Europe

Below you can find a complete list of European animals. We currently track 801 animals in Europe and are adding more every day!

Europe is a continent in the northeastern hemisphere. As the second smallest continent in the world, it covers 6.8% of the Earth’s land area and 2% of the surface, with a higher coast-to-landmass ratio than any other. Geographically, it varies within a small area. The south is mountainous, while the north encompasses hilly uplands. Northeast holds a prominent landmark known as the Great European Plain.

The north-western seaboard also has uplands, while mainland central Europe has river valleys, basins, and plateaus. The climate is temperate, or warm and wet, as influenced by the Gulf Stream. It is colder in the north than in the south, and colder from the west going eastward. Within these environments exist wildlife that is common in Europe, with species that are unique to the continent and sometimes the world.

Watch on YouTube

Most Popular European Animals

Europe is a continent composed of several different countries, each with its own language and culture, so there is no singular national animal. Instead, individual countries have chosen their own national animals. For example, the lion, the official national animal of the Netherlands, Norway, and England, represents bravery and courage.

While there is no specific national animal for Europe, itself, there are several species considered as “The Big 5,” seemingly the most impressive animals on the continent. The big 5 animals are the European Bison, the lynx, the wolverine, the brown bear, and the wolf.

Native European Animals

Eurasian wolf — Eurasian wolves are native to Europe as well as parts of Asia.
©Michal Ninger/Shutterstock.com

While many animals have been introduced into Europe from other parts of the world, several species are native to the continent.

European Bison: These relatives of the American bison can be found in European countries like Belarus, Germany, Lithuania, Poland, and Switzerland.
Eurasian Lynx: Also called the northern lynx, this wild cat inhabits forests and mountains of European areas like Scandinavia, Poland, Slovakia, and smaller populations in other countries like France and Europe.
Polar Bear: Polar bears are found in Norway and Greenland. The population is around 3,000.
Eurasian Brown Bear: There’s an estimated population of 22,000 inhabiting Europe, 17,000 of which are Eurasian (or European) brown bears.
Moose: Moose are native to the countries of Norway, Sweden, Finland, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, the Czech Republic, Belarus, and Ukraine.
Wolf: There are five subspecies of grey wolves in Europe, the most common being the Eurasian wolf. The others include the Italian wolf, Iberian wolf, Tundra wolf, and Steppe wolf.

The Capercaillie, European Bee-eater, and Golden Eagle are all bird species originally found on the continent. Wildlife in Europe, like the rest of the world, is facing threats of endangerment from human encroachment and poaching. Protective measures continue to be implemented in order to preserve these nails and their natural environments.

Where To Find The Top Wild Animals

The Wisent, or European Bison, is one of the European “Big Five” wild animals tourists seek out.
©Szczepan Klejbuk/Shutterstock.com

It seems that each continent has its own “Big Five.” Europe is no different, featuring five particular wild animals that countless travelers desire to catch a glimpse of in their natural habitats. The European Big Five includes:

There are many more animals to view in the countries of Europe. Other popular animals are red or roe deer, European pine martens, chamois, golden eagles, otters, hedgehogs, varieties of owls and falcons, sables, foxes, wild boars, seals, and sea birds like the beloved puffin.

Below is a list of the best places to view the best of Europe’s stunning wildlife:

Kainuu Forest, Finland: Red-flanked bluetails, Ural owls, woodpeckers, black grouse, golden eagles, elks, lynxes, wolverines, wolves, bears, and flying squirrels.
Białowieża Forest, Poland: Lynxes, wolves, elks, and 56 other mammal species, 250 bird species including white-tailed eagles and rare woodpecker species, and about 900 of the famous European bison.
Pindus Mountains, Greece: 11 wildlife sanctuaries for spoonbills, egrets, herons, brown bears, red deer, otters, jackals, and wolves.
Southern Carpathian Mountains, Romania: Bears, lynxes, wolves, wild boars, red deer, roe deer, chamois, and wild cats.
Côa Valley, Portugal: Eagles, vultures, red-rumped swallows, alpine swifts, eagle owls, and black storks. Within is the Reserva da Faia Brava, an independent nature reserve that includes animals such as red deer, ibex, Iberian wolves, Maronesa cattle, and wild Garrano horses.
Highlands and Inner Hebrides, Scotland: Golden eagles, red deer, and mountain hares. At the Isle of Rum are sea eagles, otters, seals, ponies, wild goats, ponies, and red deer.
Svalbard, Norway: In the pine forests are lynxes, elks, wolves, and brown bears, while the northern fjords have orcas.
Norfolk, England: Sea birds and grey and common seals.
Spain: The National Park of Sierra de Andujar at Malaga has the unique and rare Iberian Lynx. Lizards, dromedaries, and goats are on the Canary Islands, and Tenerife has whales, dolphins, octopuses, rays, jellyfish, turtles, and coral.
France: The Camargue in Marseilles has beavers, bulls, boars, horses, and flamingos. The Pyrenees has chamois, otters, foxes, birds, deer, and bears. And the Alps and Vosges are home to Eurasian lynxes, wolves, and ibexes.

Native Birds

The Atlantic puffin can be viewed in European islands like Skomer Island in Wales and the Farne Islands off the east coast of England.
©Ronnie Robertson / Flickr

Comprised of several different countries, Europe is home to some of the greatest birdwatching sites in the world. Sweden is known for the Falsterbo Bird Observatory, a main location for multitudes of migrating birds, such as the Blue Tit and Bearded Reedling, flocking through the funnel made by the Baltic Sea and Oresund Sound.

Spring and summer are the best times to visit France’s Ornithological Park Pont de Gau in Camargue, as flamingoes are gathering for the breeding season.

Spain is also a delightful destination for those looking for migrations of birds, as its Doñana National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for the hundreds of herons that choose to nest here. Other species of bird, such as the Bee-eater and flamingo, roam the marshes bordering the forested areas.

One of the most unique and adorable birds, the Atlantic Puffin, resides along the coasts of Skomer Island in Wales, burrowing into the shore.

In sum, here is a list of the most popular birds to see in Europe:

The Most Dangerous Animals In Europe Today

What Eats Snakes — The wolverine is one of the most dangerous animals in Europe.
©iStock.com/ErikMandre

The European Bison is more dangerous than any bear, with bison mothers being prone to charging at anyone. Other dangerous mammals that are also some of the biggest animals are the Brown Bear, Wolverine, Eurasian Wolf, Wild Boar, and Polar Bear. All are predators except for the European Bison and the Wild Boar. The Great White Shark is another highly dangerous animal.

The Common or European Adder, a common poisonous snake throughout Europe, is a small viper that lives in many different habitats. The Asp Viper is another venomous, dangerous snake.

Some other dangerous animals are less obvious. The Castor Bean Tick transmits Lyme disease, Q fever, and tick-borne encephalitis, while the Portuguese Man O’War causes extreme pain, fever, shock, and respiratory issues which can lead to drowning. A relative of other black widow spiders, the Mediterranean Black Widow Spider is the most venomous spider on the continent. A pinprick-like bite results in severe pain and symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, rapid heart rate, and breathing difficulty.

Native Fish

Atlantic cod is one of the most common kinds of fish to be found in fish and chips consumed in the United Kingdom.
©slowmotiongli/Shutterstock.com

Europe is surrounded on three sides by water: the Atlantic Ocean, the Artic Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea. Within these waters are multitudes of marine species, ranging from porpoises to fish to bivalves. As for fishing, some of the most unique and beautiful places to fish, most commonly caught fish being:

Iceland is home to some of the best-managed fisheries in the world, having relied on them as a food source forever. Iceland’s rivers hold wild salmon, a popular and healthy fish to eat. Outside of the town of Reykjavik is Lake Thingvallavatn, best known for its monster-sized Brown Trout, weighing in at about 30lb. Halibut, Cod, Pollock, and Artic Char are also swimming in the waters of this lake.

Leading the way to the Mediterranean Sea lies Gibraltar, a favored spot for sport fishing for large, predatory fish, such as Sharks, Bluefin Tuna, and Marlin. Popular fish used in delicious local culinary dishes also include Snapper, Seabream, Dentex, and John Dory. The narrow straight makes it easy to find catches and to have an all-around good time.

Countless other popular fishing spots include the Canary Islands, Slovenia, parts of Ireland, Sardinia, and beautiful Greece. Europe is so expansive and diverse that it is not short of interesting new places to search for the perfect fishing spot.

Europe is also home to a number of rivers. European rivers include the Volga, Danube, Ural, and Rhine Rivers. Near just the Ural River alone there are 47 species of fish, 48 mammals, and a number of reptiles and migratory birds.

Native Snakes

Common adder on leaf litter. — The European adder is one of the venomous snakes found in parts of Europe.
©/Shutterstock.com

Vast and full of exciting sites to see, Europe is also home to some not-so-friendly animals, like venomous snakes. There are plenty of nonvenomous snakes existing throughout Europe’s many countries, such as the Sand Boa (Eastern Europe), the Smooth Snake (Northern and Central Europe), the Caspian Whip Snake (Eastern Europe), and the Leopard or Rat Snake (endemic to Europe).

However, several venomous species reside on the continent and should be looked out for. Some venomous snakes can cause more harm than others, like paralysis. A few venomous snakes with this ability found in Europe are:

Vipers
Long-nosed Vipers
European Adders
European Asp

Some less harmful but dangerous snakes include the Central Asian Pit Viper and the Halys Pit Viper. European Adders are common to the continent and widespread, while European Asps are mostly located in Southern Europe.

Snake bites are not always lethal but, in the event of a snake bite, always seek care from a medical professional in case of an unknown allergy or an unknown species.

Endangered European Animals

Beautiful pine marten on a branch in a tree. — The beautiful pine marten is one of Europe’s endangered species.
©iStock.com/Matt_Gibson

Many of the biggest mammals, including apex predators, are now extinct due to overhunting or encroachment. For this reason, bears (especially brown bears), and wolves are considered endangered in Europe. The Eurasian lynx is also endangered, while the Iberian lynx is considered the most endangered cat species in the world, at one point reaching a population of only 400 remaining in the wild. Fortunately, with conservation efforts, its numbers have reached 1,100 as of 2022.

Other animals that are facing the possibility of extinction include the Saiga antelope, European bison, and smaller predatory animals like the wolverine, pine marten, and European mink. Small rodents like the European ground squirrel and Bavarian pine vole are also at risk. Below is a list of more endangered European animals:

European Viper
European Pond Turtle
Eurasian Capercaillie
Goitered Gazelle
North Atlantic Right Whale
Monk Seal
Striped Hyena
Mehely’s Horseshoe Bat
Common Pipistrelle
Blue Chaffinch
Northern Bald Ibis
White Rumped Vulture

Extinct Animals in Europe

The three main species of extinct wildlife in Europe are the wooly mammoth, dwarf hippo, and dwarf elephant – large mammals that were hunted to extinction in prehistoric times.

Unique Animals in Europe

Two Raccoon Dogs in the forest — Raccoon dogs are an unusual relative of the fox, found in Siberia, Europe.
©663highland / CC BY-SA 3.0 – License

Some of the most common yet unique wild animals in Europe are weasel-like animals, like the European Mink, Marbled Polecat, and the European Pine or Sweet Marten. But they aren’t the only unique animals. Related to them is the Wolverine, which is one of the weirdest animals because it is elusive.

The European bison was considered endangered but populations are increasing, similar to the Chamois goat-antelope. The Raccoon Dog is related to the fox but looks like a raccoon. A mix between several European bat species is the Alpine Long-Eared Bat. The Puffin is a sea bird with a large, brightly colored beak.

The 5 Biggest European Animals

12 Animals of Christmas From Around the World - polar bear — The polar bear is the third largest land animal in Europe.
©Vaclav Sebek/Shutterstock.com

Believe it or not, the largest animal inhabiting Europe is a member of the domestic cattle family! Domestic cattle can get up to 3,000 pounds in weight. But the largest is the Chianini, also one of the oldest cattle breeds. It’s native to parts of Italy and can reach a whopping 3748 pounds in weight, and can stand up to 6 feet tall.

Below is a list of the top five largest European animals with their respective weights:

Domestic Cattle – 320 lbs to 3000 lbs
European Bison – 1700 lbs to 2200 lbs
Polar Bear – 330 lbs to 1760 lbs
Moose – 590 lbs to 1700 lbs
Brown Bear – 175 lbs to 1300 lbs

The 5 Rarest European Animals

Mediterrainean monk seal — Mediterranean monk seals are among the rarest in Europe.
©iStock.com/sewer11

The top five animals that are the rarest due to either their endangered status or elusiveness are as follows:

Arctic Fox
European Mink
Mediterranean Monk Seal
North Atlantic Right Whale
Polar Bear

Zoos in Europe

A variety of unique animals like the Sun Bear can be viewed at the Zoo of Basel.
©Tambako The Jaguar / Creative Commons

Europe holds around 2,000 zoos throughout the continent. Here is a list of some of the best-rates zoos:

Basel Zoo (Switzerland) – Open since 1874, “Zolli” is the country’s most popular attraction. It is known for breeding endangered species such as cheetahs, Indian rhinos, and okapi.
Edinburgh Zoo (Scotland) – Renowned as the first zoo in the world to house and breed penguins, as well as the first to home pandas and koalas. Open since 1913, Edinburgh Zoo exhibits almost 1,000 animals, with a chimpanzee exhibit even endorsed by Jane Goodall.
Tiergarten Schönbrunn (Austria) – The oldest zoo, open since 1792, is one of the most beautiful zoos in the world. Working toward conservation and education, this zoo was the first to have an elephant infant born in captivity, as well as the first natural panda inseminated birth in Europe. Tiergarten Schönbrunn is located on a royal historical site, the Schönbrunn Palace, one of Austria’s most admired attractions.

Within every European country lies one or more zoos, housing hundreds to thousands of native and exotic animals. Many of these zoos serve as conservational or rehabilitation sites, helping to preserve endangered species populations and help to reintroduce them into the wild.

European Countries Animals Lists

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

European Animals

Admiral Butterfly

Stunningly beautiful wings

Aesculapian Snake

Affenpinscher

First bred in 17th century Germany!

Airedale Terrier

Very intelligent, independent and strong-minded!

Akbash

Often used as a guard dog!

Allosaurus

Differnt Lizard” or Allosaurus weighed around two tonnes that is almost equal to a car.

Alpine Dachsbracke

Good companion and hard-working breed!

Alpine Goat

Alpine goats are the most common type of goat used for milk, cheese, and other dairy products

American Cockroach

Despite its name, actually originated from Africa and the Middle East

American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo has splendid all white fur and an upturned tail

American Robin

The color “Robin egg blue” is named after the hue of their eggs.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Guards it's master's flocks!

Angelshark

The angelshark’s range has contracted by more than 80% in the past century.

Angora Ferret

Was created as an accident.

Angora Goat

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

Ant

First evolved 100 million years ago!

Apennine Wolf

Wolves do not howl at the moon. They howl to communicate with other members of their pack.

Appenzeller Dog

Herding dog by nature!

Apple Moth

In Australia the LBAM causes $21.1 million annually in lost production and control costs

Archaeopteryx

Arctic Char

Arctic char is the northern-most fish; no other fish lives anywhere further north!

Arctic Fox

Extremely thick winter fur!

Armenian Gampr

Old school owners brush their coats with a rake once or twice a week, preventing major matting.

Armyworm

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

Arthropleura

Arthropleura was the largest terrestrial invertebrate to have ever lived

Ashy Mining Bee

N/A

Asian Lady Beetle

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

Asp

It was the symbol of royalty in Egypt, and its bite was used for the execution of criminals in Greco-Roman times.

Atlantic Cod

One of the most popular food fishes in the world

Aurochs

Extinct ancestor of all domesticated cattle!

Australorp Chicken

Australorp chickens are among the best egg producers in the world, Hens in Australia set consecutive world records with one laying 364 eggs in a single year!

Avocet

Has a curved, upturned beak!

Badger

Can reach speeds of 30 km/h!

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

Balkan Lynx

The Balkan lynx communicates mostly with its ears

Barbet

This dog has the nickname ‘Mud dog’ because it likes to play in muddy, swamp-like areas.

Barbut’s Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

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.

Barnevelder

The average lifespan of a Barnevelder chicken is 7 years. However, if cared for properly, these chickens can live up to 15 years old.

Bass

Prized by sport fishers for their size and strength

Basset Fauve de Bretagne

A friendly and intelligent hunting dog that loves nothing more than to spend time with its owner.

Basset Hound

Forget the training when not rewarded!

Bat

Detects prey using echolocation!

Bavarian Mountain Hound

Calm, quiet and poised!

Beagle

Have become popular family pets!

Bear

There are 8 different species!

Bearded Collie

Weekly brushing is mandatory!

Bearded Vulture

These birds eat a diet of bones

Beauceron

The Beauceron is named after the place of its origin (Beauce) in France

Beaver

Builds a dam from sticks and leaves!

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs feed for 4-12 minutes.

Bedlington Terrier

Highly active and intelligent dogs!

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.

Belgian Laekenois

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Sheepdog

Belgian Shepherd

The sheepdog is also known as the Groenendael. All four Belgian varieties have nicknames for Belgian villages.

Belgian Tervuren

The first breed to win an AKC Herding Championship.

Beluga Sturgeon

Bergamasco

Bergamascos are excellent problem solvers; they were bred to be independent as they work alongside their nomadic shepherd owners.

Berger Blanc Suisse

Berger Picard

Berger means shepherd in French

Bernese Mountain Dog

Very loyal, faithful and affectionate!

Bichon Frise

Gentle mannered, playful and affectionate!

Bird

Not all birds are able to fly!

Biscuit Beetle

The biscuit beetle form a symbiotic relationship with yeast

Black and White Warbler

Black Aphids

One of the most destructive pests in the world

Black German Shepherd

Thought to be aggressive, they are actually affectionate dogs with a protective streak.

Black Widow Spider

They typically prey on insects!

Blackpoll Warbler

They migrate for the longest distance of any warbler.

Blister Beetle

Blister beetles release a toxic fluid that causes blistering when they're threatened.

Bloodhound

Affectionate, gentle and even-tempered!

Blue Andalusian

Blue Andalusian chickens are a classic example used to teach students about genetics!

Blue Dragon Sea Slug

They inflict a painful, venomous sting

Blue German Shepherd

The Blue German Shepherd is not actually blue but dark gray.

Blue Picardy Spaniel

The Blue Picardy is also known as the Epagneul Bleu de Picardie in French

Blue Tit

The blue tit can hang upside down from branches

Bolognese Dog

From the northern Italian city of Bologna!

Bombardier Beetle

Spray a noxious solution from their abdomens

Booted Bantam

The feathers on the feet of tiny Booted Bantam chickens can reach up to six inches in length!

Border Collie

Highly intelligent and alert breed!

Border Terrier

Small, rough-coated breed of terrier!

Bouvier Des Flandres

A Bouvier cannot achieve a champion title in Belgium unless it has already won a prize as a working police or military dog.

Box-Headed Blood Bee

N/A

Box Tree Moth

Boxer Dog

Bright, energetic and playful!

Bracco Italiano

The Bracco Italiano is considered the oldest European pointer. It was a popular hunting dog during the Renaissance, being bred by both the Medici and Gonzaga families.

Brahma Chicken

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

Braque du Bourbonnais

This breed almost went extinct during the World Wars but was revived in the 1970s.

Braque Francais

The Braque Francais will not warn you of any potential threats but, instead, will try to befriend the stranger.

Brazilian Treehopper

“Mild-Mannered Minimonsters”

Briard

British Timber

Brittany

The breed was formerly known as the Brittany spaniel

Brown-banded Cockroach

Females glue egg cases to furniture

Brown Bear

A dominant predator in it's environment!

Brown Dog Tick

Can live its entire life indoors

Brown Headed Cowbird

Males are generally monogamous during mating season and will protect the female from other males. However, females tend to venture from their partners and mate with other males.

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon prefers to live with another dog so they have a companion to play with.

Buff Orpington Chicken

Buff Orpingtons love to sit on your lap.

Bull and Terrier

Bull and Terriers were explicitly bred for bull-baiting, a savage blood sport where certain dog breeds would attack an angered bull tied to a pole.

Bull Terrier

Needs to be kept active!

Bullboxer

Bullboxers have several different breed nicknames, including the pitoxer, bullboxer pit, and the American bull boxer.

Bulldog

Friendly, loving and docile!

Bullmastiff

Courageous, loyal and calm!

Bumblebee

The most common species of bee!

Butterfly

There are thought to be up 17,500 species!

Cabbage Moth

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

Cairn Terrier

Intelligent, lively and strong!

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.

Campine Chicken

Campine chickens were exported from Belgium by Julius Caesar!

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos nearly became extinct in the mid 1900’s, but the breed was revived by a group of Italians. Even so, they still didn’t become known in many other parts of the world until after 1988.

Caribou

Males and females grow antlers

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.

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.

Catalan Sheepdog

This breed is called the Gos d’Atura Catala in native Catalan and Pastor Catalan in Spanish, both of which roughly translate to mean Catalan Sheepdog

Caterpillar

The larvae of a moth or butterfly!

Catfish

There are nearly 3,000 different species!

Caucasian Mountain Dog (Shepherd)

The Caucasian mountain dog may look intimidating, but they are actually gentle, affectionate, and loyal family companions

Caucasian Shepherd

These former bear-hunting dogs are used today as prison guard dogs in Russia.

Cava Tzu

Females are more territorial than males, but you can train this behavior out of them.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Highly playful and affectionate!

Cave Bear

Cave bears may have been worshiped by primitive humans.

Cave Lion

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

Centipede

There are about 3,000 documented species!

Ceratopsian

Ceratosaurus

Cervalces latifrons (Broad-Fronted Moose)

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

Cesky Fousek

An affectionate hunting dog!

Cesky Terrier

This breed is also known as the Bohemian Terrier (Bohemia was an historical Medieval kingdom and a region of the modern Czech Republic)

Chamois

Natively found in the European mountains!

Chartreux

Chestnut-Sided Warbler

They inhabit regrowing forests

Chicken

First domesticated more than 10,000 years ago!

Chigger

Surviving on the skin cells of humans and animals

Cicada

Cicadas have one of the longest insect lifespans

Cigarette Beetle

N/A

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.

Clothes Moth

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

Clumber Spaniel

Has a thick, soft coat!

Cochin Chicken

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

Cockalier

The Cockalier has very strong hunting ancestry.

Cocker Spaniel

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.

Collie

Gentle and devoted!

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 Frog

Found throughout the European continent!

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 Loon

Also known as the Great Northern Diver

Common Raven

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

Common Toad

Most active in wet weather!

Compsognathus

Cormorant

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

Corn Rex Cat (Cornish Rex)

Coryphodon

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

Cow

There are nearly 1.5 billion worldwide!

Crab

There are 93 different crab groups

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

Croatian Sheepdog

They are an ancient breed dating back to the 7th century and made their way to Croatian lands giving them the name Croatian Sheep Dog.

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

Curly Coated Retriever

A lively and fun-loving breed!

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

This breed is also known as the Czechoslovakian Vlcak (the name for the German Shepherd).

Dachshund

Fun and playful breed of small dog!

Dalmatian

Have an energetic and playful nature!

Dalmatian Mix

These canine’s spots are distinctive in their placement, including different shaped markings, making them unique.

Damselfish

Damselfish belong to the family Pomacentridae

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is the only breed recognized by the AKC that is named after a literary character.

Danish Swedish Farmdog

Dapple Dachshund

A Dapple Dachshund’s dappling pattern may be just one spot, or it may be numerous spots and splashes on their coat.

Darkling Beetle

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

Deathwatch Beetle

The adult deathwatch beetle taps on the wood to find a mate.

Deer

There are around 40 different species!

Desert Locust

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

Deutsche Bracke

Has long drop ears and a long narrow tail!

Devil’s Coach Horse Beetle

The Devil’s coach horse beetle can emit a noxious substance to deter predators

Devon Rex

Diamondback Moth

Adult males make high amplitude boing noise to attract females

Dickinsonia

Dimetrodon

Dimetrodon was among the largest predators of the Early Permian Period.

Dinosaur Shrimp

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

Diving Bell Spider (Water Spider)

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

Doberman Pinscher

A gentle, loyal and loving breed!

Dog

First domesticated in South-East Asia!

Dog Tick

Dog ticks feed on dogs and other mammals

Dogue De Bordeaux

Extremely loyal and devoted to it's master!

Donkey

First domesticated 5,000 years ago!

Dorgi

The Dorgi is one of the more popular mixed breed dogs.

Dorking Chicken

They are docile birds, so do not mix them with dominant breeds like Cornish chickens and Old English Game.; otherwise, they will quickly fall to the bottom of the pecking order.

Dormouse

Found in Europe, Africa and Asia!

Dragonfly

It's larvae are carnivorous!

Drever

Uncommon outside of Europe!

Duck

Rows of tiny plates line their teeth!

Dung Beetle

The dung beetle can push objects many times its own weight

Dunker

A friendly and relaxed dog!

Dunkleosteus

Dunkleosteus had a bite force strong enough to cut through pirey.

Dunnock

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

Dusky Shark

The Dusky Shark sometimes eats trash discarded by humans.

Dutch Shepherd

Dwarf Hamster

dwarf hamsters love to explore at night.

Eagle

Has exceptional eyesight!

Eared Grebe

The most populous grebe in the world

Earthworm

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

Earwig

There are nearly 2,000 different species!

Edible Frog

Are known to guard the muddy banks!

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 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."

English Angora Rabbit

Pet angora rabbits are sometimes mistaken for fluffy dogs.

English Bulldog

Bulldogs were originally bred to “pin” bulls.

English Cocker Spaniel

Intelligent yet stubborn by nature!

English Cream Golden Retriever

Although their coats can get incredibly light in color, golden retrievers never have purely white coats.

English Crested Guinea Pig

Contrary to their name, English crested guinea pigs did not originate in the UK

English Foxhound

English Foxhounds were bred to work and live in a pack. Because of this, this breed is happiest when they are around other dogs.

English Longhorn Cattle

Although they look similar to the Texas Longhorn, they are not closely related.

English Pointer

English Setter

English Setters were first bred between 400 and 500 years ago.

English Springer Spaniel

Friendly and eager to please!

Entlebucher Mountain Dog

Native to parts of the Swiss Alps!

Epagneul Pont Audemer

Hard-working, gentle and affectionate!

Ermine

A very bold and ferocious predator!

Estrela Mountain Dog

Very protective and stubborn!

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 Sparrowhawk

Females are typically 25% larger than males.

Eurasian Wolf

Coloring depends on location.

Eurasier

This breed came about after Julius Wipfel, a German professor in the 1940s, crossed a chow chow with a German spitz with the hope of breeding the perfect spitz.

European Bee-Eater

They can eat up to 250 bees per day!

European Corn Borer

Female can lay up to 600 eggs in her 14-day lifespan

European Goldfinch

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

European Polecat

Its fur changes color in the winter!

European Robin

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

European Wildcat

A group of wild cats is called a destruction

Falcon

The fastest creatures on the planet!

Fallow deer

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

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!

Fer-de-lance Snake

The Most Dangerous Snake in the Americas

Ferret

Ferrets can be trained to do tricks like dogs!

Fiddler Crab

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

Field Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

Field Spaniel

A sociable and adaptable breed!

Finch

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

Finnish Lapphund

The Finnish Lapphund was bred to herd reindeer!

Finnish Spitz

Likes to bark a lot!

Fire-Bellied Toad

Found across mainland Europe and Asia!

Fire Salamander

Its name comes from the fact that people once believed it was born in fire

Firefly

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

Fishing Spiders

Fishing spiders have hydrophobic hair on their skin that allows them to survive on water

Flamingo

Sleeps on just one leg!

Flat-Coated Retriever

A game retrieving gun-dog!

Flea

Adult fleas can jump up to 7 inches in the air

Flea Beetle

Flea beetles can jump like fleas when threatened.

Fleckvieh Cattle

Besides being bred for milk and meat, these cattle were also used as draft oxen.

Flour Beetle

Flour beetles are adapted to survive in very dry environments.

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 Squirrel

Can glide up to 90 meters!

Forest Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

Fox

Only 12 species are considered "true foxes"

Fox Terrier

First bred in the mid-19th century!

French Bulldog

French bulldogs are known to be very sensitive, harboring emotions that they love to express

Freshwater Jellyfish

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

Fritillary Butterfly

Some emit noxious defense chemicals

Frizzle Chicken

Frizzle chickens are known for their frizzled feathers, which result from a genetic mutation.

Frog

There are around 7,000 different species!

Frug

Fruit Fly

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

Furrow Bee

N/A

Gadwall

They make many sounds when trying to attract a mate.

Galapagos Shark

Galapagos sharks are cannibalistic and sometimes eat their young, so the pups stay away from the adults in shallow water.

Garden Spider

Garden spiders bounce in their webs to confuse predators

Gastornis

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

Genet

The Genet has retractable claws like a cat

German Cockroach

The most common type of urban roach

German Longhaired Pointer

German Longhaired Pointers are excellent hunters-tracking, pointing, and retrieving game over land and water. They can jump up six feet high and make wonderful emotional support dogs!

German Pinscher

Highly intelligent and fast learners!

German Shepherd Guide

Highly active and fearless dogs!

German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointers are used by the Air Force, TSA, and other organizations to sniff out explosives.

German Spitz

There are five different sub-breeds of the German Spitz.

German Wirehaired Pointer

Giant House Spider

They are the fastest invertebrates in the U.K.

Giant Schnauzer

Large, powerful and dominant!

Glass Lizard

Can grow up to 4ft long!

Glen Of Imaal Terrier

This dog is also named the Wicklow Terrier after the county of its origin.

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 Eagle

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

Golden Irish

They can be known as Velcro dogs because they like sticking around and are always near their owners.

Golden Jackal

roaming and adaptable candids

Golden Oriole

Migrates between Europe and Asia!

Golden Retriever

Trusting, kind and gentle!

Gomphotherium

Goose

There are 29 different species!

Gordon Setter

It's the largest and heaviest breed of setter.

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!

Gray Catbird

Their songs have cat-like qualities and can mimic other birds and animals, like tree frogs.

Great Dane

Large and imposing in appearance!

Great Dane Mix

Great Dane mixed breed dogs tend to have a longer lifespan than Great Dane purebreds.

Great Egret

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

Great Pyrenees

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Protective and gentle by nature!

Grebe

They swim like frogs

Grey Heron

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

Greyhound

Extremely fast and athletic!

Griffon Vulture

Can spot a dead animal from thousands of feet away

Groenendael

These dogs are highly trainable and can learn excellent manners!

Ground Squirrel

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

Grouse

Feathered legs and toes!

Gypsy Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

Gypsy Moth

One of the most invasive species in the world

Gypsy Moth Caterpillar

N/A

Hainosaurus

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

Hairy-footed Flower Bee

N/A

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!

Harbor Porpoise

Surprisingly, not a dolphin!

Hare

Can reach speeds of over 50 mph!

Harlequin Rabbit

Harrier

Cheerful, tolerant and sweet-tempered!

Hatzegopteryx

Hatzegopteryx was one of the largest flying animals to have ever lived.

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.

Highland Cattle

Natively found in the Scottish Highlands!

Hippopotamus gorgops

The eyes of Hippopotamus gorgops were positioned on eyestalks which allowed it to see above the water surface when submerged.

Hobo Spider

The Hobo Spider travels city to city like an actual Hobo and is often found near railroad tracks!

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.

Hooded Seal

Hooded seal pups are called bluebacks because the color of the fur on their back is blue-gray. This pretty color made people want to make fur coats out of them and made them a target for hunters.

Hoopoe

Stunning bird with a stinky way to deter predators!

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

Hornet

Hornets are a type of wasp.

Horse

Has evolved over 50 million years!

Horse Mackerel

Got their name from a myth that other fish would ride them over great distances

Horsefly

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

Houdan Chicken

The Houdan chicken has a round, fluffy crest and five toes on each foot!

House Sparrow (English Sparrow)

The house sparrow has been introduced all over the world

Housefly

The fly has no teeth

Hovawart

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

Ibizan Hound

Intelligent, active and engaging by nature!

Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog is the only dog breed entirely native to Iceland.

Ichthyosaurus

Gave birth to live young instead of laying eggs like other reptiles

Iguanodon

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!

Irish Setter

Has a beautiful coat that's flowing and feathered!

Irish Terrier

An average 300 Irish Terrier puppies are born each year in the United States.

Irish Water Spaniel

They are the only known dogs with a purple hue!

Irish WolfHound

Sweet-tempered, patient and thoughtful!

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a miniature dog with a big motor and personality!

Ivy Bee

N/A

Jack Crevalle

One of the biggest species in the Caranx genus

Jack Russells

Intelligent, athletic and fearless!

Jackal

Can maintain speeds of 16 km/h!

Jackdaw

The jackdaw tends to mate for life with a single partner

Jagdterrier

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

John Dory

The John Dory is often labeled one of the ugliest fish in the world and has no known relatives.

Jumping Spider

Some can jump 50 times the length of their bodies

Kangal Shepherd Dog

Can run up to 35 miles per hour (56km).

Katydid

Keeshond

Friendly, alert dogs that are loyal to their owners

Kerry Blue Terrier

They are born black, and turn gray-blue as they age.

Kestrel

Can hang suspended on wind currents

Khao Manee

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

Killifish

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

King Eider

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

Kingfisher

Inhabits wetlands and woodlands worldwide!

Kissing Bugs

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

Kitefin Shark

Komondor

Kooikerhondje

If Kooikerhondjes look familiar, it’s because old Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Jan Steen liked to paint them.

Kuvasz

Ownership of this dog was once restricted to the Hungarian nobility

Labmaraner

Loves to participate in activities.

Labrador Retriever

Well-balanced, friendly and versatile!

Lace Bug

May bite when threatened

Ladybug

There are more than 5,000 species worldwide!

Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo is the only internationally recognized purebred truffle-hunting dog.

Lakeland Terrier

These dogs were once used by farmers to keep foxes away from herds of sheep.

Lancashire Heeler

The name “heeler” comes from the fact that it nips at the heels of cattle to herd them.

Lapponian Herder

This breed is also known as the Lapp Reindeer Dog and the Lapsk Vallhund.

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.

Large Munsterlander

Some people might find the Large Munsterlander too lively for their family, but they are actually very gentle with children and make fantastic family pets.

Largemouth Bass

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

Lazarus Lizard

Lazarus Lizards can communicate through chemical and visual signals.

Leafcutter Bee

N/A

Leech

Has 10 pairs of eyes!

Leedsichthys

Leedsichthys is one of the largest fish ever discovered

Leghorn Chicken

Leghorn chickens, one of the most popular industrial breeds, lay up to 320 eggs per year!

Lemming

Does not hibernate during the bitter Arctic winter!

Leonberger

This dog has been used for pulling carts full of goods.

Leptocephalus

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

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.

Liopleurodon

Liopleurodon were fast swimmers that lived entirely under water, but they had no gills

Liopleurodon

One of the largest pliosaurs to ever live

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-Haired Rottweiler

Rottweilers have a tendency to snore.

Long-Tailed Tit

Often hangs upside down while feeding!

Lowchen

This breed is also known as the "Little Lion Dog" for their bravery and manes.

Lurcher

Lykoi Cat

Wolf like domestic cat breed

Lynx

Live in dens in rocks and under ledges!

Magpie

They are found across Europe, Asia and Africa!

Magyarosaurus

Magyarosaurus is the smallest sauropod dinosaur to have ever lived

Mallard

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

Maltese

Originally bred in Europe!

Manchester Terrier

Fences are no match for Manchester terriers. They’re great escape artists!

Marans Chicken

Marans chickens produce some of the darkest, chocolate-brown eggs in the world!

Maremma Sheepdog

Marmot

A marmot spends 80% of its life below ground

Marsh Frog

Has bright green skin!

Marsican Brown Bear

They do not fall completely asleep during hibernation but wake up from time to time during the winter to walk around.

Mason Bee

N/A

Mastiff

Courageous, calm and affectionate!

Mayfly

There are 2,500 known species worldwide!

Mealworm Beetle

In 1968, the mealworm beetle traveled to space and circled the moon on the Soviet mission Zond 5.

Mealybug

They have a symbiotic relationship with ants.

Merganser

They line their nests with their feathers

Millipede

Some species have a poisonous bite!

Mini Lop

One of the cutest and most popular rabbits

Miniature Bull Terrier

This dog has a very happy-go-lucky temperament.

Miniature Pinscher

Stable rodents were kept in check by using it as a barnyard ratter.

Mink

The mink can swim up to 100 feet underwater.

Modern Game Chicken

The Modern Game chicken is a lanky bird with legs that go for days!

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.

Mollusk

Most molluscs have more than one heart

Monarch Butterfly

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

Mongrel

Has characteristics of two or more breeds!

Moorhen

Feeds on aquatic insects and water-spiders!

Moose

Renews it's enormous antlers every year!

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!

Mouse

Found on every continent on Earth!

Mudi

Mudi dogs have a reputation for being able to control a herd of 500 sheep.

Mule

The offspring of a horse and donkey parents!

Muntjac

The muntjac is the smallest type of deer in the world

Muskox

Muskox have several physical characteristics that allow them to survive in the Arctic climate.

Muskrat

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

Naegleria

Causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis

Natterjack

Can lay up to 7500 eggs

Neanderthal

Roamed Asia and Europe for around 100,000 years!

Neapolitan Mastiff

Fearless and extremely protective of it's home!

Nematode

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

Netherland Dwarf Rabbit

The Netherland dwarf rabbit is the smallest domestic rabbit breed in the world.

Newt

Able to regrow lost or damaged limbs!

Night Heron

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

Nightingale

Named more than 1,000 years ago!

No See Ums

There are more than 5,000 species.

Norfolk Terrier

Fearless but not aggressive!

Norrbottenspets

Getting your hands on one of these pups might be a challenging task. At one point, the breed was on the brink of extinction.

Northern Inuit Dog

Northern Pintail

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

Norway Rat

Norwegian Buhund

The Norwegian Buhund once worked on Norse homesteads

Norwegian Elkhound

This breed traveled with the Vikings!

Norwegian Forest

Has a long, thick double coat of fur!

Norwegian Lundehund

This breed is also called the Norsk Lundehund and the Norwegian Puffin Dog

Nose-Horned Viper

The fangs of a nose-horned viper can be as long as half an inch!

Nut Weevil

Bore holes in tree nuts and lay their eggs inside

Nuthatch

Nuthatches spend a lot of their time upside down.

Nutria

An invasive species, one female nutria can birth up to 200 babies in just a few years of living!

Old English Sheepdog

Intelligent, sociable and playful!

Old House Borer

Depending on the habitat and climate, these beetles can live between 2 to 10 years, often staying in their larval stage for several years, making them extremely dangerous to wooden structures.

Oleander Hawk Moth

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

Olm

Inhabits dark underwater caves

Orange Spider

Orange spiders make vertically-oriented webs for catching prey.

Orb Weaver

Females are about four times the size of males

Oriental Cockroach

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

Ornithocheirus

Scientists once considered the Ornithocheirus an ancestor to modern birds

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.

Oscar Fish

The Oscar fish has teeth in its throat!

Osprey

They reuse nesting sites for 70 years!

Otter

There are 13 different species worldwide

Otterhound

Otterhounds have webbed feet making them great swimmers!

Owl

The owl can rotate its head some 270 degrees

Owlfly (Ascalaphidae)

Adult owlflies can capture prey while flying in the air.

Pacific Coast Tick

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

Palaeophis

This snake was as long as a school bus!

Pantaloon Bee

N/A

Papillon

Originally called the Toy Spaniel, the Papillon is one of the oldest breeds in the toy group. They can be found in artwork dating back to the 16th century.

Parakeet

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

Parson Russell Terrier

The root stock of the breed was a dog named Trump

Parti Schnauzer

Parti Schnauzers are great pest controllers. They were bred to catch rodents, so if you have a rat problem, they might be the pet for you.

Partridge

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

Patterdale Terrier

A Patterdale Terrier’s small body structure allows it to squeeze into fox burrows.

Peacock Butterfly

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

Pelagornis

The Pelagornis is larger than the largest living bird today.

Pelagornithidae

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

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II

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

Peregrine Falcon

Fastest animal on Earth

Perro De Presa Canario

The breed has feet like a cat, with rounded toes that are not too close together. His unique feet give him a distinctive, long, elastic stride.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

A small dog with a big, lively personality.

Pharaoh Hound

The blushing dog of Malta.

Pheasant

Females lay between 8 and 12 eggs per clutch!

Phoenix Chicken

These small chickens have tails that can be up to five feet long!

Phytosaurs

Picardy Spaniel

Picardy spaniels are one of the few working dogs that do well in apartments as long as they get their long walks every day.

Piebald Dachshund

Hotdogs were originally called "Dachshund sausages" because they resembled the dachshund's wiener-like body!

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 Salmon

The smallest of the North American salmon

Pit Bull

It is a myth that pit bulls have locking jaws.

Pliosaur

Pliosaurs were the short-necked version of plesiosaurs.

Pocket Beagle

Queen Elizabeth I of England once owned several Pocket Beagles!

Pocket Pitbull

The smaller size of the Pocket Pitbull made it better suited for fleeing game as compared to larger Foxhounds.

Podenco Canario

It has a peculiar bark that locals refer to as "the song of the rabbit".

Pointer

An independent, loyal and high energy breed!

Polacanthus

Spiky Herbavore that looks like "bowser"

Polar Bear

Could be extinct within the next 30 years!

Polecat

They can run at a speed of 15mph

Polish Chicken

The Polish chicken has a large, feathered crest supported by a round, bony prominence on the skull!

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Despite having shaggy hair that covers its eyes, this dog is known for its watchful gaze when guarding a herd.

Polish Tatra Sheepdog

This gigantic breed is known for its guardian skills, but they are non-aggressive and always manage to stay calm towards people and animals.

Pompano Fish

They are bottom-feeders

Pond Skater

There are 500 different species!

Poodle

Intelligent, alert and active!

Pool Frog

The rarest amphibian in the UK!

Porcupine

There are 30 different species worldwide!

Portuguese Podengo

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is considered to be quite possibly the world’s smallest hunting dog.

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.

Pterodactyl

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

Pudelpointer

Like their poodle parent, Pudelpointers love to swim in pools!

Puffin

Can remain in the water for up to 2 minutes!

Pugapoo

The pugapoo is the fusion of a pug and a poodle.

Puli

Pumi

Pumik developed their loud bark to communicate with shepherds at long distances.

Purple Emperor Butterfly

Inhabits deciduous forests!

Puss Moth

Caterpillars squirt formic acid!

Pyrenean Mastiff

Pyrenean Shepherd

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

Known to wash their food before eating it!

Raccoon Dog

The only hibernating canine!

Rat

Omnivores that eat anything!

Rat Snakes

Rat snakes are constrictors from the Colubridae family of snakes.

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 Kite

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

Red-Tailed Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

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.

Redcap Chicken

Unfortunately, redcap hens are not good mothers, as they are not broody and unenthusiastic about sitting on their eggs.

Redstart

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

Reindeer

Also known as the Caribou

Rex Rabbit

The King of Rabbits

Rhea

Male rheas mate with up to a dozen females and single-handedly raise up to 80 chicks at once!

Rhino Beetle

Rhinoceros beetles can lift objects 850 times their weight

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!

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.

Rottweiler

Strong, loyal and self-assured!

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.

Ruddy Duck

Ruddy duck breeding males have bright blue bills!

Ruddy Turnstone

They flip over stones to find prey

Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier was bred to be a good fox hunter with a keen sense of smell

Saanen Goat

The saanen goat is the most popular milk breed.

Saarloos Wolfdog

Sable Black German Shepherd

According to the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the United States

Sable Ferret

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

Sable German Shepherd

The gene responsible for their color is also found in wolves.

Saint Bernard

Gentle, loyal and friendly!

Salamander

There are more than 700 different species!

Saluki

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

Sand Crab

The sand crab burrows beneath the sand with its tail

Sand Lizard

Males turn green in spring!

Sandpiper

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

Sandworm

Legs also function as gills

Sarplaninac

Saturniidae Moth

Some of the largest moths in the world

Sauropoda

Sauropods lived in herds.

Scarab Beetle

The ancient Egyptians worshipped scarabs.

Schapendoes

The Schapendoes numbers decreased significantly during the Second World War, along with many other European Sheepdog breeds.

Schipperke

Schipperkes were used to hunt and kill rodents on Belgian ships.

Scorpion

There are around 2,000 known species!

Scotch Collie

Scotch collies are one of the oldest collie breeds and were eventually bred to create the more popular border collie!

Scottish Deerhound

"The Royal Dog of Scotland"

Scottish Terrier

This breed is nicknamed the “Diehard” because of its iron will and steely determination.

Scutosaurus

Unlike most reptiles, Scutosaurus' legs were positioned underneath its body to support its great weigh

Sea Eagle

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

Sea Roach

They breathe through gills but live on land

Sea Trout

Change colors in freshwater and saltwater

Seagull

Some gulls are capable of using tools

Seahorse

Males give birth to up to 1,000 offspring!

Sealyham Terrier

Very endangered breed that is scion of several breeds that include one that is already extinct

Sedge Warbler

Males never sing the same song twice

Seymouria

Although Seymouria had so many reptilian features, it was an amphibian

Sheep

Around 35 million in the English countryside!

Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdogs are one of the most successful breeds at obedience trials.

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!

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

Skye Terrier

Skye terriers are the oldest terrier breed, dating back at least 400 years.

Slovak Cuvac

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 Fox Terrier

These dogs are known for their fast digging abilities.

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

Snowy Owl

One of the largest owl species in the world!

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.

Spadefoot Toad

They spend most of their time underground!

Spanish Goat

They have long, horizontal ears.

Spanish Mastiff

Diego Velázquez’s famous 17th century painting of the Infanta and her dwarves includes a portrait of a Spanish Mastiff.

Spanish Water Dog

Spanish water dogs are popular with fishermen and hunters to retrieve game from the water.

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 Wasp

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

Spinone Italiano

They're one of the oldest hunting breeds on Earth.

Spinosaurus

The Spinosaurus is the biggest carnivorous dinosaur ever discovered!

Spongy Moth

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

Spongy Moth

In March of 2022, the Entomological Society of America changed the name of this insect from the European gypsy moth to the spongy moth out of respect for the Romani community, which considers the word "gypsy" to be offensive.

Squirrel

Small rodents found in woodlands worldwide!

Stabyhoun

It is a versatile, all-around working breed and pet.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Known for their loyalty to their family!

Stag Beetle

The stag beetle consumes rotting and decaying wood when it is in the larva stage.

Standard Schnauzer

This dog’s facial hair makes it look like it has a beard.

Stick Insect

There are more than 3,000 different species!

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.

Striped Hyena

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

Sultan Chicken

Sultan chickens were bred for royalty and have more unique and distinctive features than any other breed!

Supersaurus

Superworm

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

Sussex Chicken

These chickens are curious and love to investigate anything new, especially if it contains a delicious treat. They love to follow their keepers around the yard and will be your companion when gardening.

Swallow

swallows have aerodynamic bodies for hunting in flight

Swallowtail Butterfly

N/A

Swallowtail Caterpillar

N/A

Swan

Populations have been affected by pollution!

Swedish Elkhound

Swedish Elkhounds existed in prehistoric times!

Swedish Lapphund

"The Black Beauty of Norrland"

Swedish Vallhund

Syrian Hamster

Can get used to and respond to human voice

Tamaskan

Tarantula

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

Tawny Mining Bee

N/A

Tawny Owl

The most widespread owl in Europe!

Teacup Maltese

Greeks used to build tombs for their Maltese.

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.

Termite

Their mounds can be up to 9 meters tall!

Terrier

Terriers were once the greatest dogs in the world.

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.

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 Moth

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

Tiger Trout

As tiger trout are sterile, they cannot produce offspring. However, they do have relatively long lifespans and can live up to 10 years in captivity.

Titanosaur

Among the largest land animals to ever exist

Tornjak

Tornjaks are very adaptable and can live harmoniously in packs as they get along well with other dogs.

Tortoise

Can live until they are more than 150 years old!

Toy Poodle

The word poodle is derived from German, and it means "to splash" or "puddle."

Transylvanian Hound

The Transylvanian Hound is also known as the Erdelyi Kopo in Hungarian

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!

Treecreeper

Their tailfeathers help them maintain their balance on a tree trunk

Treehopper

The colors, shapes, and intricacies of treehoppers’ helmets makes them unique and visually stunning.

Trout

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

Turkish Angora

A breed that originated in central Turkey!

Turnspit

The turnspit was a small breed, weighing between 15 to 25 pounds and measuring 8 to 12 inches tall.

Turtles

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

Tussock Moth

N/A

Tussock Moth Caterpillar

N/A

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

Utonagan

Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee

N/A

Viper

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

Vizsla

Vizsla means searcher or tracker in Hungarian

Vole

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

Volpino Italiano

Almost went extinct before American Eskimo Dog breeders showed interest.

Vulture

There are 30 different species worldwide!

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 Vole

The largest Vole species in the UK!

Wax Moth

The Wax Moth larvae are more dangerous than the adult.

Weasel

The smallest carnivorous mammal in the world!

Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is nicknamed the gray ghost.

Wels Catfish

The Wels catfish is O the largest freshwater fish in the world.

Welsh Black Cattle

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

Welsh Corgi

There are two distinct breeds!

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.

Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier has the strength and tenacity to take on foxes and badgers.

West Highland Terrier

Most commonly white in colour!

Wheaten Terrier

Originally bred as a farm dog, the Wheaten Terrier can be very protective of its domain.

Whimbrel

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

Whinchat

The whinchat can imitate the songs of at least a dozen other tpes of birds!

Whippet

Quiet, gentle and restful dogs!

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-shouldered House Moth

The larva is the pest because a fully-grown white-shouldered house moth cannot feed; it can only absorb liquid

White-Tailed Eagle

It is one of the biggest birds of prey.

Whiting

"Whiting" can refer to certain other species of ray-finned fish

Wild Boar

Males have a top tusk to sharpen the bottom one!

Willow Warbler

This bird molts twice a year.

Winter Moth

Only the males fly and the females walk.

Wire Fox Terrier

The Wire Fox Terrier was bred from the now extinct Rough Coated Black and Tan Terrier to hunt down foxes.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

A Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s coat makes it look like it has a mustache and beard!

Wirehaired Vizsla

Wiwaxia

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

Wolf

Thought to date back more than 300,000 years!

Wolf Spider

Carnivorous arachnid that hunts its prey.

Wolverine

Releases a strong smelling musk in defence!

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.

Wyandotte Chicken

The Wyandotte chicken was the first dual-purpose American chicken bred for both meat and eggs!

Xeme (Sabine’s Gull)

They follow after seals and whales to eat their scraps.

Xenacanthus

Smal eel-like ancient shark

Xenoposeidon

They may have acted as 'gardeners' to clear vegetation and disperse seeds through their feces.

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-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.

Yorkshire Terrier

Highly energetic and eager for adventure!

Zebra Mussels

A female zebra mussel can deposit 30,000 to 1,000,000 eggs each year!

European Animals List

About the Author

Austin S.

Growing up in rural New England on a small scale farm gave me a lifelong passion for animals. I love learning about new wild animal species, habitats, animal evolutions, dogs, cats, and more. I've always been surrounded by pets and believe the best dog and best cat products are important to keeping our animals happy and healthy. It's my mission to help you learn more about wild animals, and how to care for your pets better with carefully reviewed products.

Europe FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Which animals are found in Europe?

Foxes (especially red foxes), jackals, martens, hedgehogs, snakes and other reptiles, amphibians, insects, and various birds, including birds of prey. There are many herbivores including snails, rodents, deer, boars and other mammals. Many sea creatures exist as well, including fish, whales, dolphins, molluscs, crustaceans, squids, and octopuses.

What are the Big 5 animals in Europe?

The European Bison, the lynx, the wolverine, the brown bear, and the wolf.

What is the weirdest animal in Europe?

European wildlife has some of the weirdest animals around. The Chamois and the Wolverine are just a couple of examples.

Why does Europe have no dangerous animals?

Many of the biggest mammals, which are dangerous top predators, were hunted until they went extinct, while others are currently endangered. But this doesn’t mean there aren’t any dangerous animals.