Grab your animal lovers and get ready to travel the world! Start your exploration of the animal kingdom with the letter A. From the coldest parts of the Arctic to the depths of the oceans, we’ll cover them all! You can show your little ones the animal photos and pictures to see if they already know the animal or read the description to see if they can guess what it is before revealing the image! Once you’ve finished, why not plan some outdoor active time and take animal photos of your own?
1. Aardvark
At the top of our list of animals is the aardvark. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, they have a great sense of smell. They’re nocturnal animals that use their super long, sticky tongue to scoop up termites and ants!
Learn More: ThoughtCo.
Related posts about nocturnal animals:
- A Comprehensive List Of 19 Nocturnal Animals
- 22 Preschool Activities for Learning About Nocturnal Animals
2. Aardwolf
A relative of the hyena, the aardwolf is found in the grasslands of Eastern and Southern Africa. They primarily eat termites and they have a distinctive mane that runs from their head down to their tail. This mane stands on end when they are threatened to warn off predators.
Learn More: Facts
3. Abyssinian Cat
What’s new pussycat? The Abyssinian cat is one of the oldest known cat breeds in the world. These cats are recognized for their slender bodies and ticked fur. They have a playful and curious nature, making them delightful companions for us humans!
Learn More: Daily Paws
4. Afghan Hound
Known for their long, silky hair and rather regal appearance, these dogs originate from the mountainous regions of Afghanistan. Whilst now, many enjoy pampered lifestyles, these dogs were originally used for hunting large game due to their excellent sight and swift running abilities.
Learn More: American Kennel Club
5. African Buffalo
Also known as the Cape Buffalo, these hefty animals are found in large herds across Africa. They’re known for their incredible strength and are considered one of the “Big Five” game species in Africa due to the danger and difficulty associated with hunting them.
Learn More: Wilderness Destinations
6. African Grey Parrot
These stunning birds are famous for their impressive vocal abilities and intelligence. Native to the dense rainforests of West and Central Africa, they can mimic a variety of sounds, including human speech! They’ve been known to develop strong bonds with their human carers!
Learn More: Maryland Zoo
7. African Harrier-Hawk
This stunning bird of prey is found across sub-Saharan Africa. It has a unique ability to bend its legs in both directions, allowing it to extract prey from cracks and holes in trees! There’s no rest for these birds as they’ve been known to travel up to 200km in just one day!
Learn More: South Africa Online
8. African Palm Civet
These cute little animals are native to the jungles of Africa. African Palm Civets are nocturnal mammals that have a varied diet of fruits, other small mammals, and insects. Though they may look a bit cat-like, they’re actually more closely related to mongooses and weasels!
Learn More: A-Z Animals
9. African Porcupine
These spikey little creatures are covered in sharp quills that serve as a defense mechanism! Porcupines are nocturnal rodents who forage for roots, bulbs, and fallen fruits in sub-Saharan Africa. When threatened, they raise and shake their quills to produce a rattling sound to scare off predators!
Learn More: YouTube
10. African Rock Python
Meet Africa’s largest snake! These slithery serpents are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa and are non-venomous, instead constricting their prey. Did you know that they’re also excellent swimmers and often seen near water?
Learn More: Safari Bookings
11. African Skimmer
These unique birds are known for their pretty impressive fishing technique! To catch some fish, these birds fly down low to the water and skim the surface with their lower beak open. As they go they scoop the fish straight into their mouths!
Learn More: African Bird Club
12. African Wild Dog
This is one dog you do not want to pet. These fierce predators roam the plains of Southern Africa. They live in packs and hunt all kinds of animals and each dog has its own distinct pattern. To show they agree with a decision in the pack, they sneeze!
Learn More: Fauna Flora
13. Agama Lizard
These colorful reptiles love to bask in the sun and are commonly found in sub-Saharan Africa. The males usually have brightly colored scales which come in handy, especially when trying to attract a mate or ward off rivals.
Learn More: A-Z Animals
14. Airedale Terrier
The largest of all terriers, they are known for their curly and dense coat. These lovable and loyal dogs are keen human companions! They’re originally from the Aire Valley of Yorkshire in England, where they were bred to catch otters and rats in the region’s watercourses.
Learn More: Omlet
15. Akita
This dog became a bit of an internet meme sensation! Originating from Japan, this powerful and independent breed has a dense coat that can be any color including white, brindle, or pinto (a mix of black and white). They are known for their unwavering loyalty to their families!
Learn More: The Spruce Pets
16. Albacore
The Albacore is actually a type of tuna fish and is recognized by its long pectoral fins. They are known to have warmer blood than the water around them, allowing them to swim with speed and stamina in pursuit of food.
Learn More: Biology Dictionary
17. Albatross
With a wingspan of up to 11 feet, the Albatross is one of the biggest birds on the planet! They spend most of their lives flying over oceans in search of fish. These magnificent birds are critically endangered due to climate change and the loss of their nesting grounds.
Learn More: Pinterest
18. Alligator
A living dinosaur! Alligators live in the warm climates of North America and China. They live in freshwater, have u-shaped snouts, and are dark green or black. Remember to keep your distance if you see one as they can run up to 35 miles per hour!
Learn More: Smithsonian’s National Zoo
19. Alpaca
Think of your favorite fuzzy sweater – that’s what an alpaca feels like! Native to Peru, these docile animals are very social and need to live in herds. Their padded feet allow them to walk without disturbing the grass they eat!
Learn More: National Geographic
20. Amazon Parrot
Did you know that there are over 30 species of Amazon parrots? Their habitat stretches from Mexico and the Caribbean to South America. These birds are mostly green, with bright accent feathers of all colors. They love eating nuts, seeds, and fruits.
Learn More: Wikipedia
21. American Bison
The American bison, or buffalo, is the largest mammal in North America. Once numbering in the millions, they were nearly hunted to extinction but have since recovered due to conservation efforts.
Learn More: School Of Marine And Environmental Affairs
22. American Bulldog
These goofballs are a great addition to the family. Descended from a British dog breed, they became American in the 1700s when they were brought over on boats! Super intelligent, they quickly learn commands and love chasing after their favorite toys!
Learn More: American Kennel Club
23. American Eskimo Dog
Despite its name, the American Eskimo dog is actually German! These super fluffy dogs used to perform in circuses around the world and are super intelligent and energetic. They love doing tricks for their owners!
Learn More: American Kennel Club
24. American Robin
One of the most recognized birds in North America, robins are known for their bright orange-red chests. They’re often seen hopping around lawns looking for worms and are considered a sign of spring in many parts of the U.S.
Learn More: iNaturalist
25. American Woodcock
These funny little birds love to put on a bit of a show! Also known as the timberdoodle, they’re known for their display flights during the breeding season, where they swoop around noisily. They’re ground-dwelling birds that are often found in wet woods and brushy fields.
Learn More: National Audubon Society
26. Amur Leopard
This big cat can be found in the forests of Eastern Russia and parts of China and is one of the rarest! They are known for their beautiful spotted coat and are critically endangered with only a few left in the wild.
Learn More: World Wildlife
27. Anaconda
At a whopping 550 pounds and over 29 feet long, anacondas are the largest snakes in the world! They live in Amazonian rivers and can open their jaws wide enough to eat an entire pig in one bite! They are not venomous but kill their prey by relying on the strength of their constriction abilities.
Learn More: National Geographic
28. Anchovies
Anchovies are small bony fish that live in warm coastal waters. They have a long silver stripe on a blue-green body. Their eggs hatch after only two days! You can find them in coastal waters all over the world. Try some on your pizza!
Learn More: Encyclopedia Britannica
29. Andalusian Horse
Originating from the Iberian Peninsula in Spain and Portugal, these horses are renowned for their grace and strength. They have a rich history, having been recognized as a breed all the way back in the 15th century!
Learn More: Horse & Hound
30. Anemone
Did you know an anemone is actually an animal? It looks like an aquatic plant, but it actually preys on passing fish! There are over 1,000 species of anemones living in coral reefs around the world. Some species provide homes for special kinds of fish, like our clownfish friend Nemo!
Learn More: A-Z Animals
31. Angelfish
These fish earned their name as it’s said their silhouette resembles the shape of an angel’s head and wings! The marine angelfish are brightly colored and are popular in saltwater aquariums, while the freshwater species are commonly kept in home aquariums.
Learn More: The Scientist
32. Anglerfish
Down in the deepest parts of the oceans live the anglerfish. With an abundance of teeth, these fish look pretty scary! Some live in total darkness and use a little light attached to their head to lure their dinner into their mouth!
Learn More: Earth
33. Anhinga
The Anhinga is a bird that can be found near freshwater ponds and swamps across the Americas. It’s often called the “snakebird” due to its long, snake-like neck. Unlike other birds that live near water, like ducks, their feathers aren’t waterproof, so you’ll often see them drying their wings in the sun.
Learn More: Your Observer
34. Anole
The anole belongs to a group of iguanian lizards found mainly in the Americas. They are known for their ability to change colors in a range of different scenarios, similar to chameleons! These lizards also have sticky toe pads, which enable them to walk on vertical surfaces!
Learn More: Oakland Zoo
35. Ant
Ants are everywhere! There are over 10,000 species of them around the world and they live in colonies with a queen. While the queen lays eggs, the worker ants go out and collect food. They communicate by touching each other’s antennae and some even produce pheromones for other ants to follow and be led to food!
Learn More: Next Nature Network
36. Anteater
Somewhere close to an ant habitat in South America, you might find an anteater! As their name suggests, they eat ants, sometimes up to 30,000 in one day! They use their long tongue to swipe the ants out of their nests.
Learn More: YouTube
37. Antelope
There are 91 different species of antelope in Africa and Asia. They never shed their horns, meaning they grow super long and each species has a different style! The largest type of antelope is over six feet tall and lives in the savannahs of Southern Africa.
Learn More: A-Z Animals
38. Antlion
This fascinating insect is found mostly in dry, sandy climates and is well-known for the cone-shaped pits its larvae create in the sand to trap ants. When an ant falls in, the antlion larva quickly grabs and consumes it. These creatures are super interesting, if not a little terrifying at the same time!
Learn More: Britannica
39. Ape
Apes have hair instead of fur, fingerprints, and opposable thumbs, just like us! Chimpanzees, orangutans, and gorillas are all different types of apes. They live in families and love picking the bugs off of each other to stay clean. They can even learn sign language! Amazing, right!?
Learn More: Center for Great Apes
40. Appenzeller Dog
This Swiss mountain dog breed is well known for herding cattle. They stand out with their tricolor coat and their boundless energy and enthusiasm. Owners of this breed will know this dog needs a lot of exercise and loves participating in dog agility challenges!
Learn More: Petful
41. Arabian Cobra
Arabian cobras live on the Arabian Peninsula. These black and brown snakes are super dangerous because of their venom. When they feel threatened, they spread their hood and hiss so if you encounter one in its natural habitat, be sure to leave it alone!
Learn More: A-Z Animals
42. Arabian Horse
This horse originates from the Arabian Peninsula and is one of the oldest breeds in the world. They are well known for their stamina and endurance. Did you know that many famous historical figures including Napoleon, Genghis Khan, and George Washington were all known to ride this breed of horse?
Learn More: Pro Horse
43. Archerfish
Archerfish are small silver fish that live in coastal streams in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. They typically eat water bugs, but they also eat land bugs by shooting down their food with spouts of water that can reach nine feet in the air!
Learn More: New Scientist
44. Arctic Hare
Living in the frigid Arctic isn’t easy! Luckily these hares have thick white fur to camouflage them against the snow and to keep them warm. They are excellent jumpers and can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour when escaping predators! Blink and you’ll miss them!
Learn More: Oceanwide Expeditions
45. Arctic Fox
Up in the icy Arctic lives the Arctic fox. Their fluffy white coats keep them warm during the winter and their fur turns brown in the summer which helps to keep them camouflaged all year round! They typically eat rodents, but sometimes follow polar bears for some tasty leftovers!
Learn More: World Wildlife Fund
46. Arctic Tern
If you think your morning commute was bad, just wait! The Arctic tern is a migratory bird that travels all the way from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back every year! They witness two summers each year and are known to have the longest migration of any animal.
Learn More: Bird Fact
47. Arctic Wolf
Meet the Arctic wolf! These snowy predators are a subspecies of the gray wolf and they are well adapted to the Arctic environment with thick fur and a keen sense of hearing and smell. While not endangered, they do face some threats as global warming affects the availability of prey in their food chain.
Learn More: SAFE Worldwide
48. Argali Sheep
I bet these don’t look like the sheep you count to fall asleep! Found in the highlands of Central Asia, they are the world’s largest wild sheep. The males are known for their massive spiraled horns, which they use during rutting season to fight off rivals!
Learn More: Twitter
49. Argentine Tegu
This eye-catching lizard species is from South America. They can grow up to four and a half feet in length and eat mostly spiders, insects, and snails. Amazingly, Tegus can detach their tails if a predator manages to grab hold of them! They also can deliver a pretty nasty bite, so here’s hoping you never meet one and make it angry!
Learn More: World Atlas
50. Armadillo
This cute little animal roams around North and South America. They live on a diet of mostly bugs and grubs. Its bony plates of armor protect it from predators and when they feel threatened, they roll into a ball to keep themselves safe! Pretty neat!
Learn More: National Wildlife Federation
51. Asian Elephant
Smaller than their African cousins, Asian elephants live in the forests of Southeast Asia. They love eating all kinds of plants and live in herds led by the oldest female elephant. Female elephants are pregnant for 18 to 22 months! That’s twice as long as humans!
Learn More: Smithsonian National Zoo
52. Asian Giant Hornet
Sometimes referred to as the “murder hornet”, this insect is probably one you’d like to avoid! The world’s largest hornet can deliver a pretty horrible sting, much more potent than a standard hornet. This species is native to East Asia but has been spotted elsewhere on occasion.
Learn More: USDA
53. Asian Lady Beetle
Have you seen an orange ladybug before? If you have, it was actually an Asian lady beetle! Originally native to Asia, it became an invasive species in the U.S. during the 1990s. In the fall they love to find warm places to hide out for the winter, like your attic, where they create a bad smell and stain things yellow! Yuck!
Learn More: University of Kentucky
54. Asian Palm Swift
This tiny bird gets its name because it often makes its nest on palm leaves! It’s known for its swift flight and agility in the air and is found throughout South-East Asia. It is similar to the Pacific Swift, but the Palm Swift is much smaller and does not have the distinctive white band around its tail.
Learn More: Singapore Birds Project
55. Asiatic Black Bear
Also known as a moon bear, the Asiatic black bear lives in the mountains of East Asia. They use their sharp teeth to eat nuts, fruits, honey, and birds. They have a black body with a unique white marking on their chest that looks like a crescent moon!
Learn More: Encyclopedia Britannica
56. Asp
An asp is a venomous brown snake that lives in Europe. They’re often found lying in warm sunny spots in hilly areas and they have triangular-shaped heads with fangs that rotate. It was once considered a symbol of royalty in ancient Egypt!
Learn More: A-Z Animals
57. Assassin Bug
Assassin bugs are bloodsuckers! Gardeners love them because they catch and eat other pests using their sticky front legs. Some have brown bodies whilst others have elaborate colored markings. There are over 100 kinds in North America!
Learn More: Thought Co.
58. Atlantic Puffin
This iconic bird is sometimes called the “sea parrot” due to its colorful beak! The humble puffin is a seabird that can be found on the North Atlantic coasts. They are expert swimmers and divers and often plunge into the sea, returning with a beak full of fish!
Learn More: PBS
59. Atlantic Salmon
The “King of Fish” starts life as a freshwater fish before heading out to sea. During the breeding season, they head back upstream to lay their eggs! They used to live all across the Northeast of the U.S., however, due to pollution and overfishing, sadly there are hardly any left in the wild.
Learn More: NOAA Fisheries
60. Atlas Beetle
This massive beetle is native to Southeast Asia. The male beetles can grow up to 4 inches long and are the strongest creatures on Earth in proportion to their body size! They’re herbivores and thankfully are harmless to humans!
Learn More: Kidadl
61. Australian Shepherd
These stunning dogs aren’t actually Australian…they’re actually American! They became popular from their performances at rodeos. Many have two different colored eyes and naturally short tails!
Learn More: American Kennel Club
62. Australian Terrier
Small but fierce! This small terrier breed was developed in Australia for hunting and guarding. They have a rough coat and are known for their spirited and feisty nature!
Learn More: World Animal Foundation
63. Avocet
These funny-looking wading birds have a rather distinctive look! They use their upturned bills to sweep through shallow water to catch small aquatic prey. They turn a striking peach color during mating season and their long, skinny legs help them to navigate wetlands all around the Americas.
Learn More: ABC Birds
64. Axolotl
These adorable salamanders stay teenagers their whole lives! They live in freshwater in Mexico, where they eat fish and bugs. They can regrow entire parts of their body and there are only a few thousand left in the wild.
Learn More: World Wildlife Fund
65. Aye-Aye
The aye-aye is a nocturnal animal that lives in Madagascar. They use one super long finger to tap on trees to find bugs! They spend most of their lives in trees and though they were once thought to be extinct, they were rediscovered in 1957!
Learn More: How Stuff Works
66. Azure-Winged Magpie
This isn’t your standard magpie! Native to parts of Spain, Portugal, and Eastern Asia, these eye-catching birds are known for their bright azure-blue wings and tails. They are sociable birds that often gather in large flocks.
Learn More: eBird
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