Animals in the United States

Below you can find a complete list of USA animals. We currently track 1056 animals in the United States and are adding more every day!

The list of indigenous United States animals is long and includes well-known creatures like coyotes and raccoons and lesser-known animals like the glass lizard and adorable pika. The incredible 2,972 estimated animals native to the United States make it one of only 17 megadiverse countries in the world. The United States features over 400 known mammals, nearly 800 birds, over 300 reptiles, nearly 300 amphibians, and over 1,100 fish species!

The Two National Animals Of The United States

The American Bison was declared the national mammal of the United States on May 9, 2016.
©Tim Malek/Shutterstock.com

Surprisingly, the United States is one of a few countries that has TWO national animals. The first is the well-known Bald Eagle. Once on the verge of extinction, the Bald Eagle population has rebounded in recent years and is widely considered the ultimate success of the Endangered Species Act.

Originally, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams were tasked with choosing a new seal for the nascent United States, but after failing to do so, the responsibility fell to Charles Thomson, the secretary of Congress. Thomson made an American Bald eagle sketch, originally holding an olive branch and arrows in each talon, these represented the power of peace and war. His design was accepted and the Bald Eagle became the national bird of the United States on September 16, 1782.

The second United States national animal is the American Bison, the largest land mammal in North America. The American Bison was declared the national mammal of the United States much more recently, on May 9, 2016.

Once abundant across the country with millions spanning all across North America, the American Bison population once fell as low as a few hundred. After aggressive conservation efforts total populations have rebounded but still remain near threatened today. There are 17 known bison herds in the United States that number about 10,000 today.

Other countries with more than one national animal include Australia, the Bahamas, and Canada.

Where to Find The Top Wild Animals In the United States

Grey wolf looks straight ahead — If you want a chance to see a grey wolf in the U.S., visit Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks.
©AB Photographie/Shutterstock.com

With so much land area and so many different environments, the list of animals native to the USA is long and diverse. Here is a list of where you can see some of the most famous wild animals in the United States.

Bald Eagle – After a resurgence in the population Bald Eagles can now be found in many US states, most commonly near bodies of water like reservoirs, rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. The Klamath Basin Refuges in California is home to the largest known concentration of Bald Eagles, with up to 1,000 birds present there.
American Bison – With a herd of nearly 5,000, Yellowstone National Park is the best place to see American Bison in the United States. The Lamar and Hayden Valleys are the most consistent area of bison sightings. The National Bison Range in Montana is another good place to view American Bison
Grey Wolves – Grey Wolves are hard to spot in the United States. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates the total population at around 13,000, including Alaska. For the best chance of a grey wolf sighting in the US visit Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks.
Beaver – The semiaquatic American Beaver is found in most US states near rivers, marshes, ponds, and other slow-moving bodies of water. They are most active at night and can frequently be heard slapping their tails to warn of danger before they can be seen.
American Black Bear – The most widely distributed bear species in the United States the black bear is a common sight in trees forests, swamps, and mountains, particularly in the northeastern part of the United States. Though, black bears can also be found through the midwest, rocky mountain region, and as far south as Georgia.
Cougar – The North American cougar can be found in the Western United States and parts of Florida. After spartan populations for many years, cougars are also starting to rebound in parts of the US midwest. Though the animal is not endangered, populations are low and sightings are rare.

The Most Dangerous Animals In the United States Today

Two Grizzly Bears fighting in water — Bears’ muscular build, heavy body, sharp claws, and ability to run makes it an animal to be feared and respected.
©AndreAnita/Shutterstock.com

While many of the US animals are non-threatening, there are a few dangerous ones as well. The most dangerous animals in the USA include:

Killer Bees – estimated to have killed 1,000 people in recent decades. Killer Bees are not actually a naturally occurring type of bee, but the result of a hybrid bee created by Biologist Warwick E. Kerr. Imported in the 1950s, these bees are significantly more aggressive than other bee types and have been known to chase humans for long distances when defending their hives
Grizzly bears – Grizzlys cause an average of 3 fatal attacks in the United States each year, despite being largely isolated to Alaska and the northwestern part of the United States. But the enormous size of bears at nearly 500 pounds, surprising speeds of up to 35mph, and the highly protective instincts of mother bears make them a very deadly creature to cross when cubs are near.
Black Widow Spiders – Black widows are abundant throughout the United States. In 2013 alone there were 1,866 reported bites alone. While only a minority of bites are deadly, the powerful neurotoxins can still be damaging. Symptoms include cramping, headaches, fever, and nausea.
Rattlesnakes – Rattlesnakes can be found all over North America, the midwest, and The United States. There are an estimated 5 deaths and 7,000 – 8,000 reported bites by rattlesnakes in the US every year. As human populations expand the number of rattlesnakes and human encounters is increasing dramatically. Fortunately, there is a nearly guaranteed survival rate from a rattlesnake bite if anti-venom is administered within two hours.

The 7 Rarest Animals in the United States

The Florida panther is the only species from the puma family that lives in the U.S.
©U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region / CC BY 2.0, Flickr – License

With so many animals in the United States for centuries, some have become endangered and on the verge of extinction. Here are the top 7 rarest animals you will see in the United States:

Florida Panther — This animal is the only species from the puma family that breeds in the United States. Florida panthers are easily the most dominant land predators in their home range. They can run up to 35 miles per hour and can leap more than 15 feet. This animal was one of the first listed under the Endangered Species Act in 1973.
Red Wolf — This wolf species is native to the southeastern United States, though its habitat once extended from Texas in the west down to Florida and up into the Midwest. There are only 100 red wolves left in the wild, making it one of the rarest in the world. Its size is between the coyote and the gray wolf, its close cousin.
Florida Manatee — Though they are called called sea cows, the Florida manatee more closely relates to an elephant. While they don’t have many natural predators, humans are a huge threat to these creatures. Florida manatees spend much of their time grazing on vegetation in shallow water and can eat as much as 10% to 15% of their body weight each day.
Black-Footed Ferret — These solitary animals are actually big talkers! They communicate with one another by chattering, hissing, and whining. You probably won’t see them often as they sleep 21 hours each day and are only active at night. Their habitat is Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, and Arizona, and their main food group is prairie dogs.
Loggerhead Sea Turtle — This sea turtle species is the world’s largest hard-shelled turtle. The largest ever seen weighed 1,202 lbs. They are widespread throughout the world, but as far as the U.S., they make their home in the southern Atlantic ocean around Florida, Georgia, and North & South Carolina.
Mississippi Gopher Frog — Also called the dusky gopher frog, it is only found in the state of Mississippi. There are only about 100-250 members of the population left in the wild. Sadly, this amphibian is almost extinct, and conservationists are making big strides to bring the population of this frog back.
Woodland Caribou — Often called reindeer, these animals live in Washington state and Idaho. Surpisingly both males and females have antlers and their fur color largely depends on where they live. The reason for their endangered status has to do with being hunted often for their meat.

The 5 Largest Animals in the United States

Alligator — The American alligator can move up to 15 mph on land!
©iStock.com/Cindy Larson

The United States has some pretty big animals, as we have mentioned above. Do you know the largest animals in this country? Here are 5:

Blue Whale — Tipping the scales at 448,000 pounds, the blue whale’s tongue alone can weigh as much as an adult elephant! It is the largest animal in the world. However, it is usually harmless to humans, instead eating krill, up to 8,000 pounds of them per day.
Great White Shark — These sharks are the largest predatory fish species in the world, known to grow to more than 26 feet long, weigh more than 4,000 pounds, and swim up to 15 mph. The great white shark is often called a “man-eater” because up to half of the annual shark attacks on humans reportedly are caused by this species.
Alaska Moose — The largest of the deer species and the tallest mammals in North America, moose can stand 6 feet from ground to shoulder as fully grown adults. Adult male moose weigh between 1200 and 1800 pounds and can actually run up to 35 mph. Watch out for those antlers! They also can grow up to 6 feet long.
American Alligator — Mostly living in Florida and Louisiana, these fearsome creatures can grow up to 15 feet in length. They also can live as long as 50 years! Don’t get too close; they can move up to 15 mph on land and are not afraid to attack humans.
California Condor — These are the largest bird in the United States and have been around for at least 40,000 years. With a 9-foot-long wingspan, the California condor soar in the sky over the wild open country of the Southwest. Condors scavenge the carcasses of deer and moose for their dinner.

The Flag of the United States of America

The flag of the United States of America is comprised of thirteen horizontal stripes, six in white and seven in red. The upper left corner has a blue square with fifty white stars representing the fifty US states. The colors themselves have rich meanings with red symbolizing valor and hardiness, blue representing justice and perseverance, and white for purity and high ideals.

There are a few nicknames for the flag including the Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, and the Star-Spangled Banner.

As to who designed the first flag, it is hard to say. Betsy Ross did not, in fact, sew the first American flag, as the rumor goes. There is also another young woman, Rebecca Young, who claimed to have sewn the first flag. She was, in fact, a flag seamstress during the American Revolution and her daughter, Mary Pickersgill, is known to have made the famous Star-Spangled Banner Flag.

Another person, a man named Fracis Hopkinson of New Jersey, was rumored to have designed the first U.S. flag, in addition to a flag for the U.S. Navy. He also was a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Read about:

all venomous snakes that can be found in the United States.
snakes that live in America’s Southern States
the most common rat species in the United States.
four animals invading the United States.
the most beautiful national parks in the United States.
the least crowded national parks in the summer.
the prettiest state parks in the United States.
the longest hiking trail in the United States.
the longest biking trails in the United States.
the oldest lake in the United States.
the best lakes in the United States for fishing.
the most leech-infested lakes in the United States.
the U.S. states that have no rattlesnakes.
the longest trail in the United States.
the most dangerous plants in the United States.
the largest zoo in the United States.
the most popular national parks in the United States.
the fastest rivers in the United States.
the cleanest lakes in the United States.
the largest dams in the United States.
the largest ports in the United States.
the most beautiful lakes in the United States.
the best lakes to camp in the United States.
the best camping spots in the United States.

U.S. States Animal Lists

Click any of the states below to see a detailed list of animals located in that state!

American Animals

Acadian Flycatcher

Their nests are sloppily held together and have an abandoned appearance

Admiral Butterfly

Stunningly beautiful wings

Agkistrodon Contortrix

Agouti

The agouti is one of the only animals that can crack open Brazil nut pods!

Airedoodle

This is a great pooch for rough-housing and one-to-one.

Akita Shepherd

The Akita Shepherd descends from a lineage of working dogs.

Alaskan Husky

The Alaskan Husky is one of the most common sled dogs in the world

Alaskan Klee Kai

Alaskan Klee Kais love to communicate with their families. In addition to barking, they make other vocalizations, such as yodeling and howling.

Alaskan Malamute

Often used as sled dogs!

Alaskan Pollock

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

Alaskan Shepherd

This dog’s Malamute ancestors once came to America across the Bering Strait.

Albatross

The largest wingspan of any bird in the world!

Albino (Amelanistic) Corn Snake

Albino corn snakes make great beginner snakes.

American Alligator

They have two sets of eyelids!

Alligator Gar

The alligator gar has toxic eggs to protect against predators

Allosaurus

Allosaurus is the official state fossil of Utah because of the abundant number of fossils found in the state.

Allosaurus

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

Alpine Goat

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

Alusky

An Alusky loves to dig, so make sure your fence is planted deep in the ground to prevent any escapes!

Ambrosia Beetle

The ambrosia beetle forms a symbiotic relationship with the ambrosia fungi

American Alsatian

American Bulldog

Can jump up to 6ft high!

American Bully

Though the American bully was bred to look intimidating, it makes an extremely friendly family pet!

American Cocker Spaniel

Merry, outgoing, and eager to please!

American Cockroach

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

American Coonhound

Easygoing and people-friendly!

American Dog Tick

Main vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever

American Eel

Don't eat raw eel! Their blood is poisonous to humans when consumed raw.

American Eskimo Dog

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

American Foxhound

Sweet, kind, loyal, and very loving!

American Hairless Terrier

The American hairless terrier comes in two varieties with one having a very short coat.

American Leopard Hound

This breed is also known as the American Leopard Cur. The name was formally changed to American Leopard Hound in 2008.

American Paddlefish

American Pit Bull Terrier

These dogs are very energetic and would be up for a game at any given point of time

American Pugabull

American Pugabulls are medium-sized dogs that weigh between 25 to 70 pounds, and their height measures 12 to 20 inches at the shoulder.

American Pygmy Goat

Can jump up to 5 feet

American Robin

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

American Staffordshire Terrier

Bred to be extremely friendly!

American Toad

They secrete a milky poisonous liquid that can make many animals sick.

American Water Spaniel

Friendly and intelligent!

Amphicoelias Fragillimus

Only one fossil has been found for this dinosaur and it was lost very soon after discovery.

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.

Anhinga

Their name means snake bird

Anna’s Hummingbird

Anna's Hummingbird wings beat 40-50 times per second during normal flight

Anole Lizard

There are just under 400 species, several of which change color.

Anomalocaris

Ant

First evolved 100 million years ago!

Antelope

Renew their horns every year!

Apple Moth

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

Arambourgiania

The Arambourgiania was not a dinosaur but instead a pterosaur!

Archaeotherium

The family Entelodontidae is commonly referred to as "hell pigs."

Archelon Turtle

Archelons are the largest turtles to have ever lived in the world

Arctic Char

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

Arctic Fox

Extremely thick winter fur!

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.

Arizona Black Rattlesnake

Female Arizona black rattlesnakes sometimes share parenting duties.

Arizona Blonde Tarantula

They are covered in thousands of fuzzy blonde hairs.

Arizona Coral Snake

The Arizona coral snake is among the most venomous snakes of North America.

Armadillo

Can curl into a hard, protective ball!

Armored Catfish

Armyworm

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

Ashy Mining Bee

N/A

Asian Carp

Asian carp can consume 40% of their body weight in food a day!

Asian Cockroach

Originally discovered in Japan

Asian Lady Beetle

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

Asian Longhorn Beetle

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

Atlantic Cod

One of the most popular food fishes in the world

Atlantic Sturgeon

Atlantic Sturgeon often leap out of the water.

Aurochs

Extinct ancestor of all domesticated cattle!

Aussiedoodle

The breed has its own popular Instagram page (Aussiedoodles Daily)!

Aussiedor

Aussiedors come in black, brown, cream, yellow, and almost every imaginable color due to their parentage!

Aussiepom

Australian Cockroach

The most common type outdoor roach in Florida

Australian Retriever

The Australian Retriever may have two different eye colors.

Australian Shepherd

Sweet, faithful and affectionate!

Australian Shepherd Mix

This hybrid has powerful herding skills, which come with guarding instincts, so some Aussiedors may be protective of their loved ones.

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!

Bagworm Moth Caterpillar

They continually enlarge their protective cases

Baird’s Rat Snake

Baird’s rat snake subdues its prey through suffocation.

Bald Eagle

Bald eagles have 20/5 vision, which is much sharper than a human's

Balinese

Playful and energetic breed!

Banana Spider

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

Banded Water Snake

Some water snakes defend themselves violently.

Bark Scorpion

Glow under UV light

Barn Owl

Found everywhere around the world!

Barn Spider

Common barn dwelling spider

Barn Swallow

Older offspring help care for new hatchlings.

Barosaurus

If a barosaurus were alive today, it could stand on its hind legs and look in a 5th floor apartment window.

Barred Owl

Like other owls, the barred owl swallows its prey whole.

Basilosaurus

Bassador

This dog is also known as a Bassetdor or a Basset Lab.

Bassetoodle

Basset hounds have been around since the 7th century, but the bassetoodle made its first appearance in the 2000s.

Bat

Detects prey using echolocation!

Bea-Tzu

The Bea-Tzu has a fast-growing coat

Beabull

An excellent companion for cats!

Beagador

Beagadors like to dig, so make sure your garden has a good fence around it!

Beagle Mix

Reagles are the best students as they love to learn new tricks, so training them is a breeze.

Beagle Shepherd

This dog can perform a wide range of exotic and acrobatic tricks that are not expected of a dog this size.

Beago

Beagos are good swimmers like their Golden Retriever parent.

Bear

There are 8 different species!

Beaski

Beaskis love to play, so get ready to go on plenty of long walks.

Beaver

Builds a dam from sticks and leaves!

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs feed for 4-12 minutes.

Bee

Rock paintings of bees date back 15,000 years

Beefalo

Beefalo meat is leaner and higher in protein than beef

Beetle

There are more than 350,000 different species

Beewolf wasp

They hunt bees

Belgian Malinois Mix

These Belgian Malinois mixes can be scary when they are threatened. But it's important to note that they know when aggression is necessary. In other words, they will not attack unless they sense danger.

Belted Kingfisher

Bernese Mountain Dog Mix

This Bernese mountain dog mix gets very attached to its loved ones and demands plenty of attention.

Bernese Shepherd

Bernese shepherds prefer cool climates

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

Bison

Largest mammal in North America!

Black And Tan Coonhound

This dog has its own unique howl.

Black and White Warbler

Black-Bellied Whistling Duck

They have bright pink bills.

Black-Capped Chickadee

Black-capped chickadees weigh less than half an ounce!

Black Crappie

Black crappie fish can hybridize with white crappie, resulting in a closely related species.

Black-Footed Ferret

Black footed ferrets are the only ones native to North America.

Black German Shepherd

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

Black Mouth Cur

From the dog's description in the book, it is believed that Old Yeller was actually a Black Mouth Cur.

Black Rat Snake

They're also called black pilot snakes due to a myth that they "pilot" venomous snakes to a den where they can go into brumation for the winter.

Black Sea Bass

Black sea bass males become fluorescent blue and green during the breeding season.

Black-Tailed Rattlesnake

One of the most beautiful rattlesnakes, they have solid black tails.

Black Wasp

The great black wasp is a species of digger wasp.

Black Widow Spider

They typically prey on insects!

Black Witch Moth

Some folklore associate Black Witch Moths with bad luck (and even death!), while other associates them with good fortune.

Blackburnian Warbler

They are the only songbird in North America with an orange throat!

Blackpoll Warbler

They migrate for the longest distance of any warbler.

Blind Snake

The blind snake is often mistaken for a worm.

Blister Beetle

Blister Beetles are attracted to lights at night.

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 Death Feigning Beetle

When threatened, blue death feigning beetles will pretend like they’re dead.

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 Gray Gnatcatcher

Joy and happiness are the spiritual meaning of this bird.

Blue grosbeak

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

Blue Jay

Blue jays rub ants on their feather to remove harmful acids

Blue Lacy Dog

Originated in Texas in the mid 1800s!

Blue Nose Pit Bull

Their noses are actually light bluish-gray.

Blue Racer

Some blue racers have smooth scales that are solid electric blue while others are grayish or brownish.

Blue Tang

One of the most colorful members of the genus Acanthurus

Bluegill

The world record for longest bluegill is 15 inches.

Bluetick Coonhound

Has an uncanny knack for problem-solving!

Boas

Boas are considered primitive snakes and still have vestigial legs, called spurs.

Bobcat

About double the size of a domestic cat!

Bobolink

In spring, the male bobolink is the only North American bird who is dark below and light colored above. This makes identification easy.

Boggle

Boggles at animal rescues are often mistaken for pitbulls because they have a similar facial structure.

Boglen Terrier

Boglen terriers are also occasionally known as boggles.

Bombay

Bred to look like a black panther!

Booted Bantam

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

Borador

Boradors make excellent police dogs and are used often on search and rescue missions.

Border Collie Mix

Because the border collsky's parent breeds were hardworking dogs, mainly used to herd animals and pull sleds, they will need proper socialization to cope with new people.

Borkie

Most Borkies inherit the signature howl of their Beagle parent.

Boston Terrier

Friendly, lovable and very strong!

Bowfin

The bowfin is a primitive fish that first evolved in the Jurassic

Box Jellyfish

Venomous marine animals

Box Turtle

This reptile has an S-shaped neck allowing it to pull its entire head into its shell.

Boxador

Boxadors are extremely smart and catch onto backyard games very quickly!

Boxer Mix

If cared for properly, boxadors can live for 10 to 15 years.

Boxerdoodle

The Boxerdoodle has a strong hunting dog lineage.

Boxsky

Boxers were bred to be working war dogs, and their boxsky descendants still love to help out on ranches and other outdoor jobs.

Boxweiler

Boxweilers come in a variety of colors, but they usually feature the subtle brindle pattern that their boxer parents are so famous for.

Boykin Spaniel

Enthusiastic working dog!

Brachiosaurus

Palentologists originally believed that brachiosaurus lived in the water, but they lived on land.

Brahma Chicken

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

Brahminy Blindsnake

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

Brazilian Treehopper

“Mild-Mannered Minimonsters”

Brontosaurus

Their necks had air pockets that kept them light and relatively easy to maneuver.

Brook Trout

The Brook Trout is actually part of the salmon family, making it not technically a trout.

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.

Brown Water Snake

Has more scales than any other water snake on the continent: 27 to 33 rows of dorsal scales!

Buffalo Fish

The oldest Buffalo fish recorded was 112 years old!

Bull Trout

The bull trout is not actually a trout, but a member of the char family.

Bullboxer

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

Bulldog Mix

Bulladors are notorious for having the best traits and mannerisms from both parents, as they are usually friendly, playful, and sociable.

Bullfrog

Has loud cow-like calls!

Bullsnake

Considered “The farmer’s friend” because it eats mice and other vermin.

Bumblebee

The most common species of bee!

Burrowing Owl

The burrowing owl lives in underground burrows

Butterfly

There are thought to be up 17,500 species!

Cactus Moth

Cactus moths can cause serious damage to cacti in locations where they have no predators.

Cactus Mouse

In hot temperatures, they lower their metabolism and become inactive to reduce the amount of water they need to survive

Cactus Wren

It is the largest wren in the United States

California Condor

They are the largest bird in North America

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.

California Tarantula

They can go for months without eating!

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.

Campine Chicken

Campine chickens were exported from Belgium by Julius Caesar!

Canada Lynx

They have natural snowshoes

Canada Warbler

These birds travel more than 3,000 miles during migration!

Canadian Horse

Canadian horses are believed to generate more power per pound of body weight than any other horse breed in the world.

Cane Spider

Cane spiders don't spin webs to catch prey

Canvasback

They're the largest diving duck in North America!

Cardinal

There are 14 genera and 53 species in the cardinal family

Caribou

Males and females grow antlers

Carolina Dog

Wild dog breed discovered in the 1970s!

Carolina Parakeet

The Carolina parakeet is one of the few parrots that lived as far north as the United States

Carpenter Ant

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

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-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!

Catahoula Bulldog

Catahoula bulldogs are a medium to large-sized breed and weighs between 75 to 100 pounds!

Catahoula Leopard

The state of Louisiana's only native dog breed

Caterpillar

The larvae of a moth or butterfly!

Catfish

There are nearly 3,000 different species!

Cavador

A great companion for the whole family!

Cave Lion

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

Cecropia Moth

Cecropia moths don’t have digestive tracts, so they can’t eat.

Cedar Waxwing

Their feathers have red, waxy tips that can be hard to identify unless you’re up close.

Centipede

There are about 3,000 documented species!

Cephalaspis

Ceratopsian

Ceratosaurus

Cheagle

Some Cheagles have an excellent sense of smell.

Checkered Garter Snake

It has the ability to expel a stinky liquid from its body as a way to make predators (and humans) retreat!

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Bright and happy disposition!

Chestnut-Sided Warbler

They inhabit regrowing forests

Chi Chi

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!

Chilean Recluse Spider

Chinook

A calm and friendly breed!

Chipit

While good with older children, the chipit does not like other pets unless they were socialized from a young age.

Chipmunk

There are 25 different species!

Chipoo

The Chipoo was first bred in the 1970s

Chiweenie

Chiweenies travel especially well.

Chorkie

Chorkies are very fond of their owners and will love to sit in their laps for long amounts of time!

Chow Shepherd

The Chow Shepherd is also known as the Sheprachow.

Chusky

While Chuskies tend to gravitate towards one person in the household, one of their best qualities is their ability to get along with children of all ages.

Cicada

Cicadas have one of the longest insect lifespans

Cinnamon Bear

A newborn cinnamon bear weighs 1/2 pound -- about the same as a large apple.

Cinnamon Ferret

A ferret’s heartrate is 200 to 250 beats a minute.

Clearnose Skate

The skate with translucent nose patches

Coachwhip Snake

Coachwhip snakes pose little danger to people

Coati

Found in dense forests and wet jungles!

Cochin Chicken

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

Cockapoo

Cockapoos became popular in the 1960s as a sweet, family dog.

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.

Comfort Retriever

Comfort Retrievers can carry an egg in their mouths without breaking the shell because they have very soft mouths.

Common Furniture Beetle

The common furniture beetle feeds exclusively on wood

Common Goldeneye

They're known as whistlers because of the sound of the wind in their feathers.

Common Grackle

Common grackles are a pest species that damage crops and spread disease.

Common House Spider

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

Common Raven

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

Common Yellowthroat

The Common Yellowthroat stays close to the ground and uses stealth to survive!

Cone Snail

Beautiful, but deadly!

Congo Snake

Conure

They are intelligent and noisy, often mimicking sounds and learning vocabulary.

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.

Corgidor

Corgidors are herding dogs that typically help out on cattle farms.

Corgipoo

These dogs are highly intelligent and are easy to train.

Corkie

One of the Corkie’s parent breeds, the Cocker Spaniel, was thought to have come over on the Mayflower.

Corman Shepherd

Corman Shepherds can be great watchdogs and are often very protective of their owners.

Cormorant

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

Corn Earworm

The corn earworm is capable of devouring an entire crop in just a few days

Corn Snake

Corn snakes are partly arboreal and are excellent climbers.

Cosmic Caterpillar

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

Costa’s Hummingbird

Costa's Hummingbird males have iridescent purple feathers on their heads and necks.

Cottonmouth

The cottonmouth (also known as a water moccasin) is a highly venomous pit viper that spends most of its life near water.

Coues Deer

Coues deer are smaller than other white-tail deer, following Bergmann's Rule that average size is greater for animals farther from the equator.

Cougar

The Second Largest feline in North America

Cow

There are nearly 1.5 billion 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

Crane

Many are critically endangered species!

Cricket

Male crickets can produce sounds by rubbing their wings together

Crocodile

Have changed little in 200 million years!

Crocodylomorph

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

Cross Fox

The cross fox’s tail is bushier than the tail of the average red fox

Crow

A group of these birds is called a Murder.

Cuckoo

Cucumber Beetle

Adults cucumber beetles cause the most damage to cucurbit plants.

Dachsador

This hybrid dog is also known as a Doxador or a Weinerdor.

Dachshund Mix

This Dachshund mix is generally not suited for multi-pet homes because of their high prey drive.

Daeodon

Scientists don't know whether daedon had scales, feathers, fur, or something else.

Dalmadoodle

Dalmatians were originally bred to run alongside carriages, and their dalmadoodle descendents have the same long legs and high energy.

Dalmador

Dalmador breeding skyrocketed after the 16 release of the live-action 101 Dalmatians movie.

Daniff

Dark-Eyed Junco

They are called snowbirds because many subspecies reappear in the winter.

Dark-Eyed Junco

Daug

Because the Daug is so rare, they fetch a pretty penny. Dog lovers can pay up to $3,000 for one of these pups!

De Kay’s Brown Snake

They have specialized jaws for removing snails from shells.

Death’s Head Cockroach

People buy Death's Head Cockroach nymphs and raise them as pets!

Deathwatch Beetle

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

Deer

There are around 40 different species!

Deer Mouse

Roughly 60 different species of deer mice range from Canada to Central America!

Deer Tick

Commonly found on white-tailed deer

Deinosuchus

Deinosuchus was probably the biggest crocodilian that ever lived

Desert Kingsnake

The desert kingsnake rolls over and plays dead when it feels threatened.

Desert Tortoise

Lives in burrows underground!

Desmostylus

Desmostylus has no living descendant.

Diamondback Moth

Adult males make high amplitude boing noise to attract females

Dickcissel

They have a unique call that they are named for.

Dilophosaurus

Dilophosaurus was the largest predatory dinosaur in North America during the Early Jurassic Epoch of the Jurassic Period.

Dimetrodon

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

Diplodocus

Their long tales could have been used as a whip!

Dire Wolf

Diving Duck

Diving ducks can forage for food at depths of over 40 feet and stay underwater for up to one minute.

Dog

First domesticated in South-East Asia!

Dog Tick

Dog ticks feed on dogs and other mammals

Donkey

First domesticated 5,000 years ago!

Dorkie

Dorkies are so laid-back they sometimes need extra incentive to exercise each day.

Double Doodle

Exact origin unknown.

Downy Woodpecker

Doxiepoo

Doxiepoos are an unpredictable breed that can come in a variety of appearances and sizes.

Doxle

Doxles have long floppy ears

Dragon Eel

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

Dragonfly

It's larvae are carnivorous!

Duck

Rows of tiny plates line their teeth!

Dung Beetle

The dung beetle can push objects many times its own weight

Dungeness Crab

Dunkleosteus

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

Dusky Shark

The Dusky Shark sometimes eats trash discarded by humans.

Dutch Rabbit

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 Box Turtle

When injured or damaged, the shell of the eastern box turtle can regenerate

Eastern Chipmunk

The name chipmunk is derived from an Ojibwe word that means “one who descends the trees headfirst.”

Eastern Coral Snake

One of the most dangerous snakes in the USA.

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

This is the biggest venomous snake in North America, with a few that reach 8 feet long.

Eastern Fence Lizard

Females are usually larger than males.

Eastern Glass Lizard

When the glass lizard loses its tail it can grow another one. But the new tail lacks the markings of the old one and is usually shorter.

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Eastern gray squirrels use both memory and scent to find their buried caches of food during the winter.

Eastern Hognose Snake

Eastern hognose snakes are venomous, but only to frogs and toads.

Eastern Indigo Snake

Eastern Indigo snakes regularly chase down and eat rattlesnakes and may be immune to their venom.

Eastern Kingbird

The eastern kingbird is a fierce fighter once known as the butcher king!

Eastern Meadowlark

They can live up to 9 years.

Eastern Phoebe

This passerine bird can sing its song without ever hearing another bird vocalize first.

Eastern Racer

Fast and Furious!

Eastern Rat Snake

Rat snakes are medium-to-large, nonvenomous snakes that kill by constriction.

Eastern Turkey (Wild Turkey)

You can hear their gobbles up to a mile away!

Eastern Woodrat

The eastern woodrat mating ritual involves a potentially deadly fight between the male and female before reproduction begins!

Eel

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

Eider

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

Elasmosaurus

Elasmosaurus is an extinct reptile species.

Elegant Tern

Have a lifespan of 20 years or more

Elf Owl

The elf owl is the smallest and lightest owl in the world

Elk

Adult males can jump eight feet vertically

Emperor Goose

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

English Crested Guinea Pig

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

English Longhorn Cattle

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

English Shepherd

Highly intelligent and independent!

Ermine

A very bold and ferocious predator!

Eryops

Unlike modern amphibians, Eryops had a well-developed rib cage

Eskipoo

Eskipoos are called pookimos by the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, and Designer Breed Registry.

Eurasian Bullfinch

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

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 Corn Borer

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

European Starling

European starlings are accomplished mimics, often copying songs or sounds of other birds and animals (frog calls, goats, cats), or even mechanical sounds and human speech!

Eurypterus

Eurypterus has a long tail that looks like a scorpion's stinger

Evening Bat

The evening bat is one of the few bats that regularly has twins

Evening Grosbeak

They are friendly and non-aggressive to those in their species.

Executioner Wasp

The Executioner Wasp's sting is one of the most painful in the world.

Fainting Goat

Frightening this goat will cause it to fall over in fear!

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

Feist

The word feisty derived from this type of dog.

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.

Figeater Beetle

Figeater beetles only open their wings partially when they fly.

Firefly

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

Fisher

The fisher is an agile climber and makes its home in tree hollows.

Flamingo

Sleeps on just one leg!

Flathead Catfish

The only predators that prey on flathead catfish are members of their own species and humans who catch them for commercial and recreational purposes.

Flea

Adult fleas can jump up to 7 inches in the air

Florida Gar

The Florida gar has toxic eggs to protect against predators

Florida Mouse

It is the only mammal native to the state of Florida.

Florida Panther

Florida panthers can leap more than 4.5 meters (15 feet) in the air.

Florida Woods Cockroach

Often found on palmetto trees

Flowerhorn Fish

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

Fly

There are more than 240,000 different species!

Flying Squirrel

Can glide up to 90 meters!

Fox

Only 12 species are considered "true foxes"

Fox Snakes

In some areas, fox snakes and gopher snakes have crossbred in the wild.

Fox Squirrel

Although it is a tree squirrel, it spends most of its time on the ground.

French Bulldog Mix

If successfully socialized and trained from a young age, these pups grow into well-mannered and friendly dogs that get along with children of all ages and other pets.

French Lop

One of the largest rabbit breeds

Frenchton

Loyal small dogs, the Frenchton will keep you warm at night with loving cuddles, but also awake with their funny loud snoring!

Frengle

Frengles have a haunting howl very similar to their Beagle parent.

Freshwater Jellyfish

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

Freshwater Sunfish

Four species of the freshwater catfish have gone extinct

Frog

There are around 7,000 different species!

Frug

Fruit Fly

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

Fulvous Whistling Duck

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

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.

Gar

Can grow to more than 3m long!

Garter Snake

Female garter snakes give birth to live young rather than laying eggs!

Gerberian Shepsky

Gerberian Shepskies are popular choices for police dogs!

German Cockroach

The most common type of urban roach

German Shepherd Mix

These German shepherd mixes require a lot of mental stimulation; if they don't get it, they can become destructive.

German Sheppit

The German Sheppit is well-suited for guarding and police work.

German Sheprador

There is a chance that the German Sheprador may inherit a love for water from its parent.

German Wirehaired Pointer

Giant Beaver

The Giant Beaver are not closely related to modern beaver at all.

Giant Desert Centipede

They are the largest centipede in North America

Giant House Spider

They are the fastest invertebrates in the U.K.

Giant Leopard Moth

When giant leopard moths mate, their mating sessions last over 24 hours.

Giant Salamander

Cryptobranchus giant salamanders breathe mostly through their skin.

Giant Schnoodle

Both parents of the Giant Schnoodle are hypoallergenic, making this one of the Doodle breeds that's safest for dander-sensitive owners.

Gila Monster

This lizard's tail acts as a fat-storage facility!

Glass Lizard

Can grow up to 4ft long!

Glechon

Glechons are talented in the area of search and rescue, as their sense of smell makes them great at tracking.

Glowworm

Found inhabiting dense woodland and caves!

Gnat

Males form large mating swarms at dusk

Goberian

These dogs are great around children and are very playful around them.

Goldador

Goldadors were not intentionally bred until the early 2000s!

Goldcrest

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

Golden-Crowned Kinglet

They huddle together for warmth

Golden Dox

Golden doxes don't have to be tiny. This breed looks different depending on whether the mix includes a regular dachshund or the mini version of the species.

Golden Eagle

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

Golden Newfie

These dogs love to swim and instinctively know how to swim.

Golden Pyrenees

Golden Pyrenees make great therapy dogs due to their intelligence and gentle nature.

Golden Retriever Mix

While gollies make good watchdogs since they generally bark when there is a newcomer at the door, they are not the best guard dogs. Instead of intimidating the stranger, they typically run up to the intruder and greet them with a waggy tail.

Golden Saint

Golden saints come in all kinds of colors. You can find them in tan, chocolate, yellow, brindled, spotted, and almost any other pattern you can think of.

Golden Shepherd

The Golden Shepherds were first recognized by the International Designer Canine Registry in 2009.

Golden Tortoise Beetle

Golden tortoise beetles have a metallic gold color which can change to dull brown when disturbed.

Golden Trout

Freshwater state fish of California

Goldendoodle

Due to their breeding, no two Goldendoodles are alike.

Goliath Grouper

Massive reef fish with a strong tail

Gollie

They bark at strangers, cars, and loud noises like airplanes.

Goose

There are 29 different species!

Gopher

They dig large networks of tunnels!

Gopher Snake

Gopher snakes can reach up to 9 feet long.

Gopher Tortoise

It is the only species of tortoise native to Florida.

Grapevine Beetle

Although they feed on grapevine leaves, Grapevine beetles hardly cause serious damage to the plant.

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!

Grasshopper Mouse

The grasshopper mice attack predators using the poison of their venom.

Gray Catbird

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

Gray Fox

The gray fox has retractable claws and a rotating wrist that allow it to climb trees with some proficiency

Gray Tree Frog

This frog can "freeze" itself by making glycerol that becomes glucose, which acts like antifreeze and stops its heartbeat and breathing!

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 Danoodle

Both Great Danes and Poodles are in the top 15 most popular AKC breeds - which makes Great Danoodles a shoo-in for popularity.

Great Kiskadee

The great kiskadee is a highly adaptable predator that can live in almost any habitat within its range and can hunt in the air, on the ground and in the water.

Great Plains Rat Snake

This snake vigorously shakes its tail as a way to frighten away predators.

Great Pyrenees Mix

The collie Pyrenees is quite expensive, with puppies from reputable breeders starting at $1000. However, depending on the pedigree, and breeder, they can fetch twice that price.

Green Anole

It communicates with head movements, color and dewlap

Green Frog

Green frogs will eat any animal that they can fit in their mouth.

Green June Beetle

• Green June beetles will appear to mate in early summer, typically in May or June. This is why they are also known as May beetles. Therefore, it is very uncommon to see these beetles any other time.

Green Snake

There are two types of green snakes: smooth green snakes and rough green snakes

Green Sunfish

Juvenile Green Sunfish are less colorful than their parents because they need to blend in with their surroundings to avoid predators.

Green Tree Frog

Green tree frogs breathe through their skin

Griffonshire

Griffonshires are so little they are easily mistaken for puppies throughout their lives.

Grizzly Bear

Less than 10% make it into adulthood

Ground Snake

It’s sometimes called a miter snake due to the marking on its head that looks like a bishop’s miter

Groundhog Tick

Groundhog ticks carry the Powassan virus which can cause brain-swelling.

Groundhog (Woodchuck)

They whistle to each other to warn of approaching danger!

Grouper

Many grouper can change their sex, and it is always from female to male.

Grunion

Their whole bodies are edible

Guadalupe Bass

Freshwater fish native to Texas

Gypsy Moth

One of the most invasive species in the world

Gypsy Moth Caterpillar

N/A

Hammond’s flycatcher

“Hammond’s flycatcher has a call known as a sharp peek!”

Hamster

Able to run as quickly backwards as forwards!

Harbor Porpoise

Surprisingly, not a dolphin!

Hare

Can reach speeds of over 50 mph!

Harlequin Coral Snake

Red touches yellow kills a fellow, red touches black a friend of Jack.

Harris Hawk

Their vision is eight times better than a human's

Havamalt

These pups need natural oils to keep their skin healthy; bathing them often will dry out their skin, so only wash them when necessary.

Havashire

Both of the Havashire’s parent breeds were very popular among the upper classes.

Hawaiian Goose (Nene)

They have the longest breeding season of any goose.

Hawaiian Monk Seal

Hawaiian name is "Ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua," meaning "the dog which runs in rough waters.

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.

Hellbender

This giant salamander has lived in its ecosystem for about 65 million years

Hepatic Tanager (Red Tanager)

Parents and their young sing sweetly to each other

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!

Himalayan

Also known as the Colorpoint Persian!

Hoary Bat

The hoary bat travels hundreds of miles south for the winter

Hobo Spider

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

Hogfish

Hogfish can change their sex from female to male

Hognose snake

Prima Donnas of the Snake World

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.

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.

Horgi

Horgis have a silly side and love to be the center of attention.

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!

Houdan Chicken

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

House Finch

The house finch can become redder depending on what it eats

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

Human

Thought to have orignated 200,000 years ago!

Hummingbird

Beat their wings up to 80 times per second!

Hummingbird Hawk-Moth

Huntsman Spider

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

Huskador

Huskadors are gaining in popularity as service dogs.

Huskita

Huskitas prefer a consistent daily routine with lots of activity.

Husky Jack

Due to the mix of genes, a Husky Jack’s coat may be a variety of colors including black, gray, white, red, sable, or mixed colors.

Huskydoodle

Huskydoodles are known for their jumping abilities!

Ibex

Can jump over 6 feet straight up from a standstill

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.

Indigo Snake

Indigo snakes use brute force to overpower their prey.

Insects

There are an estimated 30 million species!

Io Moth

The larvae of the Io Moth has a poisonous and painful sting.

Ivory-billed woodpecker

The ivory-billed woodpecker can drill into wood with its sharp beak

Jack Crevalle

One of the biggest species in the Caranx genus

Jackabee

A good choice for owners who want an exercise companion!

Jackrabbit

They can run as fast as 45 mph.

Jackson’s Chameleon

Have jousting battles with their horns.

Jagdterrier

Japanese Beetle

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

Javanese

Features that closely resemble a Siamese cat!

Jonah Crab

It has delicious meat with an affordable price

Kamehameha Butterfly

State insect of Hawaii

Kangaroo Mouse

The Kangaroo Mouse is a tiny mouse that stands and hops around on its hind legs, much like a kangaroo.

Kangaroo Rat

Merriam’s kangaroo rats literally never have to drink water

Kaua’i ‘Ō‘ō

Calls could be heard up to a quarter mile away

Kelp Greenling

Male Kelp Greenlings participate in an unusual mating ritual by fertilizing eggs in the nests of other males.

Kentucky Warbler

The Kentucky Warbler appears to wear bright yellow cat-eye glasses!

Kermode Bear (Spirit Bear)

The cubs are usually weaned after 6 to 8 months; however, they will remain with their mothers through their second winter until they reach 17 months old.

Key Deer

Bucks grow new antlers every year.

Khao Manee

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

Kiko Goat

Kiko goats breed year-round, and they are not good at defending themselves.

Killdeer

The killdeer feigns injury to draw a predator away from its nest.

Kinder Goat

Best jumper of all goats

King Eider

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

King Quail

Females look similar to males but don’t come in shades of blue

King Shepherd

This hybrid breed is the largest among the shepherd class.

King Snake

King Snakes eat other types of snakes.

Kingfisher

Inhabits wetlands and woodlands worldwide!

Kirtland’s Snake

It is considered to be the least aquatic of water snakes.

Kit Fox

The kit fox is the smallest canid in North America.

Kitefin Shark

Knight Anole

When threatened, the promiscuous knight anole rises on all fours and turns bright green, and gives a menacing look.

Kodiak Bear

Kodiak bears are the second largest bear in the world after the polar bear.

Kokanee Salmon

A non-anadromous type of sockeye salmon

Labahoula

The AKC does not recognize this breed or the parent breed Catahoula

Labrabull

Labrabulls are incredibly clever, and training them is easy because they love to please and don't have a stubborn bone in their body.

Labradane

Labradanes can come with both sold-color coats and the more exciting patterns that you typically see on Great Danes.

Labrottie

Labrotties will goof around clownishly to get laughs and attention.

Ladybug

There are more than 5,000 species worldwide!

Ladyfish

Ladyfish are aggressive fighter when hooked, making them a favorite of anglers.

LaMancha Goat

Have tiny ears named “gophers” or “elves”

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 Ant

Leafcutter ants have been farming fungus under the forest floor for up to 50 million years!

Least Flycatcher

They can travel up to 72 miles in a single day.

Leatherback Sea Turtle

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

Leech

Has 10 pairs of eyes!

Leghorn Chicken

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

Leopard Frog

They can jump up to three feet

Leopard Lizard

Can jump a distance of two feet to capture prey

Lesser Scaup

Young lesser scaups learn to dive as soon as their down dries.

Lhasapoo

A Lhasapoo’s coat can be curly like a poodle’s or long and silky like a Lhasa Apso’s.

Liger

The offspring of a lion and tiger parents!

Lineback Cattle

The lineback cattle has been an integral part of rural New England society for more than 200 years!

Little Brown Bat

The little brown bat uses echolocation to quickly navigate around its environment

Lizard

There are around 5,000 different species!

Lizardfish

The lizardfish can camouflage itself against the sandy bottom to avoid predators.

Loach

Have sharp spines below their eyes

Loggerhead Shrike

Its nickname is the butcherbird!

Lone Star Tick

Only females have the ‘lone star’ marking

Long-Eared Owl

Ear tufts make it look bigger!

Longnose Gar

The longnose gar species of the gar family has potentially existed for 100 million years.

Lynx

Live in dens in rocks and under ledges!

MacGillivray’s Warbler

The complicated story of how MacGillivray’s Warblers got their name involves three ornithologists, a physician and a compromise.

Machaeroides

Machaeroides had large saber-teeth, much like the saber-toothed tiger.

Mackenzie Valley Wolf

Will travel up to 70 miles in a single day.

Maggot

Will only live in wet areas

Magnolia Warbler

They line their nests with fungi strands

Mahi Mahi (Dolphin Fish)

It's called the rabbit of the ocean because it multiplies so quickly.

Maiasaura

Maiasaura dinosaurs can grow to 31 feet long.

Maine Coon

Folklore says it's half cat, half raccoon!

Mal Shi

They are very needy dogs and can suffer from separation anxiety.

Malchi

The Malchi is not a purebred but a crossbreed and relatively new on the scene. That’s why they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or any other canine organization.

Mallard

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

Malteagle

Malteagles are one of the smallest beagle hybrids and love to follow their owners everywhere.

Maltipom

Maltipoms from the same litter may not look alike, favoring one parent over the other (Pomeranian or Maltese).

Marans Chicken

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

Marble Fox

The marble fox is not a naturally occurring variant; it was created through artificial selection.

Marmot

A marmot spends 80% of its life below ground

Masked Angelfish

All masked angelfish are female until sometime after sexual maturity, at which point some become male.

Massasauga

The name “Massasauga” comes from the Chippewa language, meaning “Great River Mouth”.

Mastador

The Mastador gets its enormous size from its Mastiff parent.

Mastiff Mix

Don't let the boxmas's intimidating appearance and size fool you; they are actually gentle giants with even temperaments.

Mauzer

Mauzers tend to bond with a specific person in the home and will follow them like a shadow.

May Beetle

May Beetles are also known as June Bugs Because they’re more active during the month of June

Mayan Cichlid

Mayan cichlids live longer in captivity than they do in the wild.

Mayfly

There are 2,500 known species worldwide!

Meagle

The Meagle has an incredible sense of smell.

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

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.

Midget Faded Rattlesnake

They're also called horseshoe rattlesnakes thanks to the shape of their markings.

Miki

They can be trained to use the litter box like a cat!

Milk Snake

Millipede

Some species have a poisonous bite!

Mini Labradoodle

The first mini labradoodle was bred in the early 1990s - almost immediately after standard labradoodles became popular.

Mini Lop

One of the cutest and most popular rabbits

Miniature Husky

The Miniature Husky has a double coat that it sheds twice annually. Also, some people confuse them with Alaskan Klee Kai, which have similar blue eyes.

Mink

The mink can swim up to 100 feet underwater.

Mississippi Kite

The Mississippi kite tends to form a monogamous pair bond for life

Moccasin Snake

Mockingbird

Mockingbirds are incredible mimics that can learn hundreds of songs!

Modern Game Chicken

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

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.

Monarch Butterfly

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

Mongrel

Has characteristics of two or more breeds!

Moonglow Boa

Moonglow boas are the result of mixing three genetic traits.

Moorhen

Feeds on aquatic insects and water-spiders!

Morkie

A Morkie puppy can weigh as little as 4 ounces.

Morpho Butterfly

Collectors prize them for their bright wings

Mosquito

Only the female mosquito actually sucks blood

Moth

There are 250,000 different species!

Mountain Beaver

The beaver that is not a beaver

Mountain Bluebird

Depending on the time of the year, the mountain bird can live as far north as Alaska.

Mountain Cur

Mountain Feist

Mountain Feists were bred in the southern United States as a dog that could help with hunting small game.

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

Mourning Warbler

The Mourning Warbler was named for its gray head, which resembles a mourning veil!

Mouse

Found on every continent on Earth!

Mud Snake

Mud snakes can lay over 100 eggs at a single time!

Mudpuppy

Mudpuppies never leave their larval stage. This is called neoteny.

Mule

The offspring of a horse and donkey parents!

Mule Deer

Mule deer can run up to 45 miles per hour.

Mullet Fish

The Striped Mullet is one of the best-known and most easily identified species, with black horizontal stripes along its body.

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

Myna Bird

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

Nebelung

Needlefish

no stomach to digest food

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.

New Hampshire Red Chicken

New Hampshire reds are known for being quite food aggressive towards other chickens and won't hesitate to push other flock mates out of the way to get to the feed.

Newfypoo

Newfypoos have a thick oily coat that can be hard to groom.

Newt

Able to regrow lost or damaged limbs!

Nigerian Goat

Produces a lot of milk for its small size

Night Heron

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

Night Snake

Nile Monitor

The Nile monitor is the world's fourth-largest lizard!

Nilgai

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

No See Ums

There are more than 5,000 species.

North American Black Bear

Short claws make them good tree climbers!

Northern Alligator Lizard

Unlike other lizards, these give livebirth to their young

Northern Bobwhite

The northern bobwhite is named for its distinctive whistling call that sounds like ‘bob-white’.

Northern Cardinal

Males are a bright red color, also called "cardinal red"

Northern Flicker

Northern Flickers often make their homes in dead trees.

Northern Harrier

They can reach speeds of 25 Mph but prefer to soar low and slow.

Northern Jacana

The northern jacana is one of two species found in the Americas, from the United States to Panama.

Northern Parula

They live in coffee and citrus plantations during the winter

Northern Pintail

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

Northern Water Snake

Northern watersnakes’ teeth help them nab fish as they swim by.

Norwich Terrier

Though Norwich terriers are small, they have a reputation for being feisty.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Toller is one of only two breeds that hunters use as decoys while hunting.

Nubian Goat

The Nubian is a relatively large, proud, and graceful dairy goat that traces its ancestry to India and Egypt.

Nut Weevil

Bore holes in tree nuts and lay their eggs inside

Nutria

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

Ocean Perch

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

Oleander Hawk Moth

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

Olympic Marmot

The Olympic marmot is found in only one location in the United States — the Olympic Mountains in Washington

Opaleye (Rudderfish)

Some indigenous people of the Pacific coast of North America consider opaleye fish sacred food and use it in traditional ceremonies.

Opossum

Thought to be immune to certain snake venom!

Oranda Goldfish

Oranda goldfish are one of the most popular fancy goldfish breeds

Orange-Crowned Warbler

Often mistaken for the Tennessee Warblers, which are equally dull.

Orb Weaver

Females are about four times the size of males

Orchard Oriole

They use rapid wingbeats to hover over foliage as they search for food.

Oregon Spotted Frog

Oregon spotted frogs are the most endangered frogs in Canada!

Ori-Pei

Ori-Pei's are born with short noses, which causes them to grunt and make a lot of noise when they breathe.

Oriental Cockroach

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

Ornate Black-Tailed Rattlesnake

Ornate black-tailed rattlesnake mothers stay with their newborn babies for up to a month.

Ornate Box Turtle

One of the biggest threats to the orate box turtle population is that when during extremely hot or cold breeding season a vast majority of the hatchlings are of one sex.

Ornithomimus

Ornithomimus translates from Greek to mean “bird mimic.”

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

Ovenbird

The ovenbird is named for its unusual nest, which is shaped like an oven!

Owl

The owl can rotate its head some 270 degrees

Owlfly (Ascalaphidae)

Adult owlflies can capture prey while flying in the air.

Ozark Bass

Ozark Bass only live in Arkansas and Missouri

Paddlefish

Paddlefish have existed since the Cretaceous Period

Painted Bunting

They are one of the most colorful species of birds.

Palaeophis

This snake was as long as a school bus!

Palo Verde Beetle

The palo verde beetle is one of the largest beetles in North America

Panther

Prefers to hunt at night than during the day!

Panthera atrox (American Lion)

Panthera atrox was about 25 percent larger than modern lions

Parakeet

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

Parasaurolophus

The Parasaurolophus ran on its hindlegs at speeds of up to 30mph!

Peacock Bass

Peacock bass is known for their aggressive behavior and predatory instincts, making them a challenging target for sport fishermen.

Peagle

Most Peagles love playing with children and can be very gentle and affectionate!

Pelagornis

The Pelagornis is larger than the largest living bird today.

Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach

Seeks out sources of light

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

Petite Goldendoodle

Like their purebred parents, these dogs love the water!

Pharaoh Hound

The blushing dog of Malta.

Pheasant

Females lay between 8 and 12 eggs per clutch!

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

Pileated Woodpecker

Pairs establish territories and remain all year

Pinacate Beetle

Pinacate beetles do a headstand if they feel threatened

Pine Marten

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

Pine Siskin

When foraging, pine siskins hang upside down to pick through the leaves and bark, collecting seeds from coniferous trees.

Pine Snake

Pine snakes bluff with the best, trying to scare you away.

Pinfish

Pinfish make loud croaking sounds during their spawning season.

Pink Salmon

The smallest of the North American salmon

Pit Viper

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

Pitador

There are several names for this breed, including the Labrabull or the Pitador Retriever.

Pitsky

Most Pitskies will do best as the only pet in a home. They may become aggressive with other dogs (especially two unneutered male dogs) and could try to chase or catch small pets due to their higher prey drive.

Plains Hognose Snake

The plains hognose snake gets its name from the upturned end of its snout.

Plott Hound Mix

While the Plott hound is the state dog of North Carolina, it is a very rare breed and not well-known in other states.

Plott Hounds

Plymouth Rock Chicken

Plymouth Rock hens have a calm and friendly nature. They usually get along with flock mates and will shy away from confrontation or disputes.

Pointer Mix

One of the best things about owning a pointer pit is its low-maintenance requirements.

Polar Bear

Could be extinct within the next 30 years!

Polish Chicken

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

Polyphemus Moth

The Polyphemus moth doesn’t and can't eat, except when it's a caterpillar!

Pomchi

A deliberate cross like the Pomchi is commonly referred to as a designer dog

Pomeagle

Pomeagles are sweet and fun dogs that like to spend time exploring their environment.

Pompano Fish

They are bottom-feeders

Pomsky

The howls and barks of a Pomsky can sound like singing

Poogle

The Poogle is one of 40 different doodle dog breeds (poodle mixes).

Porcupine

There are 30 different species worldwide!

Potato Beetle

These beetles have a polygynandrous mating system where they choose multiple mates once breeding season starts.

Prairie Chicken

They inflate their orange neck patches during their mating displays

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.

Pteranodon

Pterodactyl

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

Puffin

Can remain in the water for up to 2 minutes!

Pug Mix

The puggle is a heavy shedder, so to control any unwanted hair, owners must brush their pug mix at least twice a week.

Puggle

These dogs are active and are often patient around children.

Pugshire

With their incredible desire to show affection, Pugshire make great lap dogs.

Puma

Has longer back legs than front legs!

Purple Finch

The intensity of the plumage can change based on what the bird eats

Purple Gallinule

They build their nests on the water, anchoring it to nearby aquatic vegetation.

Pygmy Rattlesnake

Pygmy rattlesnakes’ rattle is so small it can only be heard from about three feet away.

Pygora Goat

The Pygora goat is exclusively bred for their fleece, and they produce three different kinds.

Pyrador

Pyredoodle

Pyredoodles can have a thick double coat or a thinner single coat.

Quahog Clam

Their hinged shell protects their soft body

Quail

Inhabits woodland and forest areas worldwide!

Queen Snake

Queen snakes have armor-like scales on the top of their head

Rabbit

There are more than 300 different species!

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

Ragamuffin

Often referred to as "puppy-like," Ragamuffin cats are intelligent, friendly and super personable.

Ragdoll

One of the larger breeds of domestic cat!

Raggle

Raggles are known for their energy and curiosity.

Rainbow Grasshopper (Dactylotum bicolor)

They have strikingly bright colors

Rat

Omnivores that eat anything!

Rat Snakes

Rat snakes are constrictors from the Colubridae family of snakes.

Rat Terrier

Rat terriers were popular with farmers before 1930 because of their ability to kill rodents.

Rattlesnake

Rattlesnakes may have evolved their rattle to warn bison away from them.

Red Aphids

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

Red-Bellied Woodpecker

Red-Bellied Woodpeckers will often steal the nests of other birds.

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 Finch

Red finches can form flocks of over 100 birds.

Red Nose Pit Bull

These copper-colored pups were once known as "nanny dogs" for their playfulness with children.

Red Paper Wasp

The Red Paper wasps are lazy flyers; they occasionally land on people, pets, and objects without noticing them.

Red Racer Snake

Red-Shouldered Hawk

Red-Shouldered Hawks reuse the same nesting area each year.

Red Squirrel

The red squirrel has one of the most impressive memories in the entire animal kingdom

Red Star Chicken

The red star chicken is classified as a sex-link breed due to the male and female chicks differing in color, which means it is really easy to determine the sex shortly after they hatch.

Red-winged blackbird

The male red-winged blackbird can sing to attract mates

Red Wolf

There are only 17-19 in the wild!

Redbone Coonhound

Originally bred to track raccoons.

Redear Sunfish

Regal Jumping Spider

The regal jumping spider is the largest jumping spider in North America

Reindeer

Also known as the Caribou

Rex Rabbit

The King of Rabbits

Rhode Island Red Chicken

Rhode Island Reds thrive in colder climates but are prone to frostbite, especially on their combs. But, if you smear some petroleum jelly on their combs, it can prevent frostbite

Ribbon Snake

Ribbon snakes love water, but are excellent climbers too.

Rim Rock Crowned Snake

Rim rock crowned snakes made news in 2022 when a hiker discovered one of these rare snakes had died while attempting to swallow a centipede!

Ring-billed Gull

The ring-billed gull feeds on vast quantities of human waste and garbage.

Ringed Kingfisher

Dives from perches to capture its prey!

River Otter

The river otter can hold its breath for up to 8 minutes

River Turtle

Inhabits freshwater habitats around the world!

Roadrunner

Roadrunners are one of the few animals that prey on rattlesnakes and tarantula hawk wasps.

Robin

There are more than 45 species in Australia alone!

Rock Bass

Rock bass can change their color slightly to camouflage.

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.

Roosevelt Elk

The main predators of this species are grey wolves, mountain lions, black bears, and humans.

Rooster

Will mate with the entire flock!

Rose-Breasted Grosbeak

This bird is also called cut-throat because the male looks like his throat has been cut and has bled over his breast.

Roseate Spoonbill

The only Spoonbill in the western hemisphere!

Rosy Boa

One of the few snakes that naturally comes in a rainbow of colors!

Rotterman

Rottermans are the perfect breed for search and rescue training, and they make excellent guard dogs.

Rottle

Rottsky

Many Rottskies have one brown eye and one blue eye.

Rottweiler Mix

This Rottweiler mix is devoted to its loved ones and usually forms a strong bond with its primary caregiver

Rough Earth Snake

It has a pointed snout that is uses to burrow into moist soil.

Rough Green Snake

Rough green snakes are great pet snakes because they're low-maintenance.

Rough-Legged Hawk (Rough-Legged Buzzard)

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

Ruby-Crowned Kinglet

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

Ruby-throated hummingbirds can beat their wings more than 50 times per second.

Ruddy Duck

Ruddy duck breeding males have bright blue bills!

Ruddy Turnstone

They flip over stones to find prey

Rufous Hummingbird

The males have a glowing iridescent orange patch on their chests.

Saber-Toothed Tiger

Canines up to 7 inches long!

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 Shepherd

These dogs have an eager-to-please attitude, making them sweet and happy pets.

Salamander

There are more than 700 different species!

Salmon

Returns upstream every year to spawn

Sambar

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

San Francisco Garter Snake

The San Francisco garter snake is among the rarest snake species in the United States.

Sand Crab

The sand crab burrows beneath the sand with its tail

Sandhill Crane

Sandworm

Legs also function as gills

Savanna Goat

Savanna goats have only existed since 1957.

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 Kingsnake

Scarlet kingsnake’s pattern is an example of Batesian mimicry.

Schneagle

This hybrid dog is a great companion and doesn’t do well being left alone but is suitable for apartments or houses with backyards!

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Scissor-tailed flycatchers are known for their dramatically long tails!

Scorpion

There are around 2,000 known species!

Scottish Fold Cat

The cutest mutation in the animal kingdom

Sculpin

Its skull bones can compress so the fish can fit in narrow spaces

Sea Bass

Sea bass can grow up to 880 pounds in weight!

Sea Eagle

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

Sea Roach

They breathe through gills but live on land

Seagull

Some gulls are capable of using tools

Seahorse

Males give birth to up to 1,000 offspring!

Senepol Cattle

Senepol cattle have a distinctive red color and no horns.

Sharp-Shinned Hawk

In captivity, sharp-shinned hawks can live up to 13 years. However, in the wild, this number is significantly reduced to 3 years!

Sharp-Tailed Snake

This snake uses its sharp tail to steady itself when capturing prey.

Sheep

Around 35 million in the English countryside!

Sheepshead Fish

This fish has teeth that resemble a human's.

Shepadoodle

Some police officers with allergies use Shepadoodles as their K-9 partner

Shepkita

These dogs can sometimes be overly aggressive.

Shepweiler

The Shepweiler is an excellent guard dog.

Shichi

Shichi barely reach 10 inches tall and weigh around 9 to 16 pounds.

Shih Poo

Shiloh Shepherd

Shiranian

The Shiranian is an affectionate, loving, and social dog but requires continuous human companionship to stay well-adjusted and happy.

Shollie

Shollies are a fairly new type of crossbreed!

Short-Eared Owl

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

Short-Faced Bear

The modern Spectacled Bear, which lives in South America, is related to the Short-Faced Bear!

Shrew

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

Shrimp

There are 2,000 different species worldwide!

Siberian Husky

Is adequately warm in sub-zero temperatures!

Siberpoo

Although a lack of documentation makes it unclear, the first Siberpoo was probably bred in either the 1970s or 1980s.

Sidewinder

Silken Windhound

Silver Labrador

The Labrador is the most popular breed in the United States and most of these dogs have blue eyes at a young age, before they turn another color.

Skink Lizard

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

Skunk

Also known as the Polecat!

Slug

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

Smallmouth Bass

A fierce fighter!

Smilosuchus

The biggest species in the Smilosuchus genus, S. gregorii, was the largest known reptile of its time, reaching a length of up to 39 feet.

Smokybrown Cockroach

Has up to 45 eggs per egg case

Smooth Earth Snake

Valeria Biddle Blaney (1828-1900) collected the first specimen in Maryland.

Smooth Green Snake

Snail

There are nearly 1,000 different species!

Snake

There are around 4,000 known species worldwide

Snapping Turtle

Only found in North America!

Snorkie

Snorkies are known for their funny, attention-getting antics.

Snow Bunting

Snow Goose

The snow goose has a dark line along their beaks known as a ‘grinning patch’!

Snowberry Clearwing Moth

They are pollinators, just like bees.

Snowflake Eel

Snowflake Eel have two jaws to help them swallow their food.

Snowshoe

Thought to have originated in the 1960s!

Snowy Owl

One of the largest owl species in the world!

Sockeye Salmon

Called "red salmon" because their skin turns bright red to dirty red during spawning season

Somali

Active, intelligent and playful!

Song Sparrow

Pumps its tail when it flies!

Southeastern Blueberry Bee

N/A

Southern Black Racer

These snakes live underground, beneath piles of leaf litter or in thickets, and they are expert swimmers.

Southern Hognose Snake

The southern hognose snake has an upturned snout that enables it to dig through the soil.

Southern House Spider

Large web making house spider

Southern Pacific Rattlesnake

Southern Pacific rattlesnakes hibernate in dens that hold hundreds of snakes.

Spadefoot Toad

They spend most of their time underground!

Spanador

The Spanador is a good swimmer.

Spanish Goat

They have long, horizontal ears.

Sparrow

There are 140 different species!

Speckled Kingsnake

The Salt and Pepper Snake

Sphynx

Many people believe that because the Sphynx doesn't have a lot of fur, they are easily maintained. However, their upkeep is demanding!

Spider Wasp

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

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.

Spotted Bass

Spotted bass tend to congregate in schools unlike other types of bass fish.

Spotted Gar

They are commonly mistaken as logs in the water due to their cylindrical body.

Spotted Garden Eel

Males battle each other over females and territory

Spotted Lanternfly

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

Spotted Skunk

Spotted skunks are known for their acrobatic abilities. They perform handstands before spraying their enemies.

Springador

The parental stock Labrador Retriever was nearly wiped out by home country tax policies but the breed found rescue and recovery in foreign lands, particularly in Great Britain.

Springerdoodle

Easygoing, intelligent, and active, the springerdoodle just loves being around people!

Squash Beetle

Often mistaken for a ladybug

Squirrel

Small rodents found in woodlands worldwide!

Stag Beetle

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

Star-nosed mole

The star-nosed mole has the ability to sense both electrical fields and ground vibrations

Stargazer Fish

Uses an electric shock to stun its prey!

Steelhead Salmon

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

Stick Insect

There are more than 3,000 different species!

Stork

They can’t sing like other birds.

Striped Bass

Pilgrims counted striped bass as an essential part of their diet from the time they arrived in North America.

Styracosaurus

Sultan Chicken

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

Summer Tanager

They remove bee stingers by rubbing them against a tree

Supersaurus

Surgeonfish

Paracanthurus hepatus, the palette surgeonfish or bluetang, is the only member of its genus

Swainson’s Hawk

Their wings form a “V” shape when flying.

Swallowtail Butterfly

N/A

Swan

Populations have been affected by pollution!

Taco Terrier

Taco terriers are known by a variety of names, including the Chitoxy Toy and the Chiwoxy.

Tarantula Hawk

Tarantula hawks are excellent pollinators, especially for milkweed.

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.

Teacup Poodle

The teacup poodle is the smallest poodle breed!

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

The breed was named in President Theodore Roosevelt's honor when it was officially recognized in 1999.

Ten-Lined June Beetle

These beetles can take up to two years to complete one generation. In fact, larvae can develop in soil for up to 4 years!

Tennessee Walking Horse

There's a national celebration of Tennessee Walkers each year

Termite

Their mounds can be up to 9 meters tall!

Terrier

Terriers were once the greatest dogs in the world.

Texas Blind Snake

These snakes grow to just 11 inches long

Texas Brown Tarantula

You may see a mass migration of tarantulas in late summer or fall.

Texas Coral Snake

Texas coral snakes have the second most powerful venom in the world

Texas Garter Snake

These snakes defensively emit a foul-smelling musk if you handle them!

Texas Heeler

Though they are loyal to their family, these dogs can be shy around strangers.

Texas Indigo Snake

Texas Indigo Snakes are known for chasing down, overpowering, and eating rattlesnakes.

Texas Night Snake

The Texas night snake has vertical pupils to help it see better at night.

Texas Rat Snake

The Texas rat snake is one of the most common subspecies of the western rat snake in the wild.

Texas Spiny Lizard

They hold push-up competitions!

Theropod

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

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

Tiffany

Chantilly cats are a mixed-breed cross between a Burmese cat and a long-haired Asian cat.

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 Muskellunge (Muskie)

Massive carnivorous hybrid fish

Tiger Rattlesnake

These rattlesnakes have the smallest heads of any rattlesnake.

Tiger Salamander

Found across the North American wetlands!

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.

Timber Rattlesnake (Canebrake Rattlesnake)

Timber rattlesnakes are the snake on the Gadsden Flag.

Tomato Hornworm

The tomato hornworm is a ferocious pest that can eat all parts of a plant, including the fruits.

Torkie

The Torkie is alert and very vocal so it makes a great watchdog.

Tortoise

Can live until they are more than 150 years old!

Toy Fox Terrier

Hunters use the toy fox terrier to go into a fox's den and flush the animal out.

Trapdoor spider

Ambush their prey using a trapdoor made of silk

Tree Cricket

They make music with their wings

Tree Frog

Found in warmer jungles and forests!

Tree swallow

The tree swallow can make more than a dozen distinct vocalizations

Treeing Tennessee Brindle

Coarse baying cries during the hunt changes at the tree

Treeing Walker Coonhound

In addition to raccoons, these dogs can track bears, bobcats, cougars, and deer with ease.

Troodon

Troodon formosus means "wounding tooth" in Greek, a name that describes its serrated teeth.

Tufted Titmouse

Tully Monster

Tully Monsters can neither be classified as vertebrates nor invertebrates due to their ambiguous body structure.

Tundra Swan

“The tundra swan is entirely white except for a yellow marking at the base of their bill!”

Turkey

Closely related to pheasants and chickens!

Turkey Vulture

Turtles

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

Tusoteuthis

Tusoteuthis was one of the largest cephalopods ever

Tylosaurus

Tylosaurus was a marine reptile that is closely related to modern-day snakes and monitor lizards.

Tyrannosaurus Rex

They had many air pockets in their skeleton which kept them light despite their tremendous size.

Uinta Ground Squirrel

The squirrel is named after the Uinta Mountains, which are part of the Rocky Mountain range and are found in Utah and Wyoming.

Uintatherium

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

Upland Sandpiper

They make jerky movements as they walk through the grass, searching for food.

Vaquita

Smallest cetacean in the ocean

Veery

The veery is named for its sharp "veer" call.

Venus Flytrap

The Venus flytrap is among a group of plants that consumes animals

Vermilion Flycatcher

They have a fast song that lasts up to 10 syllables at max.

Vine Snake

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

Vinegaroon

Vinegaroons can spray 19 times before the glands are depleted

Virgin Islands Dwarf Gecko

The Virgin Islands dwarf gecko is among the smallest reptiles in the world

Vulture

There are 30 different species worldwide!

Walleye Fish

Has great night vision

Warbler

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

Wasp

There are around 75,000 recognised species!

Water Buffalo

Has been domesticated for thousands of years!

Wax Moth

The Wax Moth larvae are more dangerous than the adult.

Weasel

The smallest carnivorous mammal in the world!

Weimardoodle

This dog is also known as the Weimarpoo, the Weimaranerpoo, and the Weimaranerdoodle.

Welsh Black Cattle

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

Western Blacklegged Tick

Western blacklegged ticks are only found in the west coast of the United States

Western Blind Snake

Western blind snakes are flourescent in black light!

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

They replace their fangs 2-4 times per year!

Western Hognose Snake

Primarily solitary, these snakes only communicate with one another during breeding season.

Western Kingbird

Western kingbirds have hidden red crown feathers that they can raise when threatened!

Western Rat Snake

Western rat snakes have special scales on their belly that help them climb up trees.

Western Rattlesnake (Northern Pacific Rattlesnake)

Western rattlesnakes are shy and try to avoid people whenever possible.

Western Tanager

They migrate farther north than any other tanager.

Westiepoo

This dog is known for cocking its head in a curious manner when listening to its owner.

Whiptail Lizard

Many whiptail species reproduce asexually.

White Bass

Silvery white fish popular with anglers

White Catfish

White catfish can grow up to 37 inches in size.

White-Crowned Sparrow

Males learn distinct songs from the community they grew up in and continue to sing in the same dialect as adults.

White-Eyed Vireo

During courtship, males put on exciting displays by fluffing their plumage, spreading their tails, and letting out a whining call.

White Ferret / Albino Ferrets

There are two different types of white ferrets!

White German Shepherd

It was once thought that White German Shepherds were albinos, but that is not the case. Its white coat is part of the overall German Shepherd genetic composition.

White Sturgeon

They don't have any teeth!

White-tail deer

White-tail deer are good swimmers

Whitetail Deer

Although deer are herbivores, they will sometimes eat mice and birds when they can catch them.

Whoodle

Whoodles are good swimmers

Whooping Crane

This species is named after the loud whooping sound it makes

Willow Flycatcher

These birds live in the understory and are named for their propensity for flitting between willows and shrubs.

Winter Moth

Only the males fly and the females walk.

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!

Wood Bison

The reintroduction of wood bison into Alaska is considered one of the world’s best conservation success stories.

Wood Duck

Adult male wood ducks sport a striking red eye and bill year-round!

Wood Frog

The wood frog lives the furthest north of any other North American amphibian including in the Arctic Circle.

Wood Tick

Almost always found above 4,000 feet in elevation

Wood Turtle

Temperature determines the sex of turtle eggs

Woodlouse

This animal can roll up into a ball

Woodlouse Spider

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

Woodpecker

There are 200 different species!

Woodrat

Pack rats love shiny objects and will steal your jewelry.

Worm

Doesn’t have eyes.

Worm Snake

They emit a bad-smelling liquid if they are picked up!

Writing Spider

males pluck webs like strings on a guitar

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!

Xenacanthus

Smal eel-like ancient shark

Yellow Bellied Sapsucker

The males are responsible for choosing the nesting tree most of the time. Luckily, cavity nests are often reused for multiple breeding seasons (up to 7 years.)

Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake

Sea snakes spend approximately 90% of their lives under water.

Yellow Bullhead Catfish

Bottom dwelling scavenger fish

Yellow Perch

Female Yellow Perch grom larger than the males.

Yellow Sac Spider

Primarily Carnivorous, but sometimes snacks on nectar.

Yellow Tang

Yellowish Cuckoo Bumblebee (formerly Fernald’s Cuckoo Bumblebee)

N/A

Yellowthroat

They forage near the ground, searching leaves for insects

Yokohama Chicken

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

Yoranian

These dogs are very intelligent and are great with children.

Yorkie Bichon

Yorkie Bichons can come in a wide range of colors including black, white, blonde, gray, golden, or dark brown.

Yorkiepoo

The Yorkie-Poo originated from the hybrid poodle phase of the late 20th century

Zebra Mussels

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

Zorse

The offspring of a Zebra and Horse parents!

Zuchon

The breed often changes colors throughout its life, with its puppy coat becoming lighter over the first few years of life, then darkening as he ages.

American Animals List

About the Author

Bethany McKay

Bethany is a professional copywriter and editor, working with newspapers, small businesses, Fortune 500 companies, and everything in-between. She graduated from Penn State University with degrees in journalism and international studies. She loves her cat, Maggie, and has had numerous pets over the years, including guinea pigs, hermit crabs, fish, and a red-eared slider turtle. She lives among farmlands in southcentral PA and enjoys gardening, cooking, reading, and sewing.