There are many animals throughout the world that start with F. Below is a list of 60+ animals that start with F, and each has its own unique characteristics. This list is great to use for a spelling unit or an animal unit. Kids will love learning about many of these lesser-known animals and teachers will enjoy helping kids research them!
1. Flamingo
The Flamingo is most well-known for its light pink color, and long neck and legs. It enjoys a diet of shrimp and can often be seen wading through shallow waters. Various Flamingo species exist in areas around the globe, but the birds all share one thing in common- they thrive in tropical and subtropical climates.
Learn More: Britannica
2. Fangtooth Fish
The Fangtooth fish has long teeth- hence the apt name. It’s relatively small- only growing to about six inches in length. The species tends to live in deeper parts of the ocean where they use chemical receptors to smell in the water and locate their prey!
Learn More: Animals Around the Globe
3. Ferret
Ferrets are known for their long and lanky bodies. They can be grey, white, or brown in color, and often have a mottled fur pattern. They grow upwards of one foot in length and are relatives of the Stoat, Badger, and Mink families. Ferrets make great pets and are believed to be descendants of Polecats.
Learn More: Animals Around the Globe
4. Fiddler Crab
The Fiddler Crab is a tiny crab species that only grows to between one and two inches. They’re known for their one large claw which can deliver a stinging pinch if the creature feels threatened or needs to ensnare food. If you’d like to see one up close, they’re typically found on sandy beaches, in marshes, and in muddy areas.
Learn More: Chesapeake Bay Program
5. Fin Whale
The Fin Whale is the second longest whale after the Blue Whale. They can weigh over 100,000 pounds and reach a staggering 60 feet in length! Think you can beat them in a race? Think again as they can reach speeds of almost thirty miles per hour! Although efforts have gone into getting their numbers up, Fin whales are an endangered species with only about 16,000-18,000 still in existence.
Learn More: Active Wild
6. Fire Salamander
The Fire Salamander is an amphibian that’s native to Europe. It’s renowned for its black-and-yellow coloring and can reach almost a foot in length. They’re a poisonous species that can cause convulsions, hypertension, and respiratory paralysis to their prey. An astounding fact is that they’ve been known to live up to 50 years if well-cared for in captivity!
Learn More: Active Wild
7. Fire-Bellied Toad
The Fire-bellied Toad is named after its appearance- particularly its brightly colored stomach. Although their skin contains toxins that are harmful to humans, they are often kept as pets. They are typically located throughout Russia and Northeastern China as well as North and South Korea.
Learn More: National Zoo
8. Firefly
The Firefly is well-known across the United States as it’s often the insect that lights up Summer nights. They’re also commonly referred to as glow worms or lightning bugs. Although beautiful, their ability to light up serves a purpose which is to attract mates. Fireflies often feed on pill bugs and snails.
Learn More: Firefly.org
9. Flea
The Flea is a parasite that often lives on mammals like dogs and cats. Fleas feed off of the host’s blood in order to survive. They are unable to fly and can live up to three months if attached to a food source.
Learn More: Skyenimals
10. Flounder
The Flounder is a flat fish that has adapted to blend in with its surroundings. They are mainly found along the coast where they feed on crustaceans and other small fish whilst roaming along the bottom of the ocean floor.
Learn More: Wildlife Informer
11. Fruit Fly
Here’s an insect that we’re all well-accustomed to- The Fruit Fly is a household pest! Fruit flies are very small with brown bodies and red eyes. They’re mainly attracted to fruits and vegetables, although tend to make a nuisance of themselves by being attracted to almost any food product.
Learn More: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
12. Fallow Deer
The Fallow Deer or common deer that’s native to Turkey, Italy, and the Balkan Islands. They are similar to Fawns in appearance- sporting brown coats with white spots. Fallow Deer are short in stature but are assisted by their strong and agile legs to reach top speeds!
Learn More: Mammal Society
13. Finch
The Finch is a beautiful bird that’s known for its vibrant colors. Finches are small in stature and can be seen in a multitude of colors. Unlike many other birds, these feathered delights don’t migrate. They are very quiet and thus, are frequently chosen as household pets.
Learn More: Animals Town
14. Falcon
Unlike the humble Finch above, Falcons are birds of prey that cannot be kept as pets. They are marveled at for their strong hunting abilities- using their keen sense of eyesight to detect prey from far away before moving in to make the kill.
Learn More: Animals Town
15. Flat-headed Snake
The Flat-headed Snake is a small reptile that only grows to about seven or eight inches in length. They are non-venomous and live in glade-like environments. They are not a threat to humans and can be legally kept in Texas if one has the appropriate hunting license.
Learn More: iNaturalist
16. Fossa
The Fossa is known for its long, lean body. Although weighing in on a grander scale, it resembles a cat and is native to Madagascar. They’re carnivorous and live in the forest where they commonly hunt pigs and lemurs.
Learn More: Skyenimals
17. Fox
This ambient-colored animal is omnivorous and is known for its sneaky behavior. There are twelve species including the common Red fox and the Gray fox. They can be located throughout Europe, Asia, and North America, and can reach speeds of thirty to forty miles per hour when chasing their prey.
Learn More: Animal Facts Encyclopedia
18. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is known for its short, stocky stature, upright ears, and pug-like face. It’s a toy breed that survives anywhere between ten to fourteen years. Their easy-going social temperament makes them fantastic housepets.
Learn More: American Kennel Club
19. Flying Lemur
The Flying Lemur is native to Asia. They are very similar to Flying Squirrels, but are more closely related to primates. Although they don’t actually fly, their wing-like skin and limbs allow them to glide through the air and appear as if they’re soaring through the treetops.
Learn More: World Wildlife
20. Flatworm
Flatworms are soft-bodied invertebrates. They can be harmful to humans as these parasites cause different diseases as they commonly feed on bacteria. Although essential to some food chains, they can cause major damage to coral reefs and their delicate ecosystems.
Learn More: Shape of Life
21. Frilled Lizard
The Frilled Lizard is easily recognizable by its unique neck adaptation which is used to scare off predators. It’s native to Australia and New Guinea where it can be found in trees feeding on insects, other small lizards, and even small mammals.
Learn More: Biology Dictionary
22. Fox Terrier
The Fox Terrier is an active dog breed with a friendly and sociable temperament. They live to be about 12-15 years old and are good family dogs. They’re extremely fast learners and are good at performing tricks!
Learn More: Biology Dictionary
23. Fire Ant
Did you know that there are estimated to be about 10000 species of ants? Fire Ants are just one of them that are native to South America, and were accidentally brought to the United States on a ship in the 1930s. They typically prefer warm environments with access to surface water to breed.
Learn More: Britannica
24. Fairy-Wren
The Fairy Wren is an Australian bird that’s unrelated to the True Wren. The males and females differ in appearance with males often being vividly-colored whilst females are rather dull in coloring. They are typically spotted in botanical regions so be sure to remain on the lookout for them on your next trip to a garden-like area.
Learn More: Fairywren Project
25. Fennec Fox
The Fennec Fox is known for its unique- sporting large, long, pointed ears and a small face. The Fennec Fox is a desert fox that’s native to the plains of Africa. They are the smallest species of their kind; only reaching 20cm in height and averaging in with a weight that’s similar to that of a kitten!
Learn More: Jessica Paster
26. Florida Gar
The Florida Gar is a species of fish that’s found in the southeastern United States. They can reach over three feet in length. They are long and narrow with cylinder-shaped bodies that cause them to often be mistaken for logs. A fun fact about the Florida Gar is that the females are often larger than the males.
Learn More: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
27. Freshwater Crocodile
The Freshwater Crocodile is native to Australia. They live in freshwater rivers, swamps, and creeks. They differ in appearance from other crocs and can be distinguished by their small, narrow head and long snout. They are also much smaller than their saltwater companions.
Learn More: Australian Museum
28. Frogfish
The Frogfish is a predator that resides in shallow, tropical water. Their camouflage ability makes them virtually undetectable whilst they cleverly position themselves against coral and wait for unsuspecting prey to swim by.
Learn More: Underwater Photography Guide
29. False Killer Whale
The False Killer Whale is not actually a whale, but instead a dolphin. These marine mammals typically travel in a pack of 10-20, but at times, hundreds have been spotted together. Feasting on small fish, squid, and even seals, they have no shortage of food in the ocean!
Learn More: NOAA Fisheries
30. False Water Cobra
Dangerous and exotic, this slithering species lives in South America. Using its rear fangs to inject venom into its victims, this snake’s bite is something to beware of. If it feels threatened, it’s likely to fan out its neck, much like the common Cobra, before it attacks.
Learn More: National Zoo
31. Fur Seal
Fur seals are adorable creatures that used to be heavily hunted for their fur throughout the Southern hemisphere. Weighing up to 700 pounds, saying that they can grow to be quite large is an understatement! Friendly in nature, these marine mammals are social creatures that can be seen lounging in the sun or swimming about with one another.
Learn More: Australian Antarctic Program
32. French Lop
This cute little bunny has some pretty big ears! French Lop bunnies are renowned for their short, soft hair. Growing quite large, they can weigh as much as 11 pounds! They’re calm in nature and therefore make wonderful pets.
Learn More: Animal Corner
33. Fruit Bat
As their name suggests, Fruit bats eat fruit. They also feed on pollen and leaves. Fruit bats are known to be wonderful parents to their young- roosting with, and protecting, them until they reach adulthood.
Learn More: National Park Service
34. Fishing Cat
The Fishing cat is a unique member of the cat family. Its striking coloring and patterned fur set it apart from others. Growing to a whopping 25 pounds, these cats sure aren’t your average house kitty! Not surprisingly, the Fishing cat sustains itself on a diet of fish, birds, and other small mammals.
Learn More: Animals Town
35. Firecrest
This little bird is tiny; weighing only 6 grams and measuring only 9 cm in length. You can find them all over the United Kingdom. Flocking together with other birds, they like to migrate as autumn turns to winter. Males and females differ in their coloring and can be differentiated by the color of their crowns- orange and black for males and yellow for females.
Learn More: Wildlife Trusts
36. Field Spaniel
Renowned as a great family dog, the Field spaniel is a gentle breed. It’s known for its affectionate and loving nature and makes a fantastic service dog. Although they may be cautious and reserved at first, they have been known to quickly warm up to strangers.
Learn More: Field Spaniel Society of America
37. Fulmar
The Fulmar is a bird that lives near the ocean. Flying low, near the ocean’s waves, it’s constantly on the lookout for fish and squid to feed on. Fulmars also like to sift through garbage and find food. There are several subspecies, including the Northern Fulmar and the Giant Fulmar.
Learn More: Britannica
38. Flowerpecker
Found in tropical locations, the Flowerpecker can be seen throughout Australia, the South Pacific, and Asia. All in all- there are a whopping 45 different species! They are very small; only growing to be about 3-4 inches long.
Learn More: Wildlife Journal Junior
39. Flying Fish
Ever heard of a fish that can fly? We didn’t think so! Allow us to introduce the Flying Fish- a species whose fins are similar to wings and are used to glide through and over the ocean’s waves. Its powerful tail is also used to propel it through the air.
Learn More: National Wildlife Federation
40. Firefox
Adorable and small, this cute little guy is a Firefox. Based on its size and characteristics, it can be likened to a skunk or a raccoon. It enjoys a primary diet of bamboo and fruit, but will sometimes dine on flowers as well. You can typically find them throughout India where they are commonly referred to as Red Pandas.
Learn More: Flickr
41. Flying Snake
The Flying Snake may look intimidating, but it’s nonvenomous. Located in Asia, these slithering reptiles spend their time on the hunt for lizards and mice to eat. They can move their scales in a way that allows them to glide up to 300 feet in the air.
Learn More: Encyclopedia Britannica
42. Firefly Squid
Seen in a variety of different colors, the Firefly Squid is a remarkable creature. These marine animals live in the deepest parts of the Western Pacific Ocean. Due to special cells in their bodies that produce light, they appear as if they’re glowing.
Learn More: Animal Spot
43. Flycatcher
Often identified by their unique call, the Flycatcher has many different types of birds within this species. Living in forests, they have ample insects to feed on. Fun fact- its name was derived from its ability to skillfully catch flies. It can be found in the southern United States, Central America, as well as northern South America.
Learn More: All About Birds
44. Frigate Bird
The Frigate Bird is rather volatile in nature. It has aggressive tendencies like stealing food and attacking other birds to acquire what it wants. They enjoy tropical regions and can often be spotted near the sea.
Learn More: GoGalapagos
45. Fire Skink
Located in Africa, this Fire Skink is a reptile that sports beautiful colors and markings. They have long tails and bodies, but short legs. Like other reptiles, they hatch from eggs. When kept as pets, they can live up to 20 years.
Learn More: Reptiles Magazine
46. False Widow Spider
Whilst the body shape of a False Widow Spider resembles its more serious counterpart, their coloring is very different. They don’t have very good eyesight and therefore rely on vibrations to help them detect movement.
Learn More: Animal Corner
47. Fisher
Fishers are small animals that eat meat. In relation to its size- when fully grown, they are similar in stature to a house cat. Its fur changes a bit with the seasons; morphing to be darker in winter and lighter in the summertime.
Learn More: Animals
48. Fox Squirrel
The Fox Squirrel is the largest of its kind. They are located all over the central and southeastern United States in deciduous and mixed forests. Most of its days are spent searching for food in solitude.
Learn More: Nature Works
49. Fin Whale
The Fin Whale is one of the largest animals on Earth; weighing as much as 70 tons and measuring in at between 85 and 88 feet! They feed on fish, crustaceans, squid, and krill.
Learn More: Earth
50. Feist
Small, but mighty, these little dogs are strong. Because they are very active, it’s important for them to have regular exercise each day. If properly cared for, they can live up to 18 years. Sometimes they can experience allergy problems, so be on the lookout for that and pay attention to their coats.
Learn More: Dogster
51. Frogfish
Quite a skilled hunter, the Frogfish is a tropical fish that has a built-in lure. The lure is actually a fin that it skillfully uses to capture food. They camouflage themselves well and make excellent predators.
Learn More: Ocean Conservancy
52. Finnish Spitz
Fuzzy-tailed, and rather cute if you ask us, the Finnish Spitz is a dog that’s well-known for its excellent hunting abilities. With its pricked-up ears, bright eyes, and fire-colored hair, it resembles a fox. Owing to their social nature, they’re very good with young children and make great family dogs.
Learn More: American Kennel Club
53. Frilled Shark
With over 300 teeth in its mouth, the frilled shark is a ferocious marine animal. Its teeth are slightly slanted which helps it trap and devour prey. Even though it’s classified as a shark, it more closely resembles an eel.
Learn More: Ocean Conservancy
54. Florida Panther
Florida Panthers are members of the cat family. These large cats are typically found in North America, particularly in the Florida region. They are fierce hunters and excellent climbers. Due to their stealthy hunting abilities, these cats tend to lead a solitary life.
Learn More: Defenders of Wildlife
55. Fungus Beetle
The Fungus Beetle got its name because of what it likes to eat. This small insect feeds on a variety of fungi; including mold and mildew. They have black and orange or red coloring, but some display other bright colors as well.
Learn More: Animal Corner
56. Fiordland Crested Penguin
The Fiordland Crested Penguin weighs in at around 7 pounds. They usually live between 10-20 years. They like to eat fish and squid, but sometimes eat octopus and krill as well.
Learn More: Animal Corner
57. Fainting Goat
The Fainting Goat is a domestic goat that’s prone to fainting if caught by surprise. Technically, they don’t faint, but rather stiffen up and fall over. In doing so, we’re sure you’ll be relieved to know that they don’t lose consciousness.
Learn More: Animals
58. Four-Toed Hedgehog
Even though the Four-Toed Hedgehog is tiny, it has about 6000 quills! Their quills are extremely sharp and help protect them from predators. Another way in which they protect themselves is by rolling into a ball and tucking themselves in tight.
Learn More: Animalia
59. Feral Pig
These wild pigs are usually dark in color, with only the males bearing long tusks. You can find them in North America and sometimes in South America. They survive on an omnivorous diet and are frequently hunted to control the ever-growing population.
Learn More: PestSmart
60. Freshwater Jellyfish
These tiny jellyfish are a rare marine species that can survive in freshwater. They often don’t exceed one inch in size. Whilst they can indeed sting, they aren’t harmful to humans. In fact, their sting is often not even felt!
Learn More: Missouri Department of Conservation
61. Flapjack Octopus
Small and cute, this octopus is a rare species that lives in the darkest parts of the ocean. They only grow to be about 20 inches and closely resemble a jellyfish whilst motionless. When laying flat, you could quite easily mistake them for a pancake- hence the name!
Learn More: Monterey Bay Aquarium
62. Florida Softshell Turtle
The Florida Softshell Turtle has a soft shell that resembles leather. They can live for 20 years in the wild and survive for up to 30 years in captivity. Females lay between 10-30 eggs at a time which can be expected to hatch anywhere between 2-3 months.
Learn More: Animal Spot
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