Discover, Appreciate, & Understand the Animal World!
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We believe that if people know more about the world’s creatures they will better care for them. That’s why we add new animals for you to discover – each and every day! Learn about any animal using the search box below or subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Also, be sure to check out our growing list of Animal Quizzes.
Discover Your Favorite Animal Today!
Latest from A-Z Animals
7 Effective and Natural Ways to Keep Bees Away From Your Hummingbird Feeder
While both hummingbirds and bees are valuable backyard companions to keep around, they don't always get along. Your hummingbird feeder may see a lot of action- but not from the… Read More
By August Croft 3 hours ago
12 Vibrant Flowers That Attract Dragonflies Like Magnets
There are more than 5,000 species of dragonfly worldwide and they vary in size and color. The largest dragonfly is over five inches in length! Their lifecycle requires them to… Read More
By Sharon Parry 6 hours ago
How Much Is an American Shorthair Cat? Know These Costs Before You Commit
Have you been thinking about purchasing a new kitten? If so, you might be wondering which breed would be a good fit for your family. While some breeds are known… Read More
By Alanna Davis 6 hours ago
The 7 Snakes Slithering Around Lake Placid – Are Any Venomous?
Lake Placid is a popular lake in the state of New York. It's in the Adirondack Mountains. This beautiful lake is glacial and has a surface area of 2,170 acres. The average depth… Read More
By Nixza Gonzalez 8 hours ago
The 4 Animals That Carry the Most Rabies
For many, the natural world is one of the best parts of life. However, even self-described "animal lovers" keep their distance from animals carrying rabies. While almost any animal can… Read More
By Alanna Davis 10 hours ago
5 Smells that Attract Fish (How Effective Is It, Really?)
Although you may not have known, fish actually do have a sense of smell despite living under the water. In fact, certain fish, such as salmon, have incredibly sharp senses.… Read More
By Alanna Davis 23 hours ago
14 Amazing Transparent Animals
The animal kingdom is a fascinating set of unique, beautiful species of creatures. Each one that resides on this Earth is amazing in its own special way. Some animals are… Read More
By Patrick MacFarland 1 day ago
Hermit Crab Prices in 2024: Initial Purchase Cost + Ongoing Maintenance
In today's world, not everyone has enough free time and extra resources to dedicate to owning a dog or a cat. Because of this, many people are turning to alternatives… Read More
By Alanna Davis 1 day ago
Why Does My Dog Like to Play Tug? 6 Reasons Why They Do It
One minute you are picking up a sock from the floor and the next you find yourself participating in an intense game of tug that you had not planned! This… Read More
By Sharon Parry 1 day ago
The 7 Main Types of Animals And Their Characteristics
There are many different types of animals in the world, but some of the largest categories include:
Mammals
The official mammal class is Mammalia. Animals that are considered mammals include warm-blooded vertebrates that have hair or fur and whose babies drink milk. Unlike other animal types like birds and insects, all mammal babies drink milk that comes from their mother’s bodies. This is one of the key ways to know if an animal is a mammal.
See the complete list of mammals.
Reptiles
Lizards, dinosaurs, crocodiles, turtles, and snakes – all belong to that ancient and stout class of animals known as the reptiles. This is a diverse group with more than 10,000 different species and a huge representation in the fossil record. Once the dominant land vertebrates on the planet, reptiles still occupy just about every single ecosystem outside of the extreme north and south.
See the complete list of reptiles.
Fish
Fish are aquatic vertebrates. They usually have gills, paired fins, a long body covered with scales, and tend to be cold-blooded. “Fish” is a term used to refer to lampreys, sharks, coelacanths and ray-finned fishes, but is not a taxonomic group, which is a clade or group containing a common ancestor and all its descendants.
See the complete list of fish.
Birds
Birds, members of the class Aves, include more than 10,400 living species. Their feathers distinguish them from all other classes of animal; no other animals on earth have them. If you see an animal with feathers, it’s undoubtedly a bird. Like mammals, birds are warm-blooded vertebrates with four-chambered hearts. However, they are more closely related to reptiles and are believed to have evolved from dinosaurs.
See the complete list of birds.
Amphibians
The official class of amphibians is Amphibia. To have the classification of an amphibian, an animal must be a vertebrate, require water to survive, be cold-blooded, and spend time both on land and in water. Though other animals only live on land or in the water, amphibians have the unique ability to thrive equally in both. Amphibians cover over 6,000 different species across the globe, but about 90% are frogs.
See the complete list of amphibians.
Invertebrates
The definition of an invertebrate is any animal that does not have a backbone or vertebral column. The most prolific and easily recognizable members of the invertebrate family are insects. It’s estimated that upwards of 30 million individual species of invertebrates may exist accounting for between 90-95 percent of all organisms on the planet.
See the complete list of invertebrates.
Insects
All insects are part of the taxonomical phylum Arthropoda, and they are collectively referred to as arthropods. It is common to see this name misspelled as “anthropod,” but this is not the correct term. They can be found in nearly every environment on the planet, and they currently account for over half of all known living organisms in the world. They have undergone many cycles of evolution depending on the resources available to them.
See the complete list of insects.
Explore Types of Wild Animals from Around the World
We track thousands of animals from every continent and corner on earth, and are adding more every day!
- African Animals – Africa is home to some of the most incredible and dangerous animals in the world.
- Asian Animals – Asia has the world’s longest coastline, and an amazing diversity of exotic animals, birds, and more.
- Central American Animals – Discover the the nearly 400 different animals we track in Central America today.
- Eurasian Animals – Eurasia has some of the rarest animals in the world, like Siberian Tigers and Snow Leopards.
- European Animals – We track over 500 different animals in Europe, including wolves and bears.
- North American Animals – North America has many beautiful national parks that house some of the rarest animals on earth.
- Marine (Ocean) Animals – The ocean is teaming with life, from the smallest shrimp to the largest animal ever – the Blue Whale!
- Oceanian Animals – Oceania has many islands, and the world’s highest concentration of marsupials.
- South American Animals – Home to the stealthy Jaguar, the friendly Capybara, and many more!
See Endangered and Extinct Animals Lists
A-Z Animals follow’s the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species definitions of threatened and endangered animals. Please consult the lists below to learn more about which animals need our help the most
- Extinct – Species that no longer exist on earth
- Extinct in the Wild – Species that are only known to survive in captive or cultivated environments
- Critically Endangered – Animals that face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild
- Endangered – Animal species that face a high risk of extinction in the wild
- Vulnerable – Animal species that face a risk of extinction in the wild
- Near Threatened – Species that are facing population challenges and likely to become vulnerable to extinction soon
- Least Concern – Animals with strong populations that are not expected to face extinction risk in the near future
- Data Deficient – Species where we lack adequate information to assess the risk
- Not Evaluated – Animal species that have not been evaluated yet
Types of Animals By Letter: Explore A to Z Animal Lists
See lists of animals that start with every letter of the alphabet, from A to Z. We track all types of animals like lions and tigers, dogs and cats, even dinosaurs and spiders. Choose your favorite letter below to see all animals that start with it today.
Animals that Start with A
Example: The Arctic Fox
Animals that Start with B
Example: The Banded Palm Civet
Animals that Start with C
Example: The Chi Chi
Animals that Start with D
Example: The Dinosaur Shrimp
Animals that Start with E
Example: The Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Animals that Start with F
Example: The Flour Beetle
Animals that Start with G
Example: The Grass Carp
Animals that Start with H
Example: The Hogfish
Animals that Start with I
Example: The IMG Boa Constrictor
Animals that Start with J
Example: The Jellyfish
Animals that Start with K
Example: The Korean Jindo
Animals that Start with L
Example: The Leaf-Tailed Gecko
Animals that Start with M
Example: The Moscow Watchdog
Animals that Start with N
Example: The Nose-Horned Viper
Animals that Start with O
Example: The Olive Sea Snake
Animals that Start with P
Example: The Pacific Sleeper Shark
Animals that Start with Q
Example: The Quetzalcoatlus northropi
Animals that Start with R
Example: The Rhesus Macaque
Animals that Start with S
Example: The Sehuencas Water Frog
Animals that Start with T
Example: The Tree Frog
Animals that Start with U
Example: The Urechis unicinctus (Penis Fish)
Animals that Start with V
Example: The Vaquita
Animals that Start with W
Example: The Worm
Animals that Start with X
Example: The Xenotarsosaurus
Animals that Start with Y
Example: The Yellow Bass
Animals that Start with Z
Example: The Zebra Mussels
Everything To Know About Pet Dogs, Cats Birds, and More
Some of the most popular types of animals on earth are pets. A pet is a domesticated animal that lives with a person or family, usually in a house. The most common pets include dogs, cats, fish, and birds, but there are also many amazing exotic pets like reptiles, lizards, and more! Horses, goats, and pigs can also be pets too.
Pet Dogs
Dogs are the most popular type of pet on earth with nearly 500 million worldwide. Thats almost one dog for every 15 people on earth! There are hundreds of different dog breeds. The Irish Wolfhound is the largest dog breed, and was bred to hunt wolves. Chihuahuas are the smallest, and were likely bred for companionship or to hunt small rodents. The most popular dog breeds are below.
Irish Setter
Has a beautiful coat that's flowing and feathered!
Boston Terrier
Friendly, lovable and very strong!
Golden Retriever
Trusting, kind and gentle!
Pet Cats
Cats are the second most popular pet on earth with nearly 400 million worldwide. Thats almost one pet cat for every 20 people on earth! You can read about the hundreds of different cat breeds, from the large to the small. The most popular cat breeds are below
Abyssinian
One of the oldest cat breeds in the world!
Australian Mist
The only cat breed to originate in Australia.
Ragdoll
One of the larger breeds of domestic cat!
Pet Product Reviews
Pets are important members of our families and should be cared for. The AZ Animals team reviews the latest research on pet health, consults veterinarian best practices, and works directly with vet health specialists to review the best products for your dog, cat, and other pets. We’re excited to share our expert pet product recommendations with you, including the best dog food, best cat food, and best tanks for your pet fish
More Animal News, Facts, Rankings, and More!
7 Plants That Effectively Repel Pesky Termites
Dealing with a pest insect problem can be a maddening experience for many. However, some of these creatures can be far more dangerous than others. While mosquitos and fruit flies… Read More
By Alanna Davis 2 days ago
The 15 Least Visited Countries in the Entire World
While some countries are on nearly everyone's bucket list, others seldom receive visitors. While some countries aren't popular tourist destinations due to concerns about safety, others are difficult to travel… Read More
By Alanna Davis 2 days ago
Does Lemongrass Repel Mosquitoes? Yes! Here’s How to Use It
There are plenty of reasons why people talk about lemongrass repelling mosquitoes. The main reason? It actually does work. However, there are plenty of ineffective ways that the average person… Read More
By August Croft 2 days ago
The Largest Wild Hog Ever Caught in Texas
Although not native to the United States, populations of wild hogs are exploding across southern regions, including Texas. Thanks to abundant land and a lack of natural predators, wild hogs… Read More
By Kellianne Matthews 2 days ago
The Most Effective Homemade Natural Dog Repellent For Gardens
Gardeners have all sorts of enemies that try to destroy their gardens. Deer, rabbits, and insects are common problems, but did you know dogs could be too? Whether you own… Read More
By Nina Phillips 2 days ago
100 Amazing Chocolate-Inspired Dog Names
Chocolate and dogs have got to be two of life's greatest pleasures, right? So, when you are looking for a name for your new pup, the chocolate industry has a… Read More
By Sharon Parry 2 days ago
Rabbits vs Guinea Pigs: 5 Key Differences + Our Pick For Which Makes the Better Pet
Every family thinks about growing it by adding a pet to the mix. If you have little kids, sometimes a dog or a cat may not be the best idea.… Read More
By Patrick MacFarland 2 days ago
5 Beaches Near Tampa Bay with the Most Shark Attacks
Red alert! This is not a drill. this is also not the movie Jaws. Ever since Jaws came out, we've all been a bit afraid of shark attacks happening on… Read More
By Patrick MacFarland 3 days ago
Are Butterflies Pollinators and Just How Valuable Are They To Nature?
Butterflies are associated with warm sunny days and beautiful gardens. With their brightly colored wings and slender bodies, they are one of the most enchanting members of the insect world.… Read More
By Sharon Parry 3 days ago
6 Colors Known to Repel Sharks
We've all seen the movie Jaws. Interestingly enough, it was first a novel that then got turned into a movie and it catapulted sharks into fame. Now we have the… Read More
By Patrick MacFarland 4 days ago
There Are Over 160 Dialects of English. Which Do You Speak?
English is the most popular language in the world, with about 1.5 billion speakers on every continent. As a result of the British Empire's colonization of about 25% of the… Read More
By Drew Wood 4 days ago
The 3 Most Alligator-Infested Rivers in Mississippi
American alligators are found throughout the south in the U.S. In the country, there are around 5 million American alligators. Mississippi isn't a massive hub for alligators, but don't be… Read More
By Nixza Gonzalez 4 days ago
Does Eucalyptus Repel Bugs? Yes! Here’s How to Use It
While some people wait all year for the spring and summer to come around, others aren’t as excited. Although this time of year comes with beach trips, picnics, and sunshine,… Read More
By Alanna Davis 5 days ago
The 15 States Where Sea Turtles Make Their Nests
Sea turtle nesting season is one of the most magical times of the year for many people. Luckily, there are several places throughout the country where you can observe this… Read More
By Alanna Davis 5 days ago
10 Natural and Effective Ways to Get Rid of Black Widows
More than 3,700 species of spiders make their home in the United States. Even people who do not like spiders have to accept that there will be some in their… Read More
By Sharon Parry 6 days ago
8 Methods for Getting Rid of Pigeons NaturallyÂ
Pigeons may seem like harmless birds but when they gather in numbers on and around your property, that can be a problem. Some people even call them the 'rats of… Read More
By Sharon Parry 6 days ago
160 Biblical Dog Names and Their Meanings
Are you the proud owner of a brand-new puppy? If so, you might have spent some time brainstorming potential names for your new furry friend. However, this process can be… Read More
By Alanna Davis 6 days ago
Airedale Terrier Coat: Colors, Patterns, and Feel
Hailing from England’s Yorkshire region, the Airedale terrier is a playful pup and versatile working dog. Known as the “King of Terriers”, this large breed is a distinguished dog with… Read More
By Kellianne Matthews 6 days ago
Hydroxyzine Dosage Chart for Dogs: Risks, Side Effects, Dosage, and More
Key Points Hydroxyzine is used "off-label" in dogs, primarily for allergies. The most common side effect of hydroxyzine in dogs is drowsiness. This medication may not be suitable for dogs… Read More
By Angie Menjivar 6 days ago
Are Yellow Jackets Pollinators and Just How Valuable Are They To Nature?
Bees and butterflies may be the most familiar pollinators, but they aren't the only ones. Other insects and birds are beneficial pollinators for the garden, including hummingbirds, wasps, flies, and beetles. Yellow jackets are a… Read More
By Jennifer Geer 6 days ago
See all of A-Z Animals News and Information.
Animal Reference Guides And Educational Resources
We believe if people are more educated about the world’s animals, they will better car for them. That’s why we are building the world’s greatest animal encyclopedia, completely free to you. Please take a moment to learn more about animals today using these helpful guides and resources:
- Reference Library – See helpful information on conservation, classification, animal evolution, and more
- Glossary – A list of scientific and technical animal terms, with definitions
- Animal Habitats – Learn all about different animal habitats
- Diet – The different animal diets like omnivores, herbivores, and carnivores defined with examples
- Behavior – Learn all about animal intelligence, communication, community, language, migration, and more.
Animal Encyclopedia With Facts, Pictures, Definitions, and More! FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the 6 types of animals?
The 6 types of animals are mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and invertebrates. Additionally, animals are classified in many different ways, which you may learn about in this complete guide to animal classification.
What are the 10 most popular animals?
The 10 most popular animals on AZ Animals are:
How many animals are there?
There are over 1 million known animal species and more than 98% of those are insects, which are indeed animals.
