80+ Animals That Start With D: List, Facts & Fun

The animal kingdom is full of delightful and diverse species, and today we’re diving into those that start with the letter D. From dusty desert dwellers to deep-sea divers, these creatures come from every corner of the globe.

To make exploration easy and informative, we’ve grouped the animals by type — mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and aquatic life — each with quick facts and a fun piece of trivia. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just love a good animal fact, this list of animals that start with D offers a journey through the wild like no other.

Animals That Start With D

1. Dingo (Canis lupus dingo)

The dingo is a wild dog native to Australia, often seen in arid deserts, forests, and plains. It has a golden coat, upright ears, and a bushy tail. Dingoes are opportunistic carnivores that hunt alone or in small packs. They feed on kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, and sometimes fruits. Dingoes are considered a threatened species due to habitat loss and interbreeding with domestic dogs.
Fun Fact: Dingoes don’t bark like domestic dogs — they howl instead.

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2. Dhole (Cuon alpinus)

Also known as the Asiatic wild dog, the dhole is a highly social canid found in Central and Southeast Asia. It has a reddish coat, bushy black-tipped tail, and rounded ears. Dholes live in forested habitats and are known for cooperative hunting. They primarily feed on deer and other medium-sized ungulates. Though agile and powerful hunters, dholes are endangered due to habitat fragmentation.
Fun Fact: Dholes communicate with high-pitched whistles, unlike any other wild dog.

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3. Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)

Native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, the desert tortoise is a hardy reptile that spends up to 95% of its life in burrows. Its domed shell helps conserve water, and it eats grasses, herbs, and wildflowers. It can survive extreme drought by storing water in its bladder. These tortoises are threatened by habitat destruction and illegal collection.
Fun Fact: Desert tortoises can live more than a year without drinking water.

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4. Duck-Billed Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)

Found in eastern Australia, the platypus is one of only five existing species of monotremes — egg-laying mammals. It has a duck-like bill, webbed feet, and dense waterproof fur. It uses electrolocation to hunt underwater for insects, crustaceans, and worms. Males have venomous spurs on their hind legs.
Fun Fact: Platypuses close their eyes, ears, and nostrils while underwater.

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5. Dusky Dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obscurus)

These small, agile dolphins inhabit the cool coastal waters of the Southern Hemisphere. They have a striking color pattern with a dark back and pale underside. Dusky dolphins are highly acrobatic and often seen leaping and playing in groups. Their diet includes squid, anchovies, and other schooling fish.
Fun Fact: They can coordinate complex group hunting techniques like herding.

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6. Dragonfly (Anisoptera spp.)

Dragonflies are fast-flying insects found near freshwater bodies worldwide. They have large compound eyes, elongated bodies, and two pairs of transparent wings. Dragonflies are excellent predators that feed on mosquitoes, flies, and other small insects. Their nymphs live in water and are also carnivorous.
Fun Fact: Dragonflies can fly in all directions — even backward.

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7. Darwin’s Frog (Rhinoderma darwinii)

Native to the forests of Chile and Argentina, this tiny amphibian is named after Charles Darwin. Males carry developing tadpoles in their vocal sacs — a rare case of paternal care. The frog has a leaf-like appearance that helps it blend in with forest debris.
Fun Fact: Male Darwin’s frogs “swallow” their offspring to keep them safe.

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8. Desert Hedgehog (Paraechinus aethiopicus)

Found in North Africa and the Middle East, the desert hedgehog is adapted to arid environments. It has a small, rounded body covered in sharp spines and a distinctive dark mask across its face. Nocturnal and insectivorous, it feeds on insects, scorpions, and small reptiles. It enters a state of torpor during extreme heat.
Fun Fact: This hedgehog can roll into a tight, spiny ball when threatened.

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9. Desert Iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis)

Native to the southwestern U.S. and northwestern Mexico, the desert iguana is a heat-loving reptile. Its pale coloring reflects sunlight, allowing it to remain active during the hottest part of the day. It primarily feeds on desert plants and flowers, especially creosote bush blossoms.
Fun Fact: Desert iguanas can tolerate body temperatures up to 42°C (108°F).

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10. Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus)

This massive water bird is among the largest of all pelican species. Native to parts of Europe and Asia, it frequents lakes, rivers, and deltas. It has a curly nape, orange bill pouch, and striking silver-white plumage. It feeds by scooping fish into its expandable pouch.
Fun Fact: The Dalmatian pelican’s wingspan can reach over 3 meters.

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11. Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)

This small rodent is widespread across North America. It has large eyes, soft brown fur, and a white belly. Known for its agility and jumping ability, it thrives in forests, grasslands, and deserts. It feeds on seeds, insects, and berries.
Fun Fact: Deer mice are known carriers of hantavirus, making them medically significant.

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12. Desert Locust (Schistocerca gregaria)

The desert locust is a short-horned grasshopper species found in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. In solitary phases, they are harmless, but when swarming, they form massive clouds that devastate crops. These insects can travel hundreds of kilometers in a day.
Fun Fact: A single swarm can cover 1,200 square kilometers and contain billions of locusts.

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13. Desert Cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii)

Also called Audubon’s cottontail, this rabbit species thrives in arid habitats of the southwestern U.S. It has a light gray-brown coat and a fluffy white tail. It feeds at dusk and dawn, browsing on grasses, herbs, and cacti. When threatened, it runs in zigzags to evade predators.
Fun Fact: Despite the heat, it rarely drinks water — getting moisture from plants.

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14. Dusky Shark (Carcharhinus obscurus)

This large predatory shark is found in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide. It has a slender body, rounded snout, and long pectoral fins. Dusky sharks are apex predators that feed on bony fish, rays, and smaller sharks.
Fun Fact: Dusky sharks undergo the longest known shark migration — over 5,000 km.

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15. Desert Horned Viper (Cerastes cerastes)

This venomous snake inhabits North African deserts and is famous for its sidewinding locomotion. It has prominent horn-like scales above its eyes and a thick, sandy body that blends with desert soil. It hunts at night, ambushing rodents and lizards.
Fun Fact: Its sideways crawling style helps reduce heat contact with the sand.

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16. Damselfly (Zygoptera spp.)

Closely related to dragonflies, damselflies are delicate insects found near ponds, rivers, and wetlands worldwide. Unlike dragonflies, they fold their wings along their body when at rest. They have slender bodies, long transparent wings, and large eyes. Damselfly larvae are aquatic predators, while adults eat flying insects.
Fun Fact: Damselflies can move each wing independently, allowing nimble flight.

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17. Darwin’s Fox (Lycalopex fulvipes)

Endemic to Chile, Darwin’s fox is a small, critically endangered canid. It inhabits dense temperate rainforests and has a dark gray coat with reddish markings. Mostly nocturnal, it feeds on rodents, birds, fruits, and insects. Habitat fragmentation is a major threat to its survival.
Fun Fact: It was first discovered by Charles Darwin in 1834.

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18. Desert Monitor (Varanus griseus)

This large lizard inhabits arid regions across the Middle East and Central Asia. It has a long tail, sharp claws, and a forked tongue. Desert monitors are carnivorous and prey on rodents, birds, eggs, and other reptiles. They are powerful diggers and use burrows for shelter.
Fun Fact: Despite the heat, they remain active during the day.

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19. Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)

Native to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico, this pit viper is one of the largest and most venomous rattlesnakes. It has a distinctive diamond pattern on its back and a loud rattle used to warn predators. It ambushes prey like rabbits and rodents.
Fun Fact: Can strike at speeds faster than the blink of an eye.

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20. Dusky Moorhen (Gallinula tenebrosa)

This medium-sized waterbird is found throughout Australia and Southeast Asia. It has a dark gray body with a red frontal shield and yellow-tipped bill. Dusky moorhens forage for aquatic vegetation, insects, and snails near ponds and wetlands.
Fun Fact: They bob their heads constantly while walking.

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21. Desert Lark (Ammomanes deserti)

Found across North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, this small bird is adapted to life in arid environments. It has sandy plumage that blends with rocky deserts. Desert larks feed on seeds, insects, and plant material.
Fun Fact: Their song echoes clearly across desert canyons.

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22. Dogfish Shark (Squalus acanthias)

This small shark is found in temperate coastal waters around the world. It has a slender body, gray coloration, and sharp spines in front of each dorsal fin. Dogfish sharks are slow-growing and live long lives. They feed on small fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Fun Fact: They were named “dogfish” because they hunt in packs like dogs.

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23. Desert Rain Frog (Breviceps macrops)

This tiny amphibian is native to the coastal deserts of Namibia and South Africa. It has a round body, short limbs, and transparent skin. It’s known for its high-pitched squeaky call and nocturnal behavior. It lives under the sand and emerges only at night.
Fun Fact: It makes a squeaky toy-like sound when threatened.

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24. Dung Beetle (Scarabaeinae spp.)

Dung beetles are found on every continent except Antarctica. They feed on feces and play a vital role in nutrient recycling. Some roll dung into balls, while others bury it for future meals or to lay eggs. They have incredible strength for their size.
Fun Fact: A dung beetle can pull over 1,000 times its body weight.

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25. Desert Finch (Rhodospiza obsoleta)

This small passerine bird lives in the arid and semi-arid zones of Central Asia and the Middle East. It has a stout beak and pale brown plumage. Desert finches feed on seeds, berries, and occasionally insects.
Fun Fact: Males sing long trills during the breeding season.

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26. Desert Whip Snake (Demansia psammophis)

This slender, fast-moving snake is found in arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. It has a light brown or olive body with a darker head and large eyes. Although venomous, it’s not dangerous to humans. It preys primarily on lizards and small mammals.
Fun Fact: It strikes so fast that prey often doesn’t react until it’s too late.

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27. Dwarf Crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis)

The smallest of all crocodile species, the dwarf crocodile inhabits the slow-moving rivers and swamps of West and Central Africa. It has a stocky build and heavily armored skin. Mostly nocturnal, it feeds on fish, frogs, and crustaceans.
Fun Fact: It spends much of its day hiding in burrows or under vegetation.

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28. Dusky Leaf Monkey (Trachypithecus obscurus)

Also known as the spectacled langur, this primate lives in the rainforests of Thailand, Malaysia, and Myanmar. It has a dark gray body and white circles around its eyes, giving it a “spectacled” look. It feeds mostly on leaves, fruits, and seeds.
Fun Fact: Their infants are born bright orange and change color as they mature.

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29. Desert Night Lizard (Xantusia vigilis)

Found in the southwestern United States, this secretive lizard hides under rocks, fallen logs, and cacti. Unlike many reptiles, it gives live birth instead of laying eggs. It feeds on small insects and spiders and is most active at night.
Fun Fact: Despite its name, it’s not strictly nocturnal and may emerge during cloudy days.

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30. Daurian Redstart (Phoenicurus auroreus)

A striking songbird found across East Asia, the Daurian redstart features a black face, white wing patch, and bright orange belly. It inhabits open forests and human settlements and is known for its restless tail flicking.
Fun Fact: It often nests in man-made structures like mailboxes and drainpipes.

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31. Darwin’s Ground Finch (Geospiza fortis)

One of Darwin’s famous Galápagos finches, this bird helped shape the theory of evolution. It has a thick beak suited for cracking seeds and is found on several of the Galápagos Islands. Its diet shifts with environmental conditions.
Fun Fact: Its beak size can change over generations based on food availability.

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32. Dwarf Mongoose (Helogale parvula)

Africa’s smallest carnivore, the dwarf mongoose lives in savannas and woodlands across sub-Saharan Africa. It forms tight-knit groups that work together to forage and raise young. It feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and eggs.
Fun Fact: Dwarf mongooses often form symbiotic partnerships with hornbills during foraging.

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33. Dogface Butterfly (Zerene cesonia)

Named for the faint dog head pattern on its wings, this butterfly is found in the southern U.S. and parts of Central America. It frequents open fields and meadows and feeds on flower nectar.
Fun Fact: The “dog face” pattern is visible only when its wings are fully open.

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34. Desert Kangaroo Rat (Dipodomys deserti)

This rodent thrives in the sandy deserts of North America. With long hind legs and a tufted tail, it moves by hopping. It has highly efficient kidneys, allowing it to survive without direct water intake.
Fun Fact: It collects seeds in cheek pouches and stores them in underground caches.

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35. Dingo Shark (Isistius brasiliensis)

Also known as the cookiecutter shark, it inhabits deep tropical and subtropical waters. It attaches to larger animals and removes circular chunks of flesh using its sharp lower teeth. Despite its small size, it has a fearsome reputation.
Fun Fact: Its glowing underside lures prey in the deep sea.

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36. Desert Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus magister)

This robust lizard is found in the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Males display vibrant blue patches on their bellies and throats. It prefers rocky areas and feeds on insects and spiders.
Fun Fact: Males do push-up displays to defend territory and attract mates.

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37. Devil Ray (Mobula spp.)

Closely related to manta rays, devil rays glide through warm ocean waters. They are known for their wing-like fins and habit of leaping out of the water. They feed on plankton by filter-feeding as they swim.
Fun Fact: Devil rays can leap up to 2 meters out of the ocean.

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38. Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus)

This fish-eating bird is widespread across North America. It has a dark body, long neck, and bright orange facial skin. The “double crest” refers to its tufts of feathers during breeding season. It dives underwater to catch fish.
Fun Fact: After fishing, cormorants often perch with wings spread to dry.

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39. Dwarf Hamster (Phodopus spp.)

These tiny rodents are popular as pets and are native to parts of Asia and Eastern Europe. They are nocturnal and live in burrows, feeding on seeds, grains, and insects.
Fun Fact: Some dwarf hamsters survive freezing winters by lowering their body temperature in torpor.

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40. Dingo Octopus (Grimpoteuthis spp.)

Commonly called the “Dumbo octopus” for its ear-like fins, this deep-sea creature is rarely seen by humans. It lives at depths of 3,000–7,000 meters and glides using its fins. It swallows prey whole, mostly worms and crustaceans.
Fun Fact: It’s the deepest-living known octopus genus.

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41. Dart Frog (Dendrobatidae spp.)

Also called poison dart frogs, these tiny amphibians are known for their bright coloration and toxic skin. They inhabit tropical rainforests in Central and South America. Their diet includes ants and mites that contribute to their toxicity.
Fun Fact: Indigenous tribes once used their toxins on blow darts for hunting.

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42. Darwin’s Toad (Rhinella spinulosa)

Found in Chile and Argentina, this toad has spiny skin and a squat body. It lives in high-altitude environments and has adapted to cold climates. It feeds on insects and other small invertebrates.
Fun Fact: Uses camouflage and stillness to avoid detection.

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43. Desert Tarantula (Aphonopelma spp.)

These large, hairy spiders are found in the deserts of the southwestern U.S. Despite their fearsome appearance, they are shy and rarely bite. They live in burrows and feed on insects, small lizards, and even mice.
Fun Fact: Males go on long journeys during mating season and may not return.

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44. Dwarf Seahorse (Hippocampus zosterae)

This tiny seahorse is found in the seagrass beds off the coast of the southeastern United States. It is one of the smallest seahorses in the world and moves by fluttering its dorsal fin.
Fun Fact: It swims slower than any other fish — slower than a snail’s pace.

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45. Desert Woodrat (Neotoma lepida)

Also known as the packrat, this rodent builds elaborate nests from sticks, bones, and shiny objects. It lives in arid regions of the western U.S. and Mexico and is known for hoarding behavior.
Fun Fact: Its urine crystalizes into a substance called “amberat,” which can last for centuries.

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46. Dwarf Antelope (Neotragus spp.)

Native to sub-Saharan Africa, dwarf antelopes are the smallest members of the antelope family. They live in dense underbrush and are incredibly agile. These shy herbivores feed on leaves, fruits, and flowers.
Fun Fact: Some dwarf antelopes stand less than 30 cm tall at the shoulder.

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47. Dodo (Raphus cucullatus)

The dodo was a flightless bird endemic to Mauritius and famously went extinct in the late 1600s. It had no natural predators until humans and introduced species arrived. The dodo’s extinction helped raise awareness about human impact on ecosystems.
Fun Fact: The dodo’s closest living relative is the Nicobar pigeon.

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48. Dwarf Caiman (Paleosuchus spp.)

These small crocodilians inhabit freshwater rivers and swamps in South America. They’re shy, mostly nocturnal, and prefer staying hidden. Dwarf caimans feed on fish, amphibians, and invertebrates.
Fun Fact: Their tough armor includes bony plates on their bellies — rare for crocodilians.

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49. Dusky Grouse (Dendragapus obscurus)

A North American bird found in coniferous forests, especially in mountainous regions. Males perform elaborate displays to attract mates, including inflating neck sacs and fanning tail feathers.
Fun Fact: Unlike many birds, it moves to higher elevations in winter.

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50. Deep Sea Anglerfish (Melanocetus spp.)

This terrifying-looking fish lives thousands of meters below the ocean surface. The female has a bioluminescent lure to attract prey in the darkness. Males are much smaller and fuse to females for life.
Fun Fact: Anglerfish males permanently attach to females and share blood supply.

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51. Dusky Slug (Arion subfuscus)

This terrestrial slug is common in North America and Europe. It prefers moist habitats and is mostly nocturnal. It plays a vital role in decomposition by consuming dead leaves and fungi.
Fun Fact: Produces an orange slime that acts as both lubricant and predator deterrent.

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52. Desert Pupfish (Cyprinodon macularius)

A resilient freshwater fish found in desert springs and streams of the American Southwest. It survives extreme temperatures and salinity. Its population has declined due to habitat loss and invasive species.
Fun Fact: Can tolerate water temperatures up to 45°C (113°F).

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53. Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis)

This blood-sucking arachnid attaches to dogs, humans, and other mammals. It can transmit diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever. It thrives in grassy, wooded environments and is active in warm months.
Fun Fact: Can survive several months without a host.

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54. Double-barred Finch (Taeniopygia bichenovii)

Native to Australia, this small bird has two black chest bands that resemble spectacles. It lives in grasslands and open woodlands and feeds on seeds. It’s popular in aviculture for its calm nature.
Fun Fact: Often nests in the abandoned homes of other birds.

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55. Dumeril’s Boa (Acrantophis dumerili)

Native to Madagascar, this non-venomous boa is thick-bodied and terrestrial. It uses camouflage to ambush prey like rodents and birds. It’s popular among reptile enthusiasts due to its docile nature.
Fun Fact: Unlike many boas, it prefers dry forests over rainforests.

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56. Dusky Dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obscurus)

Found in the Southern Hemisphere, especially off New Zealand, South America, and southern Africa, the dusky dolphin is known for its acrobatics. It has a dark gray back and a light underside, with a robust, streamlined body. It feeds mainly on anchovies, squid, and sardines.
Fun Fact: Dusky dolphins often work in groups to herd fish into tight balls before striking.

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57. Dwarf Lanternshark (Etmopterus perryi)

This deep-sea species is the smallest known shark, discovered off the coast of Colombia and Venezuela. It glows in the dark thanks to bioluminescent organs along its belly. It preys on crustaceans and small fish.
Fun Fact: It can fit in the palm of your hand.

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58. Daurian Hedgehog (Mesechinus dauuricus)

Found in Mongolia, China, and Russia, the Daurian hedgehog is a nocturnal insectivore with a robust body and dark spines. It inhabits steppes and open woodlands, often sheltering in rock crevices or burrows.
Fun Fact: Unlike many hedgehogs, it hibernates in underground dens during winter.

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59. Devilfish (Octopus spp.)

“Devilfish” is a nickname sometimes used for large octopuses, especially the Giant Pacific Octopus. These intelligent cephalopods have incredible problem-solving abilities and can change their shape and color at will.
Fun Fact: Giant Pacific octopuses have been known to unscrew jar lids to reach prey inside.

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60. Desert Wheatear (Oenanthe deserti)

A small migratory bird that breeds in the deserts of North Africa and Central Asia. Males are sandy-colored with black facial markings and tail. It feeds on insects and is often seen flicking its tail while hopping across the ground.
Fun Fact: Migrates thousands of kilometers to winter in India and northeastern Africa.

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61. Dapple Gray Horse (Equus ferus caballus)

While not a species but rather a coat color, dapple gray horses are beloved for their silvery, speckled appearance. Common in many breeds, they are known for their athleticism and are often used in sport and show.
Fun Fact: Dappled coats usually lighten with age, often turning white by maturity.

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62. Daurian Jackdaw (Coloeus dauuricus)

This social crow species is found in East Asia. It has a pale face and neck that contrast with its black body. Like other corvids, it’s highly intelligent and vocal, nesting in colonies on cliffs or tall buildings.
Fun Fact: Forms large flocks that mimic human-like chatter.

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63. Dumeril’s Monitor (Varanus dumerilii)

A large monitor lizard from Southeast Asia’s rainforests. It has a black and yellow pattern, powerful limbs, and a long tail. It is semi-arboreal and feeds on birds, eggs, and small mammals.
Fun Fact: Its tail is used for both swimming and defense.

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64. Dusky Salamander (Desmognathus fuscus)

Found in the eastern U.S., this small amphibian lives near moist forest streams. It breathes through its skin and is highly sensitive to environmental changes. It feeds on insects, worms, and spiders.
Fun Fact: Can drop its tail to escape predators, and it regrows over time.

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65. Desert Leafcutter Ant (Acromyrmex versicolor)

This hardworking insect is native to arid areas of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. It cuts leaves to cultivate underground fungus farms. Colonies have highly organized castes.
Fun Fact: Their underground fungus gardens are tended like miniature farms.

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66. Dotted Humming Frog (Adelastes hylonomos)

This elusive amphibian is found in the lowland rainforests of South America. It has a rounded body with orange or yellowish spots, and it uses leaf litter for cover. Little is known about its behavior due to its reclusive nature.
Fun Fact: Its unique squeaky call can be heard only at dusk during the rainy season.

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67. Dune Hairy-footed Gerbil (Gerbillurus tytonis)

Native to Namibia’s sand dunes, this small rodent is well adapted to desert life. It has fur-covered feet that allow it to move easily across hot sand and burrows deeply to escape the heat.
Fun Fact: Uses its hind legs to perform long, kangaroo-like jumps.

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68. Deep-sea Dragonfish (Stomiidae spp.)

These terrifying predators dwell in ocean depths where sunlight never reaches. They have bioluminescent lures and long, fang-like teeth. Some species can produce red light, which is invisible to most deep-sea animals.
Fun Fact: Some dragonfish can unhinge their jaws to swallow prey larger than themselves.

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69. Dwarf Siren (Pseudobranchus spp.)

A type of aquatic salamander found in the southeastern U.S., the dwarf siren has a long, eel-like body and external gills. It lacks hind limbs and lives in shallow, vegetated waters.
Fun Fact: Can survive droughts by burying in mud and forming a cocoon-like shell.

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70. D’Arnault’s Owl (Strix d’arnoulti)

This rare owl is found in parts of Central Africa. It favors montane forests and is known for its deep hooting call. It hunts at night and preys on small mammals and birds.
Fun Fact: Still poorly studied — only a handful of sightings have been recorded.

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71. Dog-faced Bat (Molossidae spp.)

Named for their blunt, canine-like faces, these bats live across Central and South America. They are fast fliers and hunt insects in the open sky. Their short fur and streamlined bodies make them ideal aerial hunters.
Fun Fact: Can reach flight speeds of up to 160 km/h — faster than most birds.

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72. Dragon Moray Eel (Enchelycore pardalis)

Found in Indo-Pacific reefs, this striking eel has a dragon-like appearance with sharp teeth and vivid orange and white markings. It hunts at night, preying on fish and crustaceans.
Fun Fact: Despite its fierce look, it’s shy and spends most of the day hiding in crevices.

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73. Desert Flamingo (Phoenicopterus jamesi)

Also called the James’s flamingo, this species lives in high-altitude salt flats and lakes of the Andes. It has pale pink plumage and feeds on algae using its unique filtering beak.
Fun Fact: Lives at elevations over 4,000 meters in some of the harshest habitats.

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74. Dashing Pygmy Goby (Eviota spp.)

This tiny reef fish is found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific. It’s often brightly colored and blends into coral rubble. It lives short lives but reproduces quickly.
Fun Fact: Completes its entire life cycle in just two months.

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75. Dwarf Boa (Tropidophis spp.)

Native to the Caribbean and parts of South America, this small constrictor hides under logs and rocks. It’s non-venomous and feeds on frogs and lizards. Some species can bleed from their eyes when threatened.
Fun Fact: Plays dead and oozes blood from the mouth and nostrils to scare predators.

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76. Dwarf Zebra Lionfish (Dendrochirus zebra)

This stunning reef fish is smaller than typical lionfish and features bold zebra-like striping. It lives in coral-rich lagoons and uses its large pectoral fins to corner prey like shrimp and small fish.
Fun Fact: Though venomous, its sting is rarely fatal to humans.

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77. Daurian Partridge (Perdix dauurica)

This ground-dwelling bird is native to grasslands and steppes in Asia. It has a rotund body, gray-brown plumage, and a rusty face. It feeds on seeds, grains, and insects.
Fun Fact: Daurian partridges form monogamous pairs and raise large broods.

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78. Dwarf Pipehorse (Idiotropiscis spp.)

A close relative of seahorses, this tiny fish camouflages among seagrasses and algae. It has a stiff, armored body and swims using small pectoral fins. Native to Australian waters.
Fun Fact: Males carry fertilized eggs in a pouch like seahorses.

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79. Darwin’s Slipper Lobster (Scyllarides roggeveenii)

This flat, armored crustacean lives in rocky and coral habitats in the Indo-Pacific. It lacks large claws and instead uses its front limbs for digging and defense.
Fun Fact: Despite its tough look, it’s quite shy and nocturnal.

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80. Desert Baboon (Papio ursinus)

Also known as the chacma baboon, this primate inhabits dry savannas and deserts of southern Africa. It is highly social and forms troops of up to 100 individuals. It eats fruits, roots, insects, and even small vertebrates.
Fun Fact: Chacma baboons are among the largest and most terrestrial of all baboons.

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Read: Animals That Start With T
Read: Animals That Start With B
Read: Animals That Start With Y
Read: Animals That Start With S
Read: Animals That Start With M

FAQs

What kinds of animals are included in this list?

This article includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and aquatic animals — all starting with the letter D. The goal was to be as comprehensive and diverse as possible.

How were these animals selected?

Only animals whose common names begin with the letter D were included, based on zoological databases, conservation lists, and scientific references.

Do all of these animals still exist?

Most of the animals listed are still living, though some, like the dodo, are extinct. Conservation statuses are included for each species.

Are any of these animals endangered?

Yes, several species in this list are endangered or vulnerable, including the dhole, Darwin’s fox, and dwarf caiman. Conservation efforts vary by region and species.

Where can I see these animals in real life?

Some can be seen in national parks, zoos, aquariums, or in the wild across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Australia, depending on their habitat range.

Conclusion

From deep-sea dwellers like the dragonfish to desert-adapted creatures like the dingo, these 80+ animals that start with D showcase the remarkable adaptability and variety of Earth’s fauna. Whether it’s the camouflage of a dwarf boa or the acrobatics of a dusky dolphin, each animal reveals something unique about life in its environment. This diverse list invites you to keep exploring the natural world — one letter at a time.