If you are trying to come up with animals that start with the letter V, you are in the right place. I’ve compiled a list of 30 animals starting with V. In addition to the list, you’ll find details about these members of the animal kingdom.
Let’s jump in!
30 Animals That Start With V: A Quick List
Looking for a list of animals that start with V? You’ve found it! Below is a quick look at the animals that start with V
- Vampire Bat
- Variegated Squirrels
- Velvet Monkey
- Vole
- Viper Boa
- Vine Snake
- Vampire Squid
- Vampire Crab
- Vulture
- Vaquita
- Velociraptor
- Vermilion Flycatcher
- Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee
- Vincuna
- Vinegaroon
- Viper
- Viper Shark
- Virgin Island Dwarf Gecko
- Volcano Snail
- Vancouver Island Marmot
- Vireo
- Virginia Opossum
- Vanga
- Volcano Rabbit
- Vietnamese Mossy Frog
- Viperfish
- Voluta
- Veiled Chameleon
- Violet-crowned Hummingbird
- Velvet Gecko
30 Animals That Start With V: A Deeper Look
Sometimes a list is all you need. But if you are looking for more information about each of these animals that start with V, check out the details below.
Vampire Bat
The Vampire Bat (Desmodus rotundus) is an infamous mammal found in the Americas. As one of the three known species of vampire bats, this unique creature has captivated our imaginations for centuries due to its blood-feeding behavior.
The bats have a specialized diet of blood, known as hematophagy. It primarily feeds on the blood of mammals, using its sharp teeth to make a nearly painless bite on sleeping or resting animals, such as livestock or birds, and lap up the blood that flows out.
Variegated Squirrels
The variegated squirrel (Sciurus variegatoides) is a charming and colorful tree-dwelling rodent found in the lush forests of Central America. As one of the most vibrant squirrels in its range, this species stands out for its striking coat pattern and acrobatic feats.
With a body length of about 20 to 30 centimeters and a bushy tail measuring up to 25 centimeters, the variegated squirrel displays a splendid color combination of black, brown, and creamy white fur. This striking coat pattern varies among individuals and sub-species, making each squirrel a unique sight to behold.
Velvet Monkey
Velvet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) is a captivating and sociable primate native to the woodlands and savannas of Africa. As a medium-sized monkey species, this remarkable primate stands out for its distinct coat and gregarious nature.
With a body length of about 40 to 50 centimeters and a tail measuring up to 60 centimeters, the Velvet monkey showcases a unique coat coloration. Its name comes from the velvety texture of its olive-gray to silver-gray fur, which elegantly contrasts with its white or cream-colored underparts.
They live in large multi-male and multi-female groups, allowing for complex interactions and relationships within their community. Social grooming, vocalizations, and body language play vital roles in maintaining group cohesion.
Vole
The vole is a widespread rodent found in various habitats across the northern hemisphere. As a member of the Arvicolinae subfamily, voles are distinct from mice and rats, displaying their unique characteristics and ecological roles. They have rounded bodies, small ears, and dense fur that varies in color, with shades of brown, gray, or black, depending on the species and geographic location.
The critters have a remarkable ability to create complex tunnel systems underground. These tiny tunnellers construct extensive networks of burrows, providing them with protection from predators and enabling them to forage for food efficiently.
Viper Boa
The viper boa (Candoia aspera) is a mysterious snake species native to New Guinea. Despite its name, the Viper Boa is not venomous like true vipers. Instead, it is a constrictor, subduing its prey by coiling its powerful body around the victim and suffocating it before swallowing it whole.
Vine Snake
Vine snakes include species in the family Ahaetulla and Colubridaue. The snakes include reptiles found in Asia, the Americas, and Africa. As a member of the Colubridae family, this serpent species showcases remarkable adaptations for blending into its leafy surroundings.
With a slender and elongated body, the Vine Snake typically measures between 1 to 1.5 meters in length. Its coloration varies between species, ranging from bright green to brown or yellow, allowing it to mimic the appearance of vines and foliage and making it a master of camouflage.
Vampire Squid
The vampire squid (Vampyroteuthis infernalis) is an enigmatic cephalopod found in the deep, dark waters of the world’s oceans. As one of the most captivating denizens of the deep sea, this unique creature showcases remarkable adaptations for survival in its mysterious habitat.
With a mantle length of about 15 centimeters and distinctive webbing between its arms, the Vampire Squid displays an otherworldly appearance. The creature can emit a cloud of bioluminescent mucus, which glows for up to 10 minutes. This enables communication and camouflage in the dark depths.
Vampire squids are pelagic creatures, inhabiting the mesopelagic zone, typically found between 600 to 1200 meters below the ocean’s surface. They possess the ability to control their buoyancy, rising and sinking through the water column with ease.
Vampire Crab
The vampire crab is a captivating crustacean found in the lush mangrove swamps and coastal forests of Southeast Asia. As a member of the Sesarmidae family, this striking crab species stands out for its striking colors and intriguing behaviors.
With a carapace width of about 2 to 4 centimeters, the vampire crab displays an array of vibrant colors, including shades of purple, blue, orange, and red. Its distinctive coloration and patterns vary between species, making each crab a living jewel of the mangrove ecosystem. These crabs are more active during the night, and their appearance becomes even more vivid under moonlight.
Vulture
The vulture is an essential scavenger bird found in various regions across the globe. As nature’s sanitation squad, these majestic birds play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by disposing of carrion. Vultures are highly adaptable and can be found in a range of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and forests. They are often seen soaring high in the sky.
Vultures have a keen sense of smell, which allows them to detect carrion from miles away, helping them locate food sources quickly.
Vaquita
The vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is a critically endangered porpoise species found solely in the Gulf of California, Mexico. As one of the smallest cetaceans, the vaquita is a treasure of marine biodiversity, but sadly, it stands on the brink of extinction.
With a length of around 1.4 to 1.5 meters and weighing up to 55 kilograms, the vaquita boasts a compact and robust body. Its distinguishing features include a dark grayish-blue back, a pale gray belly, and dark circles around its eyes and lips.
Velociraptor
Velociraptor, scientifically known as Velociraptor mongoliensis, was a fearsome and agile predatory dinosaur that roamed the Earth during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 75 to 71 million years ago. As one of the most iconic dinosaurs, velociraptors have captured the imagination of people worldwide.
Vermilion Flycatcher
The vermilion flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) is a stunning and colorful songbird found throughout the Americas. As a member of the Tyrannidae family, this small bird boasts vibrant plumage that captures the hearts of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The male is adorned with brilliant vermilion-red feathers on its head, chest, and underparts, creating a dazzling contrast with its black wings and tail. The female, while less brightly colored, still showcases a combination of white, gray, and reddish hues. During breeding season, the male performs an impressive aerial display, flying high and then descending in a series of fluttering dives while singing melodiously to attract potential mates.
Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee
The Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee (Bombus vestalis) is a bumblebee species found in various regions of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
As a parasitic bee, it takes over the nests of other bee species. Instead of collecting pollen and nectar-like other bumblebees, the female Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee invades the nests of other bumblebee species and lays her eggs there. Once hatched, the Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee larvae consume the host’s resources and take over the colony.
Vincuna
The vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) is a graceful camelid species native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains in South America. As a symbol of beauty and resilience, the vicuña has captivated the hearts of local communities and conservationists alike. It boasts a slender build, a long neck, and a soft, luxurious coat that can vary in color, ranging from light brown to reddish-brown or golden.
Vicuñas primarily inhabit the barren and rugged landscapes of the high Andes, often found at elevations between 3,500 to 5,500 meters. They are highly adapted to the extreme conditions of these high-altitude environments, with specialized respiratory and cardiovascular systems to cope with the thin air.
Vinegaroon
The vinegaroon (Mastigoproctus giganteus) is an enigmatic arachnid often mistaken for a scorpion due to its striking appearance. With a length of about 5 to 8 centimeters, the Vinegaroon displays a fearsome appearance. It has a flattened body, long segmented tail, and powerful pedipalps resembling pincers. Its dark brown to black exoskeleton and prominent claw-like pedipalps add to its scorpion-like appearance.
Vinegaroons prefer arid and semi-arid habitats, such as deserts, scrublands, and grasslands. They are nocturnal hunters, venturing out at night to seek small insects and arthropods, which they capture using their pedipalps and deliver a unique defensive spray when threatened.
When threatened, it can emit a mist of acetic acid from a specialized gland near its abdomen. This acetic acid gives the Vinegaroon its name and serves as a deterrent against potential predators.
Viper
Vipers are venomous snakes belonging to the Viperidae family. Renowned for their deadly venom and iconic triangular-shaped heads, vipers are fascinating yet potentially dangerous reptiles found in various habitats across the world.
Vipers are highly adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of habitats, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. Many species are nocturnal, preferring to hunt under the cover of darkness.
Viper Shark
The viper shark or viper dogfish (Trigonognathus kabeyai) is a rarely encountered deep-sea predator. As a member of the family Etmopteridae, this enigmatic shark species exhibits fascinating adaptations for life in the dark depths of the ocean.
With a length of about 40 to 50 centimeters, the Viper Shark showcases a streamlined and slender body. Its most distinctive feature is its long and needle-like teeth, which earned it the name “viper” due to their resemblance to a snake’s fangs.
The viper shark has bioluminescent adaptations. Specialized light-producing organs called photophores cover its body, enabling it to emit a soft, blue-green glow. This bioluminescence is believed to play a role in attracting prey or confusing potential predators in the depths where sunlight does not penetrate.
Virgin Island Dwarf Gecko
The Virgin Island Dwarf Gecko, scientifically known as Sphaerodactylus parthenopion, is a diminutive reptile found exclusively in the Virgin Islands of the Caribbean. As one of the smallest gecko species, this little gem captivates with its intricate beauty and unique adaptations.
With a length of only about 2 to 4 centimeters, the Virgin Island Dwarf Gecko is truly a tiny marvel. It features a slender body, large eyes, and delicate limbs with adhesive toe pads that aid in climbing on various surfaces.
Volcano Snail
The volcano snail (Chrysomallon squamiferum), sometimes called the scaly-foot snail, is a resilient invertebrate found in the deep-sea hydrothermal vents of the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the few known species inhabiting such extreme environments.
With a size of around 1.5 to 2 centimeters, the Volcano Snail displays an extraordinary adaptation to its harsh surroundings. It boasts a striking appearance, with its shell featuring a deep black, providing camouflage against the dark and mineral-rich vent chimneys.
The creature relies on chemosynthetic bacteria. Unlike most snails that rely on photosynthesis, these snails depend on the bacteria living within their bodies to convert the chemicals from the vent emissions into usable energy.
Vancouver Island Marmot
The Vancouver Island Marmot, scientifically known as Marmota vancouverensis, is endemic to the mountainous regions of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Once on the brink of extinction, this marmot species has become a symbol of successful conservation efforts.
With a length of about 60 to 70 centimeters and weighing around 4 to 7 kilograms, the Vancouver Island Marmot has a stocky build, short legs, and a distinctive chocolate-brown coat. Its fur provides excellent insulation, enabling it to thrive in the colder mountain climates.
Vireo
The vireo is a melodious songbird found across the Americas. With several species and regional variations, these small birds are cherished for their vibrant plumage and enchanting vocalizations.
Vireos typically have a length of around 11 to 15 centimeters and display a range of colors, including green, yellow, and white. Their small size and subtle patterns enable them to blend in well with the foliage of their preferred habitats.
Virginia Opossum
The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is a remarkable marsupial native to North and Central America. As the only marsupial species found in the United States and Canada, the Virginia Opossum is a fascinating creature. It has a pointed snout, a hairless prehensile tail, and opposable thumbs on its rear feet. Its fur can range in color from gray to brown with a lighter underside.
Female opossums carry their tiny, underdeveloped young in a pouch on their abdomen after birth. As marsupials, they continue to nurture and protect their offspring in the pouch until the joeys are ready to leave and explore the world on their own.
Vanga
Vanga, part of the scientific family Vangidae, includes a diverse family of bird species. These birds live throughout Asia and Africa. Vangas vary in size and physical characteristics, but they generally have stout bodies, strong bills, and vibrant plumage. Their colors can range from bold blues and reds to striking black and white patterns.
Some are insectivorous, while others are frugivorous or nectar-feeders. A few species, like the sickle-billed Vanga, have developed specialized techniques for capturing prey, such as probing tree bark for insects.
Volcano Rabbit
The volcano rabbit (Romerolagus diazi) is a charming lagomorph endemic to the high-altitude volcanic regions of Mexico. With a length of about 21 to 26 centimeters and weighing around 400 to 600 grams, the volcano rabbit displays a compact and rounded body. Its dense fur is typically dark gray to brown, providing excellent insulation against the cold temperatures of its mountainous habitat.
Vietnamese Mossy Frog
The Vietnamese mossy frog (Theloderma corticale) is an amphibian found in the lush tropical forests of Vietnam and neighboring regions. It’s known for remarkable camouflage abilities.
With a length of around 5 to 7 centimeters, the Vietnamese Mossy Frog boasts a strikingly textured and moss-like skin, providing excellent camouflage among the damp forest floors and rocks. Its coloration ranges from brown to green, with bumpy skin resembling the surrounding moss and lichen.
Viperfish
Viperfish, part of the scientific genus Chauliodus, include fearsome and mysterious deep-sea predators that lurks in the dark depths of the world’s oceans. With its distinctive appearance and unique adaptations, this mesmerizing fish has intrigued marine biologists and captured the imagination of deep-sea enthusiasts.
Viperfish possesses a long, slender body, adorned with sharp teeth resembling fangs, earning it its menacing name. Its large, tubular eyes are fitted with bioluminescent photophores, enabling it to produce its own eerie light to attract prey in the pitch-black abyss. Equipped with an extendable stomach, it can consume prey almost as large as itself, such as other fish and squid, by engulfing them whole. This remarkable adaptation allows it to survive in the food-scarce depths of the ocean.
Voluta
Voluta represents a genus of exquisite marine snails that grace the tropical waters of oceans worldwide. Renowned for their intricate shells and vibrant colors, these mollusks have captivated the attention of shell collectors and marine enthusiasts alike.
These marine snails prefer warm tropical waters and can be found in coral reefs, sandy seabeds, and rocky coastlines. They are mainly nocturnal, emerging from their hiding spots under the cover of darkness to forage for food.
Veiled Chameleon
The veiled chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus) is a captivating reptile renowned for its remarkable camouflage and unique physical characteristics. With its ability to change colors and extraordinary eyes, this chameleon species has captured the fascination of reptile enthusiasts worldwide.
The Veiled Chameleon typically measures between 35 to 55 centimeters in length, with males being larger than females. Its distinctive casque, or crown-like crest, adorns its head, giving it an unmistakable appearance. Their coloration can vary, ranging from shades of green, brown, and even vibrant hues during displays or mood changes. With lightning-fast precision, it can extend its sticky tongue to capture prey, such as insects and small invertebrates, from a distance.
Violet-crowned Hummingbird
The Violet-Crowned Hummingbird (Amazilia violiceps) is an avian species that graces the skies of the southwestern United States and Mexico. The tiny bird measures around 10 to 11 centimeters in length. It features iridescent green upperparts and a striking violet-colored crown on the top of its head. Its throat, known as the gorget, displays an enchanting mix of violet and magenta hues, giving it an ethereal appearance.
Violet-Crowned hummingbirds are exceptionally territorial behavior. Males vigorously defend their feeding and nesting areas from other hummingbirds and even much larger birds.
Velvet Gecko
Velvet geckos have (you guessed it!) a velvety appearance. These geckos prefer dry and rocky habitats, such as deserts, rocky outcrops, and sand dunes. They are nocturnal creatures, emerging under the cover of darkness to forage for insects and small invertebrates.
Animals That Start With V: Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions. I have answers about animals that start with V.
What is a venomous animal that starts with V?
Vipers are venomous snakes that start with the letter V.
What marine animals starts with V?
A few marine animals that start with V include the vaquita, vampire squid, and volcano snail.
What is the rodent that starts with V?
Voles are a type of rodent with names that start with the letter V.
Final Take on Animals That Start With V
Animals that start with the letter V represent a small portion of the beautiful fauna on our planet. While this list doesn’t include every single animal that starts with V, it’s a great place to start your search.
