Do you know all the animals that start with N? Think again! There are some animals that you may not have heard of before.
From the nocturnal narwhal to the nautilus, these animals are fascinating and sure to surprise you.
Read on to find out the top surprising animals that start with N.
1. Nematode
The nematode is a fascinating creature on this animal list that starts with N. This small, thread-like organism is a type of worm belonging to the phylum Nematoda.
Nematodes are found everywhere in the world, from the depths of the ocean to high altitudes and even inside other animals.
They are incredibly adaptable creatures and can survive in various environments. Although most nematodes are harmless, some species are considered to be parasites.
The most well-known example is the human intestinal roundworm, which can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
Despite their small size, nematodes play an important role in the environment and are essential for the functioning of many ecosystems.
2. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large, majestic breed of dog. This breed has a large, powerful body, a long, broad head, deep-set eyes, and heavy wrinkles.
Its short coat comes in many colors: black, fawn, blue, and brindle.
The Neapolitan Mastiff is loyal and courageous, making it a great guard dog. They are animals that start with N and are known for their gentle nature and intelligence.
Although they can be stubborn and possessive, the Neapolitan Mastiff makes an excellent companion and family pet.
3. Nënë
The Nënë is a small, rare species of mammal from Central Africa. It belongs to the same family as the guenon monkeys.
These small primates are only found in the rainforests of Central African countries like Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The Nënë has grayish-brown fur, a long tail, and a black-and-white face with yellow eyes. It feeds on fruits, leaves, and insects.
This species is threatened by deforestation and hunting, and its numbers are declining rapidly.
Because of this, it is considered to be an endangered species. Conservation efforts are needed to help protect this unique animal, which is one of the animals that start with N, and its habitat.
4. Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a brightly colored bird that can be found in woodlands, gardens, and backyards throughout much of the United States and parts of Canada.
This species of bird is most easily identified by its bright red feathers, prominent black face mask, and unique crest.
Northern Cardinals are seed-eating birds that feed on weed seeds, berries, and insects. They also have a fondness for suet, which can often be seen clinging to tree branches.
These birds are animals that start with N and often form long-term pairs, raising one brood of young each year.
5. Northern Alligator Lizard
The Northern Alligator Lizard is a small, carnivorous lizard in western North America. It typically grows to be 5-6 inches in length and can be identified by its slim body, long tail, and scaly head.
Its back and sides are a dark olive-green color with lighter stripes running down its back.
These lizards are active during the day and feed on insects, spiders, and other small prey. They are also known for their agile movement and quick reflexes.
These lizards often live in open woodlands or chaparral habitats but can also be found near streams or rocky areas.
They are commonly seen in gardens, parks, and residential neighborhoods.
6. Narwhal
The narwhal is a unique and majestic creature that many people are familiar with, but few know it is one of the animals that start with N.
The most recognizable feature of this mammal is its long tusk that sticks out from its forehead, which is actually an enlarged tooth.
Narwhals live in the Arctic Ocean and can reach up to 17 feet in length and 3,500 pounds in weight.
Further, they feed mainly on fish and squid, diving as deep as 5,000 feet below the surface in search of prey.
Although their long tusks make them appear fierce, narwhals are actually gentle and peaceful creatures that form tight-knit communities.
In recent years, they have been facing increasing threats from global warming and pollution, making the conservation of this species more important than ever.
7. Newt
Newts are small amphibians that live in aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. They are native to North America, Europe, and Asia. They have thin bodies with two legs, a flat tail, and a protruding snout.
Newts can vary greatly in size depending on their species, but they typically reach between 2 and 6 inches in length. Some species of newt may even be larger.
Newts are carnivores and eat small invertebrates such as insects, worms, and crustaceans.
They are animals that start with N and enjoy eating tadpoles, frogs, and other small amphibians.
Newts have been known to live up to 15 years in the wild and are generally shy and reclusive animals.
8. Nighthawk
The nighthawk is a fascinating bird species known for its wide wingspan and crepuscular behavior.
These nocturnal birds are found in most parts of the United States, Mexico, and Central America.
They have long, slender wings that they use to maneuver through the night sky in search of insects.
The nighthawk is also an excellent aerial hunter, using its excellent vision to locate prey from above. Its diet consists mostly of moths, beetles, and other flying insects.
Although their population is declining due to habitat loss, these birds remain a staple of the American avian landscape.
9. Nightingale
Talk about adorable animals that start with N; the nightingale is one. This is a small passerine bird that is part of the family of birds known as the Old World flycatchers.
It is often found in wooded areas, gardens, and scrubland and is a fairly common sight across Europe and Asia.
The nightingale is notable for its melodious song and is considered one of the best singers among all birds. It feeds mainly on small insects and worms, and its diet also includes some fruit.
It is a migratory species, breeding in Europe and western Asia before heading south for the winter.
10. Needlefish
Needlefish are a species of fish belonging to the Belonidae family. They are long, thin, and have an elongated beak-like snout filled with sharp teeth.
They are found in the warmer parts of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
They generally inhabit shallow, coastal waters but may also live in deeper waters up to 300 meters.
Needlefish feed on small fish, squid, and crustaceans and can grow up to one meter in length.
They have been known to be dangerous to humans as they can jump out of the water and deliver a painful bite with their sharp teeth.
11. Nandu
Next on the list of animals that start with N, the Nandu is a large flightless bird that is native to parts of South America.
It is the largest bird in the rhea family and can reach up to four feet tall and weigh up to 33 pounds.
This bird has grey or brown feathers, black stripes, a long neck and legs, and a curved beak.
The Nandu is an omnivore and feeds on plants, small mammals, and insects.
They live in open grasslands and woodlands and are active during the day. These birds live in small groups and communicate with loud, honking sounds.
Nandu is hunted for their meat and feathers, and their populations have declined due to habitat loss and hunting.
12. Nightfish
Nightfish is a freshwater fish found in tropical and temperate regions worldwide. They are nocturnal and inhabit warm, shallow lakes, rivers, and streams.
Nightfish typically have slender, eel-like bodies that are silvery or greenish, with some species featuring black spots or stripes.
Apart from being one of the animals that start with N, their diet consists of small insects and other invertebrates.
Nightfish are often used as food and are considered a delicacy in some parts of the world.
These fish are popular among anglers and can be caught using various fishing methods.
13. Nautilus
This is seen as one of the oldest animals that start with N. Nautilus is a marine mollusk found in warm waters across the globe. It has a spiral shell with a gas-filled chamber inside, which helps it to float.
The Nautilus uses its tentacles to feed on shrimp and other small organisms and can even move around while keeping its head tucked inside the shell.
It is considered one of the most ancient living creatures on Earth, having existed since before the dinosaurs.
14. Napu
The Napu, also known as the forest rat, is an Old World rodent native to parts of South and Southeast Asia.
It is most commonly found in dense tropical forests and is particularly adept at climbing trees. The Napu, an animal that starts with N, is nocturnal and feeds mainly on fruits, nuts, and insects.
Its fur is a silvery gray-brown color with white undersides, giving it excellent camouflage in its natural environment.
As an omnivore, the Napu plays a key role in dispersing the seeds of fruit plants across the forest, helping to create a healthy ecosystem.
15. Nightjar
Nightjars are a family of nocturnal birds found in Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America. They have large eyes and long, slender bills that help them find food in the dark.
They have mottled gray or brown feathers, which help them camouflage and remain undetected in their environment.
These birds hunt at night, catching insects in flight with their open beaks. During the day, they rest on branches and in trees.
Nightjars also have distinctive courtship displays, including “sky dancing,” where they circle each other with impressive aerobatic displays.
16. Nalolo
There are many different animals that start with N that you don’t know about, and the Nalolo is no exception. This is a species of deep-sea fish found in the Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas.
It is a large species, reaching up to 14 inches in length and a weight of 1.7 kg. Its head and body are covered in small scales, and its fins are yellowish in color.
The Nalolo is an ambush predator, lurking in the ocean’s depths and waiting for small prey such as squid and crustaceans to swim by.
It is believed to be able to change its color to blend in with its surroundings, making it even more effective at hunting.
The Nalolo has a unique form of swimming: it uses its large pectoral fins to undulate through the water, moving at speeds of up to 4 mph!
17. Ningaui
The ningaui is an Australian marsupial that is commonly found in the central and western parts of the country. It is a small, mouse-like creature with a short tail, long ears, and brown fur.
The ningaui is as active on our list of animals that start with N as it is active at night and feeds on insects and fruits.
It builds its nest in the hollows of trees, and during the day, it hides in dense vegetation.
The female ningaui has two pouch openings, and her young ones stay in her pouch for around 5 months until they are ready to venture out into the world.
18. Noddy
Noddy is a small, nocturnal marsupial native to Australia. It belongs to the family of potoroids, and its scientific name is Ninox luctus.
The noddy is a solitary animal that is rarely seen in the wild due to its shy nature and preference for foraging for food at night.
Noddies have a distinctive call that sounds like a ‘boom’ sound, which can be heard from quite a distance away.
They have a grayish-brown fur coat that helps them blend in with their surroundings and are typically active during the night time hours.
Noddies are herbivores, feeding on flowers, fruit, and leaves of native plants.
19. Natterjack
The Natterjack is an amphibious species found in Europe and northwest Africa. It is the most aquatic member of the family Pelobatidae, which includes the European and North African frogs.
Its name comes from its unique call that can be heard up to half a mile away, which resembles the sound of a rattling jackhammer.
It has short and powerful legs that enable it to move quickly on land and swim in the water.
The Natterjack is a diurnal species that are active during the day and sleeps at night. It is also one of the many animals that start with N.
Its diet consists mainly of small invertebrates such as insects, snails, and worms.
This species is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, primarily due to its limited range and the destruction of its wetland habitats.
20. Noctule
The Noctule is a species of bat native to Eurasia. It is one of the largest bats in Europe, with a wingspan of up to 15 inches (37 cm).
Noctules are nocturnal creatures and can roost in tree hollows during the day.
They feed primarily on insects but also take small vertebrates such as frogs and lizards. Noctules are highly social animals, living in colonies of up to several hundred individuals.
During the breeding season, they typically emerge around sunset, allowing them to take advantage of the abundant food sources available at night.
Noctules are an important part of local ecosystems, as they are essential for controlling insect populations.
21. Nunlet
The Nunlet is an interesting animal that is part of the family Bucconidae. It is a small whale species with a large head and an extended beak.
This whale is found in the North Pacific Ocean and can grow up to 8 feet in length.
They are also known for their ability to dive deep and make long-distance migrations, which allows them to find food and explore new areas.
The Nunlet, which is also one of the various animals that start with N, has a diet mostly consisting of small fish, krill, squid, and octopuses.
This species is highly threatened due to overfishing, water pollution, and climate change.
To conserve the Nunlet population, international conservation efforts must be established to protect this species from further decline.
22. Nurseryfish
Nurseryfish are small and peaceful fish that are commonly found in brackish waters. These fish can be found in large numbers near shorelines, rivers, and estuaries.
Nurseryfish are omnivorous and feed on small insects, plankton, and mollusks.
They usually stay near the surface of the water but can reach depths of up to 30 feet. They are popular in aquariums because of their peaceful nature, vibrant colors, and interesting behavior.
Nurseryfish are also animals that start with N, can live up to 8 years, and can reach lengths of up to 3 inches.
They reproduce by spawning and laying eggs on aquatic plants or other objects near the water’s surface.
23. Nilgai
The Nilgai, also known as the Blue Bull, is a large antelope native to the Indian subcontinent. It is the largest antelope in Asia and the only extant member of its genus.
The Nilgai is a strong and powerful creature, standing up to three feet tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 700 pounds.
Its coat is usually blue-gray in color, with white markings on the cheeks, flanks, and legs.
This hardy antelope can be found in grasslands, scrub forests, and agricultural land and can survive in both hot and cold climates.
They feed mainly on grasses, shrubs, leaves, and fruit but are also known to eat insects and small reptiles.
24. Noodlefish
The noodlefish is a small fish species found throughout the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific.
It is also known as the ‘needlefish’ or ‘Indian needlefish’ due to its thin and long body shape.
Noodlefish grow up to 40 cm in length, are slender and cylindrical, and have large mouth with sharp teeth.
They feed mainly on small fish and crustaceans and can be found in both brackish and saltwater environments.
Due to their elongated shape and fast swimming speed, noodlefish can often be seen breaching the water’s surface in search of food.
They are an important commercial species in some countries, but their numbers have decreased in recent years due to overfishing.
25. Nightcrawler
Nightcrawlers are a type of earthworm found in North America, usually living in soil rich in organic matter.
The most common nightcrawler is the Lumbricus Terrestris, which can grow up to 8 inches in length and are reddish-brown in color. They are likewise animals that start with N.
These nocturnal creatures come out at night to feed on decaying organic matter like leaves and grass.
They play an important role in aerating the soil by creating burrows, which help to promote healthy plant growth.
Nightcrawlers also provide food for birds, amphibians, and small mammals.
26. Numbray
The Numbray is a rodent species native to the Eastern Mediterranean region. It belongs to the family Cricetidae and has a body length of between 5 and 7 inches.
Its head is relatively large compared to its body, and its fur can range from light brown to black. Its diet consists of various types of grains, fruits, and insects.
The Numbray, on this list of animals that start with N, is an important agricultural pest in parts of the Mediterranean. It has been known to damage crops, particularly cereal crops.
It has a short breeding season and usually produces multiple litters throughout the year. The Numbray is nocturnal in nature, and it is an excellent swimmer.
27. Numbat
The Numbat is an adorable, small marsupial native to the southwest of Australia. It has a reddish-brown coat with white stripes and a long, slender snout.
The Numbat is nocturnal, so it is only active during the night. Its diet consists mainly of termites and their eggs, which it finds using its sensitive snout and long, sticky tongue.
The Numbat is also known as the Banded Anteater due to its distinct coloration and unique behavior.
Unfortunately, due to human encroachment and the destruction of its habitat, the population of the Numbat has dwindled significantly in recent years.
Conservation efforts are currently underway to protect this species, which are animals that start with N and ensure its continued survival.
28. Nutria
The nutria is a large semi-aquatic rodent that is native to Central and South America. They are also found in parts of North America, Europe, and Asia.
These mammals have thick brown fur, webbed hind feet, and a long rat-like tail. Nutrias feed on various vegetation, including aquatic plants and tree bark.
They are an important species in their native environments and can become invasive species in other parts of the world. Nutrias are hunted for their fur, meat, and control of their population.
29. Numbfish
The numbfish is an odd creature found primarily in the deep sea. It is a type of electric ray with the unique ability to produce an electric current.
This current is so strong that it can stun any prey the numbfish may encounter. Numbfish have a brown or greenish color with spots and are usually around two feet long.
They are mainly found in tropical and temperate seas, where they swim close to the ocean floor and feed on worms, crustaceans, and small fish.
Numbfish are animals that start with N and have specialized organs that allow them to sense the electrical field of their prey. This helps them locate and capture their prey quickly and efficiently.
30. Nurse Shark
Do you ever hear of the Nurse Shark as one of the numerous animals that start with N?
Well, Nurse Shark, the scientific name Ginglymostoma cirratum, is a large species of shark found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
They are considered to be one of the most docile of all shark species and can live for up to 25 years.
Nurse sharks grow to a maximum length of 8 feet (2.5 m) and have long, flat, tan-brown bodies. Nocturnal predators feed mainly on fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and other small prey.
They can also be seen resting on the seafloor during the day. Nurse sharks are currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List.
31. Northern Right Whale
The northern right whale is a large baleen whale found in the Northern Hemisphere.
It is one of two species of right whales and is native to the waters of the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans.
It is a slow swimmer and is distinguished by its black coloring and white patches on its body.
It also has distinctive callosities (wart-like patches) on its head. The species was once hunted for its oil but are now protected under international law and listed as endangered.
These gentle giants can grow up to 60 feet in length and weigh up to 70 tons. They feed mainly on zooplankton and can live for more than 50 years.
32. Noolbenger
The Noolbenger is a small marsupial native to Australia. It is a solitary animal and can be found in woodlands and forests.
The Noolbenger is an omnivore that feeds on various foods, including insects, small mammals, reptiles, and birds.
They have long bushy tails, which they use to cover their faces when they sleep.
These are animals that start with N, which are nocturnal creatures, and they are very shy. They make very cute noises when they are frightened or excited.
In addition to that, they are also known to play with objects such as twigs and bark and make nests in tree hollows and logs.
The Noolbenger is an interesting and unique animal and is a great addition to any pet collection.
33. Nutcracker
The Nutcracker is a medium-sized bird native to the forests of Central Europe. It is usually seen perched on trees or in the branches of bushes and can be easily identified by its bright red and black plumage.
The Nutcracker mainly feeds on nuts, seeds, berries, and other fruits. Its diet includes insects, larvae, small birds, and even lizards.
This bird is known to store excess food in tree hollows, rock crevices, and even in the ground to be eaten during winter. They form monogamous pairs and have a single brood per season.
34. Nuthatch
The nuthatch is a small, gray bird with a white breast and blue-gray wings that are typically found in woodlands or forests.
It has a large head and pointed bill and can often be seen scurrying up and down trees, looking for insects.
The nuthatch has an interesting, complex call that sounds like a combination of whistles and squeaks. They are territorial birds and will often chase away other birds from their territory.
Nuthatches are also quite curious and may come close to people if they are not scared away.
35. Nkupe
The Nkupe is a fascinating animal that starts with N and is a small, highly agile antelope native to central Africa.
It has a reddish-brown coat with dark stripes along its back and white fur around its throat and chin.
It has long, slim legs and a short tail, and its horns are curved inwards and have three sharp points.
The Nkupe is a social animal and lives in small herds of up to 15 animals. It feeds mainly on grasses and leaves but will also eat fruits and roots when they are available.
It is active mostly during the day and can reach speeds of up to 25 mph while running. The Nkupe is considered to be a vulnerable species due to habitat loss, poaching, and other factors.
36. Nunbird
The Nunbird is a bird species found in the tropical forests of Central and South America.
It is a small, drab bird with a short tail, usually found perching on branches of trees. It is often seen alone or in pairs but sometimes in large flocks.
The Nunbird, one of the animals that start with N, has a distinctive call that can be heard echoing through the forest.
It has brown upperparts, white underparts, and a yellowish belly. Its bill is long and pointed, and its legs and feet are gray.
The Nunbird feeds mainly on insects and spiders that it finds in trees. Its diet includes fruits, berries, small lizards, frogs, and other vertebrates.
37. Nicator Bird
The Nicator bird is a species of passerine bird found in parts of Central and Sub-Saharan Africa. They are relatively large and measure up to 23 cm in length.
The head and underparts are grayish-brown, while the upper parts are reddish-brown.
This species of bird on this list of animals that start with N is also known for its long and thin crest feathers on its head. It has a distinctive call consisting of whistles and long, drawn-out notes.
The Nicator bird feeds mainly on insects, worms, small mammals, and fruit. This bird species is threatened due to habitat destruction, hunting, and other human activities.
38. Nyala
The Nyala, also known as the thombi or inyala, is a beautiful antelope native to southern Africa. They can grow up to 3 feet tall and weigh up to 250 lbs.
The males have striking coats ranging from dark brown to red, while females are more yellowish-brown.
This antelope is known for its unique horns that spiral outwards, making them easily recognizable among other species of antelopes.
Nyalas are solitary animals and prefer to live alone or in small groups of up to five individuals.
They are most active at night, graze on grass and leaves, and feed on fruits and tubers during the day.
39. Norwegian Forest
The Norwegian Forest Cat, also known as the skogkatt, is a large and powerful breed of domestic cat that originated in Norway.
They are known for their thick, beautiful fur coats and large, almond-shaped eyes. These cats are very intelligent and have a sweet disposition.
They are animals that start with N, are great hunters, and can be quite protective of their owners and territory. They love to play and enjoy being around other cats or dogs.
They do not require a lot of grooming, but they will need regular brushing to maintain their beautiful fur.
40. Nase
The Nase, or Chondrostoma nasus, is a species of fish native to freshwater streams in Europe and parts of Asia.
The species is part of the carp family and has an elongated body that can grow up to 40 cm in length. Its scales are yellowish-olive and have a dark stripe running along its sides.
Its fins are a reddish color, and it has an oblong snout. The Nase is an omnivore that feeds on insects, crustaceans, and small fishes.
The Nase is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List due to the destruction of its natural habitat and the introduction of invasive species into its environment.
41. Nubian Goat
Nubian goats are a type of dairy goat from North Africa, and they aren’t left out of our list of animals that start with N.
They are bred for their rich milk, which is higher in butterfat than milk from other breeds. They have distinctive brown and white striped fur, long ears, and horns that curve outward.
Nubian goats are adaptable and can thrive in warm climates, making them ideal for small farm owners who don’t want to invest in climate-controlled housing.
They are also good-natured and easy to handle, making them great pets for those who want to keep livestock. The Nubian goat is a great choice for anyone looking to start raising animals.
42. Northern Inuit Dog
The Northern Inuit Dog is a stunning breed of dog that is highly sought after. It is an intelligent, loyal and friendly dog that is perfect for anyone looking for a loyal companion.
It originated in the UK as a cross between the Siberian Husky, German Shepherd, and Alaskan Malamute.
This dog is very versatile and suitable for any activity and lifestyle. The Northern Inuit Dog is a good-natured animal that loves to be around people and can make an excellent family pet.
It is also an adaptable breed and can easily fit into different environments and climates.
The Northern Inuit Dog is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise, stimulation, and companionship, making it ideal for those who love to be outdoors.
We will draw the curtains on our list of animals that start with N here.
