20 Animals That Start With N (2023)

Welcome to animals that start with n. Tons of animals have names that start with the letter N. 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 N:

Naked Mole Rat

Narwhal
Natterjack
Nautilus

Neanderthal
Neapolitan Mastiff
Nebelung

Needlefish
Neon Tetra
Neptune Grouper

Newfoundland
Newfypoo
Newt

Nicobar pigeon
Nigerian Goat
Night Adder

Night Heron
Night Snake
Nightingale

Nile Crocodile

Table of Contents show

1. Naked Mole Rat

Naked mole rats, also known as Heterocephalus glaber, are burrowing rodents native to East Africa
They are the longest-lived rodents, with an average lifespan of 28-32 years in the wild

Naked mole rats have poor eyesight and rely primarily on their sense of smell for navigation
They live in large underground colonies consisting of one dominant male (the “king”), several females (the “queens”), and many non-reproductive individuals
Naked mole rats have a highly organized social structure, with clear divisions of labor and communication between individuals

They are known for their exceptional resistance to cancer, high levels of physical endurance, and ability to tolerate low oxygen environments
They are one of the few mammals known to be immune to certain types of pain, such as that caused by acid or high temperatures
Naked mole rats feed primarily on underground tubers, and their teeth and jaws are specialized for burrowing and biting through tough plant material.

They are considered a delicacy in some countries and are hunted for food and traditional medicine
Naked mole rats are listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but their populations are declining due to habitat loss and degradation, as well as commercial exploitation.

2. Narwhal

Narwhals are a species of toothed whale, part of the family Monodontidae

They are known for the long, spiral tusk that grows from the front of their head (only found in males)
Narwhals are native to the Arctic waters surrounding North America and Greenland
They are relatively small, growing up to about 5-6 meters in length and 1,000-1,800 kg in weight

Narwhals feed on fish, squid, and other small prey and can dive up to 1,500 meters to hunt
Narwhals are social animals and typically live in groups of 10 to 100 individuals
They are known to migrate long distances, covering up to 3,000 km in a single season

Narwhals are considered to be vulnerable due to habitat loss, climate change, and hunting
Indigenous peoples in the Arctic have hunted narwhals for centuries, but today commercial hunting is restricted and regulated by international agreement.

3. Natterjack Toad

The Natterjack is a species of toad

It is found in Europe, primarily in the western and southern parts of the continent
Natterjacks have a distinctive call, which is a repeated “trrrr” sound
They have a greenish-yellow coloration with black spots on their back, legs and belly

Natterjacks are known for their long legs, which allow them to move quickly across sandy habitats
They feed on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates
Natterjacks are threatened by habitat loss, particularly the loss of their unique sandy habitats

The species is protected in some countries, such as the UK, where it is listed as a Priority Species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

4. Nautilus

The nautilus is a cephalopod mollusk that is found in the Indo-Pacific Ocean
They have a distinctive shell that is coiled and has a series of chambers inside, with the latest and largest one being used for habitation

The nautilus has a distinctive “smile” on the shell’s opening, which is used for breathing and excreting waste
They are able to change the gas pressure inside their shells to control their buoyancy and depth in the ocean
Nautiluses feed on small prey such as crabs and shrimp, using their long tentacles to capture food

They are considered to be a “living fossil,” with relatives dating back to more than 500 million years ago
They are considered to be a threatened species, with populations declining due to over-fishing, habitat destruction, and the trade in their shells for jewelry and decoration.

5. Neanderthal

Neanderthals were an extinct species of human that lived in Europe and Asia from around 400,000 to 40,000 years ago according to Wikipedia.

They are closely related to modern humans, with genetic studies suggesting that modern humans and Neanderthals interbred at some point in the past.
Neanderthals had a number of physical adaptations that were suited to their environment, including a large brow ridge, a robust jaw, and a wide nose.
They were skilled hunters and used a variety of tools, including stone knives and spears, to obtain food.

Neanderthals are thought to have used fire and lived in social groups, and they may have had complex social behaviors and relationships.
The exact cause of their extinction is still unknown, but it is likely that they were eventually outcompeted by modern humans, who were better able to adapt to changing environments.

6. Neapolitan Mastiff

Neapolitan Mastiff is a large breed of dog

Originally bred in Italy for use in hunting and as a guard dog
Weighs between 110-200 pounds and stands 24-31 inches tall at the shoulder
Short, thick coat that is usually blue, black, mahogany, or tawny in color

Known for its loose skin, droopy jowls, and massive head
Recognized for its loyalty, courage, and protectiveness
Slow-moving and low-energy, but can become aggressive if its family is threatened

Requires a lot of socialization and training from an early age
Not suited for apartment living or first-time dog owners
Prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and skin problems

Life expectancy of 8-10 years

7. Nebelung

The Nebelung is a breed of domestic cat
Originated in the United States in the 1980s

Named after the German word “Nebel” which means “mist” or “fog”
Long, silky, and shiny coat with a distinctive blue-grey color
Athletic build with a medium to large size

Known for their affectionate and social nature, typically enjoy the company of people
Intelligent and playful, they can be trained to play fetch or walk on a leash
Generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-16 years

Rare breed, with small population worldwide

8. Needlefish

Needlefish is a predatory fish that belongs to the family Belonidae.
They are found in saltwater and brackish habitats worldwide, mainly in temperate and tropical regions.

They are known for their long, slender bodies and sharp, needle-like snouts.
They typically grow to a length of 30-100 cm, and can weigh up to 1 kg.
Needlefish feed on smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans.

They are fast swimmers and are able to jump out of the water to escape predators or to capture prey.
Some species of Needlefish are known for their dangerous and venomous spines, which can cause serious injury to humans and animals.
Needlefish have a streamlined body and a deep forked tail, which allows them to move quickly and efficiently through the water.

They are most active at night and use their sharp vision to locate and capture prey.
The population size of needlefish varies between species, with some populations being abundant while others are considered threatened or endangered.

9. Neon Tetra

Here’s some info on the Neon Tetra:

Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
Family: Characidae
Origin: South America, specifically the Amazon Basin

Size: 1.5 – 2.5 cm in length
Life Span: 4 – 5 years
Habitat: Freshwater, typically in rivers and tributaries with slow-moving water

Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter
Appearance: Bright neon blue and red coloration, translucent body
Behavior: Social, schools with other neon tetras in the wild

Tank Requirements: Freshwater tank with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, water temperature between 22-26°C, and good filtration
Breeding: Eggs are laid and fertilized in a breeding mop, male guards the eggs and fry
Commercial Importance: Widely kept as a popular ornamental fish for home aquariums due to its vibrant coloration

10. Neptune Grouper

Scientific name: Epinephelus stoliczkae
Found in the Indo-West Pacific region, mainly around Indonesia and northern Australia
Can grow up to 1.5 m (4.9 ft) in length and weigh up to 120 kg (260 lbs)

Typically found at depths of 30 to 90 meters
Carnivorous, primarily feeding on smaller fish and crustaceans
Has a stocky body with a large mouth and sharp teeth

Known for its distinctive color pattern of blue-green, with yellow or brown spots and bars
Juveniles have a different color pattern, with a yellow body and blue-black spots
Considered to be a slow-growing species with a lifespan of up to 20 years

Listed as vulnerable by the IUCN due to overfishing and habitat degradation
Some populations have also suffered from destructive fishing practices such as dynamite fishing and cyanide fishing.

11. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland breed is known for its large size and strength.

The average weight of an adult Newfoundland is between 120 to 150 pounds, with males typically being larger than females.
Newfoundlands have a dense, waterproof coat that is typically black, but may also be brown or gray.
They are known for their exceptional swimming ability, which has earned them the nickname “the gentle giant of the sea.”

Newfoundlands are highly intelligent and are often trained as rescue dogs due to their excellent swimming ability and strong retrieving instincts.
The breed is known for its loyalty and affectionate nature, making it a popular choice for families as a pet.
The average lifespan of a Newfoundland is around 8 to 10 years.

Newfoundlands are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, subvalvular aortic stenosis, and bloat. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent these conditions.
The breed is recognized by major kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club and the Kennel Club (UK).

12. Newfypoo

The Newfypoo is a hybrid breed of dog, created by crossing a Newfoundland dog and a Poodle.

They are typically large in size, with a weight range of 50-90 pounds and a height of 22-29 inches at the shoulder.
Their coats can vary in texture and length, depending on whether they take after the Newfoundland or the Poodle, but they are often hypoallergenic and low-shedding.
They are known for being intelligent, friendly, and gentle dogs, making them great family pets.

Newfypoos are typically good with children and other pets, and they have a good temperament for training and socializing.
They are also known for being good swimmers, thanks to their Newfoundland heritage.
Despite their size, Newfypoos are generally low-energy dogs and do not require a lot of exercise, although they do benefit from daily walks and playtime.

They are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies.
Newfypoos have an average lifespan of 10-14 years.

13. Newt

Newts are a group of aquatic and semi-aquatic salamanders

They belong to the family Salamandridae and are found in various regions of the world including Europe, North America, and Asia
Newts have a distinctive appearance, with smooth, moist skin, and a flattened tail
They come in a range of colors, including green, brown, and orange, with patterns that can vary greatly between species

Newts are excellent swimmers and have the ability to live in and adapt to various aquatic habitats, including ponds, streams, and marshes
They feed on a variety of prey including insects, worms, crustaceans, and mollusks
Some species of newts are known for their ability to secrete toxic substances to deter predators

Newts have a unique life cycle, with a terrestrial stage followed by an aquatic stage during which they reproduce
The lifespan of a newt can vary depending on the species, but can range from 5 to 15 years in the wild.

14. Nicobar pigeon

Scientific Name: Caloenas nicobarica

Size: Approx. 40 cm in length with a weight of 500-600 g
Range: Found in the Nicobar Islands, the Andaman and Sumatra islands, and some nearby islands in the western Pacific Ocean
Habitat: Forests, mangroves, and coconut plantations

Description: Has iridescent metallic green and bronze feathers, with a bare red face and feet, and a small white patch near the bill
Diet: Feeds on seeds, fruit, and occasionally insects
Conservation Status: Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, but population is declining due to habitat loss and hunting

Interesting Fact: Nicobar pigeons are considered sacred by the indigenous people of the Nicobar Islands, and killing one is punished by death.

15. Nigerian Goat

The Nigerian Dwarf goat is a small breed of domestic goat that originates from West Africa.
They typically weigh between 50 and 75 pounds and stand about 20 inches tall at the shoulder.

They have a compact, muscular build with short, fine hair that comes in a variety of colors including black, white, brown, gray, and spotted.
Nigerian Dwarf goats are known for their friendly and playful personalities, which makes them a popular choice for pet owners.
They are also highly intelligent and can be trained to perform various tricks.

They are good milk producers and their milk has a high butterfat content, making it ideal for cheese and soap making.
They are also hardy and adaptable animals that can thrive in a variety of climates and environments.
Nigerian Dwarf goats have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years and are generally healthy with few breed-specific health issues.

16. Night Adder

Here are some key facts about the Night Adder:

The Night Adder is a venomous snake species that is native to Africa.
It is a small species, with a length of up to 50 centimeters (20 inches).
The Night Adder has a distinctive appearance, with a large triangular head, a long and slender body, and a short tail.
Its scales are smooth and shiny, and the snake is usually brown or gray in color with dark crossbands.
The Night Adder is a nocturnal snake, active at night and spending most of the day hiding in dense vegetation or under rocks and logs.
It feeds on small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
The Night Adder’s venom is highly toxic, but it is generally not considered a threat to humans. However, bites can be painful and cause swelling, and medical treatment should be sought if a bite occurs.

17. Night Heron

Night Herons are a type of wading bird found primarily in the Americas and Caribbean
They are medium-sized birds, with a length of about 24-26 inches and a wingspan of around 46-50 inches
They are mostly grey or black with a distinctive white head and neck, and red eyes
They feed mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and amphibians, hunting mainly at night
They are usually solitary birds but may form colonies during breeding season
Their habitats include freshwater wetlands, estuaries, mangroves, and coastal lagoons
Some populations of Night Herons are migratory, while others are resident
The species is not considered to be threatened, but some populations may be declining due to habitat loss.

18. Night Snake

Night snakes are a species of small, nonvenomous snakes found in the western United States and Mexico
They are typically active at night, hence their name
They are commonly found in arid regions, deserts, and other dry habitats
Night snakes feed mainly on small lizards and their eggs, as well as small mammals and insects
They are relatively small, usually growing to around 20-30 cm in length
Night snakes are known for their distinctive, rattle-like tail, which they use to produce a buzzing sound as a warning to predators
They are also known for their shiny, iridescent scales, which can change color in response to the snake’s surroundings
Despite their relatively small size, night snakes are capable of defending themselves by striking and biting when threatened
They play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to control populations of small reptiles and insects.

19. Nightingale

Scientific name: Luscinia megarhynchos
Family: Muscicapidae
Size: 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 in) long, with a wingspan of 19-22 cm (7.5-8.7 in)
Weight: 12-19 g (0.42-0.67 oz)
Lifespan: 2-3 years in the wild, up to 5 years in captivity
Distribution: Europe, Asia, and Africa
Habitat: Deciduous and mixed forests, scrub, and gardens
Diet: Insects and other invertebrates
Breeding season: April to June
Nesting: Built in trees or bushes, made of twigs, grass, and feathers
Eggs: 4-5 per clutch, pale blue with brown spots
Conservation status: Least Concern (LC)
Song: Complex and varied, usually consisting of a series of trills, chirps, and warbles.
Characteristics: Olive-brown upperparts, pale underparts, and a reddish tail. Males are more brightly colored and have a more melodious song than females.

20. Nile Crocodile

Scientific Name: Crocodylus niloticus
Class: Reptilia
Order: Crocodilia
Family: Crocodylidae
Habitat: Nile river, wetlands, lakes, and swamps of Africa
Average Length: 10-16 ft (3-5m), with some reaching up to 20ft
Weight: 600-1,500 lbs (270-680 kg)
Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on fish, birds, mammals, and reptiles
Life Span: 60-70 years in the wild, up to 80 years in captivity
Conservation Status: Vulnerable (IUCN Red List)
Reproduction: Female Nile crocodiles lay 30-50 eggs in a nest and incubate them for about 90 days
Behavior: Solitary, except during mating season and when guarding nests. Aggressive and territorial.
Threats: Habitat destruction, hunting for skin and meat, and being killed as pests.
Cultural Significance: The Nile crocodile is an important cultural symbol in ancient Egyptian religion and mythology.

Conclusion: Animals That Start With N