20 Animals That Start With Z (2023)

Welcome to animals that start with z. Tons of animals have names that start with the letter Z. 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 Z:

Zebra

Zebra Finch
Zebra Mussels
Zebra Pleco

Zebra Shark
Zebra Snake
Zebra Spitting Cobra

Zebu
Zonkey
Zorse

Zuchon
Zapata Rail
Zebra Duiker

Zigzag Heron
Zebra Fish
Zenaida Dove

Zokor
Zorilla
Zorro

Zamurito

Table of Contents show

1. Zebra

Zebras are members of the horse family (Equidae) and are native to Africa.
There are three species of zebra: the Plains zebra, the Grevy’s zebra, and the Mountain zebra.

The Plains zebra is the most common of the three species, and its populations are relatively stable.
Zebras are herbivores and primarily eat grasses, as well as some leaves, shoots, and bark.
Adult zebras weigh between 440 and 990 pounds (200-450 kg) and stand between 3.5 and 5 feet (1-1.5 m) tall at the shoulder.

Zebras have distinctive black and white stripes, which are unique to each individual and can be used to identify them.
Scientists are still unsure exactly why zebras have stripes, but some theories suggest that they may help to deter biting insects or provide camouflage from predators.
Zebras can run up to 40 miles (64 km) per hour and are known for their agility and endurance.

Zebras live in groups called herds, which can range in size from just a few individuals to hundreds.
Female zebras give birth to a single foal after a gestation period of around 12-14 months.
Despite their relative abundance, some populations of zebras are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and competition with livestock for resources.

2. Zebra Finch

The Zebra Finch (Taeniopygia guttata) is a small songbird that is native to Australia and Indonesia.
It is a popular species for research on vocal learning and behavior, as well as neurobiology and genetics.
Zebra finches are small birds, weighing only 0.5 to 0.7 ounces (15-20 grams) and measuring around 3.9 to 4.3 inches (10-11 cm) in length.

The males have a distinctive black and white striped pattern on their throat and chest, which gives the species its name.
Zebra finches are social birds that live in flocks in the wild, and can be kept in pairs or small groups in captivity.
They are known for their cheerful and lively song, which males use to attract females and to establish territory.

Zebra finches are monogamous and pair bonds can last for several breeding seasons.
Females typically lay 4-6 eggs per clutch, and both parents help to incubate the eggs and feed the chicks.
Zebra finches have a relatively short lifespan, with wild birds living for around 2-3 years and captive birds sometimes living up to 7-8 years.

Zebra finches are granivores, meaning that they primarily eat seeds, and their diet can be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables in captivity.
The Zebra Finch is one of the most widely studied bird species, and has contributed significantly to our understanding of vocal learning, social behavior, and neurobiology.

3. Zebra Mussels

The Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) is a small freshwater mollusk that is native to the Caspian and Black Sea regions of Eurasia.

It was introduced to North America in the 1980s, likely via ballast water from cargo ships.
Zebra mussels are highly invasive and have spread rapidly throughout many waterways in North America, including the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River, and numerous other rivers and lakes.
They have also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe and Asia.

Zebra mussels are small, with adults growing to a length of around 1.5 inches (3.8 cm).
They have a distinctive striped pattern on their shells, which is where they get their name.
Zebra mussels are filter feeders, meaning that they feed by filtering small particles from the water.

They can reproduce quickly and in large numbers, and have few natural predators in their non-native habitats.
Zebra mussels can cause significant environmental and economic damage, including clogging water intake pipes, damaging boats and other water infrastructure, and outcompeting native species for resources.
The economic impact of zebra mussels in North America has been estimated to be in the billions of dollars.

Numerous efforts have been made to control or eradicate zebra mussels, including using chemical treatments, physical removal, and biological control methods.
Prevention remains the most effective strategy for limiting the spread of zebra mussels, and boaters and other recreational water users are advised to take precautions to avoid transporting them to new waterways.

4. Zebra Pleco

The Zebra Pleco (Hypancistrus zebra) is a species of catfish that is native to the Xingu River in Brazil.

It is a popular species in the aquarium trade due to its distinctive appearance and relatively small size.
Zebra Plecos are small, growing to a length of only 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) and weighing less than 1 ounce (25 grams).
They have a distinctive black and white striped pattern on their body, which gives the species its name.

Zebra Plecos are bottom-dwelling fish that prefer slow-moving, well-oxygenated water.
They are relatively peaceful and can be kept in community aquariums with other small, non-aggressive fish.
In the wild, Zebra Plecos primarily eat small invertebrates such as crustaceans and insect larvae, but they can be fed a variety of foods in captivity, including sinking pellets and frozen or live foods.

Zebra Plecos are a popular breeding species in the aquarium trade, but they can be difficult to breed and raise in captivity.
Due to their popularity and limited wild populations, Zebra Plecos are listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Wild populations of Zebra Plecos are threatened by habitat loss and degradation, as well as overcollection for the aquarium trade.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species and its habitat, including efforts to promote sustainable harvesting and captive breeding programs.

5. Zebra Shark

The Zebra Shark (Stegostoma fasciatum) is a species of carpet shark that is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from South Africa to the western Pacific Ocean.
It is also known as the Leopard Shark, although it is not related to the Leopard Shark found in the eastern Pacific.

Zebra Sharks are relatively large, growing up to a length of 8.2 feet (2.5 meters) and weighing up to 110 pounds (50 kilograms).
They have a distinctive pattern of dark stripes on a tan or yellowish-brown background, which gives the species its name.
Zebra Sharks are bottom-dwelling and are often found in shallow, sandy habitats such as coral reefs and estuaries.

They are carnivorous, feeding primarily on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.
Zebra Sharks are oviparous, meaning that they lay eggs, and the eggs are enclosed in a tough, leathery case known as a mermaid’s purse.
Female Zebra Sharks can lay up to 50 eggs per year, and the eggs hatch after a period of around 4-6 months.

Zebra Sharks are not considered a significant threat to humans, although they have been known to bite when provoked or threatened.
The IUCN lists Zebra Sharks as a vulnerable species, primarily due to overfishing and habitat loss.
The meat and fins of Zebra Sharks are highly valued in some parts of the world, and they are also caught for the aquarium trade.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species and its habitat, including the establishment of marine protected areas and efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices.

6. Zebra Snake

7. Zebra Spitting Cobra

The Zebra Spitting Cobra (Naja nigricollis) is a species of venomous snake that is found in sub-Saharan Africa.

It is also known as the Black-necked Spitting Cobra or the Western Barred Spitting Cobra.
Zebra Spitting Cobras are relatively large, growing up to a length of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters).
They have a distinctive black and white striped pattern on their neck, which gives the species its name.

Zebra Spitting Cobras are highly venomous and can deliver a potentially lethal bite if provoked or threatened.
They are also capable of spitting venom up to 6.5 feet (2 meters) away, which can cause blindness and other serious symptoms if it enters the eyes or other mucous membranes.
Zebra Spitting Cobras primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and other reptiles.

They are primarily active at night and are often found near human habitation, which can lead to conflicts with humans.
Zebra Spitting Cobras are not considered a significant threat to humans, although bites can be serious or fatal if left untreated.
The IUCN lists Zebra Spitting Cobras as a species of least concern, although some populations may be threatened by habitat loss or overcollection for the pet trade.

It is illegal to export or import Zebra Spitting Cobras or any other venomous snakes without proper permits, and it is important to exercise caution around these and other venomous snakes to avoid being bitten.

8. Zebu

The Zebu (Bos primigenius indicus) is a species of domestic cattle that is found in South Asia and parts of Africa.
It is also known as the Brahman, humped cattle, or Indian cattle.

Zebu cattle are known for their distinctive hump on their shoulders, which is made up of muscle and helps them store water and fat during periods of drought.
They have a variety of coat colors, including white, gray, brown, and black, and can have long, droopy ears.
Zebus are well-adapted to hot, humid climates and are often used for milk, meat, and as draft animals for plowing fields.

They are also highly valued in some cultures for religious and ceremonial purposes.
Zebus are relatively small compared to other cattle breeds, with males weighing up to 1,800 pounds (820 kilograms) and females weighing up to 1,000 pounds (450 kilograms).
Zebu cattle are known for their resistance to diseases and parasites, making them a popular choice in areas where other cattle breeds struggle to survive.

The Zebu is believed to be one of the oldest domesticated cattle breeds in the world, with evidence of their domestication dating back thousands of years.
The Zebu has been introduced to other parts of the world, including South America, where it is known as the Brahman.
Zebu populations are not considered to be at risk, and the species is classified as of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

9. Zonkey

The Zonkey is a hybrid animal that is created by crossing a zebra with a donkey.
It is also known as a zebroid or zebrass.
Zonkeys are not a natural species, and only exist in captivity or as a result of human intervention.

They have a unique appearance, with a donkey-like body and a zebra-like striped pattern on their legs and sometimes on their body.
Zonkeys can vary in size depending on the size of their donkey and zebra parents, but are typically smaller than either species, with an average height of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters).
Zonkeys are typically sterile and unable to reproduce, although rare cases of fertile zonkeys have been reported.

Zonkeys are not considered a distinct species and are not recognized by any official animal organization or registry.
They are often bred for novelty or educational purposes, but are not commonly kept as pets due to their unusual needs and specialized care.
The lifespan of a zonkey can vary, but is typically around 15-20 years, depending on their living conditions and level of care.

Zonkeys can display traits from both of their parent species, including stubbornness from the donkey and aggression from the zebra.
While zonkeys are not endangered, both zebras and donkeys face threats to their populations from habitat loss, hunting, and other factors.

10. Zorse

The Zorse is a hybrid animal that is created by crossing a zebra with a horse.

It is also known as a zebroid or zebra horse.
Zorses are not a natural species, and only exist in captivity or as a result of human intervention.
They have a unique appearance, with a horse-like body and a zebra-like striped pattern on their legs and sometimes on their body.

Zorses can vary in size depending on the size of their horse and zebra parents, but are typically smaller than horses and larger than zebras, with an average height of 12-15 hands (48-60 inches, or 122-152 cm).
Zorses are typically sterile and unable to reproduce, although rare cases of fertile zorses have been reported.
Zorses are not considered a distinct species and are not recognized by any official animal organization or registry.

They are often bred for novelty or educational purposes, but are not commonly kept as pets due to their unusual needs and specialized care.
The lifespan of a zorse can vary, but is typically around 25-30 years, depending on their living conditions and level of care.
Zorses can display traits from both of their parent species, including the speed and agility of a horse and the endurance and resilience of a zebra.

While zorses are not endangered, both zebras and horses face threats to their populations from habitat loss, hunting, and other factors.

11. Zuchon

The Zuchon, also known as the Shichon, is a small dog breed that is a cross between a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu.
Zuchons are typically small in size, with an average height of 9-12 inches (23-30 cm) and a weight of 8-15 pounds (3.5-7 kg).

They have a soft, fluffy coat that is typically white or cream in color, and may have some brown or black markings.
Zuchons are known for their friendly, affectionate personalities, and are often kept as companion animals.
They are typically good with children and other pets, and are considered a good choice for families.

Zuchons require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition, as well as regular exercise and playtime.
They have a lifespan of around 12-15 years, depending on their health and level of care.
Zuchons are generally healthy and don’t have any major health issues, but may be prone to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and dental problems.

Zuchons are a relatively new breed and are not recognized by major kennel clubs, although some breeders and organizations are working to establish breed standards.
Zuchons are a popular choice for those who want a small, friendly, and low-shedding dog that is easy to train and care for.

12. Zapata Rail

The Zapata Rail (Cyanolimnas cerverai) is a rare and endangered bird species that is found only in the Zapata Swamp in southwestern Cuba.

The Zapata Swamp is the largest wetland area in the Caribbean and is a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve.
The Zapata Rail is a medium-sized rail, with a length of about 23 cm (9 inches) and a weight of around 80-100 grams.
The bird has dark brown plumage with a gray face and a reddish-brown bill.

The Zapata Rail is known for its distinctive, high-pitched vocalization, which sounds like a repeated “chip-chip-chip”.
The Zapata Rail is a secretive and elusive bird, and is rarely seen or photographed in the wild.
The species is considered endangered due to habitat loss and degradation caused by human activities such as agriculture, deforestation, and water extraction.

The bird is also threatened by predators such as feral cats and introduced rats, which prey on its eggs and young.
It is estimated that the wild population of Zapata Rails is less than 1,000 individuals, making it one of the rarest birds in the world.
Conservation efforts for the Zapata Rail include habitat restoration, predator control, and captive breeding programs.

The bird is legally protected in Cuba and is listed as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
The Zapata Rail is an important symbol of the conservation of Cuba’s unique biodiversity and wetland habitats.

13. Zebra Duiker

The Zebra Duiker (Cephalophus zebra) is a small antelope species found in the rainforests of West and Central Africa.

The Zebra Duiker is named for its distinctive striped markings, which are black and white and resemble the stripes of a zebra.
The adult Zebra Duiker stands about 60-80 cm (24-31 inches) tall at the shoulder and weighs around 18-24 kg (40-53 lbs).
The Zebra Duiker has a short, coarse coat that is dark brown in color, with the distinctive white stripes on its back, flanks, and legs.

The Zebra Duiker is a solitary and elusive animal, and is primarily active at dawn and dusk.
The species feeds on a variety of plant matter, including leaves, fruit, and flowers.
The Zebra Duiker is hunted for its meat and hides, and is also threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation caused by deforestation and human activities.

The Zebra Duiker is listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Conservation efforts for the Zebra Duiker include protected area management, anti-poaching measures, and education and awareness programs for local communities.
The Zebra Duiker is an important part of the rainforest ecosystem, playing a role in seed dispersal and contributing to the diversity of the forest floor.

14. Zigzag Heron

The Zigzag Heron (Zebrilus undulatus) is a small heron species found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America.
The Zigzag Heron is named for its distinctive zigzag pattern on its neck and upper chest, which is black and white in color.
The adult Zigzag Heron stands about 33-38 cm (13-15 inches) tall and weighs around 160-190 grams (5.6-6.7 ounces).
The Zigzag Heron has a dark brown or black back and wings, with white and brown streaks on its neck and chest.
The species is primarily active at dawn and dusk, and is known for its secretive behavior and difficult-to-observe habits.
The Zigzag Heron feeds on a variety of small aquatic animals, including fish, crustaceans, and insects.
The Zigzag Heron is listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, although its population is thought to be declining due to habitat loss and degradation caused by deforestation and human activities.
Conservation efforts for the Zigzag Heron include protected area management and research on the species’ ecology and behavior.
The Zigzag Heron is an important part of the tropical rainforest ecosystem, contributing to the diversity and balance of the aquatic and terrestrial food webs.

15. Zebra Fish

The Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a small freshwater fish native to South Asia, commonly used as a model organism in scientific research.
The Zebrafish is named for its distinctive black and white stripes that run the length of its body, resembling the stripes of a zebra.
The adult Zebrafish typically grows to about 2.5-4 cm (1-1.6 inches) in length and weighs around 0.5-1 gram.
The Zebrafish has a relatively short lifespan of about 2-3 years in captivity, making it a convenient animal model for research studies that require a short lifespan.
The species is known for its rapid reproduction and ability to regenerate many types of tissues and organs, making it a valuable tool in studies of genetics, development, and disease.
The Zebrafish feeds on small aquatic organisms, such as plankton, and is commonly used in aquaculture as a feeder fish for larger predatory fish species.
The Zebrafish is not considered a threatened species, and is widely distributed in the aquarium trade as a popular ornamental fish.
The Zebrafish is a popular model organism in scientific research, with a well-annotated genome and a variety of genetic and molecular tools available for use in experimental studies.
The Zebrafish is used in a wide range of research fields, including genetics, developmental biology, neuroscience, and drug discovery, and has contributed to numerous scientific breakthroughs and discoveries.

16. Zenaida Dove

The Zenaida Dove (Zenaida aurita) is a medium-sized dove species found in the Caribbean and the Americas, from the southern United States to northern Argentina.
The Zenaida Dove is named after the wife of French naturalist Charles Lucien Bonaparte, who described the species in the 19th century.
The adult Zenaida Dove is typically about 22-29 cm (8.7-11.4 inches) in length and weighs around 85-140 grams (3-5 ounces).
The Zenaida Dove has a light brown to grayish-brown body, with a distinctive white patch on its wings and a black line running through its eyes.
The species is primarily found in dry and semi-arid habitats, such as savannas, grasslands, and desert edges, where it feeds on seeds, fruits, and insects.
The Zenaida Dove is a common and widespread species, with a stable population and a range that spans over 10 million square kilometers.
The Zenaida Dove is not considered threatened, and is hunted for sport and food in some areas of its range.
The species is an important seed disperser, helping to maintain the diversity and structure of the ecosystems in which it lives.
The Zenaida Dove is known for its cooing song, which is a common sound in the habitats it inhabits.
The Zenaida Dove is a popular species for birdwatching and ecotourism, and can be easily observed in many areas of its range.

17. Zokor

The Zokor (Myospalax spp.) is a genus of small, burrowing rodents that are native to Central Asia, particularly in the regions of the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau.
The Zokor is a fossorial species, meaning that it spends most of its life underground, digging complex tunnel systems in the soil for protection and foraging.
The Zokor has a stocky body, short legs, and a fur-covered snout that it uses for digging. It typically grows to about 12-23 cm (5-9 inches) in length and weighs around 200-400 grams.
There are about 20 species of Zokor, and they are characterized by their dense fur, which can range in color from gray to brown to reddish.
Zokors are herbivorous, feeding mainly on roots, tubers, and other underground plant parts, and can cause damage to crops and gardens.
Zokors are important in the ecology of their native habitats, as their burrowing activities can help to improve soil structure and nutrient cycling, as well as create habitats for other animals.
The breeding habits of Zokors are poorly known, but they are thought to be polygamous and have small litters of up to 4 young.
Several species of Zokor are considered threatened or endangered, primarily due to habitat loss and degradation caused by human activities such as agriculture and mining.
Zokors are also hunted for their fur and for use in traditional Chinese medicine.
The Zokor is not commonly kept as a pet, due to its specialized needs and lifestyle.

18. Zorilla

The Zorilla, also known as the Striped Polecat (Ictonyx striatus), is a small mammal in the Mustelidae family, which is the same family as weasels, otters, and ferrets.
The Zorilla is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia and down to South Africa.
The Zorilla has a distinctive black and white striped fur pattern, which is used as a warning signal to predators that it can spray a noxious scent like that of a skunk.
The Zorilla is a nocturnal animal that is active primarily at night, and is a ground-dwelling species that inhabits savannas, grasslands, and woodlands.
The Zorilla is an omnivorous species, feeding on a variety of prey including insects, small rodents, birds, and fruit.
The Zorilla is known for its strong odor, which is produced by musk glands located near its anus, and is used to deter predators and mark territory.
The Zorilla has a slender body, and is typically about 25-45 cm (10-18 inches) in length and weighs around 500-1000 grams (1-2 pounds).
The Zorilla is not considered threatened or endangered, but it can be locally affected by habitat loss and degradation, as well as by hunting and trapping for its fur.
The Zorilla is also sometimes kept as a pet, although it requires specialized care and is not recommended for most people.
The Zorilla is an important species in its ecosystem, as it helps to control pest populations and contributes to nutrient cycling.

19. Zorro

Zorro is the Spanish word for “fox,” and is commonly used to refer to several species of foxes in the genus Vulpes.
The most well-known species of Zorro is likely the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), which is found throughout much of the Northern Hemisphere, including in Europe, Asia, and North America.
The Red Fox has a distinctive reddish-orange fur coat, although it can also be gray, brown, or black in some individuals, and has a bushy tail that is often white-tipped.
The Red Fox is a highly adaptable species, able to survive in a wide variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas.
The Red Fox is an omnivorous species, feeding on a variety of prey including small mammals, birds, insects, and fruits and berries.
The Red Fox is known for its intelligence and agility, and is a skilled hunter and scavenger.
The Red Fox is not considered threatened or endangered, and is in fact one of the most widespread carnivorous species in the world.
Other species of Zorro include the Arctic Fox (Vulpes lagopus), Fennec Fox (Vulpes zerda), and Kit Fox (Vulpes macrotis), among others.
Zorro has also been used as a cultural symbol in various contexts, including in literature, film, and political movements.
In some countries, Zorro is also used as a common surname, meaning “fox” in Spanish.

20. Zamurito

Conclusion: Animals That Start With Z