Below you can find a complete list of types of animals found in Central America. We currently track 380 animals in Central-America and are adding more every day!
The term Central America refers to Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. This region connects North America to South America. It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east. With its many miles of coastline, acres of tropical forest, and centuries of unspoiled growth, Central America is an important biodiversity hotspot containing more than 7% of the earth’s biodiversity.
What Are the National Animals of Central American Countries?
While many of the countries share similar types of animals, they all have differing national animals.
- Belize: Mountain tapir.
- Costa Rica: White-tailed deer.
- El Salvador: Torogoz.
- Guatemala: Quetzal.
- Honduras: White-tailed deer.
- Nicaragua: Guardabarranco.
- Panama: Harpy eagle.
Where To Find the Top Wild Animals in Central America
All Central American countries have established national parks, marine reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. Some of these countries have turned to eco-tourism to boost their economies while preserving animals native to Central America and unique to the region.
Here are some well-known places to visit animals in Central America.
- Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in Belize is the world’s first jaguar preserve. It is a sanctuary for hundreds of birds, mountain tapirs, deer, and other wildlife.
- Tikal National Park in Guatemala is home to the greatest Maya ruins and a sanctuary for endangered tropical birds, jaguars, and other animals.
- Arenal National Park in Costa Rica is a protected area for more than 800 bird species, endangered wildlife, and reptiles.
- Cerro Azul de Copan National Park in Honduras protects a cloud forest in the Honduran mountains. It is a protected area for many bird and wildlife species.
- Volcan Baru National Park in Panama is on Panama’s only volcano. Guacha Island wildlife reserve is an island of Gatun Lake, one of the largest lakes in Central America.
Native Birds
Various habitats make up the region of Central America, as it is a string of several countries bridging South America to North America. As a result of the differing environments, Central America has a vast variety of wildlife, making it one of the most biodiverse zones in the world. From the American Cordillera mountain range to Pacific lowlands to volcanoes, extraordinary avifauna is especially prevalent in this part of the world, seen flying the open skies and enjoying the vegetation. Below is a list of Central American countries and some of the most unique bird species found there.
Guatemala
- 750 bird species
- National bird: resplendent quetzal
- Unique species: Guatemalan pygmy owl, pink-headed warbler, keel-billed toucan, ocellated turkey, wine-throated hummingbird
Costa Rica
- 850 bird species
- National bird: clay-coloured thrush
- Unique species: violaceous trogon, blue-crowned motmot, scarlet macaw, great green macaw, golden-hooded tanager
Belize
- 580 bird species
- National bird: Keel-billed toucan
- Unique species: Harpy eagle, red-footed booby, great egret, magnificent frigate bird, jabiru stork
Honduras
- 770 bird species
- National bird: Scarlet macaw (guaras)
- Unique species: Honduran emerald, green-breasted mountain gem, highland guan, ocellated quail
Panama
- 1,000 bird species
- National bird: Harpy eagle
- Unique species: golden-green woodpecker, rufous-winged antwren, bare-crowned antbird, spectacled owl, today motmot
Nicaragua
- 783 bird species
- National bird: Guardabarranco (torogoz)
- Unique species: Lineated woodpecker, Lesson’s motmot, bushy-crested jay, white-collared manakin, crowned woodnymph
Traveling Central America is a dream for birders worldwide, experiencing the multitudes of avifauna, as well as their breathtaking habitats. Unfortunately, deforestation has diminished the natural homes of many birds, limiting their existence to conserved and protected areas.
Native Fish
Almost every country within the region of Central America is bordered by both the Caribbean and the Pacific Oceans, warm waters home to multitudes of fish species. Avid sports fishermen come from around the world to catch sailfish, marlin, tuna, dorado, and wahoo. The most popular offshore fishing sites are found on the Pacific side, resulting from Californian Current meeting the southern, Peru Current.
Other types of fishing are highly popular in the region, as well, thanks to the various environments. The saltwater flats of Belize are especially alluring to fly fishermen looking for bonefish, tarpon, and permit. Fly fishing can also be done from the coastlines for billfish of huge sizes.
The Pacific Shoreline of Central America is also called the “Ring of Fire” as a tribute to its volcanic nature that gives rise to reefs, rocky outcroppings, pinnacles, and islands. These differing territories make the perfect inshore fishing spot, particularly in Costa Rica, Belize, and Panama. Game fish found here include jacks, rooster fish, mackerel and snappers.
Freshwater fishing can prove the most enjoyable, with views surpassing that of the oceans surrounding Central America. Freshwater sources are found running through jungles, at the bases of volcanoes, and surrounded by other magnificent wildlife. Many species of bass, gar, snook, and mojarra are often caught in these environments.
Overall, Central America is the ideal destination for fishing with a view, whether it be in the oceans or rivers of the surrounding countries. Unlike other places, fishing is productive year round, weather permitting. Some of the most exciting catches include:
- Billfish
- Dorado
- Yellowfin Tuna
- Bass
Native Snakes
Many reptiles call Central America their home, including snakes. Non-venomous and venomous species exist in all of the countries and the surrounding oceans. Some of the most notable snake species are:
- Bushmaster – largest snake in Central America
- Fer-de-lance – most dangerous snake in Central and South America
- Eyelash viper -various coloration such as yellow, teal, or green with eyelash-like protrusions above eyes
Snake bites are not common in Central America but do occur. If bitten, seek medical treatment immediately regardless of toxicity, as allergies or reactions may still arise.
The Most Dangerous Animals in Central America
Central America has many dangerous insects, reptiles and fish. Here are some examples of harmful types of animals in Central America:
- American crocodile: While not as large or aggressive as its Australian cousin, the American crocodile, also known as the Central American alligator, is dangerous when provoked. Fortunately, these crocodiles prefer smaller prey.
- Venomous snakes: The fer-de-lance viper, which is native to the Central American forests, is one of the world’s deadliest snakes. Central America is also home to the tropical rattlesnake, yellow-bellied sea snake, and the Mexican bearded lizard. They are all highly poisonous.
- Amazonian giant centipede: The world’s largest centipede can reach 14 inches. These long, brightly colored insects kill their prey by injecting venom. Their bite won’t kill you, but it will cause intense pain and swelling.
- Bullet ant: Locals say the sting of this ant is like getting hit by a bullet. It is not fatal, but it will hurt.
- Red-bellied piranha: Piranhas are carnivorous fish that live in the Amazon River and surrounding streams. Piranhas are aggressive, but attacks on humans are rare.
Endangered Animals in Central America
Endangered species include jaguars, howler monkeys, iguanas, and scarlet macaws, all animals native to Central America. The Bahama Swallow, Bang’s mountain squirrel, big deer mouse, funnel-eared bat, and brown pelican are all animals that may become extinct if current trends continue.
Zoos in Central America
Wildlife is prevalent in the wild throughout Central America but that is not the only place to see exquisite species. Each country within the region also has zoos dedicated to educating the public and animal preservation. Read more about the top zoos within each country below.
Guatemala
- La Aurora Zoo – Founded in 1924, the zoo heavily focuses on education and immersion of visitors into the wildlife experience. The zoo covers 37 acres and displays animal species ranging from Humboldt penguins to Asian elephants.
Costa Rica
- Zoo Ave – Animals are donated to this zoo for the purpose of rehabilitation and life-long care. The wildlife that comes in is usually injured, orphaned, or both and are nursed back to health in the zoo’s facilities.
- Arenal Eco Zoo – Renowned for having the largest reptile and amphibian collection within all of Costa Rica. The zoo’s animals were originally part of wildlife enthusiast Victor Hugo Quesada’s collection which he opened to the public.
Honduras
- Joya Grande Zoo y Eco Parque – Incorporates wildlife sightseeing with family fun. Many large cat species are born and raised within the zoo, providing a large big cat attraction.
Nicaragua
- Zoologico Nacional – A smaller zoo that has many exhibits of monkeys, big cats, and reptiles. Colourful birds fly around in tropical environments while the animals roam their habitats. The zoo also has a magnificent butterfly display.
Panama
- El Nispero Zoo and Botanical Garden – Nestled into tropical forest, this zoo enables visitors to get a close up view of some of Panama’s most exquisite animals. Toucans, macaws, and monkeys dazzle visitors while they learn about rescue and rehabilitation of species that are becoming increasingly endangered within the region.
While visiting the many amazing countries that make up Central America, be sure to support the local zoos and rehabilitation centres. A huge goal of the region is to promote preservation of native species and many local zoos are involved in these endeavours.
Central America’s Exotic Animals
The animals of Central America have evolved to endure the hot, humid conditions of the rainforest and warm coastal areas. Conservation groups are working to protect these unusual exotic animals from becoming extinct. The best places to see them are the many zoos, wildlife preserves and national parks.
Central American Countries Animals Lists
Click any of the countries below to see a detailed list of animals located in that country!
- Animals in Bahamas
- Animals in Belize
- Animals in Cayman Islands
- Animals in Costa Rica
- Animals in Cuba
- Animals in Dominican Republic
- Animals in El Salvador
- Animals in Guatemala
- Animals in Haiti
- Animals in Honduras
- Animals in Jamaica
- Animals in Mexico
- Animals in Nicaragua
- Animals in Panama
- Animals in Puerto Rico
- Animals in Trinidad and Tobago
Central American Animals
Alligator Gar
The alligator gar has toxic eggs to protect against predators
Amazon Parrot
These parrots can be trained to be "talking birds" that mimic human speech
American Robin
The color “Robin egg blue” is named after the hue of their eggs.
Anole Lizard
There are just under 400 species, several of which change color.
Ant
First evolved 100 million years ago!
Anteater
Found throughout the Southern Hemisphere!
Apple Head Chihuahua
Apple Head Chihuahuas are toy breed dogs with a history dating back to ancient Mexico. They are lovable, loyal, smart and courageous with a lengthy lifespan despite being the world's smallest canines.
Arctodus
The South American spectacled bear is its closest relative living today.
Arizona Bark Scorpion
Under UV light they glow a bright blue or green, making them easy to spot.
Armadillo
Can curl into a hard, protective ball!
Armyworm
They are so named because they "march" in armies of worms from one crop to another in search of food
Axolotl
Found only in one complex of lakes!
Baird’s Rat Snake
Baird’s rat snake subdues its prey through suffocation.
Barn Owl
Found everywhere around the world!
Barn Swallow
Older offspring help care for new hatchlings.
Barred Owl
Like other owls, the barred owl swallows its prey whole.
Basilisk Lizard
Can run/walk on water.
Bat
Detects prey using echolocation!
Bear
There are 8 different species!
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs feed for 4-12 minutes.
Bee
Rock paintings of bees date back 15,000 years
Beetle
There are more than 350,000 different species
Bighorn Sheep
Bighorn rams can run at speeds up to 40 miles per hour when fighting for dominance.
Bird
Not all birds are able to fly!
Biscuit Beetle
The biscuit beetle form a symbiotic relationship with yeast
Black Widow Spider
They typically prey on insects!
Black Witch Moth
Some folklore associate Black Witch Moths with bad luck (and even death!), while other associates them with good fortune.
Blacknose Shark
When threatened, Blacknose sharks raise their head, arch their back, and lower their pectoral fins.
Blind Snake
The blind snake is often mistaken for a worm.
Blue Belly Lizard
This species can detach its tail to escape from predators
Blue Catfish
It's a strong fighter when caught on a fishing line
Blue Gray Gnatcatcher
Joy and happiness are the spiritual meaning of this bird.
Blue grosbeak
Blue grosbeak parents take off the head, legs and wings of an insect before feeding it to their baby.
Bluegill
The world record for longest bluegill is 15 inches.
Bobcat
About double the size of a domestic cat!
Booby
Seabirds found across the South Pacific!
Bowfin
The bowfin is a primitive fish that first evolved in the Jurassic
Box Turtle
This reptile has an S-shaped neck allowing it to pull its entire head into its shell.
Brown Dog Tick
Can live its entire life indoors
Bullfrog
Has loud cow-like calls!
Bullsnake
Considered “The farmer’s friend” because it eats mice and other vermin.
Burrowing Owl
The burrowing owl lives in underground burrows
Butterfly
There are thought to be up 17,500 species!
Caecilian
Some species' babies use their hooked or scraper-like teeth to peel off and eat their mother's skin
Caiman
Can grow to up 6 meters long!
California Kingsnake
A full-grown California kingsnake can be about 3.5 feet long, though there are some cases in Mexico of the snake being almost twice this size.
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.
Carpenter Ant
Carpenter ants can lift up to seven times their own weight with their teeth!
Cascabel
Cascabels rely on their camouflage first, and rattle if that doesn't work.
Cat
First domesticated by the Ancient Egyptians!
Cat-Eyed Snake
Evidence indicates that females can delay fertilization and store sperm for later years to produce eggs even in the absence of contact with a male!
Caterpillar
The larvae of a moth or butterfly!
Catfish
There are nearly 3,000 different species!
Centipede
There are about 3,000 documented species!
Checkered Garter Snake
It has the ability to expel a stinky liquid from its body as a way to make predators (and humans) retreat!
Chickadee
Chickadees are named for the sound they make: Chick-a-dee-dee-dee-dee-dee!
Chicken
First domesticated more than 10,000 years ago!
Chihuahua
Curious and devoted personality!
Cichlid
There are more than 2 000 known species!
Coachwhip Snake
Coachwhip snakes pose little danger to people
Coati
Found in dense forests and wet jungles!
Cockroach
Dated to be around 300 million years old!
Codling Moth
Pupae are able to undergo diapause to survive poor fruit yield years and winter.
Collared Peccary
Form bands of up to 12 individuals!
Common Furniture Beetle
The common furniture beetle feeds exclusively on wood
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.
Cooper’s Hawk
Eyes change color as they age
Copperhead
Copperheads get their name, unsurprisingly, from their bronze-hued heads.
Coral Snake
There are over 80 species of coral snake worldwide.
Cow
There are nearly 1.5 million worldwide!
Coyote
Also known as the Prairie Wolf!
Crab
There are 93 different crab groups
Crab Spider
Crab Spiders can mimic ants or bird droppings
Cricket
Male crickets can produce sounds by rubbing their wings together
Crocodile
Have changed little in 200 million years!
Crow
A group of these birds is called a Murder.
Cuban Boa
One of the only snakes observed using cooperative hunting tactics.
Cuban Cockroach
Believed to have been introduced to the United States by being shipped with green bananas.
Dark-Eyed Junco
They are called snowbirds because many subspecies reappear in the winter.
Death’s Head Cockroach
People buy Death's Head Cockroach nymphs and raise them as pets!
Deer Head Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world.
Desert Tortoise
Lives in burrows underground!
Dog
First domesticated in South-East Asia!
Dog Tick
Dog ticks feed on dogs and other mammals
Donkey
First domesticated 5,000 years ago!
Dragonfly
It's larvae are carnivorous!
Dubia Cockroach
The most popular species of feeder roach
Duck
Rows of tiny plates line their teeth!
Dung Beetle
The dung beetle can push objects many times its own weight
Dusky Shark
The Dusky Shark sometimes eats trash discarded by humans.
Dwarf Boa
Some species can change color from dark to light, and back again.
Eagle
Has exceptional eyesight!
Earthworm
They are hermaphrodites, which means they have male and female organs
Earwig
There are nearly 2,000 different species!
Eastern Bluebird
Bluebirds drop straight down on their prey from their perch, much like leopards.
Eastern Fence Lizard
Females are usually larger than males.
Eastern Phoebe
This passerine bird can sing its song without ever hearing another bird vocalize first.
Eastern Racer
Fast and Furious!
Eel
Eels can be a mere few inches long to 13 feet!
Elegant Tern
Have a lifespan of 20 years or more
European Starling
European starlings are accomplished mimics, often copying songs or sounds of other birds and animals (frog calls, goats, cats), or even mechanical sounds and human speech!
Falcon
The fastest creatures on the planet!
False Widow Spider
False spiders actually prey on black widow spiders and other hazardous spiders
Fer-de-lance Snake
The Most Dangerous Snake in the Americas
Ferruginous Hawk
The ferruginous hawk comes in both light and dark morphs
Fiddler Crab
The fiddler crab gets its name from the motion the males make with their over-sized claw during the mating ritual.
Firefly
The firefly produces some of the most efficient light in the world
Flamingo
Sleeps on just one leg!
Flea
Adult fleas can jump up to 7 inches in the air
Fly
There are more than 240,000 different species!
Flying Squirrel
Can glide up to 90 meters!
Fox Squirrel
Although it is a tree squirrel, it spends most of its time on the ground.
Freshwater Jellyfish
The freshwater jellyfish is native to China but is now found all over the world
Frog
There are around 7,000 different species!
Fruit Fly
Fruit flies are among the most common research animals in the world
Galapagos Shark
Galapagos sharks are cannibalistic and sometimes eat their young, so the pups stay away from the adults in shallow water.
Gar
Can grow to more than 3m long!
Garter Snake
Female garter snakes give birth to live young rather than laying eggs!
Gecko
There are thought to be over 2,000 species!
Geoffroys Tamarin
Has distinctive V shape on head!
German Cockroach
The most common type of urban roach
Giant Desert Centipede
They are the largest centipede in North America
Giant Leopard Moth
When giant leopard moths mate, their mating sessions last over 24 hours.
Glass Frog
You can see their internal organs.
Glow Worm
Found inhabiting dense woodland and caves!
Gnat
Males form large mating swarms at dusk
Gopher
They dig large networks of tunnels!
Gopher Snake
Gopher snakes can reach up to 9 feet long.
Goshawk
The goshawk is a popular choice among European falconers
Grass Snake
Use acute hearing to hunt
Grasshopper
There are 11,000 known species!
Grasshopper Mouse
The grasshopper mice attack predators using the poison of their venom.
Gray Fox
The gray fox has retractable claws and a rotating wrist that allow it to climb trees with some proficiency
Great Blue Heron
Their wingspan is larger than an eagle’s; both males and females help hatch the eggs; rich in symbolism
Great Crested Flycatcher
This species makes use of some truly unusual nesting material, including snakeskin and garbage
Great Plains Rat Snake
This snake vigorously shakes its tail as a way to frighten away predators.
Green Heron
Uses bait to catch prey
Green Snake
There are two types of green snakes: smooth green snakes and rough green snakes
Ground Snake
It’s sometimes called a miter snake due to the marking on its head that looks like a bishop’s miter
Grouper
Many grouper can change their sex, and it is always from female to male.
Guppy
Also known as the Millionfish!
Hamburg Chicken
This breed doesn't usually make nests or incubate their own chicks.
Hamster
Able to run as quickly backwards as forwards!
Hare
Can reach speeds of over 40 mph!
Harlequin Snake
Red touches yellow kills a fellow, red touches black a friend of Jack.
Harpy Eagle
Talon's the size of a grizzly bear's claws!
Harris Hawk
Their vision is eight times better than a human's
Havanese
These are the only dogs that are native to Cuba
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.
Hercules Beetle
This dynastine scarab beetle makes a weird huffing sound when it’s disturbed.
Heron
Inhabits wetlands around the world!
Hobo Spider
The Hobo Spider travels city to city like an actual Hobo and is often found near railroad tracks!
Hognose snake
Prima Donnas of the Snake World
Honduran White Bat
The bat only eats figs.
Honey Bee
There are only 8 recognized species!
Hooded Oriole
Hooded orioles have a strong sweet tooth that makes nectar and jelly among its favorite foods.
Horned Lizard
The horned lizards are able to squirt blood from their eyes.
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 Finch
The house finch can become redder depending on what it eats
House Sparrow
The house sparrow has been introduced all over the world
House wren
The wren’s epithet, aedon, comes from a Greek queen who accidentally killed her only son. She was actually aiming for her nephew, and Zeus took pity on her and turned her into a nightingale.
Housefly
The fly has no teeth
Howler Monkey
Spends 80% of it's time resting!
Human
Thought to have orignated 200,000 years ago!
Hummingbird
Beat their wings up to 80 times per second!
Huntsman Spider
Some huntsman spiders have an interesting way of moving around. Some cartwheel while others do handsprings or backflips.
Ibis
Found in swamps, marshes and wetlands!
Iguana
Uses visual signals to communicate!
Imperial Moth
Since the imperial moth doesn’t eat, it does die shortly after it lays its eggs. Its lifespan is only about one week.
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!
Ivory-billed woodpecker
The ivory-billed woodpecker can drill into wood with its sharp beak
Jacana
The jacana has the ability to swim underwater
Jackrabbit
They can run as fast as 45 mph.
Jaguar
The largest feline on the American continent!
Jaguarundi Cat
These cats are expert swimmers.
Jamaican Boa
When a Jamaican boa is coiled up, it almost looks like two snakes together because of color pattern.
Jumping Spider
Some can jump 50 times the length of their bodies
Kangaroo Rat
Merriam’s kangaroo rats literally never have to drink water
Keel-Billed Toucan
It's beak can reach nearly 20 cm long!
Killdeer
The killdeer feigns injury to draw a predator away from its nest.
King Vulture
The king vulture is the second largest New World vulture species
Kingfisher
Inhabits wetlands and woodlands worldwide!
Kinkajou
The kinkajou is a nimble forest-dwelling mammal of Central and South America.
Kit Fox
The kit fox is the smallest canid in North America.
Ladybug
There are more than 5,000 species worldwide!
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 Frog
They can jump up to three feet
Leopard Lizard
Can jump a distance of two feet to capture prey
Lizard
There are around 5,000 different species!
Lizardfish
The lizardfish can camouflage itself against the sandy bottom to avoid predators.
Locust
Each locust can eat its weight in plants each day.
Lone Star Tick
Only females have the ‘lone star’ marking
Macaw
The largest species of parrot in the world!
Maggot
Will only live in wet areas
Mahi Mahi (Dolphin Fish)
It's called the rabbit of the ocean because it multiplies so quickly.
Mallard
With an appropriate tail wind, the mallard can travel hundreds of miles a day
Marine Toad
Produces a toxin used in arrow darts!
Massasauga
The name “Massasauga” comes from the Chippewa language, meaning “Great River Mouth”.
Mayfly
There are 2,500 known species worldwide!
Mealybug
They have a symbiotic relationship with ants.
Mexican Alligator Lizard
Mexican alligator lizards shed their skin like snakes.
Mexican Eagle (Northern crested caracara)
The northern crested caracara mates for life with its partner
Mexican Free-Tailed Bat
Some colonies have millions of bats
Mexican Mole Lizard
They can break off part of their tail, but it will not grow back.
Millipede
Some species have a poisonous bite!
Mojarra
The mojarra's protruding mouth allows it to sift along the seabed for food
Mojave Rattlesnake
"The Mojave rattlesnake is the most venomous rattlesnake in the world."
Mole
Primarily hunts and feeds on Earthworms!
Mole Cricket
Adult Mole crickets may fly as far as 5 miles during mating season and are active most of the year.
Molly
Known for their calm and peaceful nature!
Monarch Butterfly
During migration, Monarch Butterflies may travel 250 or more miles each day.
Mongrel
Has characteristics of two or more breeds!
Monkey
There are around 260 known species!
Monte Iberia Eleuth
The smallest frog in the Northern Hemisphere!
Moorhen
Feeds on aquatic insects and water-spiders!
Mosquito
Only the female mosquito actually sucks blood
Moth
There are 250,000 different species!
Mountain Bluebird
Depending on the time of the year, the mountain bird can live as far north as Alaska.
Mountain Lion
Has no real natural predators!
Mourning Dove
It is almost always the male who makes the famous sad sound, which is a wooing call
Mouse
Found on every continent on Earth!
Mule
The offspring of a horse and donkey parents!
Muskrat
The muskrat can stay underwater up to 17 minutes at a time
Needlefish
no stomach to digest food
No See Ums
There are more than 5,000 species.
Northern Cardinal
Males are a bright red color, also called "cardinal red"
Northern Flicker
Northern Flickers often make their homes in dead trees.
Ocelot
Also known as the Painted Leopard!
Orange-Crowned Warbler
Often mistaken for the Tennessee Warblers, which are equally dull.
Orb Weaver
Females are about four times the size of males
Otter
There are 13 different species worldwide
Owl
The owl can rotate its head some 270 degrees
Panther
Prefers to hunt at night than during the day!
Parrot
Can live for up to 100 years!
Parrot Snake
The parrot snake shows off with bright green and bronze colors that cover its entire body.
Parrotlet
Parrotlets aren't the world's tiniest parrot — that would be the pygmy parrot of Australasia.
Peregrine Falcon
Fastest animal on Earth
Pheasant
Females lay between 8 and 12 eggs per clutch!
Pigeon
They can find their way back to their nests from up to 1300 miles away.
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.
Plains Hognose Snake
The plains hognose snake gets its name from the upturned end of its snout.
Poison Dart Frog
Inhabits the jungles of Central and South America!
Polyphemus moth
The Polyphemus moth doesn’t eat.
Porcupine
There are 30 different species worldwide!
Potoo
The potoo’s eyelids have slits that let them see even when their eyes are closed.
Prairie Dog
Prairie dog “towns” can consists of hundreds of individuals
Prairie Rattlesnake
The striking distance of a prairie rattlesnake is 2/3rds the length of its body.
Praying Mantis
The mantis can turn its head 180 degrees.
Pronghorn
While pronghorns are the fastest runner of any Western Hemisphere land animal, they are not good jumpers.
Puma
Has longer back legs than front legs!
Quail
Inhabits woodland and forest areas worldwide!
Quetzal
The tail feathers of the male can be 1m long!
Raccoon
Known to wash their food before eating it!
Racer Snake
The racer snake can speed away at up to 3.5 miles per hour
Rainbow Boa
The rainbow boa is named for its iridescent skin that refracts light and creates a rainbow-colored effect.
Rat
Omnivores that eat anything!
Rat Snakes
Rat snakes are constrictors from the Colubridae family of snakes.
Rattlesnake
It's venom digests it's prey before it even swallows it!
Red Diamondback Rattlesnake
A rattlesnake can shake its rattle back and forth 20-100 times per second.
Red-Eared Slider
Sliders spend lots of time basking in the sun. As cold-blooded animals, they need the sun to heat up.
Red-Eyed Tree Frog
Despite their spectacular coloration, red-eyed tree frogs aren’t poisonous and can be kept as pets.
Red Finch
Red finches can form flocks of over 100 birds.
Red-Footed Tortoise
Male and female Red-Footed Tortoises move their heads to communicate.
Red Knee Tarantula
Inhabits the Pacific Mountains of Mexico!
Red-winged blackbird
The male red-winged blackbird can sing to attract mates
Ring-billed Gull
The ring-billed gull feeds on vast quantities of human waste and garbage.
River Turtle
Inhabits freshwater habitats around the world!
Robin
There are more than 45 species in Australia alone!
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.
Rooster
Will mate with the entire flock!
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Rose-breasted grosbeaks are closely related to cardinals
Roseate Spoonbill
The only Spoonbill in the western hemisphere!
Rosy Boa
One of the few snakes that naturally comes in a rainbow of colors.
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
Ruby-throated hummingbirds can beat their wings more than 50 times per second.
Saber-Toothed Tiger
Canines up to 7 inches long!
Sable Ferret
Ferrets were used during the Revolutionary War to keep down the rat population.
Salamander
There are more than 700 different species!
Sand Crab
The sand crab burrows beneath the sand with its tail
Sauropoda
Newly hatched sauropods weighted less than 11 pounds and put on 2 tons of weight a year!
Savannah Sparrow
The Savannah sparrow gets its name because one of the first of this type of bird was found in the city of Savannah, Georgia.
Scarlet Macaw
Like many parrots, the scarlet macaw is capable of vocal mimicry.
Scorpion
There are around 2,000 known species!
Sea Eagle
The sea eagle tends to mate for life with a single partner
Seagull
Some gulls are capable of using tools
Seahorse
Males give birth to up to 1,000 offspring!
Sheep
Around 35 million in the English countryside!
Short-Faced Bear
The modern Spectacled Bear, which lives in South America, is related to the Short-Faced Bear!
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!
Skink Lizard
Some skinks lay eggs in some habitats while giving birth to skinklets in other habitats.
Sloth
It's body temperature is between 30 - 34 degrees!
Slug
They glide around on one foot, which is aided by the slime they produce
Smokybrown Cockroach
Has up to 45 eggs per egg case
Snail
There are nearly 1,000 different species!
Snake
There are around 3,000 known species worldwide
Snapping Turtle
Only found in North America!
Snook Fish
Males change into females after the spawning season
Song Sparrow
Pumps its tail when it flies!
Southern Black Racer
These snakes live underground, beneath piles of leaf litter or in thickets, and they are expert swimmers.
Southern Pacific Rattlesnake
Southern Pacific rattlesnakes hibernate in dens that hold hundreds of snakes.
Spanish Goat
They have long, horizontal ears.
Sparrow
There are 140 different species!
Spider Monkey
Found in the tropical jungles of South America!
Spider Wasp
They prey on spiders to feed their larvae or they parasitize other spider wasps.
Spotted Gar
They are commonly mistaken as logs in the water due to their cylindrical body.
Squirrel
Small rodents found in woodlands worldwide!
Squirrel Monkey
Lives in groups of up to 500 individuals!
Stick Insect
There are more than 3,000 different species!
Stork
They can’t sing like other birds.
Surgeonfish
Paracanthurus hepatus, the palette surgeonfish or bluetang, is the only member of its genus
Swan
Populations have been affected by pollution!
Tarantula Hawk
Tarantula hawks are excellent pollinators, especially for milkweed.
Termite
Their mounds can be up to 9 meters tall!
Texas Blind Snake
These snakes grow to just 11 inches long
Texas Coral Snake
Texas coral snakes have the second most powerful venom in the world
Texas Indigo Snake
Texas Indigo Snakes are known for chasing down, overpowering, and eating rattlesnakes.
Texas Spiny Lizard
They hold push-up competitions!
Thrush
The American robin is called the robin because its red breast reminded European settlers of the robin back in the old country.
Tick
They inject hosts with a chemical that stops them from feeling the pain of the bite
Tiger Beetle
The adult tiger beetle is one of the fastest land insects in the world
Tiger Rattlesnake
These rattlesnakes have the smallest heads of any rattlesnake.
Tomato Hornworm
The tomato hornworm is a ferocious pest that can eat all parts of a plant, including the fruits.
Tortoise
Can live until they are more than 150 years old!
Toucan
There are more than 40 different species!
Tree Frog
Found in warmer jungles and forests!
Tree swallow
The tree swallow can make more than a dozen distinct vocalizations
Turtles
Some species of aquatic turtles can get up to 70 percent of their oxygen through their butt.
Umbrellabird
Migrates up and down the mountains!
Vampire Bat
Have a heat sensor on the end of their nose!
Vermilion Flycatcher
They have a fast song that lasts up to 10 syllables at max.
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
Vulture
There are 30 different species worldwide!
Wasp
There are around 75,000 recognised species!
Western Blind Snake
Western blind snakes are flourescent in black light!
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
They replace their fangs 2-4 times per year!
Whiptail Lizard
Many whiptail species reproduce asexually.
White-Faced Capuchin
One of the world's most intelligent monkeys!
White Ferret / Albino Ferrets
There are two different types of white ferrets!
White-tail deer
White-tail deer are good swimmers
Wolf
Thought to date back more than 300,000 years!
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
Woodpecker
There are 200 different species!
Worm
Doesn’t have eyes.
Writing Spider
males pluck webs like strings on a guitar
Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli is the national dog of Mexico
Yellow Spotted Lizard
Gives birth to live young.
Central American Animals List
- Alligator Gar
- Amazon Parrot
- American Robin
- Anole Lizard
- Ant
- Anteater
- Apple Head Chihuahua
- Arctodus
- Arizona Bark Scorpion
- Armadillo
- Armyworm
- Axolotl
- Baird’s Rat Snake
- Barn Owl
- Barn Swallow
- Barred Owl
- Basilisk Lizard
- Bat
- Bear
- Bed Bugs
- Bee
- Beetle
- Belted Kingfisher
- Bighorn Sheep
- Bird
- Biscuit Beetle
- Black Widow Spider
- Black Witch Moth
- Blacknose Shark
- Blind Snake
- Blue Belly Lizard
- Blue Catfish
- Blue Gray Gnatcatcher
- Blue grosbeak
- Blue Iguana
- Bluegill
- Boas
- Bobcat
- Booby
- Bowfin
- Box Turtle
- Brahminy Blindsnake
- Brown Dog Tick
- Bullfrog
- Bullsnake
- Burrowing Owl
- Bushmaster Snake
- Butterfly
- Caecilian
- Caiman
- California Kingsnake
- Camel Cricket
- Camel Spider
- Cantil
- Carpenter Ant
- Cascabel
- Cat
- Cat-Eyed Snake
- Caterpillar
- Catfish
- Centipede
- Checkered Garter Snake
- Chickadee
- Chicken
- Chicken Snake
- Chihuahua
- Cichlid
- Coachwhip Snake
- Coati
- Cockroach
- Codling Moth
- Collared Peccary
- Common Furniture Beetle
- Common House Spider
- Common Raven
- Congo Snake
- Cooper’s Hawk
- Copperhead
- Coral Snake
- Cow
- Coyote
- Crab
- Crab Spider
- Cricket
- Crocodile
- Crow
- Cuban Boa
- Cuban Cockroach
- Cuckoo
- Dark-Eyed Junco
- Death’s Head Cockroach
- Deer Head Chihuahua
- Desert Tortoise
- Dire Wolf
- Dog
- Dog Tick
- Donkey
- Dragonfly
- Dubia Cockroach
- Duck
- Dung Beetle
- Dusky Shark
- Dwarf Boa
- Eagle
- Earthworm
- Earwig
- Eastern Bluebird
- Eastern Fence Lizard
- Eastern Phoebe
- Eastern Racer
- Eel
- Elegant Tern
- European Starling
- Eyelash Viper
- Falcon
- False Widow Spider
- Fer-de-lance Snake
- Ferruginous Hawk
- Fiddler Crab
- Firefly
- Flamingo
- Flea
- Fly
- Flying Squirrel
- Fox Squirrel
- Freshwater Jellyfish
- Frog
- Fruit Fly
- Galapagos Shark
- Gar
- Garter Snake
- Gecko
- Geoffroys Tamarin
- German Cockroach
- Giant Desert Centipede
- Giant Leopard Moth
- Glass Frog
- Glow Worm
- Gnat
- Gopher
- Gopher Snake
- Goshawk
- Grass Snake
- Grasshopper
- Grasshopper Mouse
- Gray Fox
- Great Blue Heron
- Great Crested Flycatcher
- Great Plains Rat Snake
- Green Heron
- Green Snake
- Ground Snake
- Grouper
- Guppy
- Hamburg Chicken
- Hamster
- Hare
- Harlequin Snake
- Harpy Eagle
- Harris Hawk
- Havanese
- Hawk Moth Caterpillar
- Hercules Beetle
- Heron
- Hobo Spider
- Hognose snake
- Honduran White Bat
- Honey Bee
- Hooded Oriole
- Horned Lizard
- Horse
- Horsefly
- Horseshoe Crab
- House Finch
- House Sparrow
- House wren
- Housefly
- Howler Monkey
- Human
- Hummingbird
- Huntsman Spider
- Ibis
- Iguana
- Imperial Moth
- Insect
- Insects
- Ivory-billed woodpecker
- Jacana
- Jackrabbit
- Jaguar
- Jaguarundi Cat
- Jamaican Boa
- Jumping Spider
- Kangaroo Rat
- Keel-Billed Toucan
- Killdeer
- King Vulture
- Kingfisher
- Kinkajou
- Kit Fox
- Kitefin Shark
- Ladybug
- Leatherback Sea Turtle
- Leech
- Leopard Frog
- Leopard Lizard
- Lizard
- Lizardfish
- Locust
- Lone Star Tick
- Macaw
- Maggot
- Mahi Mahi (Dolphin Fish)
- Mallard
- Marine Toad
- Marmoset
- Massasauga
- Mayfly
- Mealybug
- Mexican Alligator Lizard
- Mexican Eagle (Northern crested caracara)
- Mexican Free-Tailed Bat
- Mexican Mole Lizard
- Milk Snake
- Millipede
- Mojarra
- Mojave Rattlesnake
- Mole
- Mole Cricket
- Molly
- Monarch Butterfly
- Mongrel
- Monkey
- Monte Iberia Eleuth
- Moorhen
- Mosquito
- Moth
- Mountain Bluebird
- Mountain Lion
- Mourning Dove
- Mouse
- Mule
- Muskrat
- Mussurana Snake
- Needlefish
- No See Ums
- Northern Cardinal
- Northern Flicker
- Ocelot
- Orange-Crowned Warbler
- Orb Weaver
- Otter
- Owl
- Ox
- Panther
- Parrot
- Parrot Snake
- Parrotlet
- Peregrine Falcon
- Pheasant
- Pigeon
- Pipe Snake
- Pit Viper
- Plains Hognose Snake
- Poison Dart Frog
- Polyphemus moth
- Porcupine
- Potoo
- Prairie Dog
- Prairie Rattlesnake
- Praying Mantis
- Pronghorn
- Puma
- Quail
- Quetzal
- Raccoon
- Racer Snake
- Rainbow Boa
- Rat
- Rat Snakes
- Rattlesnake
- Red Diamondback Rattlesnake
- Red-Eared Slider
- Red-Eyed Tree Frog
- Red Finch
- Red-Footed Tortoise
- Red Knee Tarantula
- Red Racer Snake
- Red Tail Boa (common boa)
- Red-winged blackbird
- Ribbon Snake
- Ring-billed Gull
- River Turtle
- Robin
- Rodents
- Rooster
- Rose-breasted Grosbeak
- Roseate Spoonbill
- Rosy Boa
- Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
- Saber-Toothed Tiger
- Sable Ferret
- Salamander
- Sand Crab
- Sandhill Crane
- Sauropoda
- Savannah Sparrow
- Scarlet Macaw
- Scorpion
- Sea Eagle
- Seagull
- Seahorse
- Sheep
- Short-Faced Bear
- Shrew
- Shrimp
- Sidewinder
- Skink Lizard
- Sloth
- Slug
- Smokybrown Cockroach
- Smooth Green Snake
- Snail
- Snake
- Snapping Turtle
- Snook Fish
- Song Sparrow
- Southern Black Racer
- Southern Pacific Rattlesnake
- Spanish Goat
- Sparrow
- Spider
- Spider Monkey
- Spider Wasp
- Spotted Gar
- Squirrel
- Squirrel Monkey
- Stick Insect
- Stork
- Surgeonfish
- Swan
- Tarantula Hawk
- Termite
- Texas Blind Snake
- Texas Coral Snake
- Texas Indigo Snake
- Texas Spiny Lizard
- Thrush
- Tick
- Tiger Beetle
- Tiger Rattlesnake
- Tomato Hornworm
- Tortoise
- Toucan
- Tree Frog
- Tree swallow
- Turkey
- Turtles
- Umbrellabird
- Vampire Bat
- Vermilion Flycatcher
- Vine Snake
- Vinegaroon
- Vulture
- Wasp
- Western Blind Snake
- Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
- Whiptail Lizard
- White-Faced Capuchin
- White Ferret / Albino Ferrets
- White-tail deer
- Wolf
- Wolf Spider
- Wood Turtle
- Woodlouse
- Woodpecker
- Worm
- Writing Spider
- Xoloitzcuintli
- Yellow Spotted Lizard
Central-America FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What Kinds of Animals Live in Central America?
In Central America, you are likely to see many exotic rainforest animals like parrots, toucans, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, crocodiles, and jaguars. Unique birds include macaws, parrots, and toucans, but you will also find owls and hawks in the forests.
Central America is home to several species of big cats, including panthers, jaguars, margays, ocelots, and jaguarundi.
The waters of these countries support many important coral reef systems. For instance, the Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest barrier reef system in the world. These waters are important nesting grounds for sea turtles, manatees, water birds, and many endangered species. Central America contains many UNESCO World Heritage Sites that recognize the unique importance of their flora and fauna.
Each country in Central America has its own unique species. These countries have taken steps to protect their precious natural resources by establishing national parks and marine reserves.
What Exotic Animals Are in Central America?
- Baird’s tapir: The tapir, known locally as the mountain cow, looks like a cross between a cow and a wild pig. This unusual animal almost became extinct, but it is now beloved for its gentle personality and amusing behavior. Tapirs now enjoy protected status in most of Central America.
- White-faced capuchin monkey: This small, beautiful monkey is exceptionally smart. Central America has many unique monkey species, including howler monkeys, which are the loudest animal on earth.
- Quetzal: This brilliantly colored bird is remarkable for its extremely long tail feathers. Although the quetzal is the national bird of Guatemala, it is critically endangered. Cloud forest preserves are important sanctuaries for quetzals and other tropical birds.
- Jaguar: The largest wild cat of the Northern hemisphere, the mysterious, elusive jaguar is an important cultural symbol to Central Americans. Although jaguars are endangered, their populations are recovering.
- Iguana: There are several types of iguanas, and you can find them all in Central America. You can find marine iguanas, green iguanas and blue iguanas. Although iguanas seem to be everywhere when you’re in Central America, they are threatened by habitat loss and introduced species, including cats and dogs, that prey on them.
How Many Mammal Species Are Found in Central America?
Central America has more than 350 native mammal species.
What Animals Live in the Central American Rainforest?
- Tropical birds: You will see many vivid, loud tropical birds in the rainforest, including scarlet macaws, keel-billed toucans, and orange-winged parrots. Hummingbirds are prevalent in the rainforests and surrounding areas.
- Big cats: Jaguars, ocelots, panthers, and margays all live in the tropical rainforests and the mountain cloud forests.
- Kinkajou: This small, nocturnal mammal spends its life in the rainforest trees. This adorable, big-eared creature has a long tongue and loves to forage for fruit.
- Marsupials: Central America is home to much-loved marsupials like the sloth. Central America is home to pygmy sloths, Hoffman’s two-toed sloths, and brown-throated sloths.
- Marine life: Dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles all live in the warm waters around Central America.
- Insects: The lanternfly, rhinoceros beetle, black butterfly, mosquito, and praying mantis are all native to the rainforest.
