Animals that start with N include the narwhal, numbat, newt, nēnē, Nile crocodile, nightingale, nudibranch, and nurse shark. This checked list contains 58 valid animal names, including wild species, broader animal groups, and recognized domestic breeds. Each entry explains what the animal is, where it lives, and the trait that makes it easy to remember.
Some common names refer to one species, while others refer to a genus, family, order, or domestic breed. To keep the list scientifically defensible, it excludes single-celled organisms such as Naegleria and removes unverified names that could not be matched to a recognized animal group.
Animals that start with N at a glance
| Animal group | Number on this list | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Wild mammals | 8 | Narwhal, numbat, nyala |
| Birds | 14 | Nēnē, nightingale, northern cardinal |
| Reptiles and amphibians | 8 | Newt, Nile crocodile, northern water snake |
| Fish and other aquatic animals | 8 | Needlefish, neon tetra, nurse shark |
| Other invertebrates | 2 | Nematode, no-see-ums |
| Domestic breeds and farm animals | 18 | Newfoundland, Nebelung, Nubian goat |
Complete list of 58 animals that start with N
- Nabarlek
- Naked Mole-Rat
- Narwhal
- Natterjack Toad
- Nautilus
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Nebelung
- Needlefish
- Nelore Cattle
- Nematode
- Nēnē (Hawaiian Goose)
- Neon Tetra
- Neptune Grouper
- Nerka (Sockeye Salmon)
- Netherland Dwarf Rabbit
- New Hampshire Chicken
- Newfoundland
- Newfypoo
- Newt
- Nguni Cattle
- Nicobar Pigeon
- Nigerian Dwarf Goat
- Night Adder
- Night Heron
- Night Snake
- Nightingale
- Nightjar
- Nile Crocodile
- Nile Monitor
- Nile Perch
- Nilgai
- No-See-Ums
- Norfolk Terrier
- Norrbottenspets
- North American Black Bear
- Northern Alligator Lizard
- Northern Bobwhite
- Northern Cardinal
- Northern Flicker
- Northern Harrier
- Northern Inuit Dog
- Northern Jacana
- Northern Parula
- Northern Pintail
- Northern Potoo
- Northern Screamer
- Northern Water Snake
- Norwegian Buhund
- Norwegian Elkhound
- Norwegian Forest Cat
- Norwegian Lundehund
- Norwich Terrier
- Nubian Goat
- Nudibranch
- Numbat
- Nurse Shark
- Nutria
- Nyala
Wild mammals that start with N
Nabarlek
The nabarlek (Petrogale concinna) is a small, nocturnal rock-wallaby from northern Australia. It shelters in sandstone or granite crevices by day and feeds on grasses, sedges, and ferns after dark. Conservation risk differs among its regional subspecies; the Kimberley form is listed as Endangered in Australia, and some Northern Territory populations may be close to extinction. Australian Wildlife Conservancy summarizes current nabarlek threats and recovery work.
Naked Mole-Rat
The naked mole-rat (Heterocephalus glaber) is a burrowing rodent from East Africa. Colonies are eusocial, with a breeding queen and nonbreeding workers, a social system rare among mammals. Its tolerance of low-oxygen burrows, unusual longevity, and low recorded cancer incidence make it an important research animal, although “cancer-proof” is an overstatement.
Narwhal
The narwhal (Monodon monoceros) is an Arctic toothed whale. The long spiral tusk seen most often in males is an enlarged canine tooth, not a horn. Narwhals use sound to navigate and hunt beneath sea ice, and their ice-dependent habitat makes them sensitive to rapid Arctic change. See the NOAA Fisheries narwhal profile for current biology and conservation information.
Nilgai
The nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) is the largest Asian antelope. Adult males are blue-gray and usually carry short horns, while females and young are tawny brown. Native populations occupy open woodland and grassland across much of the Indian subcontinent, and introduced populations also live on ranchlands in Texas.
North American Black Bear
The North American black bear (Ursus americanus) is the continent’s most widespread bear. Coat color ranges from black to brown, cinnamon, or pale cream in some populations. Although capable predators, black bears are opportunistic omnivores that often eat far more plant material and insects than large prey. Our grizzly bear vs. black bear comparison explains the most useful identification differences.
Numbat
The numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus) is a small, striped marsupial from southwestern Australia. Unlike most marsupials, it is active during the day, when it uses a long sticky tongue to collect termites. Australia lists the species as Endangered because of habitat loss, altered fire, and predation by foxes and feral cats. The Australian Government numbat profile describes its habitat and recovery priorities.
Nutria
Nutria, or coypu (Myocastor coypus), are large semiaquatic rodents native to South America. They have webbed hind feet, long round tails, and orange incisors. Introduced populations can damage marshes by eating roots and rhizomes and by burrowing into banks and levees. The USDA APHIS nutria overview explains their invasive impact in the United States.
Nyala
The nyala (Tragelaphus angasii) is a spiral-horned antelope of southeastern Africa. Males are larger, darker, and horned; females are smaller and reddish brown with white body stripes. Nyalas favor dense woodland and thickets near water, browsing on leaves, shoots, fruit, and grasses.
Birds that start with N
Nēnē (Hawaiian Goose)
The nēnē (Branta sandvicensis) is a goose found only in Hawaiʻi and is the state bird. Reduced webbing and padded feet help it walk over lava and dry upland terrain. The species was federally downlisted from Endangered to Threatened in 2019 after a major recovery effort, but vehicles, introduced predators, habitat pressure, and human feeding remain concerns. See the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service nēnē guidance.
Nicobar Pigeon
The Nicobar pigeon (Caloenas nicobarica) is an iridescent island pigeon found from the Nicobar Islands through parts of Southeast Asia and the western Pacific. Genetic research places it among the closest living relatives of the extinct dodo. It forages on the ground for seeds, fruit, and small invertebrates. The 2025 State of India’s Birds factsheet reports a global Near Threatened status.
Night Heron
The black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) is a stocky, short-necked heron with a broad global distribution. It often rests in trees or dense cover during the day, then feeds around dusk and at night. Fish, crustaceans, amphibians, insects, and other small animals make up its varied diet.
Nightingale
The common nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos) is a modest-looking brown songbird with an exceptionally varied song. It breeds in dense scrub and woodland across Europe and western Asia and migrates to sub-Saharan Africa. Nightingales forage close to the ground for insects and other invertebrates, adding berries later in the season. See more examples in our guide to beautiful birds.
Nightjar
Nightjars are nocturnal and crepuscular birds in the family Caprimulgidae. Their mottled plumage blends with bark, leaf litter, and dry ground, while a wide gape helps them catch moths, beetles, and other flying insects. Many species place their eggs directly on the ground rather than building a conventional nest.
Northern Bobwhite
The northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) is a ground-dwelling quail named for its whistled “bob-white” call. Coveys use grasslands, shrubby field edges, and open pine woodland. Populations have declined across much of the range as those habitats have been converted or grown too dense, making habitat management central to this and other birds of conservation concern.
Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is a familiar crested songbird of North and Central America. Males are bright red, while females are mostly warm brown with red in the wings, tail, and crest. Cardinals do not make long seasonal migrations and readily use woodland edges, gardens, parks, and bird feeders.
Northern Flicker
The northern flicker (Colaptes auratus) is a large woodpecker that often feeds on the ground. Ants and beetles form much of its diet, which explains the slightly curved bill and terrestrial foraging. A white rump flashes in flight, while the wing and tail colors differ between eastern yellow-shafted and western red-shafted forms.
Northern Harrier
The northern harrier (Circus hudsonius) hunts by flying low over marshes, wet meadows, and open fields. Its owl-like facial disk helps direct sound toward the ears, allowing it to locate rodents and birds hidden in vegetation. Adult males are usually pale gray; females and juveniles are brown.
Northern Jacana
The northern jacana (Jacana spinosa) lives in tropical wetlands from Mexico through Central America and parts of the Caribbean. Extremely long toes spread its weight across floating leaves. Females may defend territories containing several males, while males incubate the eggs and care for the chicks.
Northern Parula
The northern parula (Setophaga americana) is a small blue-gray and yellow warbler of eastern North America. It searches the upper canopy for insects and commonly nests in hanging Spanish moss in the South or beard lichens farther north. Its rising buzzy trill is often easier to detect than the bird itself.
Northern Pintail
The northern pintail (Anas acuta) is a slender migratory dabbling duck found across much of the Northern Hemisphere. Breeding males have a chocolate-brown head, white neck stripe, and long central tail feathers. Pintails depend on shallow wetlands, flooded fields, ponds, and coastal marshes throughout the year.
Northern Potoo
The northern potoo (Nyctibius jamaicensis) is a nocturnal bird of Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. By day it points its bill upward and holds still, resembling a broken branch. At night it launches from exposed perches to catch large flying insects; the female typically lays a single egg on a branch stub rather than in a nest cavity.
Northern Screamer
The northern screamer (Chauna chavaria) is a large wetland bird restricted mainly to northern Colombia and northwestern Venezuela. It feeds mostly on aquatic plants and announces itself with loud carrying calls. A recent World Land Trust species profile, citing the IUCN assessment, lists it as Least Concern; wetland drainage and pollution remain local pressures.
Reptiles and amphibians that start with N
Natterjack Toad
The natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) is identified by the pale yellow line that usually runs down its back. It favors open sandy habitats such as coastal dunes, heathland, and disturbed ground with shallow breeding pools. Shorter hind legs give it a quick running gait rather than the long hops of many frogs. It is one example of the habitat-sensitive species covered in our guide to endangered amphibians.
Newt
Newts are salamanders, generally within the family Salamandridae, that often alternate between aquatic and terrestrial life stages. Adults return to water to breed, while juveniles of some species spend years on land. Their ability to regenerate damaged tissue is real, but the extent differs among species and should not be generalized to every organ or injury.
Night Adder
Night adders are African vipers in the genus Causus. The name is misleading because several species are active during daylight as well as after dark. Frogs and toads dominate their diet. They are venomous wild snakes and should be observed from a safe distance rather than handled.
Night Snake
Night snakes in the genus Hypsiglena are small nocturnal snakes of western North America. Dark neck blotches and vertical pupils help distinguish them from some harmless look-alikes. Rear fangs deliver mild venom used to subdue lizards and other small prey; bites to people are uncommon, but any wild snake should be left alone.
Nile Crocodile
The Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) is a large African crocodilian associated with rivers, lakes, marshes, and estuaries. Its diet changes with age, from insects and small fish in juveniles to fish, birds, reptiles, and mammals in adults. Females guard nests and may carry hatchlings to water, showing more parental care than many people expect from reptiles.
Nile Monitor
The Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) is a large semiaquatic lizard distributed widely across Africa. A laterally compressed tail makes it a strong swimmer, while powerful limbs and claws help it dig, climb, and open nests. It eats fish, frogs, crabs, mollusks, birds, eggs, and carrion; introduced populations are established in parts of Florida.
Northern Alligator Lizard
The northern alligator lizard (Elgaria coerulea) lives in cool, moist habitats across western North America. It has an elongated body, short limbs, keeled scales, and a fold along each side. Unlike many lizards, it gives birth to live young. Its prey includes insects, spiders, slugs, and other small animals.
Northern Water Snake
The northern water snake (Nerodia sipedon) is a nonvenomous snake of lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands in eastern North America. It swims well and feeds mainly on fish and amphibians. Dark bands can lead to confusion with venomous cottonmouths in areas where both occur, so identification should be made from a distance.
Fish and other aquatic animals that start with N
Nautilus
Nautiluses are cephalopods in the family Nautilidae, related to octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish. A chambered external shell controls buoyancy while dozens of suckerless tentacles collect prey and carrion. They usually move along deep reef slopes in the Indo-Pacific, making healthy coral reef systems important to their habitat.
Needlefish
Needlefish are surface-dwelling fishes in the family Belonidae. Their narrow bodies and long, tooth-lined jaws are adapted for catching smaller fish and crustaceans in marine, brackish, and some freshwater habitats. When startled, they can leap at speed; in a small number of nighttime boating incidents, their pointed jaws have caused serious injuries.
Neon Tetra
The neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is a small schooling fish from blackwater and clearwater tributaries of the Solimões system in South America. Its bright blue stripe and red lower body help individuals maintain contact in dim water. Wild fish eat tiny invertebrates and plant matter, while aquarium groups need stable water quality and room to school.
Neptune Grouper
The Neptune grouper (Cephalopholis igarashiensis), also called the garish hind, is a deep-reef grouper from the western and central Pacific. Adults have striking pink, orange, and yellow markings and are usually recorded far below ordinary recreational diving depths. The species should not be illustrated with a goliath grouper, which is a different fish.
Nerka (Sockeye Salmon)
Nerka is a Russian-derived common name for the sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka). Anadromous populations hatch in freshwater, grow in lakes or the North Pacific, and return to freshwater to spawn. Adults develop red bodies and greenish heads during the spawning migration. Protecting migration routes and using sustainable fishery practices are important because population conditions vary by watershed.
Nile Perch
The Nile perch (Lates niloticus) is a very large predatory freshwater fish native to major African river and lake systems. Adults eat fish, while juveniles also take crustaceans and insects. Introductions outside its native range, especially in Lake Victoria, transformed food webs and contributed to losses among native fishes.
Nudibranch
Nudibranchs are shell-less marine gastropods in the order Nudibranchia. Their name means “naked gills,” referring to exposed respiratory structures in many species. Bright colors may provide camouflage or warn predators about chemical defenses obtained from prey. They are among the most visually distinctive sea creatures, but they remain mollusks rather than fish.
Nurse Shark
The nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) is a bottom-dwelling carpet shark of warm Atlantic waters. Fleshy barbels help it locate prey, and a powerful pharynx creates suction to pull crustaceans, mollusks, and fish from crevices. A 2025 review of Atlantic nurse shark fisheries and conservation describes the species as Vulnerable globally, mainly because of fishing pressure. Nurse sharks often rest during the day, but they can bite if harassed or handled. For classification context, see whether sharks are tetrapods.
Other invertebrates that start with N
Nematode
Nematodes are roundworms in the phylum Nematoda, one of the most widespread animal groups on Earth. Free-living species occur in soil, freshwater, oceans, plants, and animal bodies; other species are parasites. Many soil nematodes feed on bacteria, fungi, or other microscopic organisms and help move nutrients through food webs. Our explainer on what an invertebrate is provides broader context.
No-See-Ums
No-see-ums are tiny biting midges in the family Ceratopogonidae. Only females of some species take blood meals; many adults feed on nectar, and some are important pollinators of crops such as cacao. Larvae develop in moist soil, mud, tree holes, or shallow water. These small insects are animals and also serve as prey for fish, birds, bats, and other predators.
Domestic breeds and farm animals that start with N
Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large Italian guardian dog with heavy bone, loose skin, and a short coat. Its size and protective instincts call for early socialization, careful training, and an owner prepared for substantial food, space, and veterinary costs. Claims that the modern breed directly descended from Roman war dogs are difficult to prove and are best treated as breed lore.
Nebelung
The Nebelung is a medium-sized domestic cat breed with a silky blue coat tipped in silver. Green eyes, a long body, and a plumed tail give it a close resemblance to a long-haired Russian Blue. The breed was developed in the United States in the 1980s and is recognized by The International Cat Association. Regular combing helps prevent mats.
Nelore Cattle
Nelore cattle are a zebu breed descended from Ongole cattle of India and now strongly associated with Brazil’s beef industry. A shoulder hump, loose skin, pale coat, and heat tolerance suit tropical production systems. Their ability to cope with heat and some parasites does not eliminate the need for good nutrition, shade, water, and veterinary care.
Netherland Dwarf Rabbit
The Netherland Dwarf is a compact domestic rabbit breed developed in the Netherlands. The American Rabbit Breeders Association sets a maximum show weight of 2.5 pounds. A short face, small upright ears, and many recognized colors make the breed distinctive, but its small size does not reduce the need for spacious housing, daily exercise, hay, and skilled handling.
New Hampshire Chicken
The New Hampshire is an American chicken breed developed in New Hampshire and Massachusetts from Rhode Island Red stock selected for rapid feathering, growth, and maturity. It is a dual-purpose bird raised for meat and large brown eggs. Chestnut-red plumage and a broad, somewhat triangular body distinguish it from the darker Rhode Island Red.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large Canadian working dog bred around fishing communities. A dense water-resistant coat, strong swimming ability, and calm working temperament supported tasks such as hauling and water rescue. The breed needs regular grooming, careful joint and heart screening, and enough room for a very large dog.
Newfypoo
A Newfypoo is a cross between a Newfoundland and a Poodle. Adult size, coat texture, shedding, and temperament can vary widely, even within one litter, because it is not a standardized pure breed. Prospective owners should not assume every dog will be hypoallergenic and should ask about health screening relevant to both parent breeds.
Nguni Cattle
Nguni cattle are southern African Sanga cattle shaped by long adaptation to local climates and production systems. Their hides occur in many colors and patterns, and the cattle are valued for hardiness, fertility, meat, hides, and cultural importance. Disease resistance is relative rather than absolute, so good herd management remains necessary.
Nigerian Dwarf Goat
The Nigerian Dwarf is a small dairy goat breed developed in the United States from West African stock. It produces less total milk than a full-sized dairy goat but often has comparatively high butterfat, making the milk useful for cheese and soap. These social animals need secure fencing, companionship, hoof care, and a nutritionally balanced diet.
Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a small English terrier with folded, drop ears and a weather-resistant wiry coat. It was developed for vermin control but is now primarily a companion dog. The breed is energetic and bold; regular exercise and coat care matter despite its compact size. The drop ears distinguish it from the closely related Norwich Terrier.
Norrbottenspets
The Norrbottenspets is a small Nordic spitz associated with northern Sweden and Finland. Hunters use it as a bark-pointing dog: it finds game, holds the animal’s attention, and barks to guide the hunter. It is alert, agile, and active, so daily exercise and mental work are important in a companion home.
Northern Inuit Dog
The Northern Inuit Dog is a modern companion dog developed in the United Kingdom for a wolf-like appearance without being a wild canid. Registries and pedigrees differ, and the breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club. These large, social dogs generally need extensive exercise, consistent training, secure fencing, and close human company.
Norwegian Buhund
The Norwegian Buhund is a medium-sized spitz traditionally used as an all-purpose farm dog for herding, guarding, and companionship. A curled tail, prick ears, and dense double coat reflect its northern origin. The breed learns quickly but usually needs vigorous daily exercise and purposeful training.
Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a gray spitz breed developed to track and hold large game such as moose, which are called elk in parts of Europe. Hunters follow the dog’s scent work and barking rather than expecting it to overpower prey. The dense coat sheds heavily, and the breed’s stamina suits active households.
Norwegian Forest Cat
The Norwegian Forest Cat is a large, sturdy long-haired cat breed adapted to a cold climate. A dense water-resistant double coat, tufted ears, strong claws, and a climbing habit are typical. The legacy “Norwegian Forest” entry was incomplete; the recognized animal name is Norwegian Forest Cat, and its image should show the cat rather than an elk or forest scene.
Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small spitz once used to retrieve puffins from narrow cliff crevices. Six functional toes on each foot, unusual shoulder mobility, and the ability to bend the head backward helped it move through steep rocky terrain. The breed has a small gene pool and a recognized risk of gastrointestinal disease, so responsible health screening matters.
Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is a compact English terrier with upright prick ears, a wiry coat, and a strong prey drive inherited from its ratting history. It is closely related to the Norfolk Terrier, whose ears fold forward. Norwich Terriers are small but active and need training, exercise, and regular coat maintenance.
Nubian Goat
The Nubian, often called the Anglo-Nubian, is a large dairy goat with long pendulous ears and a strongly convex facial profile. Its milk is valued for relatively high butterfat, and the breed generally tolerates warm climates well. Nubians are social and vocal, so adequate space, fencing, companions, and routine hoof and veterinary care are essential.
How this animal list was checked
This page was reviewed in July 2026. Taxonomy and distribution were checked against recognized sources such as the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, FishBase, and The Reptile Database. Current conservation claims were limited to species with a clear recent government, scientific, or established conservation source. Domestic breed details were checked against major breed registries and livestock organizations.
The review also corrected several problems in the previous version: duplicate animals were merged; “Norwegian Forest” became Norwegian Forest Cat; “Nigerian Goat” became Nigerian Dwarf Goat; a goliath grouper image was removed from the Neptune grouper entry; and Naegleria was removed because the CDC identifies it as a one-celled ameba, not an animal. “Nettlefish” was also removed because no reliable standard common-name match could be verified.
Conservation status can differ by region, population, subspecies, and assessment system. A global category should not be treated as proof that every local population is secure, and a domestic breed is not assigned an IUCN wildlife status. For broader context, see our guide to types of ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions
What animal starts with N?
The narwhal is a well-known animal that starts with N. Other examples include the numbat, newt, nēnē, nightingale, Nile crocodile, nudibranch, and nurse shark.
What mammals start with N?
Mammals that start with N include the nabarlek, naked mole-rat, narwhal, nilgai, North American black bear, numbat, nutria, and nyala. Domestic examples include the Newfoundland dog and Netherland Dwarf rabbit.
What birds start with N?
Birds that start with N include the nēnē, Nicobar pigeon, night heron, nightingale, nightjar, northern cardinal, northern flicker, northern harrier, and northern pintail.
What reptiles start with N?
Reptiles that start with N include the Nile crocodile, Nile monitor, northern alligator lizard, northern water snake, night adder, and night snake. The newt and natterjack toad are amphibians, not reptiles.
What sea animals start with N?
Sea animals that start with N include the narwhal, nautilus, needlefish, Neptune grouper, nudibranch, and nurse shark. Sockeye salmon, also called nerka, divide their life cycle between freshwater and the ocean.
Is Naegleria an animal?
No. Naegleria is a genus of free-living, single-celled amebae. It belongs on a list of microorganisms, not a scientifically checked list of animals.
Explore more animal guides
- Blue birds and how to identify them
- Cool sea creatures and their adaptations
- What is an invertebrate?
- Are insects animals?
- Are sharks tetrapods?
Alphabetical lists are a useful starting point, but the conservation story behind each animal depends on its habitat, population, and relationship with people. Follow the source links above when a status matters, and support evidence-based habitat protection rather than relying on a single label or headline.