20 Animals That Start With U (2023)

Welcome to animals that start with u. Tons of animals have names that start with the letter U. 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 U:

Uakari

Uguisu
Uinta Ground Squirrel
Uintatherium

Umbrella Bird
Unau (Linnaeus’s Two-Toed Sloth)
Upland Sandpipe

Ural owl
Urutu Snake
Utonagan

Uinta Chipmunk
Uganda Woodland Warbler
Ukrainian Riding Horse

Ultramarine Grosbeak
Ultramarine Lorikeet
Uliodon

Unicorn Fish
Union Jack Butterfly
Upland Pipit

Utah Blind Snake

Table of Contents show

1. Uakari

The uakari is a species of monkey that belongs to the genus Cacajao and is found in the Amazon rainforest.
They are characterized by their short, bright red fur, hairless face, and long tail.

Uakaris have a relatively small range and are considered to be endangered due to habitat loss and hunting.
They primarily feed on fruits, nuts, and seeds, but may also eat insects and small vertebrates.
Uakaris live in large social groups of up to 100 individuals, with a dominant male leading the group.

They are active during the day and rest in trees at night.
Uakaris have a unique cranial structure, with a short snout and prominent brow ridge, which is thought to be an adaptation for eating hard-shelled fruits.
They are important seed dispersers in the rainforest, helping to maintain the diversity of plant species.

Uakaris are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of calls and songs used for communication.
The red uakari is one of the most brightly colored primates in the world, and is considered a charismatic species for ecotourism.
Conservation efforts for uakaris include protecting their habitat, reducing hunting, and promoting sustainable tourism.

2. Uguisu

The uguisu is a small bird species native to Japan, also known as the Japanese bush warbler.
They are known for their distinctive and melodic songs, which are considered a sign of spring in Japanese culture.
Uguisu are small, olive-green birds that are difficult to see in the wild due to their camouflaged plumage and preference for thick vegetation.

They feed on insects and other small invertebrates, and are important for controlling insect populations.
Uguisu are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, parks, and gardens.
They are monogamous and mate for life, with both parents caring for their young.

Uguisu have been a popular subject in Japanese poetry and literature for centuries, and are associated with themes of nature, beauty, and love.
In the past, uguisu were captured and kept in cages for their singing ability, but this practice has been largely banned in modern times.
Uguisu are considered a species of least concern by the IUCN, although habitat loss and degradation are ongoing threats to their populations.

Conservation efforts for uguisu include preserving their habitat, reducing pesticide use, and promoting ecotourism.

3. Uinta Ground Squirrel

The Uinta ground squirrel is a small rodent species found in the western United States, primarily in the Rocky Mountains and Great Basin regions.
They are known for their characteristic hibernation patterns, which can last up to 9 months out of the year.

Uinta ground squirrels have brownish-gray fur with lighter-colored underparts, and are distinguished by their short ears and bushy tails.
They feed primarily on vegetation, including grasses, seeds, and flowers.
Uinta ground squirrels are social animals and live in large colonies, with individuals occupying communal burrow systems.

They are active during the summer months, storing food and building up fat reserves to survive the long winter hibernation period.
During hibernation, Uinta ground squirrels experience a dramatic drop in body temperature, heart rate, and metabolic rate, allowing them to conserve energy during the winter months.
In the spring, Uinta ground squirrels emerge from hibernation and mate, giving birth to litters of up to 10 young.

Uinta ground squirrels play an important role in the ecosystem, serving as prey for a variety of predators, and helping to maintain plant populations through seed dispersal and fertilization.
Uinta ground squirrels are not considered to be threatened or endangered, although habitat loss and fragmentation can impact their populations in certain areas.

4. Uintatherium

Uintatherium is an extinct genus of large mammal that lived during the Eocene epoch, approximately 56-34 million years ago.

They are commonly referred to as “uintatheres” and were one of the largest land mammals of their time, reaching up to 2.5 meters in length and weighing over a ton.
Uintatheres were herbivores and had a unique dentition with large, tusk-like canine teeth used for defense and combat with other males during mating season.
They also had a set of blunt molars used for crushing tough vegetation, which were replaced periodically throughout their lifespan.

Uintatheres had a unique appearance with a heavily built body, short legs, and a broad skull with bony projections or “horns” over the nasal and temporal areas.
The exact function of these bony structures is not fully understood, but they may have been used for display, as a form of combat or dominance, or as a defense against predators.
Uintatheres are believed to have lived in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and grasslands.

They are known from a range of fossil finds across North America, including the famous Fossil Butte National Monument in Wyoming.
Uintatheres went extinct at the end of the Eocene epoch, likely due to a combination of climate change and competition with other mammal groups.
Despite their unique appearance and impressive size, Uintatherium is relatively unknown outside of the scientific community and has not had a significant impact on popular culture.

5. Umbrella Bird

The umbrella bird is a large, mostly black bird found in the rainforests of Central and South America.
They belong to the family Cotingidae, which includes other brightly colored birds like manakins and fruitcrows.
Umbrella birds can grow up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) in length, with a wingspan of up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet).

They have a distinctive, umbrella-shaped crest of feathers on their head, which is used during courtship displays to attract mates and intimidate rivals.
Umbrella birds are primarily frugivorous, but also eat insects, small vertebrates, and occasionally carrion.
They are important seed dispersers for many rainforest plants and play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem health.

Umbrella birds are currently listed as “Vulnerable” by the IUCN due to habitat loss and hunting, with only an estimated 10,000-20,000 individuals remaining in the wild.
They are relatively uncommon and difficult to observe in the wild, making them a popular target for birdwatchers and ecotourists.
Umbrella birds have also been featured in indigenous mythology and popular culture, and are sometimes known as “demon birds” due to their eerie appearance and strange vocalizations.

6. Unau (Linnaeus’s Two-Toed Sloth)

The Unau, also known as Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth, is a species of sloth found in the rainforests of South and Central America.
They belong to the family Megalonychidae, which includes other species of two-toed sloths.
Unaus are relatively large, with adults typically weighing between 4-8 kg (8.8-17.6 lbs) and measuring up to 70 cm (28 inches) in length.

They have long, curved claws and a slow, deliberate gait that allows them to move easily through trees and hang from branches.
Unaus are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of leaves, fruits, and flowers.
They are nocturnal and solitary, spending most of their time sleeping in trees and only coming down to defecate and urinate about once a week.

Unaus are an important part of their ecosystem, providing a habitat for a variety of organisms and helping to disperse seeds throughout the forest.
They are listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, although their population is declining due to habitat loss and hunting for their meat and fur.
Unaus have become popular symbols of relaxation and slow living, with their cute and cuddly appearance making them a popular subject of memes and internet culture.

7. Upland Sandpipe

The Upland Sandpiper is a species of bird found in grasslands and meadows of North America.
They are a medium-sized bird, with adults typically weighing between 170-290 grams (6-10 oz) and measuring up to 30 cm (12 inches) in length.
They have long, slender legs and a distinctive long neck and small head.

Upland Sandpipers are migratory birds, breeding in northern grasslands and spending the winter in the southern United States, Central America, and northern South America.
They primarily feed on insects and other small invertebrates, using their long bills to probe in the soil or catch prey in mid-air.
Upland Sandpipers are known for their distinctive call, which sounds like a soft, flute-like whistle.

Their population has declined in recent years due to habitat loss and changes in grassland management practices, leading to their classification as a “Species of High Concern” by the North American Bird Conservation Initiative.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect Upland Sandpiper habitat and promote sustainable grassland management practices.

8. Ural Owl

The Ural Owl is a medium-sized species of owl found in forests across northern and central Europe and Asia.

They are about 50-60 cm (20-24 inches) in length and weigh around 700-1200 grams (1.5-2.6 lbs).
Ural Owls have distinctive tufts of feathers on their heads and a prominent facial disk.
Their diet consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates.

Ural Owls are known for their territorial behavior, with each pair defending a territory of about 3-10 square kilometers (1-4 square miles).
They are also known for their vocalizations, including a series of hoots and a sharp barking call.
Ural Owls are considered a “least concern” species by the IUCN, although their populations have declined in some regions due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Conservation efforts are focused on preserving their forest habitat and promoting sustainable forestry practices.

9. Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake, also known as Bothrops alternatus, is a venomous pit viper species found in South America, including Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
They are a medium-sized snake, typically growing to about 70-100 cm (28-39 inches) in length, although some individuals can reach up to 150 cm (59 inches).

Urutu snakes have distinctive markings, including a series of dark, jagged stripes on a light background.
They are nocturnal and primarily hunt small mammals and birds, using their venom to immobilize prey.
Urutu snake venom is highly toxic and can cause severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage, as well as potential systemic effects such as low blood pressure, bleeding, and kidney damage.

Despite their venomous nature, Urutu snakes are sometimes kept as pets or used for their skin and meat.
The species is considered “least concern” by the IUCN due to its wide distribution and relatively stable populations, although habitat loss and fragmentation pose a potential threat in some areas.
While bites are relatively rare, efforts are underway to educate people on the dangers of handling or provoking Urutu snakes and to promote responsible management of venomous snakes in general.

10. Utonagan

The Utonagan is a breed of dog that was developed in the United Kingdom in the 1980s.
It was created by crossing various northern breeds, including the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, and German Shepherd, with the goal of producing a dog that resembled a wolf but had a friendly and trainable temperament.
Utonagans are medium to large dogs, with males typically weighing 30-40 kg (66-88 lbs) and females weighing 23-32 kg (50-70 lbs).

They have a thick, plush coat that can be gray, black, or sable in color, and typically require regular grooming to maintain.
Utonagans are known for being intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs that form strong bonds with their families.
They are also active and energetic dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Utonagans have been used for a variety of tasks, including search and rescue, therapy work, and as family pets.
Due to their wolf-like appearance, Utonagans are sometimes subject to breed-specific legislation and other restrictions in certain areas.
The breed is not recognized by major kennel clubs, but is recognized by several smaller organizations and breed registries.

11. Uinta Chipmunk

The Uinta chipmunk is a small species of chipmunk native to the western United States, specifically the Uinta Mountains of Utah and Wyoming.
They are one of the smallest chipmunk species, with adults typically weighing between 35-50 grams (1.2-1.8 ounces).
Uinta chipmunks have brown or grayish-brown fur on their backs, with lighter underbellies and white stripes on their cheeks and sides.

They are primarily active during the day and spend much of their time foraging for food, which consists primarily of seeds, nuts, and insects.
During the winter months, Uinta chipmunks will enter a period of torpor, where their metabolism slows down and they conserve energy to survive the colder temperatures and limited food sources.
Uinta chipmunks typically live for 2-3 years in the wild, although some individuals have been known to live up to 5 years.

The species is not currently considered threatened or endangered, although they may face habitat loss due to human development and other factors.

12. Uganda Woodland Warbler

The Uganda woodland warbler is a small passerine bird found in the tropical forests and woodlands of Uganda and neighboring countries in East Africa.
It is a relatively small bird, measuring around 12 cm (4.7 in) in length and weighing between 9-12 grams (0.3-0.4 oz).

The Uganda woodland warbler has olive-brown plumage on its upperparts, with a yellow throat and breast and a distinctive black band across its upper chest.
They are primarily insectivores, feeding on small insects and other invertebrates found in the forest understory.
The species is known for its unique song, which consists of a complex series of notes that are often compared to the sound of a ringing telephone.

Uganda woodland warblers are known to form monogamous pairs during the breeding season, with both parents contributing to nest building, incubation, and feeding of the young.
The species is currently classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN, although their forest habitat is threatened by deforestation and other human activities.

13. Ukrainian Riding Horse

The Ukrainian Riding Horse is a breed of horse developed in Ukraine for use as a riding and sport horse.

The breed was developed by crossing local Ukrainian horses with various European breeds, including Hanoverian, Trakehner, and Thoroughbred.
Ukrainian Riding Horses typically stand between 15.2 and 16.2 hands (158-168 cm) tall at the withers and weigh between 500-600 kg (1100-1320 lbs).
They have a compact, muscular build and a short, strong back that makes them well-suited for riding and jumping.

Ukrainian Riding Horses are known for their athleticism, endurance, and good temperament, which makes them well-suited for a variety of equestrian disciplines, including dressage, jumping, and eventing.
The breed is recognized by the Ukrainian Riding Horse Breeders Association, which maintains a studbook and promotes the breed through breed shows and other events.
The breed is relatively rare outside of Ukraine, although there are some breeders in other countries who are working to promote and preserve the breed.

14. Ultramarine Grosbeak

The Ultramarine Grosbeak is a species of songbird in the Cardinal family found in Central and South America.
Adult males have bright blue plumage on their head, back, and wings, while females are brown with a blue-gray head and wings.
They are medium-sized birds, measuring about 15 cm (6 inches) in length and weighing around 30-40 g (1-1.4 oz).

Ultramarine Grosbeaks feed primarily on seeds, fruit, and insects, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, plantations, and gardens.
They are generally solitary or found in pairs, and both males and females are known for their beautiful, melodious songs.
The breeding season for Ultramarine Grosbeaks typically runs from March to August, during which time they build nests in trees or shrubs and lay clutches of 2-3 eggs.

While the Ultramarine Grosbeak is not considered to be globally threatened, deforestation and habitat loss pose a potential threat to their populations in some areas.

15. Ultramarine Lorikeet

The Ultramarine Lorikeet is a species of parrot found in the Solomon Islands in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
Adult Ultramarine Lorikeets have a bright green plumage with blue highlights on their head, neck, and wings.

They are small parrots, measuring around 18 cm (7 inches) in length and weighing approximately 35-40 g (1.2-1.4 oz).
Ultramarine Lorikeets primarily feed on nectar and pollen from flowers, and they have specialized brush-tipped tongues that help them extract these food sources.
They are also known to eat insects and other small invertebrates, particularly during the breeding season when they need extra protein to raise their young.

The breeding season for Ultramarine Lorikeets runs from October to May, and they typically lay 2-3 eggs in a tree hollow or crevice.
The population of Ultramarine Lorikeets is considered to be stable, although habitat loss and fragmentation could potentially threaten their populations in the future.

16. Uliodon

17. Unicorn Fish

18. Union Jack Butterfly

19. Upland Pipit

Here are some statistics about the Upland Pipit:

Scientific name: Anthus sylvanus
Also known as the Tree Pipit or Forest Pipit
Found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa, specifically in upland areas and mountainous regions

Medium-sized songbird, averaging 15-16 centimeters in length and weighing around 20-25 grams
Light brown or buff-colored plumage, streaked with darker brown or black on the upperparts and breast, and with pale underparts
Long, pointed bill for catching insects and other small prey, and strong legs for perching and walking on the ground
Feeds primarily on insects and other invertebrates, which it catches on the ground or in the air, and sometimes eats seeds or fruits as well
Known for its distinctive, musical song, which consists of a series of rising and falling notes and can be heard from some distance away
Listed as a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), as it has a large global population and does not face significant threats. However, it may be locally threatened by habitat loss or degradation in some areas.

20. Utah Blind Snake

Here are some statistics about the Utah Blind Snake:

The Utah Blind Snake, also known as the Plains Blackhead Snake, is a small, non-venomous snake species found in parts of North America.
They are typically around 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) in length.
Their coloration is dark brown or black on the dorsal (upper) side, and light pink or white on the ventral (under) side.
They have a small, blunt head and a short, pointed tail.
Utah Blind Snakes are fossorial, meaning they spend most of their time underground, and are commonly found in areas with loose soil, such as grasslands and deserts.
They feed primarily on termites and other small invertebrates found in soil.
Little is known about the reproductive habits of Utah Blind Snakes, but they are thought to lay small clutches of eggs.

Conclusion: Animals That Start With U