80+ Animals That Start With N: Info, Facts & Fun

Nature is filled with fascinating creatures, and today we’re exploring animals that start with N. From noble narwhals swimming in icy seas to nimble newts and nectar-loving nightjars, this list showcases the incredible variety of life on Earth.

Each section highlights different animal groups — mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and domesticated species — so you can learn about their habitats, diets, and unique traits.

Whether you’re a student, teacher, or animal lover, you’ll enjoy these fun facts and discoveries. Let’s dive into the world of nature’s most notable “N” species and see what makes them special.

🐾 Animals That Start With N

1. Narwhal (Monodon monoceros)

The narwhal is a medium-sized whale known for its long, spiral tusk, which is actually an extended tooth. Found in Arctic waters near Canada, Greenland, and Russia, narwhals thrive in icy seas, feeding mainly on fish, squid, and shrimp. They can reach up to 5 meters in length and weigh nearly 1.6 tons. Narwhals use echolocation to navigate dark, cold waters and are highly social, often forming pods of 10–20 individuals. These unique cetaceans are currently listed as Near Threatened due to climate change and hunting.
Fun Fact: The narwhal’s tusk contains millions of nerve endings and can sense changes in water temperature and pressure.

2. Numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus)

The numbat is a small marsupial native to Western Australia, easily recognized by its reddish-brown fur and white stripes. Unlike most marsupials, numbats are diurnal, feeding on thousands of termites each day using their sticky tongue. They live in hollow logs and woodlands, avoiding predators like foxes and feral cats. Numbats are solitary and have strong claws for digging into termite mounds. Once widespread, they are now Endangered due to habitat loss and introduced predators.
Fun Fact: A numbat can eat up to 20,000 termites per day!

3. Nyala (Tragelaphus angasii)

The nyala is a spiral-horned antelope native to southern Africa. Males have dark shaggy coats with white stripes and long spiral horns, while females are reddish-brown without horns. They inhabit woodlands and thickets near water sources and feed on grasses, leaves, and fruits. Nyalas are shy and crepuscular, active during dawn and dusk. They form loose herds, often mixing with other antelope species. Their population is stable, listed as Least Concern.
Fun Fact: Male nyalas make a low “click” sound to assert dominance without fighting.

4. Naked Mole Rat (Heterocephalus glaber)

This odd-looking rodent from East Africa lives underground in large colonies similar to those of insects. It has wrinkled, nearly hairless skin and tiny eyes adapted to dark tunnels. Naked mole rats feed primarily on roots and tubers, using their large incisors to dig. Their colonies have a single breeding “queen,” like ants or bees. Remarkably, they show resistance to cancer and can survive with very low oxygen levels.
Fun Fact: Naked mole rats can live over 30 years, unusually long for rodents.

5. Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus)

The nilgai, or blue bull, is India’s largest antelope. Males have a bluish-gray coat, while females are tawny brown. They prefer open plains and scrub forests, feeding on grasses and crops. Nilgai are known for their horse-like gait and can run at impressive speeds to escape predators. They are sacred to some communities in India and thus largely protected.
Fun Fact: The name “nilgai” translates to “blue cow” in Hindi.

🕊️ Birds That Start With N

6. Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos)

The nightingale is a small brown songbird famous for its rich and beautiful song. Found across Europe, Asia, and Africa, it inhabits dense forests and thickets. It migrates seasonally, spending winters in Africa. Nightingales feed on insects, berries, and worms. Males sing at night to attract mates and mark territory. Populations are declining due to habitat loss.
Fun Fact: The nightingale’s song can include over 200 different melodies.

7. Nene (Branta sandvicensis)

The Nene, also called the Hawaiian goose, is Hawaii’s state bird and a distant relative of the Canada goose. It thrives on volcanic slopes and grasslands, feeding on berries and leaves. Once critically endangered, successful conservation efforts have restored its population. Nenes are monogamous and form small family groups.
Fun Fact: The Nene’s feet have less webbing than other geese, adapted for walking on lava rocks.

8. Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor)

The common nighthawk is a nocturnal bird found throughout the Americas. It has mottled brown feathers and long, pointed wings. Nighthawks feed on flying insects, catching them midair with their wide mouths. They nest directly on the ground in open habitats. Despite their name, they’re not hawks but part of the nightjar family.
Fun Fact: Nighthawks can dive-bomb with a loud “boom” sound created by their wings.

9. Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes)

The Eurasian nutcracker is a sturdy bird with speckled brown plumage and a powerful bill. It lives in coniferous forests across Europe and Asia. Its diet mainly consists of pine nuts, which it stores for winter. Nutcrackers play a vital role in spreading pine seeds, helping reforestation naturally.
Fun Fact: A single nutcracker can hide thousands of pine seeds and remember most locations.

10. Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)

The northern cardinal is one of North America’s most recognizable birds. Males have vibrant red feathers, while females are tan with red highlights. They inhabit woodlands and suburban gardens, feeding on seeds, fruit, and insects. Cardinals mate for life and sing year-round, even in winter.
Fun Fact: Both male and female cardinals sing — rare among songbirds.

11. Newt (Triturus vulgaris and related species)

Newts are small amphibians resembling a cross between a lizard and a frog. Found in Europe, North America, and Asia, they live in moist forests and ponds. Newts undergo a fascinating life cycle that includes aquatic larvae, terrestrial juveniles, and aquatic adults. Their skin secretes toxins for defense, and they can regenerate lost limbs. Most newt species are stable, though habitat loss threatens some.
Fun Fact: Some newts can regrow entire limbs and even parts of their heart and eyes.

12. Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)

The Nile crocodile is Africa’s largest reptile, found across rivers, lakes, and swamps south of the Sahara. With powerful jaws and armored skin, it is an apex predator that feeds on fish, birds, and large mammals. Nile crocodiles can hold their breath underwater for up to 30 minutes while waiting for prey. They play an important role in maintaining aquatic ecosystems.
Fun Fact: The Nile crocodile’s bite force exceeds 5,000 psi — one of the strongest in the animal kingdom.

13. Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon)

This non-venomous snake lives near freshwater bodies throughout eastern North America. It has a brown or reddish body with dark bands and feeds mainly on fish and amphibians. When threatened, it may flatten its body and strike aggressively but poses no real danger. Northern water snakes are vital in controlling fish and frog populations.
Fun Fact: They are often mistaken for venomous cottonmouths due to their similar appearance.

14. Northern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria coerulea)

Found in western North America, this reptile prefers forested, rocky, and grassland habitats. Its body is long and slender with a prehensile tail that can detach to escape predators. Northern alligator lizards feed on insects, spiders, and snails. They hibernate during cold months and are known for their defensive biting when handled.
Fun Fact: They give birth to live young rather than laying eggs.

15. Narrow-mouthed Toad (Microhylidae family)

This group includes over 500 species found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. They have pointed snouts, round bodies, and feed mostly on ants and termites. Narrow-mouthed toads are nocturnal and prefer moist leaf litter or under logs. They have sticky tongues and smooth skin that helps retain moisture.
Fun Fact: Some species can inflate themselves when threatened to appear larger.

🐟 Fish That Start With N

16. Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)

A small, brightly colored freshwater fish native to South America, the neon tetra is a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts. Its iridescent blue and red stripes make it instantly recognizable. In the wild, they live in acidic blackwater streams of the Amazon Basin. Neon tetras are schooling fish that thrive in groups of six or more.
Fun Fact: Neon tetras lose their bright color when sleeping or stressed.

17. Nurse Shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum)

The nurse shark is a slow-moving bottom-dwelling species found in warm coastal waters of the Atlantic and Pacific. It has a broad, flat head with barbels used to find prey buried in sand. These nocturnal predators feed on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Nurse sharks are generally docile but can deliver a powerful bite if provoked.
Fun Fact: Nurse sharks can remain motionless on the ocean floor for hours, unlike most sharks.

18. Napoleon Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus)

This enormous reef fish, also called the humphead wrasse, inhabits coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific. It has thick lips, a prominent forehead hump, and vivid blue-green scales. Feeding on mollusks, crustaceans, and starfish, it plays a crucial role in maintaining reef balance. Sadly, it’s threatened by overfishing.
Fun Fact: Napoleon wrasses can change sex during their lifetime.

19. Northern Pike (Esox lucius)

A powerful freshwater predator found across the Northern Hemisphere, the northern pike has a long, torpedo-shaped body and sharp teeth. It inhabits lakes and slow-moving rivers, feeding on fish, frogs, and even small mammals. Pikes are ambush hunters, striking swiftly from cover.
Fun Fact: The northern pike can burst forward at speeds over 10 mph to catch prey.

20. Needlefish (Belonidae family)

Needlefish are long, slender marine fish with sharp beaks lined with teeth. Found in tropical and subtropical waters, they often leap from the surface while chasing prey. They feed on small fish and crustaceans. Some species are bioluminescent, glowing faintly in the dark ocean.
Fun Fact: Needlefish have been known to leap out of the water and accidentally injure boaters.

🐜 Insects & Invertebrates That Start With N

21. Nabid Bug (Nabidae family)

Nabid bugs, also known as damsel bugs, are small predatory insects found worldwide. They have slender bodies, long legs, and piercing mouthparts used to feed on aphids, caterpillars, and other pests. They play an important role in natural pest control in agricultural areas. Damsel bugs are beneficial to farmers and gardeners alike.
Fun Fact: Some damsel bugs are used in biological pest control programs to protect crops.

22. Net-winged Beetle (Lycidae family)

Net-winged beetles are known for their bright orange or red coloration and ridged, net-like wing covers. Found in forests worldwide, they are harmless to humans and feed mostly on nectar and pollen. Their bright colors mimic toxic insects, deterring predators.
Fun Fact: Their bright color pattern is a form of Batesian mimicry to warn predators.

23. Noctuid Moth (Noctuidae family)

One of the largest moth families, Noctuid moths are found globally and include over 35,000 species. They are mostly nocturnal and often dull-colored, with some species known as agricultural pests (like cutworms). Adults feed on nectar, while larvae feed on crops and leaves.
Fun Fact: The ears of noctuid moths can detect bat echolocation to evade predators.

24. Noble False Widow Spider (Steatoda nobilis)

Native to the Canary Islands, this spider has spread to many regions, including Europe and North America. It resembles the black widow but is less venomous. Females are brownish with a cream-colored pattern on the abdomen. They feed on insects and small arthropods.
Fun Fact: The noble false widow can live for several years — longer than most common spiders.

25. Nautilus (Nautilus pompilius)

A living fossil, the chambered nautilus is a marine mollusk with a spiral shell divided into gas-filled chambers. Found in Indo-Pacific coral reefs, it uses jet propulsion to move and hunts at night for shrimp and small fish. The nautilus is related to squids and octopuses but has remained largely unchanged for millions of years.
Fun Fact: The nautilus has up to 90 tentacles but no suckers.

🐕 Other Mammals Continued

26. Northern Fur Seal (Callorhinus ursinus)

This marine mammal inhabits the North Pacific Ocean, known for its thick fur coat and playful nature. Males are much larger than females and form harems during the breeding season. Northern fur seals feed on fish and squid and are strong swimmers capable of diving over 200 meters deep.
Fun Fact: Their dense fur has over 300,000 hairs per square inch — the thickest of any mammal.

27. Nilgiri Langur (Semnopithecus johnii)

Native to southern India’s Western Ghats, this langur species has glossy black fur and a golden mane. They live in forest canopies, feeding mainly on fruits, leaves, and flowers. Nilgiri langurs are social primates that form small troops led by dominant males.
Fun Fact: Their long tail helps with balance when leaping between trees.

28. North American Beaver (Castor canadensis)

The largest rodent in North America, the beaver is famous for building dams and lodges using sticks and mud. Beavers modify landscapes, creating wetlands that support other wildlife. They are nocturnal herbivores feeding on bark, twigs, and aquatic plants. Their large orange teeth grow continuously.
Fun Fact: Beavers’ front teeth contain iron, giving them their orange color and strength.

29. North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis)

These playful semi-aquatic mammals are found throughout North America in rivers and wetlands. They have sleek, waterproof fur and webbed feet. River otters feed on fish, crustaceans, and amphibians. They are excellent swimmers, often sliding down muddy banks for fun.
Fun Fact: River otters can close their ears and nostrils underwater.

30. Northern Elephant Seal (Mirounga angustirostris)

One of the largest pinnipeds, the northern elephant seal is named for the male’s trunk-like nose. Found along the Pacific coast of North America, these massive seals spend months at sea, diving deep to hunt squid and fish. Males can weigh up to 4,000 kg.
Fun Fact: Northern elephant seals can dive to depths of 1,500 meters and hold their breath for nearly 2 hours.

🐾 More Mammals, Birds & Others That Start With N

31. Northern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus)

This small nocturnal mammal lives in the coniferous forests of North America. It has a special membrane called the patagium, stretching between its limbs to glide between trees. Northern flying squirrels feed on nuts, fungi, and lichens. They nest in tree cavities and are vital for forest ecology by spreading fungal spores.
Fun Fact: They can glide over 50 meters in a single leap from tree to tree.

32. Northern Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium gnoma)

One of the smallest owls in North America, the northern pygmy owl is an agile daytime hunter. Despite its tiny size, it preys on birds and small mammals. It inhabits forests across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. These owls often cache surplus prey for later feeding.
Fun Fact: This owl has false “eye spots” on the back of its head to confuse predators.

33. Nubian Goat (Capra aegagrus hircus)

This domesticated goat breed originated in the Middle East and Africa. Recognized by its long, drooping ears and Roman nose, the Nubian goat is raised for milk and meat. Its milk is rich in butterfat, making it ideal for cheese production. They are friendly and highly adaptable to various climates.
Fun Fact: Nubian goats can produce milk even in arid conditions where other breeds struggle.

34. Norwegian Elkhound (Canis lupus familiaris)

An ancient Nordic breed, the Norwegian elkhound was bred to hunt elk and moose in cold Scandinavian forests. With thick gray fur and a curled tail, it’s known for loyalty, stamina, and courage. It’s also a national symbol of Norway.
Fun Fact: Vikings once used Norwegian elkhounds as shipboard guard dogs.

35. Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

A striking bird found across Europe and Asia, the northern lapwing has shimmering green plumage and a tall crest. It nests in open fields and wetlands. Lapwings feed on insects and worms, often performing acrobatic flight displays during courtship.
Fun Fact: Also known as the “peewit” due to its distinctive call.

36. Nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus)

The nightjar is a cryptic nocturnal bird found in Europe, Africa, and Asia. It has mottled gray-brown plumage that provides excellent camouflage. Nightjars feed on flying insects caught in flight at dusk. They rest motionless during the day and are hard to spot.
Fun Fact: Nightjars can open their mouths extremely wide to scoop insects mid-air.

37. Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus)

A spectacular seabird known for its diving ability, the northern gannet inhabits North Atlantic coasts. It dives from heights of over 30 meters to catch fish. With white plumage, black-tipped wings, and a yellowish head, it’s easily recognizable. Colonies can number thousands.
Fun Fact: Northern gannets hit the water at speeds over 100 km/h when diving.

38. Noolbenger (Tarsipes rostratus)

Also called the honey possum, the noolbenger is a tiny nectar-feeding marsupial found in southwestern Australia. It uses its long tongue to feed on flower nectar and pollen. Unlike other possums, it does not eat insects or fruit.
Fun Fact: The noolbenger’s tongue is longer than its head!

39. Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos)

A common songbird of North America, the northern mockingbird is famous for mimicking the calls of other birds and even mechanical sounds. It thrives in urban areas and open fields. Mockingbirds fiercely defend their territories, often attacking larger birds.
Fun Fact: A single mockingbird can imitate over 200 different sounds.

40. Nilgiri Marten (Martes gwatkinsii)

Found in India’s Western Ghats, the Nilgiri marten is a rare carnivorous mammal related to weasels. It has dark brown fur with a golden-yellow throat patch. It lives in forest canopies, feeding on birds, insects, and fruit. It’s the only marten species in southern India.
Fun Fact: The Nilgiri marten can leap between trees as easily as monkeys.

41. Nabarlek (Petrogale concinna)

A tiny species of rock-wallaby native to northern Australia, the nabarlek is known for its agility on rocky cliffs. It feeds mostly on grasses and ferns, and its populations are small and scattered.
Fun Fact: The nabarlek can breed year-round, even in harsh dry seasons.

42. North Island Brown Kiwi (Apteryx mantelli)

Native to New Zealand, this flightless bird has hair-like feathers and a long slender bill. It forages at night for worms and insects using its excellent sense of smell. The kiwi is iconic to New Zealand culture and a symbol of national pride.
Fun Fact: Kiwi birds have nostrils at the tip of their beaks — unique among birds.

43. Norwegian Forest Cat (Felis catus)

This large, fluffy domestic cat breed originated in Norway’s cold climate. With a double-layered coat and tufted ears, it’s built for snow. Norwegian forest cats are friendly, intelligent, and known for their climbing skills.
Fun Fact: Vikings kept Norwegian forest cats on ships to control rats.

44. Naked Bat (Cheiromeles torquatus)

Also known as the hairless bat, this unusual species from Southeast Asia lacks fur and has wrinkled skin. It roosts in caves and tree hollows, forming large colonies. Naked bats feed on insects, using echolocation to navigate at night.
Fun Fact: It’s one of the few bat species with nearly no fur on its body.

45. Numbfish (Narcinidae family)

A type of electric ray, numbfish inhabit tropical and subtropical seas. They generate mild electric shocks to stun prey or defend themselves. They feed on small crustaceans and worms near the seabed.
Fun Fact: The name “numbfish” comes from the numbing effect of its electric discharge.

🌍 More Animals That Start With N (Across Classes)

46. Natterjack Toad (Epidalea calamita)

The natterjack toad is a small amphibian found in sandy heaths and coastal dunes across Europe. It has a distinctive yellow stripe down its back and runs instead of hopping. These toads breed in shallow pools and have loud, rasping calls heard from far away at night.
Fun Fact: Its call is so loud it can be heard over half a mile away!

47. Naked-Tailed Armadillo (Cabassous unicinctus)

This South American armadillo has a nearly hairless tail and tough armored shell. It lives in forests and savannas, digging burrows to search for ants and termites. Unlike other armadillos, it cannot roll into a ball but uses digging for protection.
Fun Fact: Its claws are so strong they can dig through termite mounds in seconds.

48. Northern Harrier (Circus hudsonius)

A slim, long-winged hawk found across North America, the northern harrier hunts low over grasslands, relying on keen vision and hearing. Males are grayish while females are brown. They feed on small mammals and birds. Their owl-like face helps direct sound to their ears.
Fun Fact: Northern harriers have facial discs like owls for pinpointing prey by sound.

49. Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus)

A medium-sized woodpecker with spotted plumage, the northern flicker is found across North America. It feeds mostly on ants, often foraging on the ground. Unlike most woodpeckers, it migrates seasonally. Its drumming sound is a territorial signal.
Fun Fact: It eats more ants than any other North American bird.

50. Northern Pintail (Anas acuta)

A graceful duck species found in wetlands and lakes across the Northern Hemisphere, the northern pintail is known for its slender neck and pointed tail feathers. It migrates long distances, often traveling thousands of kilometers.
Fun Fact: Northern pintails can reach flight speeds of over 100 km/h.

51. Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe)

This small migratory bird breeds in Europe and North America, then migrates to Africa for the winter — one of the longest migrations for its size. Males are gray and black with a white rump, while females are brownish.
Fun Fact: Some northern wheatears migrate over 14,000 km between Alaska and Africa.

52. Nandu (Rhea americana)

Also known as the greater rhea, this large flightless bird is native to South America. It resembles an ostrich and runs swiftly across open plains. Rheas feed on plants, insects, and small vertebrates. Males incubate eggs and care for chicks.
Fun Fact: A male rhea can care for up to 50 chicks at once — even from other females.

53. Nicator (Nicator gularis)

A medium-sized songbird native to sub-Saharan Africa, the nicator has olive-green plumage and a hooked beak. It feeds on insects and fruit and is known for its loud, musical song that resembles whistling.
Fun Fact: Its name comes from the Greek word for “conqueror,” due to its strong, aggressive song.

54. Northern Red Bishop (Euplectes franciscanus)

A small African weaver bird known for the male’s bright red and black breeding plumage. They build intricate woven nests near reeds and grasses. During mating season, males perform elaborate flight displays to attract females.
Fun Fact: Males lose their red feathers after breeding season and turn brown.

55. Nightfish (Bostockia porosa)

An Australian freshwater fish found in rivers and swamps of Western Australia. It is nocturnal and hides under logs or rocks during the day. Nightfish feed on small insects, crustaceans, and worms.
Fun Fact: The nightfish’s name comes from its exclusively nocturnal habits.

56. Northern Shrike (Lanius borealis)

This gray-and-white songbird behaves like a predator, impaling prey such as insects and small birds on thorns for later feeding. Found in northern forests and tundra, it’s known as the “butcher bird.”
Fun Fact: The northern shrike stores food by hanging prey on branches.

57. Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus)

A small, ground-dwelling bird native to North America, the northern bobwhite is named for its distinctive whistled “bob-white” call. It lives in grasslands and farmlands, feeding on seeds and insects.
Fun Fact: Bobwhites form tight coveys of up to 20 birds for warmth and protection.

58. Northern Raven (Corvus corax)

The largest member of the crow family, the northern raven is a highly intelligent bird found across the Northern Hemisphere. It displays tool use, problem-solving, and social play. Ravens are omnivorous scavengers and live in diverse habitats from tundra to deserts.
Fun Fact: Ravens can mimic human speech and sounds.

59. Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita)

Once widespread, this bald-headed bird is now one of the rarest in the world, found mainly in Morocco and Syria. It has glossy black plumage and a long curved beak. These ibises feed on insects and small reptiles in arid regions.
Fun Fact: The northern bald ibis was revered as sacred in ancient Egypt.

60. Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pipiens)

This green amphibian with dark spots is common across North America. It lives near ponds and grasslands and feeds on insects, worms, and small invertebrates. Its loud, snore-like mating call is distinctive in spring.
Fun Fact: The northern leopard frog was once used widely in biology classes for dissection.

🐾 Final Animals That Start With N

61. Northern Right Whale (Eubalaena glacialis)

The North Atlantic right whale is one of the world’s most endangered large whales, with fewer than 400 individuals left. It has a massive head covered in rough callosities and feeds on plankton using baleen plates. These whales migrate seasonally between feeding and breeding grounds along the Atlantic coast.
Fun Fact: Their name “right whale” came from whalers calling them the “right” whales to hunt due to their buoyant carcasses.

62. Northern Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula)

A unique owl that hunts in daylight, the northern hawk owl inhabits boreal forests across Canada, Alaska, and Scandinavia. It resembles a hawk in both flight and behavior, scanning for prey from treetops. It feeds mainly on rodents and small birds.
Fun Fact: It can spot prey up to half a mile away in open terrain.

63. Northern Tamandua (Tamandua mexicana)

A medium-sized anteater found in Central and South America, the northern tamandua has a long snout and a prehensile tail. It uses its claws to tear open termite mounds and tree bark. These animals are solitary and arboreal, spending much time in trees.
Fun Fact: Northern tamanduas can eat up to 9,000 ants and termites per day.

64. Nabarlek Butterfly (Neohesperilla crocea)

A small, bright-orange butterfly native to northern Australia, the nabarlek butterfly inhabits open woodlands and grasslands. Adults feed on nectar, while caterpillars feed on grasses. Their flight is fast and darting, making them difficult to catch.
Fun Fact: Males patrol territories by flying low over the same patch repeatedly.

65. Noodlefish (Salangidae family)

Also called icefish, these transparent, slender fish inhabit rivers and estuaries in East Asia. They are small and delicate, often eaten fresh in regional cuisine. They live in schools and spawn in shallow waters.
Fun Fact: Their bodies are nearly transparent, making their bones visible through their skin.

66. Northern Pika (Ochotona hyperborea)

A small mountain-dwelling mammal related to rabbits, the northern pika lives in rocky slopes across Siberia and northern Asia. It stores grass “haypiles” to survive the winter. Pikas are known for their sharp, squeaky calls.
Fun Fact: Pikas don’t hibernate — they rely entirely on stored food during harsh winters.

67. Northern Giant Petrel (Macronectes halli)

This large seabird patrols the Southern Ocean, scavenging carcasses and hunting small animals. It resembles the albatross but is more aggressive. Giant petrels are crucial scavengers that help clean up marine ecosystems.
Fun Fact: They can detect the scent of carrion from several kilometers away.

68. North Pacific Giant Octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini)

The world’s largest octopus species, found along the Pacific coasts of Japan, Alaska, and California. It can weigh over 70 kg and stretch several meters across. These intelligent cephalopods can open jars, camouflage, and solve puzzles.
Fun Fact: They have three hearts and blue blood.

69. Naked Catfish (Glyptothorax spp.)

This small Asian freshwater catfish lacks scales, hence the name. It lives in fast-flowing streams, clinging to rocks with suction-cup-like fins. Naked catfish feed on insects and organic debris.
Fun Fact: Their modified fins allow them to “walk” along streambeds.

70. Northern Seahorse (Hippocampus guttulatus)

A small seahorse species found in seagrass beds and reefs across Europe. Males carry fertilized eggs in a pouch until they hatch — a rare role reversal in the animal kingdom. They use their tails to anchor to sea plants.
Fun Fact: Male seahorses give birth to live young.

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FAQs

What is the largest animal that starts with N?

The Nile crocodile is among the largest, reaching up to five meters and weighing over 700 kilograms.

Which animals that start with N are endangered?

Species such as the numbat and narwhal face threats from habitat loss and climate change.

Are there any N animals that live in the ocean?

Yes, narwhals and nurse sharks are both marine species found in Arctic and tropical waters.

Do any N animals migrate?

Nightjars and certain species of nighthawks undertake seasonal migrations to find food and warmth.

What N animal is common as a pet?

The Nubian goat and neon tetra are popular choices for farms and aquariums.

Conclusion

Exploring animals that start with N reveals the incredible diversity of our planet’s wildlife. From narwhals navigating icy Arctic waters to nimble numbats in Australian forests, each species contributes uniquely to Earth’s ecosystems.

Learning about these creatures fosters curiosity and a deeper respect for nature’s balance. So, next time you see an animal name beginning with N, you’ll know there’s a fascinating story behind it — one worth protecting and sharing.