If you ask anyone to name a few animals that start with the letter K, they will probably say kangaroo or koala, and then they might start to struggle! We’ve compiled a list of 68 fascinating animals that all start with the letter “k”! From the well-known kangaroo and koala to the lesser-known krait or kea, this list features animals from just about all of the continents of the world! Let’s take a look at these incredible creatures!
1. The Kiwi Bird
The Kiwi bird cannot fly and it’s not well-known, but we have to raise some awareness for this small, two-legged creature because its species could be in danger of becoming extinct. This little bird has feet and feathers like an ostrich and it is the only bird in the world with nostrils in its beak!
Learn More: Study
2. King Cobra
This is the world’s largest venomous snake; it’s so toxic it could kill an elephant! King cobras have a special way of killing their prey and then eating it in one gulp! You might recognize these snakes as they’re often used in snake-charming shows.
Learn More: Easy Science For Kids
3. Kinkajou
Kinkajous are mammals with a funny name and are sometimes referred to as “honey bears”. Many people compare them to a monkey or a bear, but they are actually part of the raccoon family. Their name means golden fruit because they love fruit and honey.
Learn More: Kinka Topia
4. Kiko Goat
This goat originated in New Zealand before being exported to other parts of the world. These are low-maintenance, hardy animals and need only land for grazing. They prefer colder climates and hilly grasslands. Did you know that the word “Kiko” means meaty animal in the Maouri dialect?
Learn More: Goats Extension
5. Kingfisher
The Kingfisher is a beautiful, brightly-colored bird that can be found across the world, making their nests in forests, rivers, and streams. All kingfishers have similar characteristics- long beaks, big heads, and short tails, and there are more than one hundred different types of species! The most common colors of Kingfisher are blue, green, and yellow.
Learn More: YouTube
6. Kit Fox
This is an adorable little fox from North America and Mexico. The smallest of the fox species, kit foxes live in dry habitats with desert bushes, scrubs, and grasslands. They hunt small animals, insects, birds, and lizards, and mate for life. With the ability to have up to seven pups, it’s great that both parents stick around to look after the young!
Learn More: Animalia
7. Key Deer
This beautiful white-tailed deer is actually an endangered species. Most key deer can be found in Florida and near wetlands, marshlands, and forests. They are commonly seen in the Florida Keys which is where they get their name from.
Learn More: NWF
8. Keeled Earless Lizard
There are many North American lizards but one of them is the keeled earless lizard that is only known to two areas- Southern Texas and the Northern part of Mexico. They love living near the beach and the sand dunes where their coloring helps them camouflage from predators. Keeled earless lizards are small in stature but have long legs that enable them to run fast and escape their predators.
Learn More: Encyclopedia Of Life
9. Keta Salmon
This fish is known as the keta salmon, dog salmon, or chum salmon. It can be found in the North Pacific and areas of the Arctic and depending on what water they are in, their color changes! Cool, right!? They can change from silvery blue to olive green!
Learn More: Alaska Salmon Company
10. Keel-Billed Toucan
This toucan species looks a bit like a flying banana! It has a beautiful multicolor beak and its body is black and yellow. They often travel in small groups and are known to make a frog-like croak as they communicate. These colorful species hang out in the trees looking for food, and are very playful!
Learn More: Animalia
11. Klamath Black Salamander
This is a really cool-looking salamander! It’s a shiny black color with a shimmering splash of green or gray- making it appear iridescent. They have long toes that enable them to climb up high and can live up to twenty years in captivity! Klamath black salamanders like to forage at night and can be found near streams or rivers!
Learn More: California Herps
12. Komodo Dragon
The Komodo dragon is the biggest, heaviest lizard in the world- weighing in at more than three hundred pounds! This huge reptile has been around for millions of years and thrives in Indonesia. A Komodo dragon can reach up to ten feet in length and is a vicious meat eater.
Learn More: YouTube
13. Koala
Koalas are part of the marsupial family which means they give birth to underdeveloped young which then stay in their mother’s pouch for the first few months. They are an endangered species and we have to help protect their environment and their diet.
Learn More: Britannica
14. Keen’s Myotis Bat
This animal species can be found in Alaska and in British Columbia. These “vesper” bats are one of the most common groups of bat species. Keen’s myotis bats live in huge hollow trees and in rock crevices, and forage insects, spiders, and moths to eat. These guys play a big part in the ecosystem and need to be protected!
Learn More: SCCP
15. Krill
Krill are really small in size, only about the size of a paperclip, but they make up a big part of the ecosystem. They swim in swarms that can reach sizes of up to 30,000 crustaceans and are a food source for many hundreds of different animals. There are over 80 different types of krill to feed marine life!
Learn More: National Geographic
16. King Vulture
When you think of a vulture, you think of a big, ugly black bird that flies around the desert desperately looking for food. This king vulture is actually quite colorful and really stands out in comparison! Its head is blue, purple, red, and orange, and it can expand its wings up to six feet!
Learn More: Birds Fandom
17. Katydids
Katydids or “bush” crickets can be found on nearly every continent except Antarctica. There are more than 8,000 different species in the world! They are nocturnal and can camouflage themselves extremely well- sometimes being confused as leaves! You’ll need a keen eye to spot one of these guys!
Learn More: WISC
18. Kitefin Shark
1,000 feet below sea level is really dark and is where kitefin sharks thrive! They use their lights to attract prey and as a protective measure. The kitefin shark lives in an area of the ocean called the Twilight Zone- a zone where the sun doesn’t reach.
Learn More: Shark Research Institute
19. Kakapo
Have you ever heard of a parrot that couldn’t fly? This tiny parrot is only found in New Zealand. It looks like a parrot and an owl combined and leads a nocturnal life. It hunts mice and small animals and can live up to 90 years, but unfortunately, they are endangered due to the effects of climate change and deforestation. The males let off a “boom” or a metal “ching” calling when they are mating.
Learn More: Kids Kiddle
20. Kudu
The kudu is a large African antelope. They are normally tawny brown, grey, and red with white stripes. Kudu can run up to 60mph- this speed is the only protection they have against predators. They mostly live in herds in arid grassland regions and enjoy a healthy diet of leaves and fruit.
Learn More: Wildlife Vagabond
21. Kodkod
This feline may look like a very small house cat, but they’re wild! This little “kitty” lives only in the forests of Argentina and Chile. They are arboreal animals which means they mostly shelter and hunt in the trees. Kodkods are meat eaters and are extremely hard to track, so it can be tricky to see one in the wild!
Learn More: Animalia
22. Kangal Dog
This large and stocky dog breed is originally from Turkey where it was commonly used to guard homes and livestock. What is distinct about the Kangal, is that it is a beige-colored dog with black markings on its face. Despite their intimidating appearance, these family-friendly dogs make great pets!
Learn More: Dog Breed Info
23. Killer Whale
The killer whale is in the dolphin family, but it is not a sociable mammal. In the wild, these beautiful creatures generally never attack humans but that doesn’t mean they’re friendly! They eat basically anything in sight- penguins, fish, sharks, and seals. Killer whales are expert hunters and are the fastest mammals in water- swimming up to 35 mph!
Learn More: Monterey Bay Aquarium
24. Kodiak Bear
This is the second largest bear in the world and you’ll have to travel to Alaska to find it. They are dark brown with orange and yellow highlights and their diet mainly consists of fish, fruits, and berries. These bears like to live alone and have up to two cubs in their lifetime.
Learn More: ADFG Alaska
25. Kangaroo
If you think of Australia, you think of kangaroos. This is their official animal and is an icon in Australia. They are marsupials which means they care for young, “joeys”, in a pouch for six months. They can jump up to 25 feet, and they are super strong and like to box so you might get knocked out if you’re not careful!
Learn More: Australia
26. Krait
This snake is found mostly around India and Bangladesh and is responsible for the most snakebites in humans in this area. It is normally black and blue with around 40 white stripes to distinguish it from others. They live in shrub vegetation areas and desert-like climates although they are adaptable to other tropical areas. They are primarily nocturnal animals and hunt at night, devouring anything- even other snakes!
Learn More: Animalia
27. Kori Bustard
This is the world’s largest flying bird. It is over four feet tall and can weigh up to 48 pounds! They live in Africa and eat a variety of small mammals, reptiles, seeds, and berries. Kori bustards are brown, beige, and white, and have a rather interesting courting ritual dance- it’s quite a sight to behold!
Learn More: E-Bird
28. King Crab
The average king crab weighs between six and ten pounds, but the biggest ever discovered was a whopping 24 pounds! They have six legs which can be as long as six feet, two claws on each side, and are found in cold waters. King crabs feed on other small ocean creatures including crabs, worms, and clams, and are preyed on by larger fish and octopus!
Learn More: Kids Konnect
29. Kouprey
A kouprey is in the bovine family and is similar to a cow or a bull. They are wild cattle and live in Cambodia. However, if you want to see one you might be out of luck as there have been no sightings of these animals for decades. They are endangered species and are now feared to be extinct due to a lack of recent sightings.
Learn More: WWF
30. Koi
To keep koi as pets you will need to seek out expert advice on how to best care for them. This species is from Asian regions and lives in ponds and streams. In the Japanese culture, koi are believed to bring strength and good luck! These eye-catching fish eat other small fish, fruit, and insects and can live for up to 100 years in the right conditions!
Learn More: Japan Wonder Travel
31. Kagu
Similar to the penguin, this bird is a ground dweller with no flying abilities. Since it lives in the rainforest, it requires special feathers called powder downs, which help the bird stay clean and dry. Kagu are rather fast and can live for 20-30 years!
Learn More: San Diego Zoo
32. Kai Ken
With a brindle coat and extreme loyalty, this furry friend makes a great house pet. The Kai Ken breed originated in Japan’s mountainous region around Mt. Fuji and has been used for hunting. They are a relatively rare breed, but have many winning qualities!
Learn More: The Spruce Pet
33. King Eider
This waterfowl is an arctic bird that’s occasionally spotted as far south as the United States during winter. The male King Eider has a distinct appearance with a brightly-colored beak. Their migration habits are fascinating; they travel through the day and night, and fly at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour!
Learn More: All About Birds
34. Kermode Bear
Kermode bears, frequently called spirit bears, are found along the west coast of Canada. Interestingly, they are a species of black bear; their white appearance is actually due to a recessive gene! Otherwise, they are very similar to black bears eating berries, plants, and salmon and hibernating throughout the winter.
Learn More: Canadian Geographic
35. Kinder Goat
True to their name, kinder goats are known for being friendly, even-tempered, and great with kids. People add these gentle goats to their farm families because of their temperament, and also because they are good milk producers. Like most goats, kinder goats are versatile and thrive in almost any environment.
Learn More: Texas Goat
36. Killifish
With over 1,270 different species, the killifish is found in almost all warm water areas in the world! They live relatively short lives but are popular aquarium fish nonetheless. Killifish living in ponds bury their eggs deep in the mud so they survive fluctuating water levels even after the parent dies!
Learn More: The Spruce Pets
37. Kangaroo Rat
This little critter is not a rat or mouse, despite what its name would lead you to believe- it’s most similar to a small gopher. A desert creature, the Kangaroo rat has practically no need for water. Like their namesakes, they have large back legs and a long tail.
Learn More: National Parks Service
38. Keagle
A cross between a Beagle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, this small pooch is absolutely adorable. The Keagle is a small-sized dog breed originating from Australia. They’re known to be pretty stubborn and can be very challenging to train! What they lack in discipline though, they make up for in their cuteness!
Learn More: Pet Guide
39. Keyhole Cichlid
A freshwater fish, this shy river dweller acquired its name from a unique keyhole-shaped marking. Native to several countries in South America, the keyhole cichlid is a relatively small fish at only 4 to 5 inches long when fully grown. These yellow-scaled creatures are lovebirds and mate for life.
Learn More: Fish Tank Advisor
40. Killdeer
Common across North America, the killdeer is named after its shrill cry. This protective parent has been known to feign a broken wing, moving away from the nest to draw prey away in order to protect its young. While these striped birds live on land, they are surprisingly good swimmers with even the chicks being able to navigate small streams!
Learn More: National Audubon Society
41. King Salmon
Also called the chinook salmon, this fish friend is the largest species of salmon. In fact, some full-grown king salmon reach up to 100 pounds and can be five feet long or more! Born in freshwater, they migrate to the ocean and then return to freshwater to lay eggs.
Learn More: Animals Network
42. Kenyan Sand Boa
Kenyan sand boas are surprisingly docile snakes who much prefer to spend their days burrowing in the sand with their shovel-shaped heads, than bothering humans. The males grow to be about 20 inches while females can reach roughly two feet in length and in captivity, these reptiles can live over 20 years!
Learn More: Reptiles Magazine
43. Kiang
Sometimes called the Tibetan wild ass, the Kiang can grow to be quite large! They can be nearly seven feet long and weigh anywhere from 550-970 pounds. This docile creature can be found in the grasslands of Tibet, China, Nepal, and India, and it’s adept at surviving in relatively high altitudes.
Learn More: The Animal Files
44. King Penguin
Did you know that king penguins are the second largest penguins in the world? These sizeable flightless birds call the subantarctic islands their home. Colonies of these birds can be huge; several hundred thousand king penguins can live on one single island! Their bright orange ear patches are their most distinguishing feature making them instantly recognizable.
Learn More: Australian Antarctic Program
45. Keeshond
The keeshond is an adorable fluffy furball of Dutch origin where they’d travel on boats through the canals in Holland! The Keeshond breed is known for being especially loving and affectionate with people, making them desirable family pets!
Learn More: Dog Time
46. Kinabalu Giant Red Leech
One of the largest leeches in the world, the Kinabalu giant red leech is pretty fascinating! This slithering creature lives only on Mount Kinabalu on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. Even there, it is only found at specific elevation levels. Unlike most leeches, the Kinabalu is not parasitic; instead, it survives on a diet of only worms!
Learn More: Our Breathing Planet
47. King Quail
Surprisingly, this species of quail is actually one of the smallest in the world, despite what its name might have you believe. King quails are ground-dwelling birds with distinctive feather colors. They’re sometimes kept as house pets in some countries because of their friendly temperament and charming personalities.
Learn More: The Happy Chicken Coop
48. Kudzu Bug
Also called lablab bugs, bean plataspids, or globular stink bugs, these invasive shell bugs are originally from India and China. This species was introduced to the United States in 2009 and has since spread to at least 19 states where their munching on soybeans, beans, and other legumes has become a bit problematic!
Learn More: University Of Maryland
49. Keelback
These non-venomous, semi-aquatic snakes live in Australia in their preferred habitats which are close to water, like creaks and swamps. Using special keeled scales, this serpent is able to grip slippery surfaces to help them move around. Interestingly, Keelback snakes have different eating habits than most snakes, consuming prey rear first instead of head first!
Learn More: Queensland Government
50. Kentucky Warbler
Commonly found in the Southeastern United States, these brightly colored songbirds won’t be too hard to miss! The Kentucky warbler hunts for its food by foraging the ground in wooded areas. In order to defend its breeding territory, this feathered critter will have a song battle with other warblers! How cool!
Learn More: National Audubon Society
51. King Shepherd
This dog breed was developed from German Shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, and Great Pyrenees. Larger than a standard German Shepherd, these massive pooches can weigh up to 150 pounds! Their natural intelligence and eagerness to please make them well-suited for working or sheep herding.
Learn More: Dog Breed Info
52. Kelp Greenling
Found in the eastern Pacific Ocean, the Kelp greenling derives its name from its preferred habitat. Frequently found in, you guessed it, kelp beds and sand bottoms on rocky shallow waters, this scaled sea creature is also referred to as a sea trout. The male and female kelp greenling have vastly different coloring making it easy to differentiate them.
Learn More: Oregon Department Of Fish And Wildlife
53. Kea
Named after their distinct call, these unique parrots call mountainous regions in New Zealand home. No strangers to love, the Kea practice long-term monogamy with their mates. These incredibly intelligent birds are unfortunately endangered due to excessive hunting, which has been banned in recent years in an effort to protect them!
Learn More: New Zealand Birds Online
54. Kamehameha Butterfly
This beguiling butterfly is one of only two butterfly species native to Hawai’i! What’s more, the Kamehameha butterfly can only be spotted in Hawai’i! Also called pulelehua, this beloved butterfly was named the state insect of Hawai’i. They fly fast and in an unusual flight pattern, making them notoriously difficult to photograph.
Learn More: University Of Hawai’i
55. Kaluga Sturgeon
In terms of statistics, this fish is off the charts! The kaluga sturgeon is said to be the largest freshwater fish, which isn’t surprising when you learn they can grow over 18 feet long and weigh over one ton! Not only that, they can live to be almost 80 years old!
Learn More: NOAA Fisheries
56. Khao Manee
This striking feline, native to Thailand, has been around for hundreds of years. Khao Manee means “white gem”, which seems a fitting name for these beautiful cats! Their eyes can be blue, green, or gold, or they can have two differently colored eyes! While rare, this breed is incredibly friendly and makes a great house pet for the right owner.
Learn More: The Spruce Pets
57. Kerry Blue Terrier
With a strong muscular body, this Irish terrier has a long history as an agile, dedicated work dog. That doesn’t mean that they haven’t found a place as a house pet though! With a soft curly coat, lovable demeanor, and lots of energy, many owners cherish these adorable pups.
Learn More: Orvis
58. King Rat Snake
Similar to a skunk, this reptile lets off a foul odor when threatened, earning itself the nickname stink snake! The king rat snake was given its name because it eats other snakes! It’s a nonvenomous snake that opts to kill its prey by suffocation, much like the python.
Learn More: Dublin Zoo
59. Kangaroo Mouse
Different from the earlier mentioned kangaroo rat, this rodent is smaller and is a type of jumping mouse found in the southwest United States, particularly in Nevada. These mice prefer a sandy desert climate where they burrow and store food. Kangaroo mice rarely need to drink water, making them well-suited for life in the desert!
Learn More: iNaturalist
60. Kestrel
These small falcons can be found across much of North and South America. To hunt their prey, they perform aerial dives and pounce on unsuspecting insects, rodents, and small birds. Interestingly, these birds do not use nesting materials, preferring to find already existing cavities to lay eggs.
Learn More: All About Birds
61. Kuvasv
This Hungarian canine was originally bred to guard livestock. Their fluffy white coat is known to shed a lot and while they aren’t the most affectionate, they can be incredibly loyal and are gentle unless provoked! Growing to weigh approximately 75-115 pounds, these large pups thrive with lots of land to romp around on.
Learn More: Vet Street
62. Kissing Bugs
While its name might leave you thinking otherwise, the kissing bug is not very lovable. In fact, kissing bugs earned their name because they frequently bite people around their mouths or on their faces while they are asleep! These critters survive by sucking on the blood of their hosts! Gross!
Learn More: University Of Arizona
63. King Mackerel
These fish are the largest species of mackerel. King mackerel prefer spending time in warm water so they can be found in the water along the western Atlantic from the United States to Brazil. Even though they are among the most popular in the fishing industry, their population remains steady due to how quickly they reproduce!
Learn More: South Atlantic Fishery Management Council
64. Kowari
A nocturnal Australian marsupial, the Kowari is a small but fierce predator. With no need to drink water, it prefers a desert climate where it burrows in the sand throughout the daytime hours to avoid the hot sun and keep cool. During cold weather, the kowari has the ability to enter a form of hibernation. These cute animals have it figured out!
Learn More: Australian Wildlife Conservancy
65. Koolie
Fans of Bluey will love this dog breed! The Koolie is an Australian pup that was actually used in the development of the blue heeler breed. Due to the influence of early German settlers, the Koolie is also known as the German Koolie! They love to get lots of exercise, so make great pets for families who lead an active lifestyle!
Learn More: Pet Guide
66. Knight Anole
Lizards are fascinating creatures, but this Cuban reptile is especially remarkable! Knight anoles are able to change their color when needed, and if they’re threatened, they will stand their ground, inflate themselves with air, and bob their head to scare off their attacker. Otherwise, in their downtime, they enjoy crawling around in trees and munching on insects.
Learn More: Critter Science
67. Klipspringer
It doesn’t get much cuter than this tiny antelope species! Native to Africa, klipspringers prefer a rocky mountainous habitat where they’ve adapted to easily navigate the terrain on their dime-sized hooves. They communicate with each other by whistling and can jump 10-12 feet high–an impressive trait considering they stand at only 20 inches tall!
Learn More: San Diego Zoo
68. Komondor
This Hungarian pooch has a unique coat almost resembling that of a mop. The Komondor was bred to guard livestock, a job it is gifted at! Don’t let pictures deceive you; this dog is astoundingly large, weighing up to 130 pounds! Underneath all that hair, they’re intelligent, independent, and incredibly loyal canines.
Learn More: Dog Time
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