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

Welcome to the ultimate guide on animals that start with M! Whether you’re a student, nature lover, or trivia buff, this list dives into the diverse world of species beginning with the letter M. We’ve grouped them by type—mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects—to give you a balanced and fascinating look into the animal kingdom.

You’ll learn where they live, what they eat, how they behave, and what makes each one unique. From the mighty moose to the mysterious mantis shrimp, there’s something wild waiting at every letter. Let’s explore the marvelous world of animals that start with M.

Animals That Start With M

1. Moose (Alces alces)

The moose is the largest species in the deer family and is found in boreal forests across North America, Europe, and Russia. It has long legs, a humped back, and broad, palmate antlers that can span over 1.5 meters in males. Moose are herbivores, feeding on leaves, twigs, and aquatic vegetation. They are excellent swimmers and often wade into water to find food. Despite their size, they are generally solitary and avoid predators by hiding in dense forest. They are not endangered but may face habitat loss in warmer climates.
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2. Macaque (Macaca spp.)

Macaques are a diverse group of monkeys found across Asia and North Africa, ranging from mountains to tropical forests. They are highly social and live in troops with complex hierarchies. These omnivores eat fruits, seeds, insects, and even small animals. Some macaque species, like the Japanese macaque, are known for bathing in hot springs. Their populations vary in status, with some threatened due to habitat destruction and illegal pet trade.
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3. Manatee (Trichechus manatus)

Manatees, often called sea cows, are large aquatic mammals that graze on underwater vegetation in warm coastal waters and rivers. Native to the Atlantic coasts of the Americas and West Africa, they are slow-moving and gentle. Manatees come to the surface to breathe and can stay submerged for up to 20 minutes. They are threatened by boat strikes and habitat loss, making conservation efforts vital.
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4. Magpie (Pica pica)

The Eurasian magpie is a highly intelligent bird known for its black-and-white plumage and long tail. Found across Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa, magpies are omnivorous and eat everything from insects and carrion to seeds and small animals. They often cache food for later use and can recognize themselves in mirrors, a sign of self-awareness.
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5. Mountain Lion (Puma concolor)

Also known as cougars or pumas, mountain lions are solitary big cats native to the Americas. They prefer mountainous or forested habitats but adapt well to other environments. These ambush predators hunt deer, elk, and smaller mammals. Mountain lions play a crucial ecological role as apex predators. While not endangered, they face threats from human encroachment.
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6. Mongoose (Herpestidae spp.)

Mongooses are small carnivorous mammals known for their speed and ability to fight venomous snakes. They inhabit regions of Africa, Asia, and parts of southern Europe. Most species are ground-dwelling and forage during the day. Mongooses eat insects, rodents, and reptiles. Some live in family groups while others are solitary.
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7. Manta Ray (Manta birostris)

Manta rays are among the largest rays and glide gracefully through tropical oceans. Unlike stingrays, they lack barbs and feed on plankton by filter feeding. Manta rays have large triangular pectoral fins and a wide head with two horn-like fins. They’re generally solitary but may aggregate at feeding or cleaning stations.
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8. Millipede (Diplopoda spp.)

Millipedes are long, segmented arthropods with two pairs of legs per body segment. Found worldwide in moist environments, they prefer soil, leaf litter, and decaying wood. Millipedes are detritivores, meaning they feed on decomposing plant material, playing a crucial role in ecosystem nutrient cycling. Though often mistaken for centipedes, they are not venomous and move slowly. When threatened, they curl into a tight spiral or release a defensive chemical.
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9. Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

The mute swan is a large, elegant bird recognized by its curved neck and orange beak with a black knob. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, it has been introduced to North America where it thrives in lakes, ponds, and wetlands. Mute swans are mostly herbivores and glide gracefully across the water surface. Despite their name, they can produce hissing and grunting sounds, especially when defending their nests.
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10. Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei)

Mountain gorillas are a critically endangered subspecies of eastern gorillas found in the Virunga Mountains and Bwindi Forest in Central Africa. These massive primates live in tight-knit groups led by a dominant silverback male. They are herbivorous, feeding on leaves, shoots, and fruits. Due to habitat loss and poaching, they remain under constant conservation attention.
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11. Mahi-Mahi (Coryphaena hippurus)

Also known as dolphinfish (not to be confused with dolphins), mahi-mahi are brilliantly colored fish with golden sides, blue dorsal fins, and green highlights. They inhabit warm ocean waters and are popular both in sport fishing and cuisine. Fast-growing and short-lived, they feed on flying fish, squid, and crustaceans. Mahi-mahi are typically solitary or found in pairs.
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12. Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)

The monarch is one of the most iconic butterflies, famous for its striking orange-and-black wings and incredible long-distance migrations. Found in North America, they travel thousands of kilometers to overwintering grounds in Mexico. Monarch caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed, which provides them with toxins that deter predators. Their populations are declining due to pesticide use and habitat loss.
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13. Mandrill (Mandrillus sphinx)

Mandrills are the largest and most colorful of all monkeys, famous for their bright red and blue facial markings. Native to Central African rainforests, they live in massive groups called hordes. These omnivores forage for fruits, fungi, and small animals. Males are much larger and more vividly colored than females. Deforestation poses a major threat to their populations.
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14. Malaysian Tapir (Tapirus indicus)

The Malaysian tapir is the largest and only Old World tapir species, easily recognized by its black front and back with a contrasting white midsection. Found in lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia, it is nocturnal and shy. Tapirs browse on leaves, fruits, and twigs, often following established forest paths. It is a solitary animal and is under threat from deforestation and hunting.
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15. Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus)

The moorhen is a medium-sized waterbird found across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. It has dark plumage, a red frontal shield, and greenish legs. Moorhens live in wetlands and feed on aquatic plants, insects, and snails. They build floating nests and are known for their loud, clucking calls.
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16. Mole (Talpidae spp.)

Moles are small, burrowing mammals with powerful forelimbs adapted for digging. Found in Europe, Asia, and North America, they live underground and are rarely seen. Their diet consists mainly of earthworms and insects. Moles create extensive tunnel systems and are solitary creatures. Though common, they are often misunderstood or seen as pests in gardens.
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17. Magellanic Penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus)

Magellanic penguins are medium-sized, black-and-white seabirds native to the southern coasts of South America. They breed in large colonies in Argentina, Chile, and the Falkland Islands. These flightless birds forage in the ocean, feeding mainly on fish, squid, and crustaceans. They are monogamous and return to the same burrows each year. Though their populations are stable, they face threats from oil spills and overfishing.
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18. Mexican Gray Wolf (Canis lupus baileyi)

The Mexican gray wolf is a subspecies of gray wolf once widespread in the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. Due to habitat loss and persecution, it became nearly extinct in the wild but has since been reintroduced through conservation efforts. These social predators hunt in packs and primarily prey on deer and elk. They are smaller and more slender than their northern cousins.
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19. Masked Booby (Sula dactylatra)

The masked booby is a large white seabird with a black facial mask and long pointed wings. Found in tropical oceans, they nest on remote islands and plunge-dive for fish and squid. These birds are known for their elaborate mating displays and loud whistles. Their chicks are raised in simple ground nests.
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20. Marine Iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus)

The marine iguana is a unique species found only in the Galápagos Islands. It is the only lizard that forages in the ocean, grazing on algae and seaweed. With salt glands and strong claws, it’s well adapted to marine life. Males are larger and often turn red and green during breeding season.
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21. Mountain Hare (Lepus timidus)

Mountain hares inhabit cold, alpine, and tundra regions of northern Europe and Asia. They are well-known for changing fur color—white in winter and brown in summer—to blend with seasonal landscapes. These herbivores feed on grasses, bark, and heather. They are solitary and rely on speed and camouflage to evade predators.
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22. Marsh Frog (Pelophylax ridibundus)

The marsh frog is Europe’s largest native frog species, found in wetlands, lakes, and riverbanks. It has a greenish to brownish body with prominent stripes and a loud, distinctive call. Marsh frogs are semi-aquatic and feed on insects, worms, and small fish. They hibernate in mud or under vegetation during winter.
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23. Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)

Milk snakes are nonvenomous, vividly patterned snakes native to North and Central America. Their red, black, and white banding often mimics the venomous coral snake, offering protection through mimicry. They are secretive, hiding under rocks and logs, and feed on rodents, birds, and other reptiles.
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24. Masked Palm Civet (Paguma larvata)

The masked palm civet is a nocturnal mammal found in forests across South and Southeast Asia. It has a long body, masked face, and bushy tail. This solitary omnivore feeds on fruits, small animals, and insects. Though elusive in the wild, it adapts well to rural environments.
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25. Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra)

The mountain zebra inhabits the arid mountain ranges of southern Africa. It has a striking black-and-white striped coat, with a distinctive grid pattern on the rump and a dewlap under the throat. These herbivores graze on grasses and live in small herds. Unlike plains zebras, mountain zebras prefer rocky, dry habitats.
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26. Mudskipper (Oxudercinae spp.)

Mudskippers are amphibious fish that thrive in intertidal zones of mangroves and estuaries in Africa and Asia. They are known for “walking” on land using their pectoral fins and for breathing through their skin and mouth lining. These fish feed on algae, small invertebrates, and organic matter. Mudskippers defend their muddy territories and are often seen perched above water.
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27. Madagascar Hissing Cockroach (Gromphadorhina portentosa)

This large, wingless cockroach is native to Madagascar and is famous for its hissing sound, produced by forcing air through breathing holes. Unlike most cockroaches, it’s not a pest and is often kept as a pet or used in education. It feeds on decaying vegetation and helps recycle nutrients in its forest habitat.
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28. Mexican Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum)

The axolotl is a neotenic salamander found only in Mexico’s freshwater lakes. It retains juvenile features throughout its life, including gills. It feeds on worms, small fish, and insects. Due to urbanization and pollution, its wild population is critically endangered, though they are bred in labs and aquariums worldwide.
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29. Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus)

The marsh harrier is a bird of prey found in wetlands and marshes across Europe, Asia, and Africa. It has long wings, a slim body, and typically brown plumage with pale heads in males. These raptors glide low over reed beds to hunt amphibians, birds, and small mammals.
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30. Moray Eel (Muraenidae spp.)

Moray eels are elongated, snake-like fish found in tropical and subtropical ocean reefs. With sharp teeth and powerful jaws, they feed on fish, squid, and crustaceans. Though intimidating, they are generally shy and hide in rocky crevices. They have a second set of jaws (pharyngeal) to pull prey in.
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31. Marbled Salamander (Ambystoma opacum)

This North American amphibian is notable for its black body with white or silver bands. It inhabits moist woodlands and breeds in temporary pools. The marbled salamander is nocturnal, hiding under logs and rocks during the day. Females guard their eggs—a rare behavior among amphibians.
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32. Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus)

Also known as the Quaker parrot, this bright green bird is native to South America but has established feral populations in North America and Europe. Unique among parrots, it builds large stick nests rather than using cavities. These highly social birds are excellent mimics and popular as pets.
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33. Mountain Goat (Oreamnos americanus)

Despite their name, mountain goats are not true goats but close relatives. They inhabit alpine cliffs in North America and are known for their sure-footedness. Covered in dense white wool, they tolerate extreme cold and feed on grasses, moss, and shrubs. Males are called billies, females nannies.
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34. Marsh Deer (Blastocerus dichotomus)

The marsh deer is South America’s largest deer species, residing in marshy areas like the Pantanal. It has reddish-brown fur and large, wide hooves adapted for soft terrain. These herbivores browse on aquatic and semi-aquatic plants. Once widespread, they are now vulnerable due to habitat loss.
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35. Mole Cricket (Gryllotalpidae spp.)

Mole crickets are burrowing insects with spade-like front legs. Found worldwide, they tunnel through moist soil and are known for their nighttime chirps. They feed on plant roots and small invertebrates. Though rarely seen, they are considered pests in agriculture due to root damage.
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36. Mountain Nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni)

The mountain nyala is a rare and elegant antelope species found only in the highlands of Ethiopia. Males are larger with spiral horns and grey coats, while females are reddish-brown and hornless. They browse on shrubs and herbs and are most active at dawn and dusk. Due to its limited range, the species is endangered.
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37. Mexican Black Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula nigrita)

This nonvenomous snake is native to northwestern Mexico and admired for its shiny, jet-black scales. It’s a subspecies of the common kingsnake and thrives in deserts and grasslands. It feeds on rodents, birds, and other reptiles—including venomous snakes. It’s popular in the exotic pet trade due to its striking appearance.
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38. Muntjac (Muntiacus spp.)

Also known as barking deer, muntjacs are small deer species native to Asia, now also found in parts of Europe. Males have small antlers and sharp canine teeth used in territorial fights. They inhabit dense forests and are active mostly at dawn and dusk. Their loud barking call warns of predators.
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39. Malayan Tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni)

This critically endangered tiger subspecies is found only in the tropical forests of Peninsular Malaysia. It’s slightly smaller than other tiger subspecies and preys on deer, wild boar, and small mammals. Poaching and deforestation have reduced its numbers drastically, with fewer than 150 left in the wild.
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40. Moor Macaque (Macaca maura)

Endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia, the moor macaque is a dark-furred primate with a long, tufted tail. It lives in rainforest canopies and feeds on fruits, leaves, and insects. These macaques live in hierarchical troops and use facial expressions and vocalizations to communicate.
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41. Madagascan Pochard (Aythya innotata)

Once thought extinct, the Madagascan pochard is a diving duck rediscovered in 2006. It is extremely rare and lives in remote wetlands. The bird feeds on aquatic plants and insects. Conservationists are working to reintroduce it into managed habitats to prevent extinction.
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42. Mossy Leaf-Tailed Gecko (Uroplatus sikorae)

This master of camouflage is native to Madagascar and blends seamlessly into tree bark and moss. It is nocturnal, hunting insects with stealth and agility. With its flattened tail and leafy body, it’s nearly invisible in its forest habitat.
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43. Mangrove Monitor (Varanus indicus)

The mangrove monitor is a medium-sized lizard found in northern Australia and Southeast Asia. It’s semi-aquatic and lives in mangroves, swamps, and coastal forests. It feeds on crabs, fish, birds, and carrion. Fast and intelligent, it uses its long tongue to sense prey.
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44. Mayfly (Ephemeroptera spp.)

Mayflies are ancient insects with a short adult lifespan—sometimes only a few hours. They live near freshwater and are key indicators of water quality. Larvae, or nymphs, live underwater for up to a year before transforming. Adults don’t feed and focus solely on reproduction.
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45. Madagascar Tree Boa (Sanzinia madagascariensis)

This nonvenomous boa species is endemic to Madagascar’s rainforests. It has iridescent green or brown skin with pale markings. It is arboreal and ambushes birds and rodents from tree branches. It gives birth to live young and is active at night.
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46. Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides)

This striking songbird is native to western North America, often found in open woodlands and grasslands. Males boast vivid sky-blue feathers, while females are duller with hints of blue. Mountain bluebirds are insectivorous and cavity nesters, often using old woodpecker holes.
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47. Maguari Stork (Ciconia maguari)

This South American stork inhabits wetlands and open savannas. It has white plumage, black wingtips, and long red legs. Unlike many storks, it prefers to nest on the ground in reeds. It feeds on fish, frogs, and large insects.
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48. Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus)

A jewel-toned bird found across sub-Saharan Africa, this kingfisher has a bright blue back, red legs, and an orange beak. It perches silently near water, diving to snatch fish and aquatic insects. It nests in riverbanks, digging tunnels with its feet.
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49. Marsh Rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris)

Found in the southeastern United States, the marsh rabbit lives in swamps and wet meadows. Unlike other rabbits, it swims well and often escapes predators by diving into water. It’s nocturnal and feeds on grasses and aquatic plants.
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50. Madagascar Ibis (Lophotibis cristata)

Also called the crested ibis, this endemic bird of Madagascar is known for its bright green wings, iridescent sheen, and prominent crest. It lives in humid forests and feeds on snails, insects, and small reptiles. It’s rarely seen due to its shy behavior.
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51. Marbled Polecat (Vormela peregusna)

This small carnivore is native to Eastern Europe and Central Asia. It has a colorful coat of black, yellow, and white blotches, and emits a strong odor when threatened. It feeds on rodents and insects and lives in burrows or crevices.
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52. Masked Lapwing (Vanellus miles)

Found in Australia and New Guinea, this bold ground-nesting bird has a yellow face mask and sharp spurs on its wings. It defends its nest aggressively, often dive-bombing intruders. It prefers open fields and wetlands.
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53. Mountain Pygmy Possum (Burramys parvus)

One of the only Australian marsupials adapted to alpine environments, the mountain pygmy possum hibernates under snow. It feeds on bogong moths and berries and is critically endangered due to habitat fragmentation.
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54. Mangrove Snake (Boiga dendrophila)

Also known as the gold-ringed cat snake, this mildly venomous species is native to Southeast Asia. It is black with striking yellow bands and hunts at night, preying on birds, bats, and rodents. It’s an excellent climber and swimmer.
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55. Mountain Viscacha (Lagidium spp.)

This rodent resembles a cross between a rabbit and a chinchilla and is found in the Andes. It lives among rocky outcrops and feeds on grasses and mosses. Mountain viscachas are agile climbers and form loose colonies.
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Read: Animals That Start With B
Read: Animals That Start With E:
Read: Animals That Start With A
Read: Animals That Start With N
Read: Animals That Start With Y

FAQs About These M-Animals

Conclusion

From mighty mammals like the moose and Malayan tiger to mysterious marvels like the mudskipper and mossy gecko, this collection of animals that start with M showcases nature’s breathtaking variety. Whether airborne, aquatic, or underground, these species offer an exciting window into global biodiversity. Next time you’re looking for wildlife inspiration, remember the magic packed into the letter M.