20 Animals That Start With H (2023)


collage of animals

Welcome to animals that start with h. Tons of animals have names that start with the letter H. Many of them can be found around you, while some others are a bit more exotic.

Here’s the complete list of animals that start with H:

  • Habu Snake
  • Haddock
  • Hagfish
  • Hairy Woodpecker
  • Halibut
  • Hamburg Chicken
  • Hammerhead Shark
  • Hamster
  • Harbor Seal
  • Hardhead Catfish
  • Hare
  • Harlequin Rabbit
  • Harlequin Frog
  • Harp Seal
  • Harpy Eagle
  • Harrier
  • Harris Hawk
  • Havamalt
  • Havanese
  • Havapoo

1. Habu Snake

  • The Habu Snake (Protobothrops flavoviridis) is a venomous snake found in Japan, Taiwan, and the Ryukyu Islands.
  • It is a member of the pit viper family and is known for its long, thin body and distinctive coloration, which can vary from yellow to brown to green.
  • The Habu Snake is typically found in forests, fields, and gardens, where it feeds on small mammals, birds, and lizards.
  • It is known to be aggressive and will often bite when provoked or threatened.
  • The Habu Snake’s venom contains several toxins that can cause swelling, bleeding, and severe pain in humans.
  • There is an antivenom available for the Habu Snake’s venom, but treatment may also involve supportive care and pain management.
  • The Habu Snake is considered a protected species in Japan, where it is known to be a symbol of good luck. However, it is also considered a pest by some farmers due to its habit of preying on livestock.

2. Haddock

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQ6OaNXFLDg
  • The Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) is a saltwater fish found in the North Atlantic Ocean.
  • It is a popular food fish and is often used in dishes such as fish and chips, chowder, and scampi.
  • The Haddock is a member of the cod family and is similar in appearance, with a long, slender body and a white or pale grey color.
  • It has a distinctive black lateral line that runs along its body and a dark spot near the base of its pectoral fin.
  • The Haddock is typically found at depths of 50-300 meters (160-980 feet) and feeds on small crustaceans and mollusks.
  • It grows to an average length of 60-90 cm (24-36 inches) and can weigh up to 3 kg (6.6 lbs).
  • The Haddock is an important commercial species, with significant fisheries in countries such as Canada, Norway, and the United Kingdom.
  • It is also a popular game fish, with recreational anglers targeting it in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

3. Hagfish

  • The Hagfish (Myxini) is a type of primitive, jawless fish found in the ocean depths of the North Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
  • It is known for its slimy, eel-like appearance and its ability to secrete large amounts of mucus from glands on its body.
  • The Hagfish has a long, slender body with a series of barb-like structures on its underside. It lacks scales, fins, and a true vertebral column.
  • It has small, tooth-like structures on its tongue that it uses to scrape and feed on dead or decaying animals.
  • The Hagfish grows to an average length of 30-60 cm (12-24 inches) and is typically found at depths of 500-1000 meters (1600-3200 feet).
  • It is considered a primitive species, with a fossil record dating back over 300 million years.
  • The Hagfish is not considered a commercial species, but it is occasionally caught and used as bait or for its skin, which is used to make leather.
  • It is considered a delicacy in some cultures, but is also considered a nuisance due to its ability to tie itself into knots and produce large amounts of slime when caught.

4. Hairy Woodpecker

  • The Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides villosus) is a medium-sized bird found throughout most of North America.
  • It is a member of the woodpecker family and is closely related to the Downy Woodpecker.
  • The Hairy Woodpecker is known for its distinctive black-and-white coloration, with a black head, wings, and tail and a white back, breast, and belly.
  • It has a long, straight bill and a chisel-like tip that it uses to drum on trees and to extract insects from wood.
  • The Hairy Woodpecker feeds on insects, spiders, and other invertebrates, as well as fruit and nuts.
  • It typically nests in cavities in trees, but will also use nest boxes and other artificial nest sites.
  • The Hairy Woodpecker is a common backyard bird, and can often be attracted to bird feeders with suet and other high-energy foods.
  • It is a permanent resident in most of its range, but some populations in northern areas migrate south for the winter.

5. Halibut

  • The Halibut (Hippoglossus spp.) is a type of flatfish found in the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans.
  • It is the largest flatfish species, with some individuals weighing over 300 kg (660 lbs).
  • The Halibut has a broad, oval-shaped body with a small head and a pointed snout. It is typically brown or grey in color, with a white underside.
  • It is a bottom-dwelling fish and feeds on a variety of prey, including other fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
  • The Halibut is an important commercial species and is often caught using trawls, longlines, and other fishing gear.
  • It is highly valued for its delicate, white flesh and is often used in dishes such as sushi, chowder, and fish cakes.
  • The Halibut is also a popular game fish, with recreational anglers targeting it in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
  • Some populations of Halibut are considered overfished, and conservation efforts are underway to protect and rebuild these stocks.

6. Hamburg Chicken

  • The Hamburg Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) is a breed of domestic chicken that originated in Germany.
  • It is known for its small size and distinctive feathering, which includes a large crest of feathers on its head and long, pointed tail feathers.
  • The Hamburg Chicken comes in several color varieties, including black, silver, and golden.
  • It is a dual-purpose breed, meaning it is used for both egg production and meat production.
  • The Hamburg Chicken is a prolific egg layer, with some individuals producing over 250 eggs per year.
  • It is a hardy breed and can withstand cold temperatures, making it well-suited for outdoor environments.
  • The Hamburg Chicken is popular among backyard chicken enthusiasts due to its small size and attractive appearance.
  • It is also recognized by several poultry breed organizations, including the American Poultry Association and the British Poultry Standard.

7. Hammerhead Shark

  • Hammerhead sharks are a group of sharks in the family Sphyrnidae, which includes nine species.
  • The most well-known species is the Great Hammerhead (Sphyrna mokarran), which can reach lengths of up to 20 feet (6 meters) and weigh up to 1,000 pounds (450 kilograms).
  • Other species of hammerhead sharks include the Scalloped Hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini), the Smooth Hammerhead (Sphyrna zygaena), and the Bonnethead (Sphyrna tiburo).
  • Hammerhead sharks are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
  • These sharks are named for the distinctive shape of their head, which is wide and flattened with a “hammer” shape at the front.
  • Hammerhead sharks are known for their highly developed senses, including highly sensitive electroreceptors on their head which they use to detect prey.
  • Hammerhead sharks are opportunistic predators and feed on a variety of prey, including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
  • Hammerhead sharks are not considered to be a major threat to humans, but they can be dangerous if provoked or if a person gets too close to them in the water.

8. Hamster

  • Hamsters are small, burrowing rodents that are native to Asia and Europe.
  • There are several different species of hamsters, including the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus), the Russian hamster (Phodopus sungorus), and the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus).
  • Hamsters are popular pets due to their small size, playful nature, and ease of care.
  • The average lifespan of a hamster is about 2-3 years, although some species can live longer.
  • Hamsters are known for their nocturnal habits and are most active at night.
  • Hamsters are omnivorous and require a diet that includes a mix of seeds, grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Hamsters have strong teeth that they use to chew and grind their food, as well as to dig and burrow in their environment.
  • Hamsters are known for their ability to store food in cheek pouches and can carry large amounts of food back to their burrows.
  • Hamsters are social animals and can live in groups, but they can also thrive as single pets.

9. Harbor Seal

  • Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are a type of pinniped, a group of semi-aquatic marine mammals that includes seals, sea lions, and walruses.
  • Harbor seals are found in coastal waters around the world, including the North Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and the Baltic and North Seas.
  • These seals are named for their habit of living in harbors and other sheltered areas, although they can also be found in open ocean environments.
  • Harbor seals are small to medium in size, with males weighing up to about 300 pounds (136 kilograms) and females weighing up to about 250 pounds (113 kilograms).
  • Harbor seals have a streamlined body shape and are adapted for life in the water, with front and hind flippers for swimming, and a layer of blubber for insulation.
  • Harbor seals are carnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
  • Harbor seals are social animals and often form large groups, or “haulouts,” on land or ice.
  • Harbor seals are vulnerable to habitat loss and human disturbance, and some populations are at risk.
  • Harbor seals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act in the United States and are listed as a species of concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

10. Hardhead Catfish

  • The hardhead catfish (Ariopsis felis) is a species of catfish that is native to the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic coast of the United States, from Florida to New York.
  • Hardhead catfish are also known as gafftopsail catfish, gulf catfish, and smooth-tailed catfish.
  • These catfish are named for the hard, bony plates on the top of their head.
  • Hardhead catfish are medium-sized, with adults reaching lengths of up to about 40 inches (100 centimeters) and weighing up to about 20 pounds (9 kilograms).
  • Hardhead catfish have a triangular head, a long, smooth body, and a forked tail.
  • Hardhead catfish are found in a variety of habitats, including estuaries, lagoons, and inshore coastal waters.
  • These catfish are opportunistic predators and feed on a variety of prey, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
  • Hardhead catfish are an important food source for larger predatory fish and birds, and are also commercially harvested for their meat.
  • Hardhead catfish are not considered a major threat to humans, but they can cause injury if handled carelessly due to the sharp spines on their fins.

11. Hare

  • Hares are a group of mammals in the family Leporidae, which includes rabbits and pikas.
  • There are several species of hares, including the European Hare (Lepus europaeus), the Arctic Hare (Lepus arcticus), and the Black-tailed Jackrabbit (Lepus californicus).
  • Hares are larger and more athletic than rabbits, with longer ears, legs, and hind feet.
  • Hares are found in a variety of habitats around the world, including forests, grasslands, and deserts.
  • These mammals are herbivorous and feed on a variety of plants, including grasses, herbs, and shrubs.
  • Hares have strong, powerful legs and are known for their speed and agility, which they use to escape predators.
  • Hares have a higher reproductive rate than rabbits, with larger litters and shorter gestation periods.
  • Hares are preyed upon by a variety of predators, including foxes, wolves, and birds of prey.
  • Hares are important to the ecosystem as a food source for other animals and as a source of nitrogen for plants through their urine and feces.

12. Harlequin Rabbit

  • The Harlequin rabbit is a breed of domestic rabbit that was developed in the early 20th century in Europe.
  • Harlequin rabbits are named for their distinctive coloring, which is characterized by a base coat of white with large, irregular patches of black, red, or blue.
  • These rabbits have a medium to large size, with males weighing up to about 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms) and females weighing up to about 9 pounds (4 kilograms).
  • Harlequin rabbits have a short, dense coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its condition.
  • These rabbits are known for their energetic and playful personalities and make good pets for families with children.
  • Harlequin rabbits are generally hardy and healthy, but they can be prone to obesity if they do not get enough exercise and are fed a diet high in calories.
  • It is important to provide Harlequin rabbits with a spacious enclosure that allows them to move around and express their natural behaviors.
  • Harlequin rabbits should be fed a diet that includes hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of high-quality rabbit pellet food.
  • Harlequin rabbits are not a common breed and may be difficult to find at rabbit shows or from breeders.

13. Harlequin Frog

  • The Harlequin Frog (Atelopus sp.) is a small, brightly colored species of frog that is native to Central and South America.
  • There are around 100 species of Harlequin Frogs, many of which are endangered or critically endangered.
  • Harlequin Frogs are known for their brightly colored patterns, which can range from yellow and green to red and black.
  • These frogs are typically found in rainforests, where they live in the leaf litter and underbrush.
  • Harlequin Frogs are often found near streams, as they require a constant supply of water for breeding.
  • The diet of Harlequin Frogs consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates.
  • These frogs are threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and the spread of the chytrid fungus, which is believed to be responsible for the decline of many amphibian species.
  • Despite their small size, Harlequin Frogs are important indicators of the health of their environment, as they are sensitive to changes in the ecosystem.

14. Harp Seal

  • The Harp Seal (Pagophilus groenlandicus) is a species of seal found in the North Atlantic Ocean, with a range that includes Canada, Greenland, and the northern coast of Europe.
  • Harp Seals are known for their distinctive white coat, which they develop at around three weeks of age.
  • These seals have a small, pointed head and a long, slender body, with large front flippers and a shorter hind flipper.
  • Adult males typically grow to be about 6.5 feet long and weigh around 350 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, growing to around 6 feet long and weighing around 250 pounds.
  • Harp Seals are primarily found on sea ice, where they give birth to their pups and mate.
  • These seals feed on a variety of prey, including fish, squid, and krill, and are known to dive to depths of up to 400 feet in search of food.
  • The population of Harp Seals is currently thought to be stable, with an estimated population of around 7 million individuals.
  • However, these seals are still at risk from a variety of threats, including overfishing, pollution, and climate change, which can affect their habitat and prey.

15. Harpy Eagle

  • The Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) is a large, powerful raptor that is found in the rainforests of Central and South America.
  • It is one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world, with a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet and a weight of up to 20 pounds.
  • The Harpy Eagle has a distinctive appearance, with a black and white head and a grey body. Its wings and tail are also black, with white markings.
  • These eagles are primarily found in lowland rainforests, where they hunt a variety of prey, including monkeys, sloths, and large birds.
  • The Harpy Eagle is a top predator in its environment, and plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
  • Despite its impressive size and strength, the Harpy Eagle is at risk from habitat destruction and deforestation, which can lead to the loss of their prey and nesting sites.
  • The population of Harpy Eagles is thought to be declining, and the species is listed as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

16. Harrier Hawk

  • The Harrier (Circus sp.) is a group of medium-sized birds of prey that are found throughout the world. There are approximately 25 species of harriers, which belong to the family Accipitridae.
  • Harriers are known for their long wings and tail, which they use to hover and search for prey.
  • These birds have a slender, agile build and a distinctive, narrow head. They have keen eyesight and good hearing, which they use to locate prey.
  • Harriers are mostly found in open grassland or marshy habitats, where they hunt small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
  • Most species of harriers are migratory, and some species can cover long distances during their migrations.
  • The population of harriers varies widely among different species, with some species having relatively stable populations while others are at risk of extinction.
  • Threats to harriers include habitat destruction, pollution, and persecution by humans.

17. Harris Hawk

  • Harris Hawks are a medium to large sized bird of prey native to the Americas.
  • They are found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and deserts.
  • Harris Hawks have a wingspan of up to 4 feet and weigh up to 2.5 pounds.
  • They are known for their social behavior and are often found hunting in groups.
  • Harris Hawks are opportunistic hunters and will prey on a variety of animals, including rodents, birds, lizards, and insects.
  • They have excellent eyesight and can spot prey from a distance of up to a mile.
  • Harris Hawks are considered a good species for falconry due to their cooperative hunting behavior and ability to be trained.

18. Havamalt Dog

  • The Havamalt dog is a cross between a Havanese and Matese Dog!

19. Havanese Dog

  • The Havanese is a small dog breed native to Cuba.
  • They are a member of the toy group and weigh between 7 and 13 pounds.
  • Havanese are known for their long, silky coats, which come in a variety of colors including white, cream, black, and silver.
  • They are intelligent and energetic dogs that are well-suited to apartment living.
  • Havanese are generally good with children and other pets and make excellent companion dogs.
  • They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities and are often described as being playful and lively.
  • Havanese are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
  • They are prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and heart conditions.

20. Havapoo Dog

  • The Havapoo dog is a cross between a Havanese and Poodle Dog!

Conclusion: Animals That Start With H

Here’s the complete list of animals that start with H:

  • Habu Snake
  • Haddock
  • Hagfish
  • Hairy Woodpecker
  • Halibut
  • Hamburg Chicken
  • Hammerhead Shark
  • Hamster
  • Harbor Seal
  • Hardhead Catfish
  • Hare
  • Harlequin Rabbit
  • Harlequin Frog
  • Harp Seal
  • Harpy Eagle
  • Harrier
  • Harris Hawk
  • Havamalt
  • Havanese
  • Havapoo

David Sandy

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