Wildlife in Asia - Types of Asian Animals (Native, Endangered, Deadly)

Below you can find a complete list of Asian animals. We currently track 794 animals in Asia and are adding more every day!

Asia is the world’s most populous and biggest continent in the Northern and Eastern hemispheres, with the world’s longest coastline and the highest and lowest points on the Earth’s surface. It includes countries such as China, Korea, Japan, Siberia, and India, Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore, and a few countries in the Middle East.

It has a mostly dry climate throughout, with the biggest weather extremes in the west, and monsoons affecting the south and east. Habitats range from deserts, mountains, forests, and tropical jungles to urban areas.

Such a vast and varied landscape with several remote regions mean Asian wildlife is just as diverse. Join us as we take a closer look at Asia animals.

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Notable Asian Animals

panda bear climbing on tree — The Giant Panda of China is a global icon and China’s national treasure that has been brought back from being “endangered” and is now listed as “vulnerable,” thanks to strong conservation efforts.
©Hung Chung Chih/Shutterstock.com

The Giant Panda of China is a global icon and China’s national treasure that has been brought back from being “endangered” and is now listed as “vulnerable,” thanks to strong conservation efforts in the country. It is native to the bamboo forests of South Central China. This true bear shares a common ancestor with the family Ursidae but diverged about 1.9 million years ago, making this species a living fossil.

The Asian Elephant is the biggest of the continent’s land-dwelling mammals, although it’s smaller than its African relative. The 3 subspecies are the Indian, Sumatran, and Sri Lankan. Its weight can reach 11,000 lbs, its length can reach 21ft (6.4m) and its height can reach 11.5ft (3.5m). This species is listed as Endangered.

The Asian Black Bear is a medium-sized bear that lives in forests all across the continent. It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

The tiger is another common global icon for Asia animals. There are 6 surviving tiger subspecies on the continent:

Where To Find The Top Wild Asia Animals

Wild Asia is home to a diverse array of unique and fascinating animals, from the majestic tigers of India to the playful macaques of Japan. Some of the most iconic and endangered species on the planet can be found in this region, making it an important focus for conservation efforts around the world.

The best place to safely look at the most popular wildlife in Asia is a zoo, national park, or other protected area. You can see Giant Pandas in their hometown of Chengdu. The Dujiangyan Panda Base, Gengda Giant Panda Center, and Bifengxia Giant Panda Base are all accessible to tourists.

The best places to see Asian elephants are Parambikulam, India, and Udawalawe, Sri Lanka. If you’re interested in seeing Asian black bears in near-wild conditions, check out the Tat Kuang Si rescue center 30km away from Luang Prabang, especially the Kuang Si Falls from July through October.

Additionally, one of the most famous animals of Wild Asia is the giant panda, which is native to the bamboo forests of China. These adorable bears are known for their distinctive black-and-white coloring and their unique diet of bamboo. Unfortunately, they are also one of the most endangered species in the world, with only around 1,800 individuals remaining in the wild.

Finally, the national parks of India, especially Nagarahole, Ranthambore, Panna, and Kanha are the best places to see Asian tigers.

Animals that reproduce asexually – Komodo dragon — The Komodo dragon is one of the more dangerous Asia animals you may encounter.
©Anna Kucherova/Shutterstock.com

The Most Dangerous Asian Animals

Western Black Rhinoceros — Asian Elephants charge with an average weight of 4 tons, while Indian Rhinoceroses weigh over 4 tons and have a large horn.
©iStock.com/EcoPic

The most dangerous wildlife in Asia attacks humans in unique ways. Asian Elephants charge with an average weight of 4 tons, while Indian Rhinoceroses weigh over 4 tons and have a large horn. Bengal Tigers and Asiatic Lions are heavy and fast and known to eat people. Sloth Bears have curved, powerful claws and unpredictable behavior, being as likely to attack as they are to run away.

Komodo Dragons are the biggest lizards in the world, weighing around 350lbs (160kg) and measuring over 10ft (3m) long. They are Asia animals known for fatally attacking people with bacteria-filled bites. Saltwater Crocodiles ambush their prey on land but have been known to take victims in the open ocean. All of the “big three” deadly sharks are in Asia: The Great White, Tiger, and Bull sharks, and they are common in populated coastal areas.

On the other hand, some of the most dangerous wildlife in Asia Asia animals are not always the biggest animals. King Cobra snakes are the longest snakes in the world, one of the most venomous on the continent, and like other cobras have a deadly neurotoxic venom. It’s considered one of the “big four” snakes alongside Russell’s viper, the saw-scaled viper, and the common krait.

Asian Giant Hornets kill several people in China and Japan every year, its venom of both cytotoxins and neurotoxins causes extreme pain and is fatal in high enough doses. Fattail Scorpions live in the desert regions of India, the Middle East, and North Africa. Their stings contain a powerful neurotoxin that is fast-acting and lethal, with the ability to cause respiratory paralysis and death in a few hours without access to anti-venom.

The Most Rarest Animals In Asia

Rarest animal – Amur Leopard — Another incredibly rare animal in Asia is the Amur
leopard
, which is found in the Russian Far East and parts of China.
©Dmitri Gomon/Shutterstock.com

Asia is home to a vast array of unique and fascinating animals, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Unfortunately, many of these species are also highly endangered, with small and dwindling populations that make them some of the rarest animals in the world.

One of the rarest animals in Asia is the Saola, which is found in the mountainous regions of Vietnam and Laos. This antelope-like mammal was only discovered by scientists in 1992, and since then, only a few dozen individuals have been spotted in the wild. The Saola is threatened by habitat loss and hunting and is considered one of the most endangered mammals on the planet.

Another incredibly rare animal in Asia is the Amur leopard, which is found in the Russian Far East and parts of China. This beautiful big cat is the rarest leopard subspecies, with only around 100 individuals remaining in the wild. Habitat loss, poaching, and the illegal wildlife trade are all major threats to the Amur leopard, and conservation efforts are focused on protecting its habitat and reducing human-wildlife conflict.

Other rare animals in Asia include the Chinese giant salamander, the Indochinese tiger, and the Philippine eagle. By working to protect these and other rare species in Asia, we can help ensure that these amazing animals are able to thrive and survive for generations to come.

The Largest Animals Found in Asia

A pregnant Asian
Elephant
(Elephas Maximus) feeds on grasses growing in the waters of a tropical lake.
©iStock.com/Lekamalage

Asia is home to a diverse range of animals, including some of the largest and most impressive creatures on the planet. From massive marine mammals to towering land animals, the continent is home to an array of giants that are truly awe-inspiring.

One of the largest animals found in Asia is the elephant, with both the Asian elephant and the larger African elephant species found on the continent. The Asian elephant is slightly smaller than its African counterpart, but can still weigh over 5,000 kilograms (11,000 pounds) and stand over 3 meters (10 feet) tall at the shoulder. These majestic animals are found throughout much of Asia, from India and Sri Lanka to Southeast Asia and China.

Another giant of the Asian continent is the saltwater crocodile, which is the largest living reptile in the world. These fearsome predators can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) long and weigh over 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) and are found in coastal regions throughout Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Despite their size, saltwater crocodiles are excellent swimmers and are known to venture far out to sea.

Endangered Animals

Smallest Animals: RhinocerosSmallest Animals: Rhinoceros — The Sumatran
Rhinoceros
is the smallest and hairiest rhinoceros and is also critically endangered.
©Light And Dark Studio/Shutterstock.com

Wild Asia is home to some of the most iconic and endangered species on the planet.

One of the most endangered animals in Asia is the Sumatran rhinoceros, which is found in parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. These rhinos are the smallest and most primitive of the rhinoceros species, with a distinctive hairy coat and two horns on their snouts.

Unfortunately, they are also one of the rarest mammals in the world, with fewer than 80 individuals remaining in the wild.

Another highly endangered animal in Asia is the Javan rhinoceros, which is found only on the island of Java in Indonesia. Like the Sumatran rhino, they are highly threatened by habitat loss and poaching, with only around 70 individuals remaining in the wild.

Many of the most popular wildlife in Asia are endangered according to the IUCN Red List:

Extinct Animals

Asia is also home to several species that have gone extinct in recent history. Many of these extinctions have been the result of human activities, such as hunting, habitat destruction, and the introduction of non-native species.

One such animal is the Caspian tiger, which was once found in several countries throughout Asia, including Iran, Iraq, and China. This large and powerful tiger was heavily hunted for its fur and for sport, and its habitat was also greatly reduced due to human activities. The last known Caspian tiger died in the 1970s, making it one of the most recent tiger subspecies to go extinct.

Another extinct animal of Asia is the quagga, a subspecies of the plains zebra that was found in South Africa in the 19th century. However, a closely related subspecies of the quagga, the Asiatic wild ass, once roamed the steppes and deserts of Central Asia.

The Asiatic wild ass, also known as the onager, is now listed as a near-threatened species due to hunting and habitat loss. While the quagga is not native to Asia, its extinction serves as a reminder of the impact that humans can have on wildlife populations.

Among the recently extinct wildlife of Asia are three tiger subspecies: Bali, Javan, and Caspian. They became extinct due to hunting, habitat loss, and loss of main prey.

Unique Asian Animals

The Sun Bear, Clouded Leopard, and Draco Lizard are a few examples of unique wildlife in Asia that can’t be found anywhere else. The Sun Bear and Draco Lizard are both native to the tropical forests of southeast Asia, while the Clouded Leopard lives in China, Southeast Asia, and the Himalayan foothills.

Native Birds

Asia is home to extremely diverse populations of birds. They live in a wide range of habitats throughout the continent.

Indian Peafowl: No list of Asian birds would be complete without India’s national bird, the peacock. There are two species of peacock in Asia, the green peacock, and the blue peacock. These non-migratory birds live in a range of habitats but are typically found in open forests. They are notorious for venturing into urban and suburban areas.
Flamingos: From September to March you will find large flocks of flamingos wintering in Sri Lanka. Visit the internationally important Bundala National Park to witness 197 different species of birds, including the flamingo.
Red-Crowned Cranes: These semi-aquatic birds are the second-rarest cranes in the world. They migrate to East Asia during their spring and summer months, and winter in China, Japan, and the Korean Peninsula. There is one non-migratory population of red-crowned cranes that are found in Hokkaido, Japan. You can see them in Kushiro-Shitsugen National Park.
Grey-headed Fish Eagle: Found in low-land forests near bodies of water in South-East Asia. Visit Khao Sok National Park in Thailand for a chance to see these birds of prey.

Types of Fish in Asia

You can find many types of fish in Asia’s freshwater habitats like rivers, lakes, and wetlands. There is also a wide variety of marine fish surrounding Asia’s 39,000 miles of coastline.

Mekong Giant Catfish: One of the largest freshwater fish in the world. They are critically endangered and can only be found in the Mekong Basin in Southeast Asia.
Taimen Salmon: The largest fish in the Salmonid Family. They can reach lengths of up to 6 feet and weigh over 100 pounds. Mongolia is a very popular destination for taimen fishing. Taimen are only found in freshwater rivers.
Sri Lankan Dottyback: Saltwater fish native to the coral reefs of Sri Lanka.
Whale Shark: The largest known species of fish in the world. You can see these endangered sharks off the coasts of Southeast Asia and The Maldives.

Snakes in Asia

Both venomous and non-venomous snakes occupy nearly every habitat across Asia. From rough-scaled sand boas in the sandy, arid regions of Southern Asia, to sunbeam snakes in the forests and gardens of Southeast Asia. One family of snakes, the Asian pipe snakes, is exclusive to Asia. You’ll also find the world’s largest snake exclusively in South and Southeast Asia, the reticulated python.

Out of 600 venomous snake species in the world, over 150 of them are native to Asia. Asia is home to a group of venomous snakes known as “The Big Four”. The Indian cobra, Russell’s viper, common krait, and saw-scaled viper are responsible for the deadliest snake bites in India. Recent discoveries have revealed a fifth venomous snake, the hump-nosed pit viper, also contributes to the most mortality rates.

Asian Countries Animals Lists

Click any of the countries below to see a detailed list of animals located in that country!

Asian Animals

Adélie Penguin

Eats up to 2kg of food per day!

Admiral Butterfly

Stunningly beautiful wings

Aesculapian Snake

Afghan Hound

First used as a shepherd and hunter!

African Sugarcane Borer

N/A

Ainu

An innate sense of direction!

Akita

Very clean, intelligent and loyal!

Alaskan Pollock

It's one of the most commonly eaten fish in the world

American Alligator

They have two sets of eyelids!

Amano Shrimp

Popular kept in aquariums to keep them clean

Amethystine Python (Scrub Python)

Their milky-iridescent scales have a purplish hue in the light, reminiscent of the gemstone.

Amur Leopard

The Amur leopard may be the rarest big cat on Earth!

Andrewsarchus

Andrewsarchus is the largest terrestrial mammalian carnivore to have ever lived.

Angled Sunbeam Caterpillar

Create a silk bed that they use to attach themselves to leaves

Angora Goat

Each adult Angora goat produces about 12 inches of mohair annually while kids have about 8 inches.

Anomalocaris

Ant

First evolved 100 million years ago!

Antelope

Renew their horns every year!

Ape

Love to learn, especially through observation

Arabian Cobra

The Arabian cobra is the only true cobra species that can be found in the Arabian Peninsula.

Arabian Wolf

Rare desert wolf

Arafura File Snake

These snakes have rough, file-like skin.

Archerfish

Archerfish can shoot a stream of water up to five feet with amazing accuracy.

Armyworm

They are so named because they "march" in armies of worms from one crop to another in search of food

Arsinoitherium

Arsinoitherium was a twin-horned mammal that looked like a rhino but is more closely related to present-day elephants.

Asian Arowana

The male Asian arowana raises the eggs in its mouth

Asian Cockroach

Originally discovered in Japan

Asian Elephant

Domesticated for hundreds of years!

Asian Giant Hornet

The largest wasp in the world!

Asian Lady Beetle

Asian lady beetles infest indoor spaces, but they do not reproduce indoors.

Asian Longhorn Beetle

Their entire life cycle from larvae to beetle usually takes around 2 years in Asia. However, it may take longer in areas where they are an invasive species, like the UK and USA

Asian Palm Civet

It mainly eats mangos and coffee!

Asian Vine Snake

This snake chews on its victims to release venom.

Asian Water Monitor

The Asian water monitor is the second heaviest lizard in the world!

Asiatic Black Bear

Known to eat 160 different tree-borne fruits in Thailand!

Assassin Snail

The snail-eating snail.

Atlas Beetle

Male Atlas beetles have prominent horns that are three times that of females.

Atlas Moth

Adult atlas moths do not eat - they live off fat they stored as larvae.

Aurochs

Extinct ancestor of all domesticated cattle!

Avocet

Has a curved, upturned beak!

Ayam Cemani

They were used for sacrificial purposes

Babirusa

The babirusa is the only mammal with vertically growing canine teeth!

Baboon

Can travel more than four miles a day!

Bactrian Camel

The camel with two humps!

Bagworm Moth

There are approximately 1350 species in the bagworm moth family (Psychidae), which forms part of the order Lepidoptera.

Bagworm Moth Caterpillar

They continually enlarge their protective cases

Bamboo Rat

They make a "boop, boop, boop" sound when danger draws near their burrow.

Bamboo Worms

Bamboo worms are the larvae of moths that are eaten as a delicious snack in some parts of Asia.

Banana Spider

People spin clothing and fishing nets out of these spiders’ silk.

Banded Krait

What often prevents more people from falling victim is that the banded krait does not always inject venom in a defensive bite. It saves the venom for hunting prey instead.

Banded Palm Civet

Markings give it camouflage!

Barb

There are over 1768 known species!

Bark Beetle

Not all bark beetles feed on a tree's bark. Some species feed on fruits, seeds, and other parts of the plant

Barn Owl

Found everywhere around the world!

Barn Swallow

Older offspring help care for new hatchlings.

Basilosaurus

Bass

Prized by sport fishers for their size and strength

Bat

Detects prey using echolocation!

Baya

The baya constructs a massive nest out of plant fibers

Bear

There are 8 different species!

Bearded Vulture

These birds eat a diet of bones

Beauty rat snake

Beauty Rat Snakes are relatively harmless if left undisturbed, only attempting to bite out of fear.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs feed for 4-12 minutes.

Bee

Rock paintings of bees date back 15,000 years

Bee-Eater

They roll around in dirt to prevent external parasites

Beetle

There are more than 350,000 different species

Beewolf wasp

They hunt bees

Belgian Canary

The Belgian canary is one of the oldest and most influential in its genus.

Beluga Sturgeon

Bengal Tiger

The most numerous species of tiger!

Bhutan Takin

Live in bamboo forests 15,000 feet above sea level

Binturong

Also known as the Asian Bearcat!

Bird

Not all birds are able to fly!

Bird Of Paradise

There are around 50 different species!

Birman

A blue-eyed beauty!

Biscuit Beetle

The biscuit beetle form a symbiotic relationship with yeast

Black Aphids

One of the most destructive pests in the world

Black Dragon Lizard

Their black color is due to a genetic mutation!

Black Widow Spider

They typically prey on insects!

Blind Snake

The blind snake is often mistaken for a worm.

Blood Python

Blood pythons are so called because of the blood red markings on their skin.

Blowfly

Can smell rotting carcasses up to one mile away

Blue Dragon Sea Slug

They inflict a painful, venomous sting

Blue Tit

The blue tit can hang upside down from branches

Boelen’s python

A single hatchling can go for over $5,000 as a pet.

Boiga

Bombardier Beetle

Spray a noxious solution from their abdomens

Bornean Orangutan

Known to use large leaves as umbrellas!

Borneo Elephant

The smallest species of elephant!

Box-Headed Blood Bee

N/A

Box Jellyfish

Venomous marine animals

Box Tree Moth

Brahma Chicken

Brahma chickens are huge and friendly, but one reportedly killed a man in Ireland!

Brahminy Blindsnake

These snakes have been introduced to all continents, except Antarctica!

Brazilian Treehopper

“Mild-Mannered Minimonsters”

Bronze-winged Jacana

Fathers pick up their young and carry them under their wings

Brown Bear

A dominant predator in it's environment!

Brown Dog Tick

Can live its entire life indoors

Brown Tree Snake

People have reported seeing these snakes in Texas, Oklahoma, and Hawaii, but this has never been proven!

Bumblebee

The most common species of bee!

Burmese

Adoring, elegant and affectionate!

Burmese Python

These snakes can swallow their prey as whole.

Butterfly

There are thought to be up 17,500 species!

Cabbage Moth

Cabbage moths are named after the vegetable they find the tastiest.

Caecilian

Some species' babies use their hooked or scraper-like teeth to peel off and eat their mother's skin

Camel

Can survive without water for 10 months!

Camel Cricket

The camel crickets that are found in the USA are light brown in color. They also have dark streaks all over their body.

Camel Spider

Fast, carnivorous arachnid with a painful bite.

Canaan Dog

Has a strong survival instinct!

Caracal

Has 20 different muscles in it's ears!

Carp

The carp is one of the most popular pond fishes in the world

Carpenter Ant

Carpenter ants can lift up to seven times their own weight with their teeth!

Carpet Beetle

Carpet beetles eat different animal and plant-based products, depending on what stage of their lifecycle they are in; these foods include pollen, flour, wool, and fur.

Carpet Viper

The Carpet Viper probably bites and kills more people than any other species of snake.

Carrion Beetle

Carrion beetles' diets depend on the specie. Some eat decaying carcasses, while others scavenge in decaying plant matter and dung.

Cashmere Goat

Cashmere goat are named after Kashmir regions of India and Pakistan

Cat

May have been domesticated up to 10,000 years ago.

Cat Snake

Some cat snakes have a prehensile tail that helps them climb into trees.

Caterpillar

The larvae of a moth or butterfly!

Catfish

There are nearly 3,000 different species!

Cave Lion

Unlike modern lions, cave lions didn't have a significant mane.

Centipede

There are about 3,000 documented species!

Ceratopsian

Cervalces latifrons (Broad-Fronted Moose)

Cervalces latifrons are the largest species of deer that ever existed.

Chameleon

There are more than 160 different species!

Cheetah

The fastest land mammal in the world!

Chicken

First domesticated more than 10,000 years ago!

Chigger

Surviving on the skin cells of humans and animals

Chinese Alligator

Unlike other alligators, the Chinese alligator is armored all over, even on its belly.

Chinese Cobra

Juvenile Chinese cobras have the ability to start hunting almost from the moment they hatch from the eggs.

Chinese Crested Dog

A hairless breed of dog!

Chinese Geese

They are excellent “guard geese”

Chinese Paddlefish

The Chinese paddlefish is one the largest freshwater fish in the world

Chinese Shar-Pei

These dogs have blue and black tongues!

Chinese Water Deer

They usually have 2-3 young at a time but can have up to 7!

Chow Chow

Loyal and affectionate to it's family!

Chromodoris Willani

Their skin is toxic

Cicada

Cicadas have one of the longest insect lifespans

Cinereous Vulture

This vulture can fly at great heights. At least one was found a few thousand feet from the top of Mount Everest.

Click Beetle

Click beetles are named for the clicking noise they make to escape predators.

Clock Spider

Males make a rhythmic thrumming like a clock

Clothes Moth

Clothes Moths can remain in the larvae stage for up to 2 years, but adults only live 10 days.

Clouded Leopard

Has canines that can be two inches long!

Cobalt Blue Tarantula

Cobalt blue tarantulas spend most of their time in self-dug burrows and only emerge when it's time to eat

Cochin Chicken

Cochin chickens gifted to Queen Victoria started a craze that lasted more than a decade!

Cockatoo

Highly social, smart, and chatty bird.

Cockroach

Dated to be around 300 million years old!

Coconut Crab

The largest terrestrial arthropod in the world

Codling Moth

Pupae are able to undergo diapause to survive poor fruit yield years and winter.

Comb-crested Jacana

They are busy foragers, always on the move

Common Buzzard

The most common raptor in the UK!

Common Carp

Common European Adder

European adders are the only snake that lives above the Arctic Circle.

Common Furniture Beetle

The common furniture beetle feeds exclusively on wood

Common Green Magpie

Magpies are aggressive when threatened, often “dive-bombing” at intruders

Common House Spider

House spiders have the ability to eat most insects in a home.

Common Raven

A group of ravens is called an unkindness or a conspiracy.

Common Spotted Cuscus

Has a long, strong prehensile tail!

Coral Snake

There are over 80 species of coral snake worldwide.

Corella

Corella birds are noisy, especially during the early morning or late evening.

Cormorant

They can fly 35 mph and dive 150 feet below water.

Coryphodon

The Coryphodono looked like a fancy rhinocerous, but it was more related to elephants

Cosmic Caterpillar

Cosmic caterpillars have spots on their back that look like eyes to scare off predators.

Cow

There are nearly 1.5 billion worldwide!

Cow Reticulated Python

Cow reticulated pythons hatch solid white, then develop spots as they mature.

Crab

There are 93 different crab groups

Crab-Eating Macaque

Found throughout the South-East Asian jungles!

Crab Spider

Crab Spiders can mimic ants or bird droppings

Crane

Many are critically endangered species!

Crayfish

Female crayfish aren't that maternal; they have to secrete a form of pheromone, referred to as maternal pheromones, that encourages them to take care of their offspring and prevents them from eating their young.

Cricket

Male crickets can produce sounds by rubbing their wings together

Crocodile

Have changed little in 200 million years!

Crocodile Monitor

Its tail is twice the length of its body.

Crocodylomorph

Crocodylomorphs include extinct ancient species as well as 26 living species today.

Crow

A group of these birds is called a Murder.

Crucian Carp

Can survive drought by burying itself in mud.

Cuckoo

Damselfish

Damselfish belong to the family Pomacentridae

Danios

These fish make a popular choice for aquarium hobbyists due to their hardy nature.

Darkling Beetle

Darkling Beetles have segmented antennae. Each one is divided into eleven segments.

Deer

There are around 40 different species!

Deinocheirus

Despite being bipedal, Deinocheirus had a large forearm

Desert Locust

Solitary locusts are grey while gregarious locusts are yellow with stripes.

Desert Wolf

These tiny wolves prefer to cohabitate in pairs or groups of three (generally two males and a female).

Desmostylus

Desmostylus has no living descendant.

Dhole

Only 2,000 left in the wild!

Dickinsonia

Dinocrocuta

Dinocrucuta had very strong jaws capable of crushing bones.

Dinosaur Shrimp

These "shrimp" evolved to survive very harsh climates, which is one reason they have been able to live so long.

Dire Wolf

Diving Bell Spider (Water Spider)

Diving bell spiders can breathe underwater using an air bubble on their abdomen

Dobsonfly

The dobsonfly spends up three years as a larva, and only a week as an adult.

Dog

First domesticated in South-East Asia!

Dog Tick

Dog ticks feed on dogs and other mammals

Donkey

First domesticated 5,000 years ago!

Dormouse

Found in Europe, Africa and Asia!

Douc

When these monkeys want to mate, they wiggle their eyebrows.

Draco Volans Lizard

Beneath the lizard’s “wings” are a pair of enlarged ribs for support.

Dragon Eel

Dragon eels have double jaws and two sets of razor-sharp teeth

Dragon Snake (Javan Tubercle Snake, Javan Mudsnake)

Sport three rows of raised dorsal scales

Dragonfly

It's larvae are carnivorous!

Dried Fruit Moth

In the event of adverse environmental conditions, dried fruit moth larvae will become dormant and stop developing.

Duck

Rows of tiny plates line their teeth!

Dung Beetle

The dung beetle can push objects many times its own weight

Dunnock

Both male and female dunnocks can have multiple mates every breeding season

Dusky Shark

The Dusky Shark sometimes eats trash discarded by humans.

Dwarf Gourami

Dwarf gourami can live for over four years with proper care.

Dwarf Hamster

dwarf hamsters love to explore at night.

Eagle

Has exceptional eyesight!

Eared Grebe

The most populous grebe in the world

Earless Monitor Lizard

These lizards can practically shut down their metabolism and appear comatose for long periods.

Earthworm

They are hermaphrodites, which means they have male and female organs

Earwig

There are nearly 2,000 different species!

Eel

Eels can be a mere few inches long to 13 feet!

Egret

Most species are relatively vocal, making harsh croaking sounds and squeals.

Egyptian Tortoise

The Egyptian tortoise is one of the smallest tortoise species in the world.

Egyptian Vulture

They steal large ostrich eggs and use rocks and pebbles to crack the shells.

Eider

Eiders are sexually dimorphic, with males being larger and more colorful.

Elasmotherium

Elasmotherium might have had a monstrous horn, giving it the name "The Siberian Unicorn."

Elephant

Spends around 22 hours a day eating!

Elk

Adult males can jump eight feet vertically

Embolotherium

Embolotherium had a ram on its snout like a rhino but they never used it as a weapon.

Emerald Tree Monitor

They lay their eggs in termite nests!

Emperor Goose

Their calls sound like a nasally “kla-ha, kla-ha, kla-ha.”

Epidexipteryx

Epidexipteryx was one of the smallest non-avian dinosaurs to ever exist.

Equatorial Spitting Cobra

Its hood is actually made of many elongated ribs.

Ermine

A very bold and ferocious predator!

Eurasian Beaver

Eats 20% of its weight daily!

Eurasian Bullfinch

The shy eurasian bullfinch prefers to forage very close to cover.

Eurasian Collared Dove

The Eurasian collared dove has been extensively studied due to its amazing ability to rapidly colonize new territories.

Eurasian Eagle-owl

The Eurasian Eagle-owl is the second largest owl in the world with a wingspan up to six feet!

Eurasian Jay

The Eurasian jay has the ability to mimic other sounds

Eurasian Lynx

Eurasian lynxes can survive extreme weather up to elevations of 18,000 feet

Eurasian Nuthatch

Its song has been compared to a toy horn.

Eurasian Wolf

Coloring depends on location.

European Bee-Eater

They can eat up to 250 bees per day!

European Goldfinch

They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders, especially those containing niger seeds.

European Robin

Male robins are so aggressive and territorial that they will attack their own reflections.

Falcon

The fastest creatures on the planet!

Fallow deer

The fallow deer has more variation in its coat colors than most other deer.

False Cobra

When it feels threatened, it mimics a cobra in an attempt to dissuade a potential attacker.

False Widow Spider

False spiders actually prey on black widow spiders and other hazardous spiders

Fancy Mouse

Fancy mice are beloved pets with a history of domestication spanning thousands of years!

Fennec Fox

Found in the African Sahara Desert!

Fiddler Crab

The fiddler crab gets its name from the motion the males make with their over-sized claw during the mating ritual.

Finch

Finches have strong, conical bills that help them break open tough seeds that many other birds cannot.

Fire-Bellied Toad

Found across mainland Europe and Asia!

Fire Eel

Fire Eels are not true eels.

Firefly

The firefly produces some of the most efficient light in the world

Fishing Cat

Scoops fish out of the water using it's paw!

Flamingo

Sleeps on just one leg!

Flea

Adult fleas can jump up to 7 inches in the air

Flea Beetle

Flea beetles can jump like fleas when threatened.

Flour Beetle

Flour beetles are adapted to survive in very dry environments.

Flowerhorn Fish

The Flowerhorn fish is an artificial species; it does not exist naturally

Fly

There are more than 240,000 different species!

Flycatcher

Most of the hundreds of varieties of flycatchers belong to the Tyrannidae and Muscicapidae families!

Flying Lemur

The second pair of upper incisors in a flying lemur has a double root, which is unique for mammals.

Flying Snake

Flying snakes are the only gliding limbless vertebrates or animals with a backbone!

Flying Squirrel

Can glide up to 90 meters!

Formosan Mountain Dog

Formosa is the Portuguese term for the island of Taiwan

Fox

Only 12 species are considered "true foxes"

Freshwater Eel

Freshwater eels are actually catadromous, meaning they migrate to saltwater to spawn

Freshwater Jellyfish

The freshwater jellyfish is native to China but is now found all over the world

Fritillary Butterfly

Some emit noxious defense chemicals

Frog

There are around 7,000 different species!

Fruit Bat

Among the largest bats in the world

Fruit Fly

Fruit flies are among the most common research animals in the world

Fulvous Whistling Duck

They build a ramp from their nest, which leads to a nearby water source

Furrow Bee

N/A

Gadwall

They make many sounds when trying to attract a mate.

Gastornis

Gastornis had a massive beak, but they probably ate plants instead of flesh.

Gazelle

Named for the Arabic word for love poems

Gecko

There are thought to be over 2,000 species!

Gerbil

Originally known as the Desert Rat!

German Cockroach

The most common type of urban roach

Gharial

Males can blow bubbles using the bump on their snout!

Ghost Catfish

You can see its heart beating

Giant Panda Bear

Bamboo makes up 99 per cent of their diet!

Giant Salamander

Cryptobranchus giant salamanders breathe mostly through their skin.

Giant Trevally

The largest fish in its genus

Gibbon

Found in dense jungles and tropical forests!

Gigantopithecus

Some cryptozoologists think that Gigantopithecus survives to this day as "The Bigfoot."

Glass Lizard

Can grow up to 4ft long!

Glowworm

Found inhabiting dense woodland and caves!

Gnat

Males form large mating swarms at dusk

Goat

Most closely related to the Sheep!

Goldcrest

The goldcrest never starts moving and needs to consume for most of the day to survive. Therefore, in the colder months, it's best that eat 90% a day.

Golden-Crowned Flying Fox

They eat figs almost exclusively

Golden Eagle

Their calls sound like high-pitched screams, but they are quiet most of the time.

Golden Jackal

roaming and adaptable candids

Golden Oriole

Migrates between Europe and Asia!

Goldfish

Goldfish and common carp can mate and produce offspring

Gomphotherium

Goonch Catfish

The goonch catfish, or giant devil catfish, is one of the most fierce freshwater fish.

Goose

There are 29 different species!

Gooty Sapphire Tarantula

They can run up a tree trunk surprisingly fast.

Goral

A mix between a goat and an antelope

Gourami

Gourami fishes show parental care for their young

Grass Carp

The grass carp is considered to be a natural weed control agent.

Grass Snake

Use acute hearing to hunt

Grass Spider

Their fangs aren't big enough to penetrate human skin.

Grasshopper

There are 11,000 known species!

Great Egret

The male egret performs an elaborate courtship display to attract a mate

Grebe

They swim like frogs

Green Bee-Eater

Mainly eats honeybees!

Green Rat Snake

The green rat snake catches its meals in midair!

Green Tree Python

Green tree pythons are non-venomous, so to subdue their prey, they have a couple of very unique and highly successful hunting techniques.

Grey Heron

Male grey herons are picky about their mates. They'll reject a female that they don't fancy.

Griffon Vulture

Can spot a dead animal from thousands of feet away

Ground Squirrel

Ground squirrels are adept excavators and can dig colonial burrows larger than football fields!

Gypsy Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

Gypsy Moth

One of the most invasive species in the world

Habu Snake

Unlike most pit vipers, the habu snake lays eggs instead of giving birth to live young.

Haikouichthys

Haikouichthys was the first animal to develop a well-defined head

Hainosaurus

The hainosaurus was named after the Hainaut province of Belgium where the first specimen was discovered.

Hairy-footed Flower Bee

N/A

Hallucigenia

The position of the Hallucigenia's head puzzled scientists for several years

Hamburg Chicken

This breed doesn't usually make nests or incubate their own chicks.

Hammerhead Worm

They are sensitive to light and prefer cool, dark, moist areas.

Hamster

Able to run as quickly backwards as forwards!

Hare

Can reach speeds of over 50 mph!

Hawk

While the Ferruginous hawk is the largest specie in the USA, Asia’s Upland buzzard is the biggest overall.

Hawk Moth Caterpillar

Many hawk moth caterpillars eat toxins from plants, but don’t sequester them the way milkweed butterflies do. Most toxins are excreted.

Hedgehog

Thought to be one of the oldest mammals on Earth!

Helicoprion

Helicoprion was one of the largest cartilaginous fish of all time.

Heron

Inhabits wetlands around the world!

Herring Gull

They are loud, spirited birds with raucous cries that sound like bursts of laughter.

Hokkaido

Known for its bravery and ability to withstand the cold.

Honey Badger

One of earth's bravest creatures!

Honey Bee

There are only 8 recognized species!

Honey Buzzard

Honey buzzards are medium-sized raptors that earned their names by raiding the nests of bees and wasps.

Hoopoe

Stunning bird with a stinky way to deter predators!

Hornbill

The bird has a massive horn on its bill!

Horned Beetle

These beetles are herbivores but have an intimidating appearance because of the horn-like projection on their heads. However, they are entirely harmless to humans, as they don't sting or bite.

Horned Grebe

Sleep with one foot tucked up under the wing so they lean to the side

Horned Viper

Horned vipers sidewind across the desert sands of their home.

Hornet

Hornets are a type of wasp.

Horse

Has evolved over 50 million years!

Horsefly

Horseflies have been seen performing Immelmann turns, much like fighter jets.

Horseshoe Crab

Changed little in over 500 million years!

House Sparrow (English Sparrow)

The house sparrow has been introduced all over the world

Housefly

The fly has no teeth

Human

Thought to have orignated 200,000 years ago!

Hummingbird Hawk-Moth

Huntsman Spider

Some huntsman spiders have an interesting way of moving around. Some cartwheel while others do handsprings or backflips.

Hyena

There are four different species!

Ibex

Can jump over 6 feet straight up from a standstill

Ibis

Found in swamps, marshes and wetlands!

Indian Cobra

One of the Big Four.

Indian Elephant

Found throughout south-east Asia!

Indian Giant Squirrel

Indian giant squirrels use their large tail to help them balance.

Indian Palm Squirrel

Natively found in parts of India and Sri Lanka!

Indian python

Kaa from Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book was an Indian Python.

Indian Rhinoceros

Also known as the one-horned rhino!

Indian Star Tortoise

Popular in the exotic pet trade!

Indochinese Tiger

Now thought to be extinct in China!

Insect

Insects go back over 350 million years, making the creatures older than man, flowering plants and dinosaurs.

Insects

There are an estimated 30 million species!

Jacana

The jacana has the ability to swim underwater

Jack-Chi

The Jack-Chi dog is known as the yapping dog because of its insistent bark.

Jackal

Can maintain speeds of 16 km/h!

Jackdaw

The jackdaw tends to mate for life with a single partner

Japanese Bantam Chicken

Japanese bantam chickens are the best flying chicken species

Japanese Beetle

Can clear an entire fruit tree in 15 minutes in a swarm

Japanese Chin

Alert, intelligent and independent!

Japanese Macaque

Has cheek pouches for storing food!

Japanese rat snake

The albino Japanese rat snake is a symbol of good luck.

Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is sometimes referred to as a cloud dog.

Japanese Squirrel

The Japanese squirrel hoards its food for the winter

Japanese Terrier

Japanese Terriers are also called Nippon Terriers

Javan Leopard

Deathly afraid of water

Javan Rhinoceros

Only has a 25cm long horn!

Jerboa

Tiny rodent with a kangaroo-like jump!

Joro Spider

Shares its name with a Japanese "spider demon"!

Jumping Spider

Some can jump 50 times the length of their bodies

Junglefowl

The term "pecking order" comes from junglefowls' hierarchies among both sexes

Kai Ken

Kai Ken are a very rare breed of dog from Japan, though pure breeds are even harder to come by.

Kaluga Sturgeon

One of the world's largest freshwater fish

Katydid

Keelback

The checkered keelback of the east Indies can detach its tail and grow it back, much like a lizard.

Kenyan Sand Boa

A popular pet snake that comes in dozens of morphs!

Kestrel

Can hang suspended on wind currents

Khao Manee

The Khao Manee is one of the rarest cat breeds in the world.

Khapra Beetle

Khapra beetles are among the most invasive insect species in the world.

Kiang

The kiang, native to the Tibetan Plateau, is the largest of the wild asses!

Killer Clown Ball Python

Killer clown ball pythons can cost several thousand dollars.

Killifish

Killifish are highly sought after for their peaceful nature and ability to adapt to most aquarium communities.

Kinabalu Giant Red Leech

Comes out only during a rainstorm or just afterward

King Cobra

They are the longest venomous snake in the world.

King Eider

The species name, spectabilis, is Latin for “showy” or “remarkable,” referencing the attractiveness of the adult male’s plumage.

King Rat Snake

When threatened or frightened, the king rat snake has the ability to produce a foul-smelling substance out of self defense.

King Salmon

Largest of the Pacific salmon

Kingfisher

Inhabits wetlands and woodlands worldwide!

Kishu

Once raised to hunt dangerous game like boar, today's kishu ken are more likely to be used as guard dogs.

Kissing Bugs

Kissing bugs derive their name from the location they prefer to bite, which is usually close to the lips of the host

Kissing Gourami

The kissing gesture that the kissing gourami displays is not a mating gesture

Kitefin Shark

Koi Fish

In Japanese, the word koi sounds like the word for love. So the fish is a symbol of love among other good things.

Kokanee Salmon

A non-anadromous type of sockeye salmon

Komodo Dragon

Only found on five Indonesian islands

Korean Jindo

At the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, Jindos marched in the opening ceremonies.

Kouprey

The kouprey is one of the rarest mammals in the world

Krait

A painless bite that can result in death.

Kudzu Bug

Kudzu bugs don't bite humans, but they secrete a substance that can irritate people's skin. That irritation is often confused for a bite.

Lace Bug

May bite when threatened

Ladybug

There are more than 5,000 species worldwide!

Lappet-faced Vulture

Lappet-faced vultures are tidy and wash their heads in a body of water after they’ve eaten

Larder Beetle

Larder beetles were named based on their attraction to food storage rooms or cupboards, but they do not feed on stored food products.

Largemouth Bass

Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida all claim the largemouth bass as the state fish or state freshwater fish.

Leafcutter Bee

N/A

Leatherback Sea Turtle

They are the largest living turtle and the only sea turtle without a hard shell!

Leech

Has 10 pairs of eyes!

Leopard

Spends much of the time high in the trees!

Leopard Cat

There are 11 different species!

Leopard Gecko

The first ever domesticated lizard! There are now more than 100 unique color morphs thanks to selective breeding.

Leptocephalus

Leptocephali have flat bodies filled with jelly-like substances, surrounded by a thin layer of muscle.

Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso was often given as a gift in Tibetan culture

Liger

The offspring of a lion and tiger parents!

Linnet

While linnets are monogamous during mating season, they do not mate for life. While breeding pairs are together, the males are highly territorial and will defend the nesting site and the surrounding area.

Lion

Lives in small groups called prides!

Lizard

There are around 5,000 different species!

Loach

Have sharp spines below their eyes

Locust

Each locust can eat its weight in plants each day.

Long-Eared Owl

Ear tufts make it look bigger!

Long-Tailed Tit

Often hangs upside down while feeding!

Lorikeet

The lorikeet has a long brush-like tongue with fine hairs on it

Loris

Like all lorises, slow loris has a cute wide-eyed look, but it also has a venomous sting that can rot human flesh.

Lystrosaurus

Lystrosaurus was one of the few terrestial species that survived the permian extinction

Macaque

Macaque females will pass on their social rankings to their daughters

Magpie

They are found across Europe, Asia and Africa!

Malayan Civet

Also known as the Oriental Civet!

Malayan Krait

It's called the five-step snake because if a person is bitten, they can walk about five steps before dying.

Malayan Tiger

Found in less-dense jungles!

Mallard

With an appropriate tail wind, the mallard can travel hundreds of miles a day

Mamushi Snake

The Mamushi snake, which is also known as the Japanese moccasin or the Japanese pit viper, can grow to be over two feet long.

Mandarin Rat Snake

"This docile snake is a popular and long-lived pet - though challenging to care for - with a lifespan of up to 21 years!"

Mangrove Snake

Mangrove snakes have small fangs that are more like enlarged teeth at the back of their jaw.

Markhor

The markhor drools a foamy substance after chewing its cud, which the local people use for extracting snake poison.

Marmot

A marmot spends 80% of its life below ground

Marsh Frog

Has bright green skin!

Masked Palm Civet

Found throughout Asia, India and China!

Mason Bee

N/A

Mealybug

They have a symbiotic relationship with ants.

Megalochelys

Mekong Giant Catfish

The Mekong giant catfish is the largest purely freshwater fish in the world

Merganser

They line their nests with their feathers

Microraptor

Milkfish

Females lay up to 5 million eggs at one time in warm, shallow and salty waters

Millipede

Some species have a poisonous bite!

Mole

Primarily hunts and feeds on Earthworms!

Mole Crab (Sand Flea)

They eat jellyfish tentacles

Mole Cricket

Adult Mole crickets may fly as far as 5 miles during mating season and are active most of the year.

Mollusk

Most molluscs have more than one heart

Monarch Butterfly

During migration, Monarch Butterflies may travel 250 or more miles each day.

Mongoose

Range in size from just 1 to 3 foot!

Mongrel

Has characteristics of two or more breeds!

Monitor Lizard

Some species are thought to carry a weak venom!

Monkey

There are around 260 known species!

Monocled Cobra

The monocled cobra is responsible for the highest fatality rate of any snake in all of Thailand.

Moorhen

Feeds on aquatic insects and water-spiders!

Mosasaurus

The Mosasaurus was much longer than the fearsome Tyrannosaur rex.

Mosquito

Only the female mosquito actually sucks blood

Moth

There are 250,000 different species!

Mourning Gecko

Mouse

Found on every continent on Earth!

Mouse-Deer (Chevrotain)

Tiny hooved creature that looks like a cross between a mouse and a miniature deer

Mule

The offspring of a horse and donkey parents!

Muntjac

The muntjac is the smallest type of deer in the world

Musk Deer

The glands of a musk deer can sell for up to $45,000 on the black market.

Muskrat

The muskrat can stay underwater up to 17 minutes at a time

Myna Bird

Many people believe the hill myna bird is better at mimicking humans than a parrot!

Naegleria

Causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis

Neanderthal

Roamed Asia and Europe for around 100,000 years!

Needlefish

no stomach to digest food

Nematode

Nematodes range in size from 1/10 of an inch to 28 feet long

Neptune Grouper

The largest recorded specimen ever caught was 17" long

Newt

Able to regrow lost or damaged limbs!

Nicobar pigeon

Unlike other pigeons, Nicobar pigeons don't fly in haphazard flocks but in columns or single file.

Night Heron

When they feel threatened juvenile night herons vomit their stomach contents.

Nightingale

Named more than 1,000 years ago!

Nightjar

There are 97 nightjar species across 20 genera!

Nilgai

Nilgai were hunted for their meat as far back as 8,000 years ago.

No See Ums

There are more than 5,000 species.

Northern Pintail

Northern pintails migrate at night with speeds reaching 48 miles per hour!

Norway Rat

Nuthatch

Nuthatches spend a lot of their time upside down.

Ocean Perch

As a scorpionfish, the ocean perch has spines along its back!

Oleander Hawk Moth

Oleander hawk moth caterpillars feed on the foliage of oleander, an extremely toxic plant to which they are immune.

Onagadori Chicken

The Onagadori, the chicken with the world's longest tail, was declared a Natural Monument of Japan in 1952.

Onager

An onager's coat changes color with the season.

Oranda Goldfish

Oranda goldfish are one of the most popular fancy goldfish breeds

Orangutan

Shares 97% of its DNA with humans!

Orb Weaver

Females are about four times the size of males

Orchid Dottyback

This fish camouflages as its prey's parents to trick it into becoming dinner.

Oriental Cockroach

Unlike other cockroach species that live indoors living off humans, oriental cockroaches are outdoor scavengers.

Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher

They are one of the smallest kingfishers!

Ortolan Bunting

The tradition of hiding your face with a napkin or towel while eating this bird was begun by a priest who was a friend of the great French gastronome Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin.

Osprey

They reuse nesting sites for 70 years!

Otter

There are 13 different species worldwide

Oviraptor

Oviraptor means "egg thief" or "egg seizer," though they were quite protective of their own eggs.

Owl

The owl can rotate its head some 270 degrees

Ox

Pacific Coast Tick

Pacific Coast ticks can go without food for two to three years without dying.

Pacific Spaghetti Eel

They have excellent eyesight

Paddlefish

Paddlefish have existed since the Cretaceous Period

Palaeoloxodon namadicus

Palaeloxodon namadicus was the largest land mammal ever found

Pangolin

Bad eyesight, but great sense of smell

Paradise Flying Snake

Paradise Flying Snakes can glide over 100 yards!

Parakeet

Monk parakeets are the only parakeets that actually build nests. They’re also the only parakeets to nest in great colonies.

Parrot

Can live for up to 100 years!

Partridge

Long-lost civilizations have immortalized male partridges in art, depicting them as a symbol of fertility.

Pea Puffer

Peacock

Most commonly found on the Indian mainland!

Peacock Butterfly

The eyespots on this butterfly’s wings deter predators from attacking.

Peacock Spider

They can jump up to 10 centimeters (40 times their body size) and see the full rainbow spectrum of light, including UV.

Pekingese

Thought to be over 2,000 years old!

Pelagornithidae

The biggest members of the Pelagornithidae family were the largest flying birds known.

Peppered Moth

Teachers in schools often use the evolution of the peppered moth as a good example of Darwin’s theory of natural selection.

Perch Fish

Some of the most delicious gamefish in the world

Père David’s Deer

Has webbing between its toes, aiding in swimming!

Peregrine Falcon

Fastest animal on Earth

Persian

Thought to have originated in the Middle East!

Pheasant

Females lay between 8 and 12 eggs per clutch!

Pheasant-tailed Jacana

The pheasant-tailed jacana is the only species in its family that migrates long distances.

Philippine Cobra

Philippine cobra is a highly venomous species of spitting cobra.

Phytosaurs

Pig

Thought to have been domesticated in 9,000 BC!

Pigeon

They can find their way back to their nests from up to 1300 miles away.

Pika

Found in mountainous regions and rocky areas

Pike Fish

Pine Marten

A pine marten can jump from tree to tree similar to a squirrel.

Pink Bollworm

N/A

Pink-Necked Green Pigeon

They make whistling and quacking noises

Pink Salmon

The smallest of the North American salmon

Pipe Snake

Some of these snakes flatten their neck and raise their heads to imitate cobras if they’re threatened.

Pit Viper

Pit vipers's fangs fold up into their mouths when they don't need them.

Platinum Arowana

The male broods the eggs and baby fish in his mouth.

Platybelodon

Pliosaur

Pliosaurs were the short-necked version of plesiosaurs.

Polecat

They can run at a speed of 15mph

Pompano Fish

They are bottom-feeders

Pond Skater

There are 500 different species!

Porcupine

There are 30 different species worldwide!

Powderpost Beetle

Powderpost beetles prefer living in moist tree limbs, dead wood, and branches. They get into homes through infested joists, paneling, rafters, flooring, and finished wood products.

Praying Mantis

The mantis can turn its head 180 degrees.

Proboscis Monkey

Natively found on the island of Borneo!

Psittacosaurus

These parrot-headed dinosaurs had beaks and feather-like quills on their tails!

Psittacosaurus

The Psittacosaurus dinosaurs had four limbs but were mostly bipedal.

Pterodactyl

Pterodactyl is not technically a dinosaur. Although they lived during the same time as dinosaurs, they are classified as winged reptiles.

Pug

Fun and sociable, yet stubborn!

Purple Emperor Butterfly

Inhabits deciduous forests!

Python

Female pythons lay eggs and defend them until they hatch.

Quahog Clam

Their hinged shell protects their soft body

Quail

Inhabits woodland and forest areas worldwide!

Rabbit

There are more than 300 different species!

Raccoon Dog

The only hibernating canine!

Rainbow Shark

The rainbow shark has been genetically modified to glow in the dark

Rat

Omnivores that eat anything!

Rat Snakes

Rat snakes are constrictors from the Colubridae family of snakes.

Red Aphids

Aphids are called ant cows because ants herd and "milk" them to secrete a substance called honeydew!

Red Deer

A male red deer shows his age in his antlers, which become longer and more branched every year.

Red-Eared Slider

Sliders spend lots of time basking in the sun. As cold-blooded animals, they need the sun to heat up.

Red Fox

The red fox actually has many different variations of fur, including silver and brown.

Red-Headed Vulture

Not exclusively carrion eaters, these birds are also opportunistic hunters

Red Kite

This bird moves its tail to steer its body like a rudder on a boat.

Red Panda

There are less than 3,000 left in the wild!

Redback Spider

The redback spiders found in New Caledonia differ from other populations in that they don’t practice sexual cannibalism and don’t bite people as much.

Redstart

They build their nests off the ground in tree holes, cavities, stone walls, and roofs

Repenomamus

One of the biggest mammals of the dinosaur age that used to eat other dinosaurs

Reticulated python

These popular pets can get big enough to kill their owner.

Rhamphosuchus

Rhamphosuchus had a narrow snout with a beak-like appearance.

Rhesus Macaque

Rhesus Macaques are the most widely distributed primate in terms of geographic diversity

Rhino Beetle

Rhinoceros beetles can lift objects 850 times their weight

Rhinoceros

It's horns are made from keratin!

Rhombic Egg-Eater Snake

When birds aren't nesting, these snakes fast

Ribbon Eel

Can fit its body into a tiny crevice of a reef

River Turtle

Inhabits freshwater habitats around the world!

Robber Flies

The female pretend they are dead if they do not find the male worthy of mating.

Robin

There are more than 45 species in Australia alone!

Rock Hyrax

Actually related to Elephants and Manatees!

Rodents

The capybara, the world’s largest rodent, likes to be in and around bodies of water. Because of this, the Catholic Church in South America decided that it was a fish, and people were allowed to eat it during Lent and First Fridays.

Roe Deer

The roe is one of the most popular game animals in Europe

Rooster

Will mate with the entire flock!

Root Aphids

Nymphs take 9 to 10 days on average to mature, with a complete lifespan of an estimated 30 days.

Rough-Legged Hawk (Rough-Legged Buzzard)

Its scientific name, lagopus, is Ancient Greek for “hare” and “foot,” referring to its feathered feet and toes.

Rove Beetle

When threatened, rove beetles raise the ends of their body like scorpions, but they have no sting.

Russel’s Viper

A Russel's viper strike is so forceful it can lift its entire body off the ground.

Russian Tortoise

Known by at least five different names

Sable

Their fur has been considered a luxury item since the Middle Ages

Sable Ferret

Ferrets were used during the Revolutionary War to keep down the rat population.

Saiga

Large noses help filter out dust

Salamander

There are more than 700 different species!

Saluki

The Saluki is one of the fastest dog breeds in the world.

Sambar

Male sambars will compete for mates by clashing together with their antlers

Sand Cat

They can survive for weeks without drinking water because the get moisture from their prey.

Sand Crab

The sand crab burrows beneath the sand with its tail

Sand Lizard

Males turn green in spring!

Sand Viper

Sand vipers are nuisance snakes in some areas.

Sandpiper

Some sandpipers can migrate more than 8,000 miles without stopping!

Saola

Only known to science since 1992!

Sapsali

Natives know this breed as the "ghost hunter" because they believe these dogs can ward off evil spirits.

Sarkastodon

Sarkastadon was one of the largest land mammal carnivores of all time!

Sarus Crane

Parents use low calls to tell their chicks to freeze and lie still when danger lurks.

Saturniidae Moth

Some of the largest moths in the world

Sauropoda

Newly hatched sauropods weighted less than 11 pounds and put on 2 tons of weight a year!

Sauropoda

Sauropods lived in herds.

Savu Python

Before ball pythons' morphs became popular, Savu pythons were everywhere in the pet trade.

Saw-scaled Viper

This is the smallest venomous snake in India's Big Four.

Scarab Beetle

The ancient Egyptians worshipped scarabs.

Scorpion

There are around 2,000 known species!

Scottish Fold Cat

The cutest mutation in the animal kingdom

Sea Eagle

The sea eagle tends to mate for life with a single partner

Sea Snake

The sea snake is incredibly venomous, even more than a cobra!”

Seagull

Some gulls are capable of using tools

Seahorse

Males give birth to up to 1,000 offspring!

Sedge Warbler

Males never sing the same song twice

Senepol Cattle

Senepol cattle have a distinctive red color and no horns.

Shantungosaurus

Shantungosaurus was one of the largest duck-billed dinosaurs to have ever lived.

Shastasaurus

Despite the massive size of the Shastasaurus, it only ate soft-bodied prey.

Sheep

Around 35 million in the English countryside!

Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are one of six native dog breeds from Japan.

Shiba Inu Mix

Shih Tzu

Can live for up to 15 years!

Shih Tzu Mix

Despite having long, flowing hair, Shih Tzus and many of their hybrids are hypoallergenic.

Shikoku

This dog was declared a Japanese Natural Monument in 1937.

Short-Eared Owl

The short-eared owl is one of the most widespread owl species in the world, covering five continents.

Shrew

The spinal column of the shrew Scutisorex somereni is so strong and reinforced that it can support the weight of an adult human.

Shrimp

There are 2,000 different species worldwide!

Siamese

Originated from temple cats in Thailand!

Betta Fish (Siamese Fighting Fish)

Can live in low-oxygen environments!

Siberian Ibex

There’s a population of Siberian ibex in New Mexico

Siberian Tiger

Also known as the Amur tiger!

Sichuan Takin (Tibetan Takin)

The Sichuan takin is a national treasure in China and shares part of its range with the giant panda!

Sika Deer

Sikas can make 10 different sounds, from soft whistles to loud screams.

Silkie Chicken

Silkie hens are excellent mothers and will raise any bird as their own, even being known to patiently sit on a clutch of duck or geese eggs until they hatch.

Sinosauropteryx

Sinosauropteryx were prominent in the Cretaceous and Jurassic periods.

Sivatherium

Sivatherium was a large giraffid and also one of the largest ruminants of all-time.

Skink Lizard

Some skinks lay eggs in some habitats while giving birth to skinklets in other habitats.

Skua

Skuas will chase other birds until they give up their catch

Skunk

Also known as the Polecat!

Slow Worm

Found widely throughout British gardens!

Slug

They glide around on one foot, which is aided by the slime they produce

Smallmouth Bass

A fierce fighter!

Smokybrown Cockroach

Has up to 45 eggs per egg case

Smooth Snake

These snakes are sometimes confused with common adders, but lack the zigzag pattern.

Snail

There are nearly 1,000 different species!

Snake

There are around 4,000 known species worldwide

Snow Leopard

Unlike other big cats, snow leopards don’t roar.

Soldier Beetle

Soldier beetles resemble fireflies, but they're not bioluminescent.

Song Thrush

A male song thrush can have over 100 phrases in his repertoire of songs and can imitate pet birds, telephones and other man-made objects.

South China Tiger

There are less than 20 in the wild!

Sparrow

There are 140 different species!

Sparrowhawk

The sparrowhawk is named after the fact that it hunts down and consumes sparrows

Spider

Spider Beetle

Spider beetles have globular bodies, which makes them look like spiders.

Spider-Tailed Horned Viper

They like to hide in crevices on the sides of cliffs, waiting for prey.

Spider Wasp

They prey on spiders to feed their larvae or they parasitize other spider wasps.

Spinosaurus

The Spinosaurus is the biggest carnivorous dinosaur ever discovered!

Spiny Hill Turtle

The shell serves as both a defense and camouflage!

Spitting Cobra

Spitting cobras are types of cobras that can spit venom at predators and prey.

Spongy Moth

The female Spongy Moth can lay between 600 to 1,000 eggs

Spotted Garden Eel

Males battle each other over females and territory

Spotted Lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly is often confused for a moth, but it’s actually a type of planthopper

Squirrel

Small rodents found in woodlands worldwide!

Sri Lankan Elephant

Now restricted to a few parks!

Steelhead Salmon

Steelhead live in freshwater rivers and streams for 1 to 2 years before migrating into the ocean

Stick Insect

There are more than 3,000 different species!

Stiletto Snake

Because of their unique venom delivery system, stiletto snakes are almost impossible to hold safely in the usual way (with fingers behind the head) without being bitten.

Stoat

Average adults weigh about 200 grams!

Stonechat

Their songs are harsh and sound like two rocks hitting together.

Stork

They can’t sing like other birds.

Strawberry Hermit Crab

When strawberry hermit crabs find shells that are larger than their own, they gather in a line from biggest to smallest. Once the biggest one sheds its shell, the next one in line will claim it, which is repeated down the line.

Striped Hyena

The striped hyenas usually mark their territories with the help of the scent gland secretions from their anal pouch.

Sugar Glider

Can glide for over 100 feet before touching the ground

Sumatran Elephant

Less than 2,000 left in the wild!

Sumatran Orangutan

Known to make mental maps of the forest!

Sumatran Rhinoceros

The smallest species of rhino!

Sumatran Tiger

The smallest species of tiger!

Sun Bear

The smallest species of bear in the world!

Sunbeam Snake

Sunbeam snakes have two lungs instead of just a single lung like most snake species.

Superworm

These larvae are native to Central and South America but now occur on every continent except Antarctica

Swai Fish

The edges of an iridescent shark's fins have a signature glow

Swallow

swallows have aerodynamic bodies for hunting in flight

Swallowtail Butterfly

N/A

Swallowtail Caterpillar

N/A

Swan

Populations have been affected by pollution!

Syrian Hamster

Can get used to and respond to human voice

Tailless Whip Scorpion

The average lifespan of these strange creatures is 5 to 10 years; however, tailless whip scorpions have been known to live up to a whopping 15 years in captivity!

Taimen Fish

The Taimen is considered one of the oldest species on earth, with fossilized remains dating back more than 40 million years!

Takin

The takin can leap some 6 feet through the air

Tangerine Leopard Gecko

Unlike most geckos, tangerine leopard geckos have movable eyelids.

Tapanuli Orangutan

Inhabits an isolated mountain range in northwestern Sumatra!

Tapir

Most closely related to horses and rhinos!

Tarantula

More than 1000 species of tarantulas have been identified all around the world!

Tarantula Hawk

Tarantula hawks are excellent pollinators, especially for milkweed.

Tarbosaurus

Tarbosaurus‘ name “bataar” is a mispelling of the Mongolian word “baatar,” which means “hero.”

Tarsier

Each eye weighs more than their whole brain!

Tawny Mining Bee

N/A

Tawny Owl

The most widespread owl in Europe!

Teacup Miniature Horse

Female teacup minis become sexually mature between 2 and 5 years old, but breeders typically wait until their horse is 3 before letting her reproduce to prevent complications.

Teddy Bear Hamster

The oldest recorded teddy bear hamster was six and a half.

Tentacled Snake

Their tentacles have nerves that attach directly into the area of the brain that processes visual information.

Termite

Their mounds can be up to 9 meters tall!

Thai Ridgeback

In their native Thailand, Thai Ridgebacks were used to hunt cobras.

Therizinosaurus

Longest claws of any terrestrial animal in history

Theropod

Some theropods had feathers and may have been ancestors of modern birds.

Thornback Ray

The skate with the biggest spines!

Thrush

The American robin is called the robin because its red breast reminded European settlers of the robin back in the old country.

Tibetan Fox

Tibetan foxes are not territorial and will share a hunting ground with other mated pairs.

Tibetan Mastiff

Originally bred in the Himalayan mountains!

Tibetan Spaniel

Originally bred to be a companion dog in Tibetan Buddhist lamaseries.

Tibetan Terrier

Tibetan terriers have round, flat, “snow shoe” feet that evolved to give them traction on snowy Himalayan paths

Tick

They inject hosts with a chemical that stops them from feeling the pain of the bite

Tiger

The largest feline in the world!

Tiger Beetle

The adult tiger beetle is one of the fastest land insects in the world

Tiger Moth

The bright colors of this moth are a signal to predators that it has a terrible taste.

Timor python

Ironically, Timor pythons have never been found on the island of Timor.

Tire Track Eel

They like to burrow into aquarium sand.

Titanosaur

Among the largest land animals to ever exist

Tokay Gecko

The Tokay gecko gets its onomatopoeic name from its "To-kay!" barking call.

Tortoise

Can live until they are more than 150 years old!

Tosa

Trapdoor spider

Ambush their prey using a trapdoor made of silk

Tree Cricket

They make music with their wings

Tree Frog

Found in warmer jungles and forests!

Tree Viper (Bamboo Viper)

Pit vipers can strike accurately at moving objects less than .5 degrees Farenheit warmer than the background.

Treecreeper

Their tailfeathers help them maintain their balance on a tree trunk

Trout

They don’t have scales for their first month of life!

Turtles

Some species of aquatic turtles can get up to 70 percent of their oxygen through their butt.

Tussock Moth Caterpillar

N/A

Uguisu

Their guano is used in face creams!

Uintatherium

The Uintatherium was an exceptionally large and exceptionally ugly ungulate that lived during the Eocene epoch

Ulysses Butterfly

Ulysses butterflies have come back from endangered status to just "threatened."

Underwing Moth

Their colorful rear wing makes predators think that they are poisonous, however they are not it is a deceptive feature.

Ural owl

The Ural owl can rotate its head up to 270 degrees

Urechis unicinctus (Penis Fish)

Create "inns" for other sea creatures

Urial

Urials are the ancestors of modern-day domesticated sheep.

Uromastyx (Spiny-Tailed Lizard)

Spiny-tailed lizards "sneeze" out salt!

Vampire Crab

Vampire crabs do not depend on saltwater for their development; instead, they live near freshwater rivers and in forests amongst rocks and dense vegetation.

Velociraptor

Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

Vine Snake

A slender body and elongated snout give the vine snake a regal look.

Vinegaroon

Vinegaroons can spray 19 times before the glands are depleted

Viper

Vipers are one of the most widespread groups of snakes and inhabit most

Vole

Voles were heavily mentioned in a Star Trek series as a space station pest.

Vulture

There are 30 different species worldwide!

Walking Catfish

The walking catfish can move on land while breathing air

Warbler

Warblers are so called because of the trills of their song.

Wasp

There are around 75,000 recognised species!

Water Beetle

Water beetles bite; they use their legs to inject venomous digestive saliva

Water Buffalo

Has been domesticated for thousands of years!

Water Bug

Some species of water bugs can deliver a painful bite when handled.

Water Dragon

Spends most of it's time in the trees!

Wax Moth

The Wax Moth larvae are more dangerous than the adult.

Weasel

The smallest carnivorous mammal in the world!

Weaver Bird

The weaver constructs an elaborate nest for the breeding season

Welsh Black Cattle

Welsh Black Cattle were once used as currency in Wales and referred to as “black gold”.

Welsh Springer Spaniel

Due to being so attached to their owners, the Welsh Springer Spaniel does not do well with being left alone and can experience separation anxiety.

Whimbrel

The fastidious whimbrel sometimes washes off its prey before it eats it. 

White Butterfly

This butterfly determines the smell and taste of a flower with its feet.

White Ferret / Albino Ferrets

There are two different types of white ferrets!

White-Tailed Eagle

It is one of the biggest birds of prey.

White Tiger

None have been seen in the wild for 50 years!

Wild Boar

Males have a top tusk to sharpen the bottom one!

Wiwaxia

The body of Wiwaxia was covered by rows of sclerites and spines

Wolf

Thought to date back more than 300,000 years!

Wolf Snake

Harmless, but with fangs like a wolf.

Wolf Spider

Carnivorous arachnid that hunts its prey.

Wood Turtle

Temperature determines the sex of turtle eggs

Woodlouse

This animal can roll up into a ball

Woodlouse Spider

Unlike most spiders, woodlouse spiders don’t build a web.

Woodpecker

There are 200 different species!

Wool Carder Bee

N/A

Woolly Aphids

Another name for these fuzzy insects is "boogie-woogie aphids" because of their habit of lifting their posteriors and pulsing them in synchronized motions when threatened.

Woolly Mammoth

Tusks grew to 16ft long!

Woolly Rhinoceros

The woolly rhinoceros roamed the earth between three and a half million and 14,000 years ago.

Worm

Doesn’t have eyes.

Wryneck

They feign death by making their bodies limp and closing their eyes.

Xenacanthus

Smal eel-like ancient shark

Xiaosaurus

Xiaosaurus was a small and lightweight dinosaur

Xiaotingia

Xiaotingia used its feathery hindlimbs for short-distance flights

Yak

Yaks can live at altitudes up to 20,000 feet--the highest of any land-dwelling mammal.

Yellow Aphids

These aphids are primarily wingless; however, once the infestation on their host gets too crowded, they develop wings, allowing them to fly to a new host plant.

Yellow Crazy Ant

One of the top 100 worst invasive species!

Yellow-faced Bee

N/A

Yellowhammer

It interbreeds with the pine bunting

Yellowish Cuckoo Bumblebee (formerly Fernald’s Cuckoo Bumblebee)

N/A

Yellowjacket (Yellow Jacket)

Yellowjacket stings account for the majority of deaths from wasp stings

Yokohama Chicken

Yokohama chickens have snow white feathers with tails reaching up to 4 feet in length.

Zebra Finch

The male zebra finch creates a unique song by drawing inspiration from its parent or tutor

Zebrafish (Zebra Fish)

Used extensively in scientific research

Zebu

There are around 75 different species!

Zokor

Zokors are expert diggers. They burrow tunnels hundreds of feet long!

Asian Animals List

About the Author

Rebecca Bales

Rebecca is an experienced Professional Freelancer with nearly a decade of expertise in writing SEO Content, Digital Illustrations, and Graphic Design. When not engrossed in her creative endeavors, Rebecca dedicates her time to cycling and filming her nature adventures. When not focused on her passion for creating and crafting optimized materials, she harbors a deep fascination and love for cats, jumping spiders, and pet rats.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What animals live in Asia?

Tigers, elephants, rhinoceros, bears, monkeys, camels, birds and snakes are just some examples of Asian wildlife, as are more exotic and unique species such as the Malayan Tapir, Slow Loris, Japanese Macaque and the Lesser Bird-of-Paradise.

What are some animals that are unique to Asia?

Sun Bears, Clouded Leopards and Draco Lizards.

How many different animals live in Asia?

There are as many animals as there are habitat types in Asia, from desert and land-dwelling to forest and jungle-dwelling as well as ocean wildlife.

What is the biggest animal in Asia?

It depends on the type of animal. The biggest land animal on the continent is the Asian elephant, the saltwater crocodile is the biggest reptile there and in the world and the blue whale is the biggest marine mammal there and in the world.

What is the oldest country in Asia?

The oldest country in Asia is Iran, which traces back its roots to around 7000 BCE. Other countries with ancient roots include China, India, and Vietnam.

Asia

WATCH: Sharks biting alligators, the most epic lion battles, and MUCH more.