly named spadefoot toad burrows deep underground for safety and protection As one of the most elusive and secretive of all the most common amphibians, the spadefoot toad lives most of its life underground in a state of total seclusion. Due to the animal’s unusual behavior, most people won’t […] Read More

The Labrador Retriever has many of the qualities of a good swimmer: a water-resistant coat, extra feet webbing, and a very athletic body. The Spanador may inherit some or all of these traits as well. The Spanador is a mix between two different purebred dogs: a Cocker Spaniel (particularly the American Cocker Spaniel) and a […] Read More

Spanish goats are compact size goats that have long, horizontal ears with thorns that twist at their points. The hair on their coats is varied in length, though it is a blend of several neutral colors. The purpose of these goats is milk production (though it is simply to create cheeses from this source as […] Read More

Diego Velázquez’s famous 17th-century painting of the Infanta and her dwarves includes a portrait of a Spanish Mastiff. The history of the Spanish Mastiff goes back 1,100 years to the 10th century when shepherds began using them to defend migrating herds against grey wolves and other predators. Spanish Mastiffs are powerful canines with long legs, […] Read More

“No matter where on Earth you live, sparrows likely visit your backyard.” Sparrows are a common sight the world over. Eurasian house and tree sparrows are among the most common. Not only do they occupy a large natural range, but they’ve invaded several continents as settlers took the birds with them. These birds have adapted […] Read More

“Spectacled bears communicate with other bears with screeching, cooing and purring sounds” This bear’s name relates to the tan or light-colored hair near both its eyes making it look like it’s wearing eyeglasses or spectacles. Male spectacled bears can grow to be 6 and a half feet long. These bears live in South America. They […] Read More

The sperm whale, also known as the spermaceti whale or cachalot, is the largest of the toothed whales. Found in all of the world’s oceans, sperm whales were once hunted extensively; a moratorium on such activity in the late 1980s has helped their populations to grow again. Despite their colossal size, sperm whales can move […] Read More

“The spider monkey is among the most proficient climbers in the world.“ With its long limbs and tail, this species leaps and bounds from one branch to another in a graceful display of aerial control. It is intelligent, caring, and agile, but also loud and aggressive. Because of hunting and habitat loss, the entire genus […] Read More

The spider wasp is a family of spider-hunting parasitoid insects, so-named because the young larvae live on and exploit spiders for food. Unlike true parasites, however, they always end up killing the host in a particularly grizzly manner. Most species of spider wasps are completely solitary (with the exception of a few group-nesting species). While […] Read More

The spinner shark is a slender, elegant shark that lives in temperate ocean waters. It gets its name from its ability to spin through the water and into the air. It can also leap into the air from the water and spin several times in a row. With incredible speed and powerful jaws, the spinner […] Read More

The Spinone Italiano has been called many names over the years, but its current designation is derived from the earlier name of Bracco Spinoso. It translates from Italian as “prickly pointer” and references their rough coats which protect them from thorny shrubs. With their bushy eyebrows, exaggerated beards, and soulful eyes, Spinoni Italiani has the […] Read More

The Spiny Dogfish is a smaller shark that is found in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. They prefer a saltwater habitat but may enter brackish water. Spiny Dogfish are unique in that they have two spines. If they are attacked, they will use these two spines to arch their backs and inject poison into […] Read More

The spiny hill turtle earned its name thanks to its viciously spiky shell and the fact that this Southeast Asian species typically lives at higher elevations. Found throughout Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, and other Southeast Asian countries, these turtles call the rainforest home and rely on the fallen leaves and debris in this environment for both […] Read More

Spix’s macaw is one of the rarest and most endangered parrots in the world. These affable animals are among a select group of talking birds that can mimic human speech. Lively, gregarious, and fiercely loyal to their mates, Spix’s macaw once occupied the desert woodlands of Brazil. However, habitat loss, predation, and poaching drove it […] Read More

Sponges are one of the simplest, and perhaps oldest, animals on the entire planet. They are marine animals that are easily mistaken for plant life due to their lack of nervous system, internal organs, and mobility. All sponges belong to the taxonomic phylum Porifera, which is part of the kingdom Animalia and encompasses over 500 […] Read More

The spotted gar can be found in calm pools located in freshwater rivers, ponds, and creeks. It is one of 7 species of gar. They eat the minnows, small blue crabs, and other types of animals used as bait by fishermen. Consequently, many fishermen consider spotted gar pests because they compete with other fish for […] Read More

The spotted lanternfly is a type of small sap-eating insect that belongs to a group known as the planthoppers. Despite the name, it’s not related to flies at all but instead related to aphids, cicadas, and leafhoppers. During its complex life cycle, the lanternfly will pass through four distinctive nymph stages before reaching full adulthood […] Read More

This post may contain affiliate links to our partners for the Springador dog and other pets. Purchasing through these helps us further the A-Z Animals mission to help us educate about the world’s species so we can all better care for them. The Springador’s parent breed, the Labrador, or Saint John’s, Retriever was nearly taxed […] Read More

The springbok is a medium-sized antelope that roams across the African savanna in massive herds, protected from predators by sheer numbers. The springbok is among the most well-known and common animals of southern Africa. It fulfills a somewhat similar ecological niche as the deer. But despite its deer-like appearance, the springbok actually belongs to the […] Read More

Springerdoodles are nicknamed “sproodles.” What do you get when you cross the sporty English springer spaniel with the sassy poodle? The fun-loving springerdoodle! These hybrid dogs, which are often referred to as designer dogs, reflect the best traits of both parent breeds. Like springer spaniels, these dogs are active, energetic, loyal, and easy to train; […] Read More

Squash beetles are not the same as squash bugs. While the squash bug has a shield-like exoskeleton, the squash beetle looks much more like a ladybug. The squash beetle, also known as the squash lady beetle or the squash ladybug, has a beautiful orange and yellow shell, featuring a specific arrangement of spots along its […] Read More

The eyeball of a giant squid is about 10.5 inches (26.67 cm) in diameter, about the same size as a soccer ball! There are about 300 different species of squid. They are found in all of the oceans throughout the world, including n the freezing cold Antarctic waters. They eat a range of different foods, including […] Read More

A squirrel is small rodent with a full and bushy tail, and they are found all over the world. There are more than 200 species of squirrels all over the world. They are mostly categorized into three different types – ground squirrels, tree squirrels, and flying squirrels. The various types are differentiated by their size […] Read More

Squirrel Monkey Classification and Evolution The Squirrel Monkey is a small species of New World Monkey that is natively found in the forests and tropical jungles of Central and South America. Measuring as little as 25cm from the top of the head to the base of their tail, these tiny primates are more than double […] Read More

The squirrelfish is a tropical reef fish that inhabits warm ocean waters. It’s a nocturnal hunter with huge eyes that allow it to see in the dark. Its diet includes plankton and small, larval crustaceans. This fish is a popular choice for home aquariums because of its unique features, bright colors, and healthy constitution. 3 […] Read More

“The Sri Lankan elephant is one of the world’s largest and rarest land animals.” The Sri Lankan elephant is one of three subspecies of the Asian elephant. The species as a whole is recognized as being the largest land animal in Asia and the Sri Lankan type is the largest of the species. With a […] Read More

The Stabyhoun is a versatile, all-around working breed and pet, with males and females having unique facial features. The Stabyhoun is a sporting dog breed from the Netherlands and among the top 5 rarest breeds in the world. It hails from the province of Friesland and was first mentioned in Dutch literature in the early […] Read More

The Staffordshire bull terrier is known as the energetic “nanny dog” with a loyal heart. Looking for a doggie that’s hypoallergenic, devoted to its humans, and isn’t too big? A Staffordshire bull terrier may be the perfect match! Known as “SBT”s or “staffies” among dog enthusiasts, Staffordshire bull terriers are stocky, energetic, fond of affection, […] Read More

The oldest known fossil of the stag beetle dates back to the Middle Jurassic Period, approximately 150 to 160 million years ago. The stag beetle is a family of large, hard-shelled, flying insects whose distinguishing trait is the ability to consume rotting wood as a larva. The name of this insect is derived from the […] Read More

The intelligence of a Standard Schnauzer makes it a great therapy or search and rescue dog. The Standard Schnauzer is an intelligent, incredibly loyal dog. The history of this dog goes back to 15th century Germany. At that time, it was known as a wire-haired pinscher. Pinschers were kept by many German farmers to drive […] Read More

The star-nosed mole has one of the most unique sensory organs in the entire animal kingdom. Despite being almost completely blind, this animal is far from helpless. The writhing tentacles on its face have evolved into exquisitely acute and sensitive organs that enable it to understand the nature of the objects in the world around […] Read More

Starfish, also known as sea stars, are some of the most important members of the underwater kingdom. Although they aren’t technically fish, sea stars are animals that are still present in nearly every coastal habitat and can be found as low as the abyssal layer. You can identify a starfish by its bumpy skin and […] Read More

“Steller’s sea cow was a huge, aquatic animal that closely resembled a manatee or dugong.” This fascinating creature was first discovered in 1741 by a German naturalist named Georg Steller. Its valuable meat, skin and fat caused humans to hunt it into extinction by 1768. Steller’s Sea Cow Facts Other than soft snorts, this animal […] Read More

The stick insect has evolved the remarkable ability to blend in with its surroundingsSlow-moving, sedentary, and wary of predators, the humble stick insect strives to be as unobtrusive as possible. Thanks to one of the most effective camouflage systems on the planet, even a determined and sharp-eyed predator would have difficulty spotting the stick insect […] Read More

Stingrays are very easily recognizable and have pancake-like bodies. Stingrays are fish that are known to be able to glide gracefully through the water. There are about 200 different species of stingrays in the oceans around the world. They are also found in lakes and freshwater rivers. Categorized as a group of sea rays, they […] Read More

“The stoat is the small, but bold, predator of the Northern Hemisphere.” Stoats may be small animals, but this doesn’t stop them from being energetic and ambitious predators across a wide geographic range that includes large swaths of North America, Europe and Asia. They generally prefer temperate, cool and cold climates and adapt to winter […] Read More

Over 90 percent of marketed stone crabs come out of Florida. In fact, the animals are often referred to as Florida stone crabs. But you can find this crab in offshore and coastal waters from Belize to North Carolina. They also populate the waters of Mexico‘s gulf, the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, and the Yucatan […] Read More

The stork is a bird that is filled with whimsy and wonder, often wrapped into the story of life. However, these birds are much more than a symbol of a new arrival; they are found in the hundreds of thousands around the world, residing primarily in Europe until the breeding season is over. Even with […] Read More

The Striped Hyena is a medium-sized mammal. It is a scavenging animal that is found in Africa, West India, the Middle East, and the Arabian Peninsula. Some people like to have it as a pet. There are several interesting facts about striped hyenas. Both the male and female striped hyenas are very similar in appearance. […] Read More

The striped rocket frog is one of the unique amphibious treasures of Australia. Known for its extraordinary leaping ability, this species makes a loud croaking sound that can be heard at night near ponds, wetlands, or other bodies of water. It shares a range with several other rocket frogs in eastern Australia, which makes it […] Read More

The sturgeon, one of approximately 28 species of fish in the family Acipenseridae, is a primitive fish that is found in both saltwater and freshwater environments. Native to temperate waters of the Northern Hemisphere, sturgeons are among the largest fish and are found in the greatest abundance in the rivers of Ukraine and southern Russia […] Read More

Sucker fish belong to the family Catostomidae and live in freshwater environments across the world. It’s believed that sucker fish first evolved roughly 50 million years ago and today more than 79 species have been identified.  Although sucker fish are bony fish, they’ve historically been an important food source and can be found in streams […] Read More

“A small, gliding possum with a big sweet tooth.” Sugar gliders are tiny nocturnal animals that are native to forested and wooded regions in Australia and New Guinea. They have comparable size and appearance to North American squirrel species. However, their classification as marsupials means they are actually more similar to kangaroos, koalas, and possums. […] Read More

“The Sulcata Tortoise is the third biggest tortoise in the world.” The populations of the Sulcata tortoise, also called the African spurred tortoise, are falling in the wild even as the tortoise is gaining in popularity as a pet. It’s an intelligent animal, and if its needs for ample housing, food, light, heat, and humidity […] Read More

“Less than 2,000 left in the wild!” This is the smallest subspecies of Asian elephants. They are native to Sumatra Island, one of the Sunda Islands, in Indonesia. Belonging to the Elephantidae family, they are among the largest mammals on land. Sumatran elephants are highly intelligent animals and they also have an excellent memory. Elephants […] Read More

Sumatran Orang-utan Classification and Evolution The Sumatran Orang-utan is one of three Orang-utan species in Asia, and they are natively found on the Indonesian island of Sumatra (the other species being the Bornean Orang-utan that is endemic to Borneo and the Tapanuli Orang-utan that is only found in an isolated region of northwestern Sumatra). Also […] Read More

The last ‘prehistoric’ rhino is now one of the world’s most endangered species  The Sumatran rhinoceros is the last “hairy” rhinoceros left on Earth. The smallest species of rhinoceros, the Sumatran rhino may very well be the most endangered large mammal in the world today. Incredible Sumatran Rhino Facts! The Sumatran rhino is believed to […] Read More

Last of the Sunda Island Tigers Majestic but increasingly vulnerable, Sumatran tigers are on the verge of extinction. A century ago, they roamed throughout the Sunda islands in western Indonesia. Today, only a small number on Sumatra Island remain. Conservationists are diligently working to preserve the species, but their efforts aren’t outpacing the deadly habitation […] Read More

Sun Bear Classification and Evolution The Sun Bear is a small species of bear that is found inhabiting the dense, tropical forests of south-east Asia. The Sun Bear is the smallest species of bear in the world and it is also one of the most unique, being the only member of its family that has […] Read More

Swai fish, also commonly known as iridescent sharks, are a type of shark catfish that are native to Vietnam. These omnivorous bottom feeders live in the Mekong river and migrate upstream when the water levels rise in the late summer. When left to their own devices, iridescent sharks can get as big as 100 pounds. […] Read More

The Swan is known around the world for its beauty, elegance, and grace. The swan is a genus of waterfowl that has the ability to swim and fly with incredible speed and agility. This bird is also very intelligent, devoted to its mate, and highly aggressive about defending its young. They are a common sight […] Read More

The Swedish Vallhund is an adorable European herding dog with short legs and an attentive temperament. These playful cow dogs love to spend their time running through fields, basking in the sunshine, and keeping the herd together. Vallhunds and similar types of herding dogs have existed in Europe since the Viking era. The modern Swedish […] Read More

The Syrian hamster also called the golden hamster or teddy bear hamster is a popular pet and one of the most popular pet rodents around. Its habitat is northern Syria and southern Turkey. Introduced to North America in 1936, it quickly became one of the first domesticated pet hamsters. With its small size, low price, […] Read More