Although these animals don’t often come up in conversation, they’re nonetheless important; playing a vital role in maintaining a healthy environment for both human populations and other animals. From marine mammals and venomous snakes to hairy-legged vampire bats, we’ve rounded up a list of 60 fascinating animals for you to explore. With images and interesting facts on each species, we’ve ensured that these special creatures get the recognition they deserve!
1. Vancouver Island Marmot
This species of marmot is indigenous to Vancouver Island, Canada. They are often found close to the island’s slopes; creating burrows in sub-alpine meadows. They are very social animals that make an assortment of unique sounds to communicate with one another.
Learn More: Nature Canada
2. Verreaux’s Sifaka
The Verreaux’s sifaka is native to the island of Madagascar. They are arboreal and are excellent climbers! These distinctly-colored lemurs are the only kind of their species that have partially webbed feet; helping them make long leaps between branches.
Learn More: Animalia
3. Vicuña
Vicunas are members of the Camelidae family; the umbrella term that covers the llama and camel family. These South American natives live in rocky mountainscapes and enjoy a primary diet of grass and other shrubs. Domesticated vicunas are sheared every year and their fleece is then sold to make costly shawls, dressing gowns, and coats.
Learn More: Britannica
4. Volcano Rabbit
As you might have guessed, this rabbit’s name is derived from the fact that it only inhabits the volcanic slopes of Mexico’s four dormant volcanoes. The volcano rabbit is the tiniest bunny in the world- weighing a mere 400-600 grams!
Learn More: National Geographic
5. Visayan Warty Pig
The Visayan warty pig is indigenous to the Philippine Visayan Islands. They live for 10-15 years and survive on an omnivorous diet consisting of earthworms, fruit, and leaves. Although little is known about their ecology and behavior, scientists have discovered that they play a vital role in dispersing the seeds of some plants.
Learn More: Ultimate Ungulate
6. Vulture
Did you know that vultures can easily cruise through high winds for hours whilst flying at a height of nearly 20,000 feet? There are 22 species of vulture; each of which enjoys a diet of decaying flesh. Throughout the years, they have adapted to a scavenging lifestyle; having developed a pouch, known as a crop, in their throats that allow them to go without food for long periods.
Learn More: Britannica
7. Vampire Bat
As their name suggests, vampire bats consume blood. Thanks to their lightweight and gentle incisions, vampire bats can suck blood from an animal for up to 30 minutes without it even being aware! They are nocturnal animals that live in caves, tree hollows, mines, and abandoned buildings in Mexico and Central America.
Learn More: National Geographic Kids
8. Verdin
Verdins love arid environments and can typically be located throughout Mexico, Arizona, Western Texas, and Southern Nevada. Their primary diet consists of insects but is supplemented by nectar and fruit. Although conservation efforts are underway, the number of surviving verdins is quickly declining!
Learn More: All About Birds
9. Velvet Scooter
The velvet scooter is part of the duck, goose, and swan family. Its primary diet consists of crustaceans, shellfish, marine worms, small fish, and mollusks. You’ll often find them in boreal forests, close to bodies of fresh water. Their primary breeding grounds are Scandinavia and Estonia, migrating to Western Europe for the Winters.
Learn More: Bird Fact
10. Velvet Asity
This bird has a very distinct appearance; black with green skin above its eyes. They are endemic to Madagascar and can be found near fruit trees. They have a high-pitched call that has been likened to the scraping of nails on a chalkboard or a dry branch scraping a window.
Learn More: Ebird
11. Vampire Squid
The vampire squid is a deep-sea creature that dwells 2000-3000 meters below the ocean’s surface. They can be found in temperate to tropical latitudes across the globe. The vampire squid is a filter feeder; meaning that it feeds by straining food particles and suspended matter in the water.
Learn More: Oceana
12. Violet Sea Snail
The violet sea snail is a carnivorous species and is also commonly known as a “blue bottle”. They thrive in the tropical or temperate seas of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. These sea snails spend their lives floating atop the surface of the seas and cannot survive if washed ashore.
Learn More: Mesa
13. Vaquita
The vaquita is the smallest cetacean species. Additionally, they are the rarest and most endangered creatures. They have a dark ring around their eyes and small patches create a line from their mouths to their pectoral fins. Due to illicit fishing, there are unfortunately less than 10 surviving vaquitas.
Learn More: World Wildlife.org
14. Viperfish
Despite their scary appearance, these fish only grow to around 30cm in length! Viperfish are predators that attract their victims by floating motionlessly in the dark and dangling their lures above their heads. Their primary diet consists of crustaceans and small fish.
Learn More: Seasky
15. Velvet Crab
Typically found in the U.K. and Ireland, the velvet crab is also known as the lady crab or devil crab. They are aptly named because their blue shells and short hair that covers every inch of their bodies, give them a velvety look. They are a popular culinary choice in Spain and are often shipped over for this purpose.
Learn More: Cornwall Good Seafood Guide
16. Venus Flytrap Sea Anemone
This huge sea anemone resembles a venus flytrap. Its body is covered in fluorescent light sensors which it uses to attract prey. They grow up to 40cm in height and lurk along rocky sea beds.
Learn More: SciNews
17. Variegated Squirrel
This tree squirrel, known as the variegated squirrel, is indigenous to South America. Apart from females who care for the young, variegated squirrels prefer to live alone. They typically inhabit dry evergreen forests and can also be spotted in plantations.
Learn More: Canopy Tower
18. Vole
Voles are small rodents that are frequently confused for mice. Their diet consists of tree needles, bark, seeds, insects, and grass. They are poor climbers and can be found in dense patches of grass or fields. Voles are destructive little menaces as they gnaw on the bark and roots of trees which often kills them.
Learn More: Pest World For Kids
19. Viper Snake
Vipers are renowned for their large, hinged fangs and are one of the deadliest snake species on Earth. They enjoy warm-blooded animals and generally feed on mice and rats. To help them detect these animals, they rely on two heat-sensitive sensors close to their mouth.
Learn More: DK Findout
20. Vulcan Lipinia
This skink species is a solitary creature. The Vulcan lipinia is endemic to the Philippines. When the Vulcan lipinia finds itself caught in a pickle, its tail falls off and continues to move around in order to trick its predator so that the lipinia itself can escape. They are extremely fast and make snake-like movements when on the ground.
Learn More: Mindat
21. Veiled Chameleon
The term “Veiled” in this chameleon’s name refers to the animal’s peculiar-looking cone-shaped headdress. These creatures are primarily insectivores and enjoy crickets, worms, flies, grasshoppers, and roaches. Veiled chameleons are extremely territorial and should be housed individually if kept as pets. They can live for 6-8 years in captivity and reach 18-24 inches in length.
Learn More: The Spruce Pets
22. Virgin Island Dwarf Gecko
This dwarf gecko hails from the British Virgin Islands. It is the world’s smallest species of both amniotes and reptiles. Adults weigh little more than 0.15 grams and grow up to 18 millimeters at the most. Dwarf geckos have adapted to survive in arid environments by staying relatively inactive during the day and living in humid microhabitats.
Learn More: Tree Hugger
23. Vanzo’s Whiptail
The vanzo’s whiptail is a lizard that lives in the Caribbean. It is also known as the Saint Lucian whiptail and the Maria Island whiptail. Only males have a turquoise belly and tail whereas females’ tails are creamy-brown in coloring. Their diet mainly consists of scorpions and insects, but they have also been known to enjoy figs and decaying animal flesh.
Learn More: Coffee and Creatures
24. Viceroy Butterfly
One of the most well-known butterfly species is the viceroy. It has a deep orange color with black veins and white patches on the margins of its wings. Another defining characteristic of it is its flying style. Viceroys follow a predetermined flight pattern where they flap their wings twice before gliding.
Learn More: Alabama Butterfly Atlas
25. Visayan Spotted Dear
The Visayan spotted deer, also known as the Philippian spotted deer, is endemic to the Visayan Islands. Surprisingly, it’s nocturnal! It enjoys a diet of assorted grasses, leaves, and young shoots. Due to deforestation and hunting, the population of Visayan spotted deer is rapidly decreasing.
Learn More: Slow Food Foundation
26. Vlei Rat
The vlei rat enjoys a herbivorous diet consisting primarily of grass. They live in marshes, pine plantations, and thicket habitats where they fall prey to barn and marsh owls as well as snakes.
Learn More: Species Status
27. Vinegaroon
Vinegaroons are a species of scorpions. Although they are typically found in desert environments, they have been reportedly found in grasslands, scrub, pine forests, and mountains. Even though they are non-poisonous, watch out if you get too close as these little attackers give a very painful pinch!
Learn More: National Geographic
28. Vanikoro Flying Fox
Part of the bat family, the Vanikoro flying fox is also known as a basapine. It’s located in the Southern Solomon Islands in the Vanikoro region. After a study was conducted in the early 1990s it was thought to be extinct but was rediscovered in 2014.
Learn More: Observation.org
29. Virginia Opossum
Found from Costa Rica all the way Northward to Canada, Virginia opossums inhabit a wide array of habitats including; deserts, wetlands, and woodlands. These omnivorous creatures thrive on a diet of birds and other small mammals, worms, insects, plants, fruit, and seeds.
Learn More: Smithsonian National Zoo
30. Vanga
Vangas are endemic to the island of Madagascar. Its primary diet consists of insects, but it has been known to also enjoy berries. They forage in groups of around 6 members and typically nest in dry deciduous forests as well as rainforests.
Learn More: Oiseaux
31. Vervet Monkey
Also known as the “green monkey,” these furry monkeys live in the forests of Africa high up in the trees, where they are safe from predators. Their fur gives off a greenish tint, allowing them to climb and swing through the treetops whilst remaining well-hidden. Vervet monkeys are social in both play and communication; spending most of their days foraging for food.
Learn More: Animalia
32. Vizsla
This dog breed shares a bloodline with the Hungarian Pointer and is a very active, loyal companion. Known for their love of the outdoors and swimming, Vizslas are always on the move- topping out at a 40 mph running speed. They make excellent family dogs as they are good with children and are suitable for apartment dwellers.
Learn More: Daily Paws
33. Velvet Worm
Existing for nearly 500 million years, the velvet worm, also known as an onychophorans, is a species that resembles a caterpillar. Their habitat is in the eucalyptus forest and wetlands of Australia where they tend to hide away from light and enjoy consuming other invertebrates.
Learn More: Australian Museum
34. Violet-Backed Starling
Also known as an Amethyst Starling, this vibrant purple bird flocks across the continent of Africa. Its migrant group changes with the seasons; breaking away into family groups during the mating season as they are monogamous. Outside of the mating season, they tend to fly in groups where they work together to locate fresh fruits and worms for feeding.
Learn More: AZ Birds
35. Vermilion Flycatcher
Native to Southwestern United States and South America, the Vermilion Flycatcher is commonly described as “fireheaded” as its appearance is bright orange-red. It prefers desert areas with an ample supply of juicy insects. This feathered creature is known to travel great distances- often having been spotted in British Columbia!
Learn More: All About Birds
36. Viper Berus
This venomous snake is found across the globe typically in marshes, and in solitaire. Also known as an Adder, these snakes are identified by a darkened zig-zag pattern and can live to be 25 years of age. They prey on small mammals and amphibians whilst they are the prey of foxes and owls.
Learn More: Animal Diversity
37. Viper Dogfish
This deep-sea shark can be found lurking in the depths of the Pacific Ocean. Its most distinctive features are its triangular head and long round body. Its jaws can open and shut in two directions and its teeth look like fangs.
Learn More: YouTube
38. Velvet Gecko
An Oedura, or Velvet Gecko, is a rare species that’s native to Australia. Because their temperament is meek and not aggressive toward humans, they make great domestic pets! They tend to be low maintenance in terms of care required and only eat every 2-3 days. They don’t have a necessity for UVB light and they only require bedding and decor that keep their tank’s humidity levels between 60-70% and at a temperature between 75-80 degrees.
Learn More: The Reptiles of Eden
39. Velvet Ant
Don’t let its name fool you- the Velvet Ant is actually a fuzzy and venomous wasp that’s been nicknamed “Cowkiller”. This is a unique insect as its gender determines whether or not you should be cautious of it. Males cannot sting, but can fly; whereas females do sting and are flightless. If threatened, female Velvet Ants have been known to sting repeatedly. Their stings cause such severe pain that it’s believed they could kill a cow- hence its nickname.
Learn More: Pest World
40. Vine Snake
This snake’s characteristics are different depending on where they live. If found in the rainforests of Asia, you can expect them to have a distinct green color, whereas if found in the deserts of the Savanna, the vine snake is likely to be gray or brown in color. Its most identifiable features are its pointed nose, narrow head, and slender body.
Learn More: YouTube
41. Vervain Hummingbird
Native to the Caribbean Islands, this non-migratory bird can be commonly found at high elevations. These tiny hummingbirds tend to live near gardens where the greenery is not dense. Despite their size, this Vervain Hummingbird is very territorial; demonstrating aggressive behaviors to protect what it claims as home.
Learn More: eBird
42. Viscacha
With one name, the Viscacha is actually two different rodents! Part of the chinchilla family, there is a difference in appearance between the Plains Viscacha and Southern Mountain Viscacha, and where they are primarily located: Central South America versus the Andes Mountains. Regardless of which version, Viscacha are very social and talkative animals.
Learn More: Fact Animal
43. Virginia Deer
This deer is referred to by its appearance and is most commonly called a “White-tailed Deer.” Their population and presence are making a comeback after overhunting that caused a drastic decline in their population. Virginia Deer can generally be seen anywhere from urban centers to rural woods. These herbivores are rather docile in nature and spend their days grazing and caring for their young.
Learn More: Wildlife Center
44. Viper Gecko
In their natural environment, Viper Geckos are found in the Middle East, but it takes a good eye to spot them. This is because they’re tiny; only measuring in at a maximum of 4 cm! Their color and patterning are similar to the Viper Berus, but these tiny geckos are not to be feared. They are most notable for their flat tails, which are shed if they feel threatened.
Learn More: Squeaks and Nibbles
45. Vireo
This migrant songbird can often be heard from the treetop canopies. Short and stocky, it’s easily concealed by the leaves due to its olive-green feathers. Its most distinctive features are its red eyes and noticeable yellow underbelly.
Learn More: All About Birds
46. Velvet Shrimp
This aquatic species is usually known as the Blue Velvet Shrimp because of its vibrant blue color. They’re easy-to-care-for creatures and get along well with other aquatic invertebrates and fish. They max out at 2 inches long and are commonly used for algae control.
Learn More: Aquatic Arts
47. Vietnamese Mossy Frog
Located in the limestone cliffs and evergreen rainforests of Northern Vietnam, these frogs get their name due to their appearance which closely mirrors that of moss. Vietnamese Mossy Frogs have a green-like textured color and black lumps on their bodies and conveniently live in water basins.
Learn More: National Zoo
48. Venomous Spiders
Depending on where you live in the world, the type and population of venomous spiders vary. Their danger is the same to humans if bitten, and will likely have catastrophic outcomes. The world’s top three venomous spiders include the Brown Recluse, Black Widow, and Hobo Spider.
Learn More: Live Science
49. Varanus Salvator
Living its best life down by the water, the Varanus Salvator, or “Water Monitor”, is native to South Asia. It’s a lizard that looks similar to a Komodo Dragon but is smaller in size. It has a very mild temperament but will scurry away when it feels threatened by larger predators.
Learn More: Animal Diversity Web
50. Variegated Toad
This toxic toad can be seen in a variety of colors: red, green, yellow, and black. It’s naturally found in Central and South America. The poisonous Variegated toad is known for its distinctive triangular head, bumpy skin, and large hind legs.
Learn More: Britannica
51. Variable Ocellated Lizard
Usually referred to as an Ocellated Lizard, this species is declining in population due to the loss of its habitat. It can be found in common environments all over the European continent, such as olive groves, vineyards, and woodlands.
Learn More: Observation
52. Vaginulus Plebeius
A pest to those that reside in Hawaii, the Vaginulus Plebeius, more often referred to as a “Brown Slug”, is a tiny bug that feeds on plants- making sightings in the garden most common. It’s roughly 2 inches in length and, as its nickname describes, it’s brown in color. Although its origin is the Caribbean, it was accidentally introduced to Hawaii in the 1970s.
Learn More: iNaturalist
53. Volcano Mouse
Surviving unthinkable conditions, the Volcano Mouse is a rodent species still alive and thriving today. After Mount Pinatubo exploded in 1991 in the Philippines, the volcano mouse was thought to be extinct. Somehow, these little critters survived the odds and are doing just fine!
Learn More: CBC
54. Vervain Skipper
This butterfly species is commonly found in the Southeastern United States. Transforming from a caterpillar to a butterfly, it has brownish wings with subtle markings. In light of how it got its name- it tends to visit vervain flowers to feed from their nectar.
Learn More: Grimm’s Gardens
55. Vulture, Andean
Living in the coastal regions of Western South America, this Vulture is also known as the “Andean Condor”. It’s a very heavy bird that flies many miles per day in search of food. It’s vital in Andean culture and mythology as well; believed to be the “ruler of the sky”.
Learn More: ABC Birds
56. Vulturine Guinea Fowl
These birds have an interesting color and feather pattern. Its head and neck are featherless, while the rest of its body displays a combination of blue and patterned gray feathers. In the wild, they can be seen in flocks of 20-50.
Learn More: McMurray Hatchery
57. Vinous-throated Parrotbill
The Vinous-throated Parrotbill is a small bird primarily found in Eastern China. It lives in tropical forests and across plantations as these are areas in which they can easily scour for seeds, fruits, and flowers to feed from. When born, their eggs have a bluish-teal appearance and incubate for roughly 15 days.
Learn More: Planet Birds
58. Vancouver Island Wolf
Despite its relatives, the Vancouver Island Wolf is a sociable but shy animal that lives in packs of up to 35. It feeds on small game and deer and hunts in vast territories. It is, however, threatened to become extinct because of deforestation and lack of available food.
Learn More: Wolf Stuff
59. Vancouver Island Black Bear
A Canadian native, this black bear is smaller than the average mainland black bear, but is just as fierce! It roams the forests and shorelines of Vancouver Island as it feeds on plants, grass, insects, and shellfish. They’re most active during daylight- unlike their relatives.
Learn More: Bear Conservation
60. Volute Shells
These carnivores are burrowed in the sea sands around Australia. The Volute Shell can be seen in many different shapes, sizes, and color patterns, and has solid heavy shells that tend to be valued by collectors. Make no mistake though, there is a living organism inside the shell!
Learn More: Shells of Aquarius
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