Close
App logo

Enjoy an Ad-Free Experience While Reading

List of Animals That Start With I

This enchanting exploration of the animal kingdom focuses explicitly on fascinating creatures whose names begin with the letter ‘I.’ This journey is perfect for enriching animal vocabulary for kids, preschoolers, and anyone eager to expand their animal knowledge in a fun and engaging way. We’ll discover a world brimming with wonder and learning opportunities as we delve into this unique list.

ADVERTISEMENT


Embarking on this adventure, we’ll explore a variety of animals, from the well-known to the obscure, each with its unique characteristics and stories. This list of animal names with ‘I’ creates a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse life forms that share our planet. Let’s look at the variety of animals, beginning with ‘I’ for preschoolers and kids in a way that is both educational and incredibly fun!

List Of Common Animals Starting With I

Welcome to the fascinating world of animals that start with the letter ‘I.’ This part of our adventure introduces various incredible creatures with unique charm and characteristics. Our “I’ animals name list is educational and full of fun facts that will captivate and inspire young minds. Let’s dive into this alphabetical wonderland and meet these fantastic animals.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

1. Iguana

Iguana

Iguanas are vibrant lizards known for their striking appearances, commonly found in Central and South America. They are mainly herbivorous, living in various environments, from rainforests to deserts.

Fun Facts:

  • Iguanas can hold their breath for up to 30 minutes underwater.
  • Their tails can detach and regrow to escape predators.

2. Ibex

Ibex

The Ibex is a species of wild mountain goat with long, curved horns and a sturdy build. It is adept at navigating the rocky terrains of Europe, North Africa, and Asia.

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • Ibexes can jump more than 6 feet in the air from a standing position.
  • Their hooves have a concave underside that acts like suction cups for better grip on rocks.

3. Impala

Impala

Impalas are elegant African antelopes known for their slender build and agile movements. They inhabit savannas and light woodlands.

ADVERTISEMENT

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • Impalas can leap up to 10 meters in length and 3 meters in height.
  • They have a unique “M” marking on their rear, which is thought to confuse predators during a chase.
  • The Impala can make loud guttural sounds and roars that are audible from a mile away (1)

4. Indian Elephant

Indian Elephant

The Indian Elephant, a smaller cousin of the African elephant, is an integral part of India’s cultural and religious fabric. It inhabits forested regions of South and Southeast Asia.

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • Indian elephants are among the only three existing elephant species.
  • They are known for their strong social bonds, especially between mothers and calves.

5. Indri

Indri

Indris are the largest of the lemurs and are native to Madagascar’s rainforests. They are recognised by their distinctive black-and-white fur and lack of a long tail.

ADVERTISEMENT

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • Indris have a unique singing call, which can be heard over long distances in the forest.
  • They maintain lifelong pair bonds, a rare trait among lemurs.
  • Indris can only produce after 7-9 years of age and only reproduce every 2-3 years, making their population smaller and rarer to find (2)

6. Irish Setter

Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is a dog breed known for its rich mahogany or chestnut coat and friendly disposition. Initially bred for hunting, they are now popular family pets.

Fun Facts:

  • Irish Setters are known for their speed and keen sense of smell.
  • They are often used in field trials and dog shows due to their agility and grace.

7. Ibis

Ibis

Ibises are wading birds with long legs and curved beaks. They are social birds often seen in large flocks, and they are found in wetlands, forests, and plains.

ADVERTISEMENT

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • Ibises use their long, curved beaks to probe into mud for food.
  • Ancient Egyptians revered the Ibis and associated it with the god Thoth.
  • Ibis rid plants and gardens of insects and wildlife that are harmful to plants, making them your perfect gardening companion (3)!

8. Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

The Ivory Gull is a small gull with distinctive pure white plumage and a circumpolar distribution in the Arctic. It’s known for its resilience in cold environments.

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • Ivory Gulls often follow polar bears to feed on the leftovers of their meals.
  • They are one of the few birds that can thrive in the harsh conditions of the high Arctic.

9. Insectivore

Insectivore

Insectivores are a group of mammals that predominantly feed on insects. They include animals like shrews, moles, and hedgehogs.

ADVERTISEMENT

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • Many insectivores have specialised adaptations like elongated snouts or sharp claws for digging to find insects.
  • They play a crucial role in controlling insect populations in their habitats.

10. Icelandic Sheepdog

Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog, Iceland’s only native dog breed, is a hardy and agile breed known for its ability to herd sheep in the rugged Icelandic terrain.

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • Icelandic Sheepdogs are known for their double coat, which protects them from the cold.
  • They are very vocal and known to bark enthusiastically, especially when herding.

11. Iberian Lynx

Iberian Lynx

The Iberian Lynx is a rare and endangered species of wildcat native to the Iberian Peninsula. It has distinctive ear tufts and a short tail.

ADVERTISEMENT

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • The Iberian Lynx is considered the world’s most endangered feline species.
  • They mainly hunt rabbits, which constitute a significant part of their diet.
  • They are also known as Spanish Lynx or Pardel Lynx (4)

12. Imperial Moth

Imperial Moth

The Imperial Moth is a large, striking moth with yellow and purple-brown markings. It is found in North and South America.

Fun Facts:

ADVERTISEMENT

  • The Imperial Moth does not eat during its adult life; it lives off the energy stored as a caterpillar.
  • Their caterpillars are known for their impressive size and bright colours.
  • In their winged form, the mouthparts of the adult Imperial moths do not function, leading to a shorter lifespan (5)

13. Iriomote Cat

Iriomote Cat

The Iriomote Cat is a small wild cat found only on the Japanese island of Iriomote. It has a dark, leopard-like coat and is incredibly elusive.

ADVERTISEMENT

Fun Facts:

  • The Iriomote Cat is one of the few cat species that swim regularly and is nocturnal (6).
  • It is critically endangered, with only a few hundred individuals in the wild.

14. Ivory-Billed Woodpecker

Ivory-Billed Woodpecker

The Ivory-Billed Woodpecker, once found in the southeastern United States, is known for its striking black and white plumage and large size.

Fun Facts:

  • It is often called the ‘Lord God Bird’ due to its impressive appearance.
  • The Ivory-Billed Woodpecker is considered possibly extinct, with no confirmed sightings in recent years.
  • Native Americans use the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker as decoration (7)

15. Island Fox

Island Fox

The Island Fox is a small fox native to six of the eight Channel Islands of California. It is significantly smaller than its mainland relatives.

Fun Facts:

  • The Island Fox is unique to the Channel Islands and has adapted to the limited resources.
  • They play an essential role in the island ecosystems as predators and prey.

Animal Names That Start With Letter ‘I’ Chart

In this visually engaging section, we bring to life the “animal names that start with I with pictures” chart, a colorful and informative display perfect for kids and educators alike. This chart is a feast for the eyes and an effective learning tool, combining vivid images with fascinating animal facts. Whether used in a classroom setting or for at-home education, this chart is an excellent resource for visual learners and anyone keen to explore the animal kingdom in a fun and interactive way. Let’s dive into this pictorial journey and enjoy the vibrant animal world that begins with the letter ‘I.’

Animal Names Beginning With I By Habitat

Exploring animals by their habitats offers a unique perspective on the diverse ecosystems that nurture life on our planet. This section will categorise ‘I-start’ animal names based on their natural environments, such as wild, domestic, aquatic, zoo, and even extinct habitats. This approach provides a deeper understanding of how these animals interact with their surroundings and adapt to different ecological niches.

Wild Animals Names That Start With I

Discover the wild and unbeautiful animals whose names start with ‘I.’ These creatures thrive in their natural habitats, ranging from dense forests to sprawling savannas. Let’s embark on a journey to meet these wild inhabitants.

  1. Impala
  2. Iguana
  3. Indian Elephant
  4. Ibex
  5. Indri
  6. Iberian Lynx
  7. Irish Elk
  8. Indian Rhinoceros
  9. Island Fox
  10. Iriomote Cat
  11. Icelandic Sheepdog
  12. Indochinese Tiger
  13. Indian Leopard
  14. Ivory-Billed Woodpecker
  15. Inland Taipan
  16. Indigo Snake
  17. Indian Python
  18. Imperial Eagle
  19. Irish Hare
  20. Inca Tern

Domestic Animals That Begin With I

Next, let’s explore the world of domestic animals, beginning with ‘I.’ These animals have been companions to humans for centuries and play significant roles in our lives.

  1. Icelandic Sheepdog
  2. Indian Runner Duck
  3. Irish Setter
  4. Indian Spitz
  5. Irish Wolfhound
  6. Italian Greyhound
  7. Icelandic Horse
  8. Illyrian Sheepdog
  9. Irish Terrier
  10. Italian Corso Dog
  11. Indian Pariah Dog
  12. Irish Water Spaniel
  13. Indian Peafowl
  14. Icelandic Cow
  15. Irish Draught Horse
  16. Ibizan Hound
  17. Indian Palm Squirrel
  18. Irish Red and White Setter
  19. Italian Spinone
  20. Istrian Coarse-Haired Hound

Sea And Ocean Animals Names With I

Delving into the depths of the seas and oceans, we find a mesmerising array of animals whose names start with ‘I.’ These aquatic creatures range from the shallowest coral reefs to the deepest ocean trenches.

  1. Immortal Jellyfish
  2. Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin
  3. Irish Moss
  4. Ivory Shell
  5. Icefish
  6. Indian Mackerel
  7. Indo-Pacific Sailfish
  8. Isopod
  9. Icelandic Scallop
  10. Indian Shad
  11. Iridescent Shark
  12. Ivory Gull
  13. Island Whiptail
  14. Inshore Hagfish
  15. Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin
  16. Ice Seal
  17. Ivory Coral
  18. Indigo Hamlet
  19. Icelandic Cod
  20. Inanga

Zoo Animals Names That Start With I

Zoos worldwide house a diverse collection of animals, including many whose names begin with ‘I.’ These animals offer a glimpse into various life forms and conservation efforts.

  1. Indian Elephant
  2. Iguana
  3. Impala
  4. Ibex
  5. Indri
  6. Indian Rhinoceros
  7. Inland Taipan
  8. Indian Peafowl
  9. Iberian Lynx
  10. Irish Elk
  11. Ivory-Billed Woodpecker
  12. Indigo Snake
  13. Indochinese Tiger
  14. Island Fox
  15. Iriomote Cat
  16. Indian Leopard
  17. Imperial Eagle
  18. Irish Hare
  19. Inca Tern
  20. Indian Python

Extinct Animals With I

Finally, let’s honour the memory of those animals that once roamed the earth but are no longer with us. These extinct animals starting with ‘I’ remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of conservation.

  1. Irish Elk
  2. Ivory-Billed Woodpecker
  3. Indricotherium
  4. Iguanodon
  5. Inkayacu (Giant Penguin)
  6. Ichthyosaurus
  7. Ischyromys (Rodent)
  8. Inostrancevia (Prehistoric Predator)
  9. Incisivosaurus (Dinosaur)
  10. Iberomesornis (Early Bird)
  11. Isotelus (Giant Trilobite)
  12. Indohyus (Early Cetacean Ancestor)
  13. Icaronycteris (Early Bat)
  14. Insulamon (Freshwater Crab)
  15. Ischigualastia (Triassic Reptile)
  16. Itatsin (Prehistoric Fish)
  17. Ingentia (Triassic Dinosaur)
  18. Iberomys (Extinct Rodent)
  19. Isanosaurus (Early Sauropod Dinosaur)
  20. Irvingtonian Fauna (Pleistocene Mammals)

Animal Names That Start With I By Types

In this section, we categorise the animals by types, making it easier to name an animal by beginning with I and discovering the vast diversity within each group. From the warm-blooded mammals to the fascinating world of insects and the diverse realm of reptiles, this classification offers an insightful glimpse into the different life forms. Each category in this “I words animals name” list reveals unique characteristics and adaptations, showcasing the rich tapestry of life. Whether it’s an “I alphabet animal name” or an “animal with I as the first letter,” this comprehensive guide will enrich your knowledge and curiosity.

Mammal Names With Letter I

Mammals are warm-blooded vertebrates known for their fur or hair and the nurturing of their young. Let’s explore the mammals whose names start with ‘I.’

  1. Indian Elephant
  2. Impala
  3. Iberian Lynx
  4. Indri
  5. Irish Elk
  6. Indian Rhinoceros
  7. Island Fox
  8. Iriomote Cat
  9. Icelandic Sheepdog
  10. Indian Leopard
  11. Irish Setter
  12. Indian Palm Squirrel
  13. Indochinese Tiger
  14. Italian Greyhound
  15. Irish Wolfhound
  16. Indian Spitz
  17. Indus River Dolphin
  18. Iberian Pig
  19. Icelandic Horse
  20. Irish Hare

Insect Names Starting With I

Insects are fascinating creatures with exoskeletons, segmented bodies, and jointed legs. Here are some insects that begin with the letter ‘I.’

  1. Imperial Moth
  2. Indian Meal Moth
  3. Iridescent Bark Beetle
  4. Ironclad Beetle
  5. Ichneumon Wasp
  6. Italian Honeybee
  7. Inland Floodwater Mosquito
  8. Island Blue Butterfly
  9. Ivory Marked Beetle
  10. Indian Stick Insect
  11. Indigo Blue Damsel Bug
  12. Iberian Scarab Beetle
  13. Indonesian Fruit Fly
  14. Irish Yellow Slug (technically a gastropod, but often grouped with insects)
  15. Indian Red Admiral
  16. Ivory Whitefly
  17. Icicle Borer
  18. Inland Emperor Dragonfly
  19. Indigo Caterpillar Parasite Wasp
  20. Isabella Tiger Moth

Reptile Names That Start With I

Reptiles are known for their scales, cold-blooded metabolism, and egg-laying. Let’s meet some reptiles with names that start with ‘I.’

  1. Iguana
  2. Indian Cobra
  3. Indigo Snake
  4. Inland Taipan
  5. Italian Wall Lizard
  6. Indonesian Sea Turtle
  7. Indian Star Tortoise
  8. Israeli Burton’s Legless Lizard
  9. Ivory-backed Blind Snake
  10. Indian Python
  11. Iberian Worm Lizard
  12. Indonesian Blue-tongued Skink
  13. Inyo Mountains Salamander
  14. Ivory Coast Mud Turtle
  15. Indian Chameleon
  16. Indian Black Turtle
  17. Indochinese Spitting Cobra
  18. Irian Jaya Blue-tongued Skink
  19. Indian Krait
  20. Island Night Lizard

In conclusion, our journey through the animal kingdom, highlighting those starting with the letter ‘I,’ has been a fascinating and enlightening experience. From the diverse habitats of mammals and the intriguing world of insects to the unique adaptations of reptiles, we’ve seen the vast and vibrant array of life forms that enrich our planet. This exploration not only expands our knowledge but also deepens our appreciation for the incredible diversity and complexity of the natural world.

References/Resources:

1. Impala; Seaworld; https://seaworld.org/animals/facts/mammals/impala/

2. Lemur Fact Sheet: Indri; Lemur Conservation Network; https://www.lemurconservationnetwork.org/learn/lemur-species-fact-sheets/indri/

3. Ibis; San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Animals & Plants; https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/ibis

4. Iberian Lynx; World Wide Fund for Nature; https://wwf.panda.org/discover/our_focus/wildlife_practice/profiles/mammals/iberian_lynx/

5. Imperial Moth; Missouri Department of Conservation; https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/imperial-moth

6. Iriomote Cat Facts; Big Cat Rescue; https://bigcatrescue.org/iriomote-cat-facts/

7. Ivory-Billed Woodpecker; Cornell Lab All About Birds; https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Ivory-billed_Woodpecker/overview

Was This Article Helpful?

Parenting is a huge responsibility, for you as a caregiver, but also for us as a parenting content platform. We understand that and take our responsibility of creating credible content seriously. FirstCry Parenting articles are written and published only after extensive research using factually sound references to deliver quality content that is accurate, validated by experts, and completely reliable. To understand how we go about creating content that is credible, read our editorial policy here.

  • Author
About the Author
Rama Aiyer

Rama is a proud Delhiite with three years of content writing experience in her pocket. She is a commerce graduate with an advanced degree in the German language, but writing feels like home to her. When she is not writing,, you can probably find her researching on environment sustainability, devouring a novel, or exploring hidden nooks for delicious food around the city.

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
close icon
FirstCry Logo
Ratings
Download the FirstCry App and get access to
15000+
Articles
Ad Free
Experience
Personalised
Content
QR Code
Scan the QR code and download the app