20 Animals That Start With R (2023)

Welcome to animals that start with r. Tons of animals have names that start with the letter R. 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 R:

Rabbit

Raccoon
Raccoon Dog
Racer Snake

Radiated Tortoise
Ragamuffin
Ragdoll

Raggle
Rainbow Boa
Rainbow Shark

Rat
Rat Snakes
Rat Terrier

Rattlesnake
Red Deer
Red Diamondback Rattlesnake

Red Finch
Red Fox
Red Kite

Red Knee Tarantula

Table of Contents show

1. Rabbit

The rabbit is a small mammal in the family Leporidae.
They are known for their long ears, powerful hind legs, and fluffy tails.

There are over 305 different breeds of rabbits recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association.
Rabbits can be found on every continent except Antarctica.
They are herbivores and typically feed on grass, hay, and vegetables.

Rabbits have a lifespan of around 8-12 years.
They are social animals that live in groups, and are known for their gentle, docile nature.
Rabbits are often kept as pets, but are also hunted for their meat and fur.

Female rabbits are called does, males are called bucks, and baby rabbits are called kits or bunnies.
Rabbits have a well-developed digestive system, which includes a large cecum where food is fermented and broken down.
They have excellent hearing and vision, and use a variety of vocalizations and body language to communicate with each other.

2. Raccoon

Here are some statistics about the Raccoon:

Scientific name: Procyon lotor
Average lifespan: 2-3 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivity

Average weight: 5-20 lbs (2.3-9 kg)
Average length: 16-28 inches (41-71 cm)
Habitat: forests, marshes, prairies, and urban areas throughout North America

Diet: omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods including insects, fruits, nuts, and small animals
Behavior: nocturnal, solitary or in small groups, excellent climbers and swimmers
Threats: habitat loss, road mortality, hunting and trapping, and disease such as raccoon roundworm

Interesting fact: Raccoons have very dexterous front paws and are able to open jars, doorknobs, and even unlock simple locks.

3. Raccoon Dog

Here are some statistics about the Raccoon Dog:

Scientific name: Nyctereutes procyonoides

Commonly found in East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and China
Also introduced to Europe, where it has become an invasive species
Belongs to the Canidae family, which also includes dogs, wolves, and foxes

Also known as the mangut or tanuki in Japanese culture
Typically weighs 4-7 kg (9-15 lbs) and measures 40-60 cm (16-24 in) in length
Has a distinctive raccoon-like appearance, with dark fur around the eyes and a bushy tail

Nocturnal and omnivorous, feeding on small animals, insects, fruits, and vegetables
Can live up to 7-8 years in the wild and up to 13 years in captivity
Hunted for their fur in some parts of the world, and considered a pest in others

Can carry and transmit diseases, such as rabies, to other animals and humans.

4. Racer Snake

Racer snakes are a genus of nonvenomous colubrid snakes found in North and South America.
They are slender, fast-moving snakes with smooth scales, ranging in length from 3 to 7 feet (0.9 to 2.1 meters).

Racer snakes are active during the day and primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and lizards.
There are several species of racer snakes, with some being more widespread than others. For example, the western diamondback racer is found throughout much of the western United States, while the black racer is found throughout much of the eastern United States.
Racer snakes are not considered to be threatened or endangered, and their populations are generally stable.

5. Radiated Tortoise

The radiated tortoise is a species of tortoise endemic to the island of Madagascar.
They are known for their striking shell, which is marked by intricate yellow lines radiating from the center of each plate.
Radiated tortoises are one of the largest species of tortoise, with adults weighing up to 35 kilograms (77 pounds) and measuring up to 40 centimeters (16 inches) in length.

They are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, fruits, and flowers.
Radiated tortoises are listed as critically endangered by the IUCN Red List, with populations declining due to habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal pet trade.
It is estimated that there are fewer than 20,000 adult radiated tortoises remaining in the wild.

6. Ragamuffin

The Ragamuffin is a breed of domestic cat that originated in the United States.
They are a large breed, with males weighing between 12 and 20 pounds (5.4 to 9.1 kilograms) and females weighing between 8 and 15 pounds (3.6 to 6.8 kilograms).
Ragamuffins are known for their long, dense fur and large, expressive eyes. They come in a variety of colors and patterns.

They are known for their affectionate and outgoing personalities, and are often described as “lap cats”.
Ragamuffins are a relatively new breed, having been developed in the 1990s by crossing Ragdoll cats with other breeds.
The Ragamuffin is not recognized by all cat registries, but is recognized by the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).

7. Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is a breed of domestic cat that originated in the United States.
They are a large breed, with males weighing between 12 and 20 pounds (5.4 to 9.1 kilograms) and females weighing between 8 and 15 pounds (3.6 to 6.8 kilograms).
Ragdolls are known for their long, silky fur and distinctive blue eyes. They come in a variety of colors and patterns.

They are known for their docile and gentle personalities, and are often described as “lap cats”.
Ragdolls are a relatively new breed, having been developed in the 1960s by a breeder named Ann Baker in California.
The Ragdoll is recognized by all major cat registries, including the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA), the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), and The International Cat Association (TICA).

8. Raggle

9. Rainbow Boa

The Rainbow Boa is a species of nonvenomous snake found in Central and South America.
They are known for their iridescent scales, which can appear to change color depending on the angle of the light.

Rainbow Boas are medium-sized snakes, with adults typically growing to between 4 and 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) in length.
They are primarily nocturnal and feed on a variety of small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Rainbow Boas are popular in the pet trade, but are not recommended for beginners due to their specialized care requirements.

They are not considered to be threatened or endangered, but their populations in some areas have been impacted by habitat loss and overcollection for the pet trade.

10. Rainbow Shark

The Rainbow Shark is a species of freshwater fish native to Thailand.
They are a relatively small fish, growing to a maximum length of around 6 inches (15 centimeters).

Rainbow Sharks are known for their dark, sleek bodies and striking red fins, which can appear almost iridescent in the right lighting.
They are a territorial fish and can be aggressive towards other fish of the same species, so it is recommended to keep them in a species-only tank or with other fish that are not similar in appearance or behavior.
Rainbow Sharks are popular in the aquarium trade due to their striking appearance and hardy nature.

They are not considered to be threatened or endangered, and are bred in captivity for the aquarium trade.

11. Rat

The rat is a small, omnivorous mammal that is found all over the world.
They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, including cities, forests, and deserts.

Rats have a typical lifespan of 2-3 years in the wild, but can live up to 4-5 years in captivity.
They are prolific breeders, with a single female rat able to produce up to 2,000 offspring in her lifetime.
Rats are known for their intelligence and social behavior, and are often kept as pets.

They can also be a nuisance and a health hazard when they infest homes and other buildings, as they can spread disease and cause damage to property.
There are many species of rats, with the most common being the black rat and the brown rat.

12. Rat Snakes

Rat snakes are a group of nonvenomous snakes found throughout much of the world, including North America, Asia, and Europe.

They are generally medium to large in size, with adults ranging from 3 to 8 feet (1 to 2.4 meters) in length, depending on the species.
Rat snakes are known for their distinctive patterns, which often resemble the patterns of rattlesnakes and other venomous snakes, giving them some protection against predators.
They are primarily diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and feed on a variety of prey, including rodents, birds, and other reptiles.

Rat snakes are popular in the pet trade due to their attractive patterns, hardiness, and ease of care.
Some species of rat snakes are protected or considered threatened due to habitat loss and overcollection for the pet trade, but many are still common and not considered to be at risk of extinction.

13. Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier is a small breed of dog that originated in the United States.

They were originally bred to hunt rats and other small rodents on farms and in households.
Rat Terriers typically weigh between 10 and 25 pounds (4.5 to 11 kilograms) and stand about 10 to 18 inches (25 to 46 centimeters) tall at the shoulder.
They are known for their high energy levels and intelligence, and are often used in agility competitions and other dog sports.

Rat Terriers come in a variety of colors and patterns, including white, black, tan, and brindle.
They are generally healthy and long-lived, with a lifespan of 12 to 18 years.
Rat Terriers are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and other major dog registries.

14. Rattlesnake

Rattlesnakes are a group of venomous snakes found throughout much of North and South America.
They are named for the distinctive rattle at the end of their tails, which they use to warn potential predators.
Rattlesnakes come in a variety of sizes, from the small, desert-dwelling pygmy rattlesnake, which grows to just 1 foot (30 centimeters), to the large eastern diamondback rattlesnake, which can reach lengths of up to 8 feet (2.4 meters).

Their venom is highly toxic and can cause serious injury or death in humans and other animals.
Rattlesnakes are primarily ambush predators, lying in wait for prey to come within striking distance, which they then immobilize with their venom.
Despite their dangerous reputation, rattlesnakes play an important ecological role as predators, helping to control populations of rodents and other small mammals.

Many species of rattlesnake are protected or considered threatened due to habitat loss, overcollection for the pet trade, and other factors.

15. Red Deer

The Red Deer is one of the largest species of deer and is native to much of Europe, as well as parts of Asia and North Africa.
Male Red Deer, known as stags, can grow to be up to 4.5 feet (1.4 meters) tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 600 pounds (272 kilograms).

Female Red Deer, known as hinds, are smaller than stags and typically weigh between 120 and 220 pounds (54 to 100 kilograms).
Red Deer are known for their distinctive reddish-brown coats, which are thicker and more woolly in the winter to help them stay warm in cold climates.
They are primarily herbivores, feeding on a variety of plants, including grasses, leaves, and bark.

Red Deer are social animals and are typically found in herds, with stags and hinds often forming separate groups outside of the mating season.
They are an important game animal and are also raised for their meat and antlers, which are used in traditional medicine and as a decorative material.
Red Deer are not considered to be threatened or endangered, although they are facing some pressure from habitat loss and hunting in certain areas.

16. Red Diamondback Rattlesnake

17. Red Finch

The Common Redpoll Finch is a small, migratory bird that breeds in the arctic regions of North America and Eurasia.
They are named for their distinctive red forehead and black chin patch, as well as their preference for eating seeds from birch and alder trees.

In the winter, Common Redpolls will often migrate south to more temperate climates in search of food.
They are social birds and are typically found in flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or even thousands of individuals.
Common Redpolls are known for their ability to survive in extremely cold temperatures, thanks to their thick down feathers and ability to metabolize food quickly.

They have a relatively short lifespan, typically living only 2-3 years in the wild.
Despite their relatively small size, Common Redpolls play an important ecological role as seed dispersers and prey for larger predators.
They are not considered to be threatened or endangered, although their populations may be impacted by climate change and other environmental factors.

18. Red Fox

The Red Fox is a medium-sized mammal that is found throughout much of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
They are named for their reddish-brown fur, which can vary in color depending on the season and region.
Red Foxes are opportunistic predators and will eat a wide variety of foods, including small mammals, birds, fish, insects, and fruit.

They are typically solitary animals, although they may form small family groups during the breeding season.
Red Foxes are known for their intelligence and adaptability, and are often able to thrive in human-altered environments such as suburban or urban areas.
They are an important game animal and are also hunted for their fur and for pest control purposes.

Despite being heavily hunted in some areas, Red Fox populations are generally stable and not considered to be threatened or endangered.
They play an important role in many ecosystems as predators and scavengers, and may help to control populations of rodents and other small mammals.

19. Red Kite

The Red Kite is a medium-sized bird of prey that is native to much of Europe, as well as parts of North Africa and Asia.

They are named for their reddish-brown coloration and distinctive forked tail.
Red Kites are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of foods, including small mammals, birds, insects, and carrion.
They are known for their soaring flight and are often seen circling high in the sky looking for food or thermals to help them gain altitude.

Red Kites are typically monogamous and will form long-term pair bonds with their mates.
They build large, conspicuous nests out of sticks and other materials, often in trees or on cliffs.
Red Kites were once heavily persecuted by humans, but have made a comeback in many areas thanks to conservation efforts and legal protection.

They play an important ecological role as scavengers, helping to clean up dead animals and prevent the spread of disease.
Red Kites are still considered to be threatened or endangered in some areas, however, and face threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and other human activities.

20. Red Knee Tarantula

The Red Knee Tarantula (Brachypelma smithi) is a large, colorful species of tarantula that is native to Mexico.

They are named for the distinctive red band that runs across their knees, which contrasts with their black and orange coloration.
Red Knee Tarantulas are relatively docile and are often kept as pets by tarantula enthusiasts.
They are ground-dwelling spiders and will burrow into soil or other substrates to create their homes.

Red Knee Tarantulas are opportunistic predators and will eat a variety of prey, including insects, small rodents, and other spiders.
Females can live for up to 25 years, while males typically only live for a few years after reaching maturity.
Red Knee Tarantulas are not considered to be endangered in the wild, but they may be threatened by habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural activities.
They are venomous, but their bite is not considered to be dangerous to humans unless the individual is allergic to the venom.
Red Knee Tarantulas may play an important role in controlling populations of insect pests in their native habitats.

Conclusion: Animals That Start With R