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Central-America

Below you can find a complete list of types of animals found in Central America. We currently track 358 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.

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.

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:

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!

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!

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 grosbeak

Blue grosbeak parents take off the head, legs and wings of an insect before feeding it to their baby.

Blue Iguana
Bluegill

The world record for longest bluegill is 15 inches.

Boas
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.

Brahminy Blindsnake
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

Bushmaster Snake
Butterfly

There are thought to be up 20,000 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.

Cantil
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!

Chicken Snake
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!

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.

Congo Snake
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.

Cuckoo
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!

Dire Wolf
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

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

Eyelash Viper
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

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

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!

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!

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!

Marmoset
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.

Milk Snake
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

Mussurana Snake
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"

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

Ox
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.

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 Knee Tarantula

Inhabits the Pacific Mountains of Mexico!

Red Racer Snake
Red Tail Boa (common boa)
Red-winged blackbird

The male red-winged blackbird can sing to attract mates

Ribbon Snake
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!

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!

Sidewinder
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

Smooth Green Snake
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
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.

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

Turkey

Closely related to pheasants and chickens!

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!

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

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.