The Most Unexpected Climbers in the Animal Kingdom

When most people think of animals that climb, squirrels initially come to mind. Maybe cats. But there are plenty of animals that aren’t ever considered. When it comes to the handful of animals on this list, many people don’t realize they are surprisingly skilled climbers. While they might not possess the same scaling ability as true climbers like squirrels, they can scramble up angled tree trunks, leap onto low structures, or otherwise find a way to go vertical.

These hidden climbers range from unlikely predators to agile herbivores, and they all challenge what we think we know about animal behavior. Climbing can be a valuable survival skill, whether it’s for escaping danger, finding food, or simply getting a better vantage point. The animals on this list use unique adaptations that help them move up in the world!

1. Alligator

It might sound unbelievable, but alligators can do more than navigate murky waters. They are quite skilled at climbing. Juveniles, and even some adults, have been observed scaling fences and low trees using their claws and powerful tails. They’re especially good at climbing in wet or muddy environments where they can get traction. While they won’t be climbing high into a tree canopy, their ability to go vertical is surprising for such heavy, reptilian predators.

2. Octopus

Octopuses are famous for a wide range of odd and fascinating abilities, and now we can add climbing to that list. Using their suction cups, they can scale rocks, aquarium walls, and even crawl out of water for short distances! Their flexibility allows them to move in almost any direction, making them incredibly effective climbers in both aquatic and semi-terrestrial environments.

3. New Guinea Singing Dog

The New Guinea singing dog is one of the very few canines with a well-documented ability to climb. Native to the rugged highlands of New Guinea, these rare wild dogs evolved in steep, forested terrain. Within this environment, agility and balance are essential for survival. Unlike most domestic breeds, they have unusually flexible joints and a highly mobile spine, which allow them to climb trees and scramble up near-vertical surfaces.

4. Elephants (calves)

While adult elephants are too large to climb much at all, young elephants can scramble up steep embankments and even low obstacles. Their strength and coordination allow them to navigate surprisingly tricky terrain. It’s not climbing in the traditional sense, but seeing such a massive animal move upward with agility is unexpected and impressive.

4. Goats

Some of you might think we’re cheating with this one. Yeah, we all know goats can climb! So why are they on this list? Goats, especially mountain goats, are known for their great cliff-climbing abilities, but most people don’t realize they can scale more than just a rock wall. In places like Morocco, goats have been seen climbing trees to eat fruit and leaves. Their split hooves and incredible balance allow them to stand on tiny ledges or branches, making them some of the most sure-footed climbers in the animal kingdom.