20 Animals That Start With X (2023)

Welcome to animals that start with x. Tons of animals have names that start with the letter X. 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 X:

Xiphosura

Xerus
Xeme
Xenarthra

Xantus’ Hummingbird
Xanthippe’s Shrew
Xantic Sargo

Xantus Leaf-toed Gecko
Xantus Murrelet
Xingu Corydoras

Xenops
Xenurus unicinctus
Xestochilus nebulosus

Xinjiang Ground-jay
Xoloitzcuintli
X-ray Tetra

Xylophagous Leafhopper
Xuthus Swallowtail
Xucaneb Robber Frog

Xalda Sheep

Table of Contents show

1. Xiphosura

Xiphosura is a subphylum of arthropods, also known as horseshoe crabs.
They have a hard exoskeleton that protects their body and a long, spiky tail.

Xiphosura can be found in marine environments, often living in shallow water near the shore.
They are considered living fossils because they have changed very little over the past 450 million years.
There are four extant species of Xiphosura: Limulus polyphemus, Tachypleus tridentatus, Tachypleus gigas, and Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda.

They are important to human medicine because their blood contains a substance called Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL), which is used to detect bacterial endotoxins in medical equipment and drugs.

2. Xerus

Here are some statistics about the Xerus, also known as the African ground squirrel:

Scientific name: Xerus inauris

Average weight: 400-500 grams (0.88-1.1 pounds)
Average length: 25-30 cm (9.8-11.8 inches)
Lifespan: up to 8 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivity

Habitat: savannas, grasslands, and scrublands in sub-Saharan Africa
Diet: primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, seeds, fruits, and occasionally insects or small vertebrates
Behavior: social animals that live in large groups called colonies or coteries, consisting of multiple family groups

Reproduction: females give birth to litters of 1-8 young after a gestation period of around 40 days
Conservation status: Xerus inauris is listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), although some populations may be threatened by habitat loss or degradation.

3. Xeme (Sabine’s gull or fork-tailed gull)

Here are some statistics in bullet point format about the Xeme bird:

The Xeme (also known as the Sabine’s gull or fork-tailed gull) is a small seabird that belongs to the Laridae family.
They breed in the Arctic tundra and migrate south for the winter, with some populations traveling as far as the southern Atlantic Ocean.
The Xeme is a small bird, measuring approximately 30-36 cm (12-14 in) in length and weighing around 100-200 grams (3.5-7 oz).

The Xeme has a distinctive forked tail, black head, and white body with grey wings. During breeding season, its bill and legs turn red.
Xemes feed on small fish, insects, and crustaceans, which they catch by diving into the water from the air.
Xemes are colonial breeders, nesting in large groups on the ground or on cliffs near the coast. They lay 2-3 eggs per clutch, and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.

The global population of Xemes is estimated to be around 200,000 individuals, with some populations experiencing declines due to habitat loss and other threats. However, overall they are considered a species of “least concern” by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

4. Xenarthra

Here are some statistics in bullet point format about the Xenarthra:

The Xenarthra is a superorder of placental mammals that includes armadillos, anteaters, and sloths.

Xenarthrans are found exclusively in the Americas, ranging from the southern United States to South America.
There are 31 species of living Xenarthrans, which are divided into three main groups: armadillos, anteaters, and sloths.
Xenarthrans are known for their unique skeletal features, including extra joints in their vertebrae and elongated forelimbs with specialized claws for digging and clinging.

Most Xenarthrans are herbivorous, with the exception of the anteaters, which feed primarily on ants and termites.
Xenarthrans have a low metabolic rate and body temperature, allowing them to conserve energy and survive in harsh environments with limited food resources.
Many Xenarthrans are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as hunting and poaching for their meat, skin, and other body parts.

The largest Xenarthran is the giant armadillo, which can weigh up to 60 kg (130 lbs), while the smallest is the silky anteater, which weighs only 200-300 grams (7-10 oz).
Xenarthrans have been around for at least 60 million years, and have evolved to fill a diverse range of ecological niches, from burrowing herbivores to arboreal folivores.

5. Xantus’ Hummingbird

Here are some statistics in bullet point format about the Xantus’ Hummingbird:

The Xantus’ Hummingbird (Hylocharis xantusii) is a small hummingbird species that is found in the southwestern United States and Baja California, Mexico.
It is named after John Xantus de Vesey, a Hungarian naturalist who collected the type specimen in Baja California in the 1850s.
Xantus’ Hummingbirds are typically 7-9 cm (2.8-3.5 in) in length and weigh about 3-4 grams.

Males have a metallic green crown, iridescent blue-green throat, and a rusty-orange underbelly, while females have a greenish crown and back, white throat, and pale grey underbelly.
They are a non-migratory species and are found in a range of habitats, including chaparral, coastal scrub, and oak woodlands.
Xantus’ Hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar from flowers, but also eat small insects and spiders for protein.

They breed in the spring and summer, with females building small cup-shaped nests made of plant fibers and spiderwebs, often in cactus or tree branches.
Xantus’ Hummingbirds are currently listed as a species of “least concern” by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, but are vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation in parts of their range.
They are also a popular species for birdwatchers and hummingbird enthusiasts, and can be attracted to backyard feeders with sugar water or nectar.

6. Xanthippe’s Shrew

7. Xantic Sargo

8. Xantus Leaf-toed Gecko

Here are some statistics in bullet point format about the Xantus Leaf-toed Gecko:

The Xantus Leaf-toed Gecko (Phyllodactylus xanti) is a small, nocturnal lizard species that is native to the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico.
It is named after John Xantus de Vesey, a Hungarian naturalist who collected the type specimen in Baja California in the 1850s.
Xantus Leaf-toed Geckos are typically 8-10 cm (3-4 in) in length and have flattened bodies, broad toes with adhesive pads, and large eyes with vertical pupils.

They are light brown or gray in color with dark spots or stripes on their backs, and have a prominent row of enlarged scales on their toes.
Xantus Leaf-toed Geckos are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small arthropods such as spiders, beetles, and moths.
They are oviparous, laying 1-2 eggs per clutch in rocky crevices or under debris on the ground.

Xantus Leaf-toed Geckos are considered a species of “least concern” by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, but are vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation due to human development and land use changes.
They are also a popular species for reptile enthusiasts and are occasionally kept as pets, although collection from the wild is not recommended.

9. Xantus Murrelet

Here are some statistics in bullet point format about the Xantus Murrelet:

The Xantus Murrelet (Synthliboramphus hypoleucus) is a small seabird species that is native to the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from Alaska to Baja California, Mexico.
It is named after John Xantus de Vesey, a Hungarian naturalist who collected the type specimen off the coast of California in the 1850s.
Xantus Murrelets are typically 23-26 cm (9-10 in) in length and have a distinctive black-and-white plumage, with a black crown, nape, and back, white face, throat, and underparts, and a thin black bill.

They are highly pelagic, spending most of their lives at sea and only coming to land to breed.
Xantus Murrelets primarily feed on small fish and invertebrates, diving up to 60 meters (200 feet) deep to catch their prey.
They nest in rock crevices or burrows on islands or coastal cliffs, laying a single egg per clutch.

Xantus Murrelets are considered a species of “near threatened” by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, due to their low population size and susceptibility to oil spills, habitat loss, and disturbance from human activities.
They are also a popular species for birdwatchers and seabird enthusiasts, with some populations protected within national parks and wildlife refuges.

10. Xingu Corydoras

Here are some bullet points with statistics about the Xingu Corydoras:

The Xingu Corydoras (Corydoras sp. CW115) is a species of freshwater catfish that belongs to the Corydoradinae subfamily.
This species is endemic to the Xingu River basin in Brazil, which is known for its high diversity of fish species.
The Xingu Corydoras was first described in 2006 by the German ichthyologist Joachim Knaack, based on specimens collected in the Xingu River.

The Xingu Corydoras is a relatively small fish, with a maximum recorded size of around 2 inches (5 cm) in length.
This species has a distinctive coloration, with a light beige body and a series of dark, irregular blotches on its sides that are arranged in rows.
The Xingu Corydoras is a peaceful, social fish that is well-suited for community aquariums with other small, non-aggressive fish species.

Like other members of the Corydoradinae subfamily, the Xingu Corydoras is a bottom-dwelling fish that feeds on small invertebrates and organic matter that it finds in the substrate.
In the wild, the Xingu Corydoras inhabits slow-moving or still waters in the Xingu River basin, such as oxbow lakes, flooded forests, and swamps.
The conservation status of the Xingu Corydoras is not currently assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but its restricted range and the potential impacts of habitat degradation and overfishing in the Xingu River basin highlight the need for conservation efforts to protect this and other endemic fish species.

11. Xenops

Here are some bullet points with statistics about the Xenops:

The Xenops is a small, insect-eating bird that belongs to the family Furnariidae, which is known for its highly diverse and specialized species that inhabit a variety of habitats throughout the Neotropics.
There are several species of Xenops, with the most widespread being the Plain-brown Xenops (Xenops minutus) and the Streaked Xenops (Xenops rutilans).

Xenops are found throughout most of Central and South America, ranging from Mexico to Argentina, and can be found in a variety of forested habitats, including rainforests, montane forests, and dry forests.
Xenops are small birds, typically measuring around 4-5 inches (10-12 cm) in length and weighing less than an ounce (30 g).
The Plain-brown Xenops is named for its plain brown coloration, while the Streaked Xenops has a more distinctive pattern of streaks and spots on its back and wings.

Xenops are highly adapted for their insectivorous diet, with sharp, pointed bills and stiff tail feathers that help them cling to tree trunks and branches while searching for prey.
Xenops are generally solitary birds, and are most commonly observed foraging for insects and other small invertebrates on their own or in pairs.
Xenops are not considered to be threatened or endangered, although some species may be affected by habitat loss and fragmentation due to deforestation and other human activities.

Because of their small size and often cryptic behavior, Xenops can be difficult to observe and study in the wild, and much of their biology and ecology remains poorly understood.

12. Xenurus unicinctus

The Xenurus unicinctus is a species of South American armadillo that is also known as the collared armadillo or the two-banded armadillo.
This species is found in a variety of habitats throughout much of South America, including savannas, dry forests, and scrublands.

The Xenurus unicinctus is a relatively small armadillo, with a typical length of around 16-20 inches (40-50 cm) and a weight of 2-4 pounds (1-2 kg).
This species is named for the distinctive band of dark fur that encircles its body between the shoulder and hip regions, giving it the appearance of wearing a collar.
The Xenurus unicinctus is primarily nocturnal, and spends much of its time foraging for food on the ground, using its keen sense of smell to detect insects, small vertebrates, and other prey items.

Like other armadillos, the Xenurus unicinctus has a tough, armored shell made up of bony plates that provide protection from predators and other threats.
The conservation status of the Xenurus unicinctus is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), although some local populations may be threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
Armadillos like the Xenurus unicinctus play important ecological roles in their habitats, such as helping to control insect populations and aerating soil through their digging and foraging behaviors.

Despite their ecological importance, armadillos are often subject to negative human attitudes and are sometimes hunted or killed for their meat or because they are considered pests or agricultural pests.

13. Xestochilus nebulosus

Xestochilus nebulosus is a species of beetle belonging to the family Cerambycidae, commonly known as longhorn beetles. Here are some general statistics about this species:

Size: Xestochilus nebulosus can grow up to 20 mm in length.

Habitat: This species is found in the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname.
Diet: Xestochilus nebulosus feeds on the wood of trees and shrubs, especially those in the family Melastomataceae.
Physical features: The body of Xestochilus nebulosus is elongated and narrow, with a dark brown or black coloration. They have long antennae which can be as long as the body, and have a characteristic white band on their elytra (wing cases).

Behavior: Xestochilus nebulosus is a diurnal species, meaning that they are active during the day. They are also known to be good fliers, which allows them to move from tree to tree in search of food and mates.
Conservation status: There is no specific conservation status assigned to this species, although it is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation.

14. Xinjiang Ground-jay

The Xinjiang Ground-jay (Podoces biddulphi) is a species of bird that is endemic to the mountains and deserts of Xinjiang province in northwestern China.

The Xinjiang Ground-jay belongs to the family Corvidae, which includes crows, ravens, and other jays, but it is the only member of its genus.
This species is medium-sized, typically measuring around 11-12 inches (28-30 cm) in length and weighing around 4-5 ounces (110-140 g).
The Xinjiang Ground-jay is primarily a ground-dwelling bird that is well adapted to life in arid and semi-arid habitats, where it forages for insects, seeds, and other small items in the dry soil and scrubby vegetation.

The plumage of the Xinjiang Ground-jay is distinctive, with a bright blue head, neck, and upper body, contrasted with a rusty-brown lower body and tail. The bill and legs are also bright blue.
The Xinjiang Ground-jay is considered to be a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by human activities such as mining and development, as well as overgrazing and other disturbances.
The Xinjiang Ground-jay is a social bird that typically lives in small groups or pairs, and is known for its complex vocalizations and unique behaviors, such as using sticks and stones to draw insects out of crevices and other hiding places.

Due to its restricted range and vulnerable status, the Xinjiang Ground-jay is of high conservation concern, and efforts are underway to better understand and protect this unique and fascinating bird.

15. Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is a breed of dog that is native to Mexico and has been known to exist for over 3,000 years.
There are three sizes of Xoloitzcuintli: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The Toy size stands 10-14 inches (25-36 cm) tall at the shoulder and weighs up to 15 pounds (7 kg), while the Standard size stands 20-30 inches (51-76 cm) tall and can weigh up to 55 pounds (25 kg).

The Xoloitzcuintli is a hairless breed, but can also have a coated variety with a short, flat coat. The hairless variety has smooth, soft skin that is prone to sunburn and needs protection from extreme temperatures, while the coated variety has a short, glossy coat that is easy to maintain.
The Xoloitzcuintli is an intelligent and affectionate breed that makes a good companion for those who appreciate their unique looks and personality. They are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and independent spirit.
The Xoloitzcuintli is a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-14 years on average, but may be prone to certain health issues such as skin problems, eye problems, and dental issues.

The Xoloitzcuintli has a special place in Mexican culture, and is often associated with mystical and spiritual beliefs. They were considered sacred by the Aztecs and believed to have healing powers, and are still used in some traditional healing practices in Mexico.
The Xoloitzcuintli is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and has been shown in the United States since the 1800s, but is still a rare breed in many parts of the world.
The Xoloitzcuintli is an active breed that needs regular exercise and mental stimulation, and may enjoy a variety of activities such as agility, obedience, and lure coursing. They also make good watchdogs and can be trained to perform many tasks.

16. X-ray Tetra

The X-ray Tetra, also known as the Pristella Tetra or Golden Pristella Tetra, is a freshwater fish that is native to South America, particularly the Amazon River basin and coastal rivers of northeastern Brazil.
The X-ray Tetra is a small fish, typically measuring only 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) in length. They are transparent, with a silvery white body and a distinctive black horizontal stripe running from the base of the tail to the edge of the gill plate.
The X-ray Tetra is a popular aquarium fish, known for its hardiness, peaceful temperament, and striking appearance. They are often kept in schools of 6 or more in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places and gentle filtration.

The X-ray Tetra is an omnivorous fish that will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.
The X-ray Tetra is named for the way its internal organs are visible through its transparent body, resembling an X-ray image. This is thought to serve as a form of camouflage or warning signal to potential predators.
The X-ray Tetra is a relatively easy fish to breed in captivity, with males and females displaying courtship behavior and laying eggs on the underside of leaves or other surfaces. The eggs hatch in 24-36 hours and the fry are relatively easy to rear.

The X-ray Tetra is not considered to be a threatened species in the wild, but is occasionally caught for the aquarium trade. It is important to source these fish from responsible breeders or suppliers to ensure their sustainability and minimize the impact on wild populations.
The X-ray Tetra is a peaceful community fish that can be kept with other small, non-aggressive species such as other tetras, rasboras, and small catfish. They may be intimidated by larger or more aggressive fish and should be kept in a well-maintained and appropriately-sized aquarium.

17. Xylophagous Leafhopper

Leafhoppers are a group of small, plant-feeding insects in the family Cicadellidae, which is one of the largest families of insects with over 20,000 known species.

Leafhoppers are found in almost all terrestrial habitats around the world, and are particularly abundant in agricultural and horticultural settings where they can cause significant damage to crops.
Leafhoppers vary in size and color, with most species ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 inch (3-13 mm) in length and often having vibrant patterns or markings on their bodies.
Leafhoppers are known for their ability to jump long distances, often several times their own body length, using powerful hind legs to propel themselves away from predators or disturbances.

Leafhoppers are classified as hemipterans, or true bugs, and have piercing-sucking mouthparts that allow them to feed on the sap of plants. Some species also transmit plant diseases through their feeding behavior.
Leafhoppers have a relatively short lifespan, typically living for only a few weeks to a few months depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Leafhoppers have a variety of natural enemies, including birds, spiders, and parasitic wasps, that help to keep their populations in check. Pesticides and other chemical controls are also used to manage leafhopper infestations in agricultural settings.

Despite their small size and potential for damage to crops, leafhoppers are also important as a food source for other organisms in ecosystems, including other insects, birds, and small mammals.
Leafhoppers have been the subject of extensive scientific research in fields such as ecology, evolution, and plant-insect interactions, and continue to be a focus of study and interest for scientists and naturalists.

18. Xuthus Swallowtail

The Xuthus Swallowtail (Papilio xuthus) is a species of butterfly in the family Papilionidae, which is known for its large size, striking coloration, and distinctive tail-like extensions on the hindwings.

The Xuthus Swallowtail is found in East Asia, including Japan, China, and Korea, and is a migratory species that can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, gardens, and urban areas.
The wingspan of the Xuthus Swallowtail can range from 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) in length, with the males typically smaller than the females. The wings are black with bright yellow bands and spots, and have distinctive blue and red markings near the base.
The Xuthus Swallowtail feeds on a variety of nectar-producing flowers, and its larvae feed on the leaves of plants in the citrus family, including orange, lemon, and grapefruit trees.
The Xuthus Swallowtail has a relatively short lifespan, typically living for only a few weeks to a few months depending on the environmental conditions and availability of food.
The Xuthus Swallowtail is considered to be a beneficial species in many parts of its range, as it is a natural pollinator of many flowers and helps to control populations of plants in the citrus family that can become invasive or damaging to agricultural crops.
The Xuthus Swallowtail has been the subject of study in fields such as genetics, evolution, and ecology, and is an important model organism in research on the evolution of mimicry and coloration in butterflies and other insects.
The Xuthus Swallowtail is also popular with butterfly enthusiasts and collectors, and is sometimes raised in captivity for educational and scientific purposes. However, care should be taken to ensure that captive populations are not released into the wild and potentially disrupt local ecosystems or populations of native species.

19. Xucaneb Rubber Frog

20. Xalda Sheep

The Xalda Sheep is a rare breed of domestic sheep that is native to the mountainous regions of Asturias in northern Spain.
The Xalda Sheep is a small breed, with adults typically weighing between 44 and 77 pounds (20-35 kg), and has a distinctive appearance with a black face, white wool, and curved horns in both males and females.
The Xalda Sheep is well-adapted to the harsh climate and rugged terrain of its native habitat, where it is able to forage on sparse vegetation and withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
The Xalda Sheep is primarily raised for its meat, which is highly prized for its quality and flavor, as well as its wool, which is used to make high-quality, artisanal textiles.
The Xalda Sheep is considered a rare and endangered breed, with only a few hundred animals remaining in existence. Efforts are underway to preserve the breed through selective breeding, conservation programs, and marketing initiatives to increase the demand for Xalda Sheep products.
The Xalda Sheep has been the subject of research in fields such as animal genetics, nutrition, and breeding, and is of interest to scientists and conservationists for its unique adaptations and potential value as a genetic resource.
The Xalda Sheep is also important to the cultural heritage and identity of the Asturian people, who have traditionally raised the breed and incorporated its products into their cuisine and artisanal crafts.

Conclusion: Animals That Start With X