20 Animals That Start With P (2023)

Welcome to animals that start with p. Tons of animals have names that start with the letter P. 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 P:

Pacific Sleeper Shark

Paddlefish
Pademelon
Painted Turtle

Palm Rat
Palo Verde Beetle
Pangolin

Panther
Papillon
Paradise Flying Snake

Parakeet
Parasaurolophus
Parrot

Parrot Snake
Parrotfish
Parrotlet

Parson Russell Terrier
Parti Schnauzer
Partridge

Patagotitan

Table of Contents show

1. Pacific Sleeper Shark

The Pacific Sleeper Shark (Somniosus pacificus) is a large, deep-sea shark that is found in the North Pacific Ocean.
It is one of the largest sharks in the world, with adults growing up to 23 feet (7 meters) in length and weighing over 1,500 pounds (700 kilograms).

The species is characterized by its long, cylindrical body, small dorsal fin, and sharp teeth, which it uses to feed on a variety of prey, including fish, squid, and octopuses.
Pacific sleeper sharks are slow-moving and are typically found near the ocean floor, at depths of up to 7,200 feet (2,200 meters).
They have a low reproductive rate, with females only producing a few offspring in their lifetime, and are vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction.

The species is also known for its ability to regulate its body temperature, allowing it to swim in cold, deep waters.
Pacific sleeper sharks are important in the food chain of deep-sea ecosystems, and play a role in controlling the populations of other species.
They are not considered a major threat to humans, although they have been known to attack fishing gear and are occasionally caught as bycatch in deep-sea trawling operations.

The species is currently classified as data deficient by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and more research is needed to understand its population and conservation status.

2. Paddlefish

The Paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) is a freshwater fish that is found in rivers and lakes in North America, primarily in the Mississippi River Basin.
The species is characterized by its long, paddle-shaped snout, which it uses to detect and capture prey in the water.

Paddlefish can grow up to 7 feet (2 meters) in length and weigh over 200 pounds (90 kilograms), making them one of the largest freshwater fish in North America.
They are considered a primitive species, with a unique physiology and anatomy that has remained largely unchanged for millions of years.
Paddlefish are filter feeders, and primarily feed on plankton and small invertebrates by swimming with their mouths open and filtering water through their gills.

The species is an important part of the freshwater ecosystem, and plays a role in controlling the populations of other species.
Paddlefish are also valued for their meat and caviar, and are often caught by commercial and recreational fishermen.
The species is listed as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with populations declining due to habitat loss, overfishing, and pollution.

Paddlefish are the subject of extensive conservation efforts, including hatchery programs, habitat restoration, and fishing regulations to protect remaining populations.

3. Pademelon

The Pademelon is a small marsupial that is native to Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands.
There are several species of pademelons, including the red-legged pademelon, the Tasmanian pademelon, and the Doria’s tree kangaroo.

They are similar in appearance to wallabies and kangaroos, but are smaller and have a distinctively rounded snout and compact body shape.
Pademelons are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plants, fruits, and grasses.
They are nocturnal animals and are most active during the night, resting during the day in dense vegetation or in burrows.

Pademelons are important prey species for many native predators, including dingoes, Tasmanian devils, and pythons.
The species is not considered endangered, although some populations are threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
Pademelons are also popular game animals and are hunted for their meat and hides in some parts of their range.

The species is important in indigenous culture and has been used in traditional medicine and as a source of food and materials for thousands of years.

4. Painted Turtle

The Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) is a freshwater turtle species that is native to North America.
They are one of the most common turtle species in their range and are known for their distinctive red and yellow markings on their shell and skin.

Painted turtles can grow up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) in length, with females being larger than males.
The species is semi-aquatic, spending much of its time in the water but also basking on rocks and logs to regulate its body temperature.
Painted turtles are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of aquatic plants and animals, including insects, fish, and crustaceans.

They are preyed upon by a variety of animals, including raccoons, foxes, and birds of prey.
Painted turtles are a popular species for pet owners, although they are protected by law in some states and are subject to regulations on their collection and ownership.
The species is not considered endangered, although some populations are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and the introduction of non-native species.

Painted turtles are important in their ecosystem, playing a role in controlling populations of aquatic plants and invertebrates, and serving as prey for other species.

5. Palm Rat

The Palm Rat (Palmetto rat) is a species of rodent that is native to the southeastern United States and the Caribbean.
They are known for their distinctive long, thin tail and are typically brown or gray in color.

Palm rats are arboreal, spending much of their time in trees and other elevated vegetation, and are capable climbers.
They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant and animal material, including fruit, nuts, insects, and small animals.
Palm rats are important in their ecosystem, playing a role in seed dispersal and controlling populations of insects and other small animals.

The species is not considered endangered, although some populations are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation.
Palm rats can be a nuisance species in some areas, causing damage to crops and structures, and can also be carriers of diseases such as hantavirus and rat-bite fever.
The species is subject to regulations on trapping and removal in some states and jurisdictions.

Palm rats are not typically kept as pets due to their wild nature and potential for disease transmission.

6. Palo Verde Beetle

The Palo Verde Beetle, also known as the Palo Verde Root Borer, is a large beetle species found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
They can grow up to 3-3.5 inches (7.6-8.9 cm) in length, making them one of the largest beetles in North America.

The adult beetles do not eat and only live for a few weeks to mate and lay eggs.
Their larvae spend 2-4 years feeding on the roots of desert trees, such as the Palo Verde tree, before pupating and emerging as adults.
Despite their large size and intimidating appearance, Palo Verde Beetles are not harmful to humans and do not cause damage to healthy trees.

They are considered a keystone species in their ecosystem, as their larvae provide food for predators such as birds and mammals, and their burrowing behavior can help aerate and fertilize the soil.

7. Pangolin

The Pangolin is a scaly, nocturnal mammal found in parts of Africa and Asia.
There are eight species of pangolin, four in Asia and four in Africa.

They are covered in keratin scales, which make up about 20% of their body weight.
Pangolins are the most trafficked mammal in the world due to their scales, which are used in traditional Chinese medicine and their meat, which is considered a delicacy in some cultures.
They have a specialized tongue that can be longer than their body and is used to catch ants and termites, their primary food source.

Pangolins are solitary animals and only come together to mate.
They are considered a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with some species listed as critically endangered.
Pangolins have been linked to the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, although it is unclear whether they were the original source of the virus or if they were infected by humans.

8. Panther

The Panther is a large wild cat species, also known as the Black Panther, that can be found in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
The term “panther” is often used to refer to melanistic (black) leopards and jaguars, which are the most common species referred to as black panthers.
Panthers can weigh up to 300 pounds (136 kg) and can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length, making them one of the largest cats in the world.

They are powerful hunters and can run up to 50 miles per hour (80 km/h) and jump up to 20 feet (6 meters) horizontally in pursuit of prey.
Panthers are apex predators and play an important role in their ecosystems by controlling the populations of their prey and maintaining the balance of their habitat.
The Panther population has declined due to habitat loss, poaching, and conflict with humans, with some subspecies listed as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas and anti-poaching measures, are being implemented to help protect Panther populations and their habitats.

9. Papillon

The Papillon is a small breed of dog, also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, that originated in France.
They weigh between 4-9 pounds (2-4 kg) and stand at 8-11 inches (20-28 cm) tall at the shoulder.

The breed is characterized by its distinctive butterfly-shaped ears, which are large and fringed with hair.
Papillons are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities and are popular as companion dogs.
They are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.

Papillons have a life expectancy of 12-16 years and are generally healthy, although they may be prone to certain health conditions such as dental issues, luxating patellas, and eye problems.
The breed comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, and brown, and may have a combination of colors and markings.
Papillons are a relatively rare breed, with only around 3,000 registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) each year.

10. Paradise Flying Snake

The Paradise Flying Snake, also known as the Ornate Gliding Snake, is a species of snake found in Southeast Asia.
They are small, slender snakes that can grow up to 3 feet (1 meter) in length.
The snake’s unique adaptation is their ability to glide through the air, using their body as a wing.

The Paradise Flying Snake can launch itself from a tree and glide up to 100 feet (30 meters) through the air, while also changing direction mid-flight.
They primarily eat lizards and small mammals and are non-venomous, posing no threat to humans.
The Paradise Flying Snake is not considered endangered, but habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanization is a threat to their population.

They are a popular species in the pet trade, although this is illegal in many countries due to their protected status.
There is still much to learn about the biology and behavior of the Paradise Flying Snake, and research efforts are ongoing to understand more about this unique species.

11. Parakeet

Parakeet is a common name for a variety of small to medium-sized parrot species, which are often kept as pets.

They are native to many parts of the world, including Australia, South America, and Africa.
Parakeets are popular as pets due to their small size, bright colors, and sociable personalities.
They have a life expectancy of 5-15 years, depending on the species and their care.

Parakeets are omnivores and eat a diet of seeds, fruits, and vegetables.
They are highly intelligent and can be trained to perform a variety of tricks and behaviors.
The most popular parakeet species kept as pets is the Budgerigar, which is native to Australia.

Parakeets are known for their vocal abilities and can mimic human speech and other sounds.
In the wild, parakeet populations can become invasive and cause damage to crops and other habitats.
Conservation efforts are in place to protect threatened parakeet species and their habitats, such as the Blue-throated Macaw in Bolivia.

12. Parasaurolophus

Parasaurolophus is a genus of herbivorous, duck-billed dinosaur that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, around 76-73 million years ago.
They were a large dinosaur, measuring up to 33 feet (10 meters) in length and weighing up to 3.5 tons.
Parasaurolophus was characterized by its distinctive elongated and curved crest on the back of its head, which was used for vocalization and possibly to regulate body temperature.

They were a bipedal dinosaur, walking on two legs, and were able to run at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (40 km/h).
Parasaurolophus was an herbivore, feeding on plants and vegetation, and likely lived in herds for protection.
Their fossils have been found in western North America, primarily in the United States and Canada.

The genus Parasaurolophus includes several species, including P. walkeri, P. tubicen, and P. cyrtocristatus.
The discovery of Parasaurolophus and its unique crest has led to a greater understanding of dinosaur vocalization and communication.
Parasaurolophus is a popular dinosaur in popular culture, appearing in films, TV shows, and other media.

Despite its popularity, the exact appearance and behavior of Parasaurolophus is still being studied and debated by paleontologists.

13. Parrot

Parrot is a common name for a diverse group of birds, typically characterized by their brightly colored feathers, curved beaks, and zygodactyl feet (two toes pointing forward and two pointing backward).
They are found in many parts of the world, including South America, Africa, Australia, and Asia.

Parrots come in a variety of sizes, from small species such as the Budgerigar to larger species like the Hyacinth Macaw, which can reach up to 3.5 feet (1 meter) in length.
They are popular as pets due to their ability to mimic human speech and their playful personalities.
Parrots are omnivores, eating a diet of seeds, fruits, and insects.

They are highly intelligent and can be trained to perform a variety of tricks and behaviors.
Parrots have a lifespan of 15-80 years, depending on the species and their care.
Some parrot species, such as the Spix’s Macaw and the Kakapo, are critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.

Parrots play an important ecological role as seed dispersers and pollinators in their native habitats.
Parrots have been depicted in art and literature for centuries, and are a popular symbol of tropical regions and exoticism.

14. Parrot Snake

The Parrot Snake, also known as the Macaw or Green Vine Snake, is a species of non-venomous snake found in Central and South America.

They are slender, brightly colored snakes that can reach up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length.
The Parrot Snake is known for its distinctive, parrot-like beak and its ability to mimic bird calls and movements to lure prey.
They are arboreal snakes, spending much of their time in trees and shrubs.

The diet of Parrot Snakes consists of small mammals, birds, lizards, and other snakes.
They are not considered dangerous to humans, as they are non-venomous and relatively docile.
Parrot Snakes are commonly kept as pets, although this is illegal in some countries due to their protected status.

Habitat loss due to deforestation and human development is a threat to the Parrot Snake population.
Research efforts are ongoing to understand more about the biology and behavior of the Parrot Snake, including their use of mimicry and their role in their ecosystems.
The Parrot Snake is a unique and fascinating species that has captured the interest of herpetologists and nature enthusiasts around the world.

15. Parrotfish

Parrotfish are a group of marine fish found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world.
They are known for their colorful scales, which are often arranged in intricate patterns and shapes.
Parrotfish can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) in length and weigh up to 100 pounds (45 kg).

They are herbivores, feeding on algae, seaweed, and other plant material.
Parrotfish play an important role in maintaining coral reef ecosystems by controlling algal growth and producing sand through their digestion of coral.
They have a unique feeding behavior where they use their fused teeth to scrape algae off of rocks and coral.

Parrotfish are also known for their ability to change color and pattern, which is used for communication and mating.
They are popular in the fishing and aquarium trade, although some species are threatened by overfishing and habitat loss.
Parrotfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they begin life as females and later transition to males.

Their brightly colored scales and unique behavior make Parrotfish a popular attraction for snorkelers and scuba divers.

16. Parrotlet

Parrotlets are a group of small parrots native to Central and South America.
They are the smallest members of the parrot family, with most species reaching a length of only 4-5 inches (10-13 cm).

Parrotlets are known for their colorful plumage, which includes shades of green, blue, and yellow.
They are popular as pets due to their small size, playful personalities, and ability to mimic human speech.
Parrotlets are social birds and thrive in pairs or small groups.
Their diet consists of seeds, fruits, and vegetables.
Parrotlets have a lifespan of 10-15 years in captivity, depending on their care.
They are active and energetic birds, and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Some species of Parrotlets, such as the Pacific Parrotlet, are found in the wild in large numbers and are not considered endangered.
Breeding and color mutations of Parrotlets are popular in the pet trade, although responsible breeding practices are necessary to ensure the health and well-being of the birds.

17. Parson Russell Terrier

The Parson Russell Terrier is a small breed of dog that originated in England in the 19th century.
They were originally bred for fox hunting, and are known for their high energy and tenacity.
Parson Russell Terriers are small dogs, typically weighing between 13-17 pounds (6-8 kg) and standing 12-14 inches (30-36 cm) tall at the shoulder.
They have a short, rough coat that can be white or white with black or tan markings.
Parson Russell Terriers are intelligent and trainable, but require firm and consistent training to prevent behavioral issues.
They are active and require regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
The lifespan of a Parson Russell Terrier is typically 13-15 years.
Health issues that can affect the breed include deafness, eye problems, and skin allergies.
Parson Russell Terriers are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and other major kennel clubs around the world.
They are popular as companion dogs due to their loyal and affectionate nature, but are not recommended for families with young children due to their high energy and tendency to chase small animals.

18. Parti Schnauzer

The Parti Schnauzer is a variety of the Miniature Schnauzer breed of dog, which originated in Germany.
Parti Schnauzers have a unique coat pattern that includes white with black or liver (brown) markings.
They are small dogs, typically weighing between 11-20 pounds (5-9 kg) and standing 12-14 inches (30-36 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Parti Schnauzers have a thick, wiry coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
They are intelligent and trainable dogs, but can be stubborn and require firm and consistent training.
Parti Schnauzers are active and require regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
The lifespan of a Parti Schnauzer is typically 12-14 years.
Health issues that can affect the breed include eye problems, skin allergies, and ear infections.
Parti Schnauzers are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and other major kennel clubs around the world as a variety of the Miniature Schnauzer breed.
They are popular as companion dogs due to their loyal and affectionate nature, but may not be suitable for families with young children due to their small size and delicate nature.

19. Partridge

The partridge is a medium-sized game bird that is found in Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa.
There are several different species of partridge, including the gray partridge, red-legged partridge, and chukar partridge.
Partridges are known for their distinctive plumage, which includes shades of brown, gray, and white.
They are ground-dwelling birds that feed on a variety of seeds, insects, and small invertebrates.
Partridges are hunted for sport in many parts of the world, and are also raised on farms for food.
The lifespan of a wild partridge is typically 1-2 years.
Partridges are social birds and often live in pairs or small family groups.
They are able to fly short distances, but prefer to run and hide when threatened.
Partridges are an important part of many ecosystems, and can help to control insect populations and disperse seeds.
Habitat loss and hunting have led to declines in partridge populations in many areas, and some species are considered to be at risk of extinction.

20. Patagotitan

Patagotitan is a genus of extinct sauropod dinosaur that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, around 100 million years ago.
It is one of the largest land animals ever known, with estimates of its weight ranging from 50 to 77 tonnes (55 to 85 tons).
Patagotitan is known from several fossil specimens discovered in Argentina, including one that is nearly 70% complete.
Its long neck and tail, as well as its large size, suggest that Patagotitan was a herbivore that fed on vegetation high above the ground.
The bones of Patagotitan were hollow, which helped to reduce its overall weight.
Its size may have helped to protect it from predators, such as the large theropod dinosaur Giganotosaurus, which lived in the same area.
Patagotitan is part of a group of sauropods known as titanosaurs, which were some of the last dinosaurs to live before the mass extinction event that wiped out most non-avian dinosaurs.
Its discovery has provided new insights into the diversity and evolution of these massive dinosaurs.
The name Patagotitan means “giant from Patagonia”, referring to the region in Argentina where it was discovered.
Fossil specimens of Patagotitan are on display in museums around the world, including the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.

Conclusion: Animals That Start With P