20 Animals That Start With S (2023)

Welcome to animals that start with s. Tons of animals have names that start with the letter S. 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 S:

Saanen Goat

Saarloos Wolfdog
Saber-Toothed Tiger
Sable

Sable Black German Shepherd
Sable Ferret
Saddleback Caterpillar

Saiga
Saint Berdoodle
Saint Bernard

Saint Shepherd
Salamander
Salmon

Salmon Shark
Saluki
Sambar

Samoyed
San Francisco Garter Snake
Sand Cat

Sand Crab

Table of Contents show

1. Saanen Goat

The Saanen Goat is a domestic breed of dairy goat that is native to the Saanen valley in Switzerland.
They are one of the largest and most productive breeds of dairy goat, known for their high milk production and docile temperament.

Saanen Goats are typically all white in color, although they may have small pigmented areas on their skin or hair.
They are commonly used for milk production in the dairy industry, as their milk is high in butterfat and protein and is often used for making cheese and other dairy products.
Saanen Goats are adaptable to a wide range of climates and environments, and are commonly raised in many parts of the world.

They are known for their hardiness and ability to produce milk in challenging conditions.
Saanen Goats are social animals and are often kept in herds.
They are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities, and may make good pets for goat enthusiasts.

The Saanen Goat is not considered to be a threatened or endangered species, and is widely available for purchase as breeding stock or for dairy production.

2. Saarloos Wolfdog

The Saarloos Wolfdog is a breed of dog that was created in the Netherlands in the early 20th century by a breeder named Leendert Saarloos.
They are bred by crossing a German Shepherd with a wild Eurasian wolf in order to create a dog with more wolf-like characteristics.

Saarloos Wolfdogs are large, muscular dogs with a thick, wolf-like coat that can come in a variety of colors, including gray, brown, and black.
They are intelligent and independent animals that require an experienced and knowledgeable owner.
Saarloos Wolfdogs are not recommended as pets for most people due to their strong prey drive and natural instinct to roam and explore.

They are typically used for tasks such as search and rescue, police work, and as assistance dogs for people with disabilities.
Saarloos Wolfdogs are known for their high energy levels and need for regular exercise and mental stimulation.
They are not recognized by many major dog breed organizations, and their status as a breed varies depending on the country.

The Saarloos Wolfdog is not considered to be a threatened or endangered species, but they may face challenges due to misconceptions about their behavior and suitability as pets.

3. Saber-Toothed Tiger

The Saber-Toothed Tiger, also known as Smilodon, was a prehistoric mammal that lived during the Pleistocene epoch, between 2.5 million and 10,000 years ago.
They are known for their long, curved canine teeth, which could grow up to 7 inches in length, and were used for killing prey.

Saber-Toothed Tigers were carnivorous predators that hunted large mammals such as bison, mammoths, and sloths.
They were one of the largest predatory mammals of their time, with males weighing up to 800 pounds and standing up to 4 feet tall at the shoulder.
The Saber-Toothed Tiger is not a true tiger, but rather a member of the extinct genus Smilodon, which is believed to be a close relative of modern-day cats.

They are thought to have gone extinct around 10,000 years ago, likely due to a combination of factors including climate change, competition from other predators, and human hunting.
Saber-Toothed Tiger fossils have been found in North and South America, and are a popular subject of interest for paleontologists and fans of prehistoric creatures.
The Saber-Toothed Tiger is not considered to be a threatened or endangered species, as they are extinct.

4. Sable

The sable is a species of marten, a small carnivorous mammal native to parts of Asia and Europe.
They have a dark, silky fur that is highly prized for its use in clothing and accessories.
Sables are typically solitary animals, and are active at night and during twilight hours.

They are excellent climbers and swimmers, and are able to catch prey both on land and in water.
Sables feed on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, fish, and insects.
They are considered to be an important species in some ecosystems, as they help to control populations of rodents and other small animals.

Sables are hunted for their fur, which is used in the production of luxury clothing items such as coats, hats, and gloves.
The sable is considered to be a vulnerable species, as its population has declined due to habitat loss, hunting, and trapping for the fur trade.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect sable populations, including the establishment of protected areas and the regulation of the fur trade.

5. Sable Black German Shepherd

The Sable Black German Shepherd is a color variety of the German Shepherd breed, which is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility.
This variety is characterized by its sable or black coat, which is typically a combination of black and tan or black and red coloring.
Sable Black German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs, with males weighing between 65-90 pounds and standing 24-26 inches tall at the shoulder.

They have a straight, dense coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance.
Sable Black German Shepherds are highly trainable and adaptable, and are commonly used in a variety of roles such as search and rescue, police and military work, and as family pets.
They are known for their strong protective instincts and loyalty to their owners, and can be excellent guard dogs when properly trained and socialized.

Like all German Shepherds, Sable Black German Shepherds may be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia and digestive issues.
Sable Black German Shepherds can be found from reputable breeders, but it’s important to research and choose a breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
While the Sable Black German Shepherd is not a separate breed, the sable coloration is not accepted in all breed standards and may be subject to disqualification in dog shows.

6. Sable Ferret

The sable ferret is a domesticated subspecies of the European polecat, which is native to Eurasia.
They are a small carnivorous mammal, and are popular as pets due to their playful and curious nature.
Sable ferrets have a long, slender body and short legs, with a sable or brown-colored coat and a distinctive white face mask.

They are typically between 18-24 inches in length, and can weigh between 1-4 pounds depending on their age and gender.
Sable ferrets are social animals and are best kept in pairs or groups, as they enjoy interacting and playing with other ferrets.
They require a large, secure cage with plenty of toys and opportunities for exercise and play.

Sable ferrets are obligate carnivores and require a diet high in protein, which can be achieved through specialized ferret food or a combination of raw meat and other supplements.
Like all ferrets, sable ferrets are prone to certain health conditions such as adrenal disease and dental problems, and require regular veterinary check-ups to maintain their health.
Sable ferrets have been selectively bred for their coat color, and are one of several color variations available in domestic ferret breeds.

While sable ferrets are legal to own in many countries, they may be restricted or require special permits in some regions due to concerns about the impact of escaped or released ferrets on native wildlife.

7. Saddleback Caterpillar

The saddleback caterpillar is a species of caterpillar found in North America.
They are named for the prominent saddle-shaped marking on their backs, which is a bright green or blue-green color with a brownish-red margin.

Saddleback caterpillars have a distinctive appearance with a flattened body, prominent spines, and a pair of horns on the head end.
They are relatively small, usually measuring around 1 inch in length, and are commonly found on a variety of plants including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants.
Saddleback caterpillars are known for their toxic spines, which can cause a painful sting and may be dangerous to humans and pets with allergies or sensitivity to the venom.

They are considered a pest in some agricultural settings, as they can damage crops and vegetation by consuming leaves and other plant material.
Saddleback caterpillars eventually pupate and transform into moths, which are relatively nondescript and not particularly remarkable in appearance.
While saddleback caterpillars are not typically a major cause for concern, individuals who come into contact with them should avoid touching or handling them, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

8. Saiga

The saiga is a species of antelope that is native to central Asia.
They are known for their distinctive, long, and tubular snout, which is used to filter out dust and warm up the cold air in their dry and harsh habitat.
Saigas have a stocky build, with short, sturdy legs and a relatively large head in proportion to their body.

They are sexually dimorphic, with males being larger and having thicker, more curved horns than females.
Saigas are herbivorous and primarily feed on grasses and other vegetation found in their arid grassland habitats.
Historically, saiga populations were relatively widespread across their range, but have declined significantly due to habitat loss and poaching.

They are listed as a critically endangered species by the IUCN, with estimates suggesting that fewer than 4,000 individuals remain in the wild.
Saigas are also vulnerable to disease outbreaks, with several mass die-offs in recent years linked to infections such as Pasteurella and Bluetongue virus.
Conservation efforts are currently underway to protect saiga populations, including measures to reduce poaching, promote sustainable land use, and improve disease surveillance and control.

Saigas are an important cultural and ecological symbol in many central Asian cultures, and have been the subject of several traditional hunting practices and folklore over the centuries.

9. Saint Berdoodle

The Saint Berdoodle is a hybrid dog breed that is a cross between a Saint Bernard and a Poodle.
They are a relatively new breed, having gained popularity in the last few decades as a family-friendly and hypoallergenic alternative to purebred Saint Bernards.

Saint Berdoodles are typically large dogs, weighing between 70 and 120 pounds and standing up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder.
They have a thick, curly or wavy coat that can be a variety of colors, including black, brown, white, and gray.
Saint Berdoodles are known for their friendly and outgoing temperament, and are often described as gentle giants.

They are intelligent and easy to train, making them well-suited to families with children or other pets.
Due to their large size and high energy levels, Saint Berdoodles require regular exercise and a spacious living environment, such as a large yard or rural property.
Like all dogs, Saint Berdoodles may be prone to certain health conditions, such as hip dysplasia and bloat, so it’s important to work with a reputable breeder and provide regular veterinary care.

As a relatively new and uncommon breed, Saint Berdoodles may be more expensive than other types of dogs, and may require a longer wait time to find a reputable breeder or adoptable dog.
Despite their large size, Saint Berdoodles can make great companion animals and are well-suited to families who enjoy spending time outdoors and have the resources to provide for their care and exercise needs.

10. Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard is a large breed of working dog that originated in the Swiss Alps, where they were used as search and rescue dogs for lost travelers in the snowy mountains.

They are one of the largest dog breeds, typically weighing between 120 and 180 pounds and standing up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder.
Saint Bernards have a thick, dense coat that can be a variety of colors, including white, red, and mahogany.
They are known for their gentle and friendly temperament, and are often described as “nanny dogs” due to their affinity for children.

Saint Bernards are also highly trainable and make excellent service dogs, therapy dogs, and obedience competitors.
Due to their large size, Saint Bernards require regular exercise and a spacious living environment, such as a large yard or rural property.
They may be prone to certain health conditions, such as hip dysplasia and bloat, so it’s important to work with a reputable breeder and provide regular veterinary care.

Saint Bernards are relatively easy to groom, requiring regular brushing and occasional bathing to maintain their coat and skin health.
As a popular breed, Saint Bernards are widely available from reputable breeders and animal shelters, and can make great companion animals for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and have the resources to provide for their care and exercise needs.

11. Saint Shepherd

12. Salamander

Salamanders are a type of amphibian found in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
They are known for their long, slender bodies and smooth, moist skin, which can come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Salamanders have a unique life cycle that includes both an aquatic larval stage and a terrestrial adult stage.

They are typically carnivorous, feeding on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.
Salamanders play an important role in their ecosystems by helping to control insect populations and serving as a food source for larger predators.
Some species of salamanders are endangered due to habitat loss and pollution, and are protected by conservation laws.

Some salamanders are also popular pets, though they require specialized care and should only be acquired from reputable breeders or rescued from animal shelters.
Salamanders are capable of regenerating lost body parts, such as limbs and tails, which has made them a subject of scientific interest and research.
Some species of salamanders, such as the axolotl, are capable of retaining their larval features into adulthood, a phenomenon known as neoteny, which has made them a popular subject for scientific study and pet keeping.

13. Salmon

Salmon are a type of fish that are found in various parts of the world, including the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, as well as freshwater rivers and streams.
They are known for their distinctive pink or orange flesh and are a popular food source for both humans and wildlife.
Salmon are anadromous, meaning they spend most of their lives in the ocean but return to freshwater rivers and streams to spawn.

There are several different species of salmon, including Chinook, coho, sockeye, and pink salmon, each with their own unique characteristics and distribution.
Salmon populations have been impacted by a range of factors, including overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change, and some species are now endangered or threatened.
Salmon play an important ecological role by providing nutrients to other animals and helping to regulate aquatic ecosystems.

Salmon farming is a major industry in many parts of the world, with the majority of farmed salmon coming from countries like Norway and Chile.
Wild salmon are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other nutrients, and are often considered a healthy food choice.
Salmon have been the subject of scientific research in a variety of fields, including biology, ecology, and fisheries management.

14. Salmon Shark

The salmon shark is a species of shark that is found in the North Pacific Ocean, from Japan to Alaska and California.
They are named after their primary prey, salmon, which makes up a large portion of their diet.
Salmon sharks can grow up to 10 feet in length and weigh up to 1,000 pounds.

They have a streamlined body shape and are known for their incredible swimming speed, with some individuals capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.
Salmon sharks are apex predators and play an important ecological role in regulating populations of their prey species.
They are also targeted by commercial and sport fishermen, with their meat and fins being of value.

The population status of salmon sharks is not well known, but they are not currently considered to be endangered or threatened.
Research on salmon sharks is ongoing, with scientists studying their biology, ecology, and behavior to better understand their role in the marine ecosystem.

15. Saluki

The Saluki is a breed of dog that originated in the Middle East, where they were used for hunting.

They are a sighthound, which means they hunt primarily by sight rather than scent.
Salukis are known for their speed and endurance, and can run up to 40 miles per hour over long distances.
They are a medium-sized dog, typically weighing between 40 and 60 pounds, and stand around 24-28 inches tall at the shoulder.

Salukis have a slender, athletic build, with long, thin legs and a narrow head.
They come in a variety of colors, including white, cream, fawn, red, and black, among others.
Salukis are known for their independent and aloof personalities, and can be challenging to train.

They are generally healthy dogs, with a lifespan of around 12-14 years.
Salukis are still used for hunting in some parts of the world, but are also kept as pets and show dogs in many countries.

16. Sambar

The Sambar is a large species of deer native to southern and southeastern Asia, as well as parts of Australia.

They are one of the largest species of deer, with males weighing up to 600 kg (1,300 lbs) and standing over 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall at the shoulder.
Sambar have a distinctive shaggy coat that varies in color from brown to gray, and large, branching antlers that can span up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) in width.
They are herbivores, feeding on a variety of vegetation including grasses, leaves, and bark.

Sambar are known for their powerful and aggressive behavior, and will defend themselves against predators with their antlers and sharp hooves.
They are considered a game animal in many parts of the world, and are also raised on farms for their meat and antlers.
Sambar are an important part of many ecosystems, as they help to disperse seeds and provide food for predators such as tigers and leopards.

17. Samoyed

The Samoyed is a breed of dog that originated in Siberia, Russia.
They are a medium to large-sized dog, weighing between 16-30 kg (35-66 lbs) and standing 48-60 cm (19-23.5 inches) at the shoulder.
Samoyeds have a distinctive thick, fluffy white coat that helps them to withstand cold weather.
They are known for being friendly, intelligent, and playful, and make good family pets.
Samoyeds were originally bred by the Samoyede people for herding reindeer and pulling sleds, and have a strong work ethic and desire to please their owners.
They are a relatively healthy breed, with a lifespan of 12-14 years on average.
Samoyeds require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition, and enjoy being active and spending time with their owners.

18. San Francisco Garter Snake

The San Francisco Garter Snake is a rare and endangered species of snake that is found only in the San Francisco Bay area of California, USA.
They are a medium-sized snake, growing up to 137 cm (54 inches) in length.
San Francisco Garter Snakes are brightly colored, with a red head, blue body, and green stripes.
They are non-venomous and feed primarily on fish and amphibians.
The population of San Francisco Garter Snakes has declined due to habitat loss and fragmentation, and they are listed as a threatened species under the US Endangered Species Act.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore the habitat of the San Francisco Garter Snake, including captive breeding programs and habitat restoration projects.

19. Sand Cat

The Sand Cat is a small wild cat found in desert regions of North Africa and Southwest Asia.
They have a compact and muscular body, growing up to 50 cm (20 inches) in length and weighing between 1.5 to 3.5 kg (3.3 to 7.7 lbs).
Sand Cats are adapted to their arid environment, with thick fur on the soles of their paws to protect them from the hot sand.
They are skilled hunters, feeding on a variety of prey including rodents, reptiles, and insects.
Sand Cats are solitary and nocturnal, spending most of the day resting in burrows or under vegetation.
The population of Sand Cats is declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation, and they are listed as a Near Threatened species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Conservation efforts are focused on protecting their habitat and reducing the impact of human activities, including the use of fences and road networks that fragment their habitat.

20. Sand Crab

The Sand Crab, also known as the Sand Fiddler Crab, is a small crustacean that lives on sandy beaches in the coastal areas of North and South America.
They have a small body that ranges from 1-3 inches wide, and are colored sandy brown, gray or tan to blend in with their surroundings.
Sand crabs have two large pincers that they use to burrow in the sand and to catch their prey, which includes small invertebrates and debris found on the beach.
They have specialized gills that allow them to extract oxygen from both water and air, and can survive for extended periods of time out of the water.
Sand crabs are an important food source for shorebirds, fish, and other predators.
They are also harvested by humans for bait and for use as food.
Sand crab populations can be affected by beach erosion, habitat loss, and pollution.
Conservation efforts aim to protect their habitat and to promote sustainable harvesting practices.

Conclusion: Animals That Start With S