Discover a complete list of 111 mammals that start with the letter B, covering a wide range of species from tiny bats to massive whales. These mammals come from all around the world, living in habitats like tropical rainforests, deserts, oceans, and mountains. Many of them have unique features, such as the Babirusa’s curved tusks or the Bumblebee Bat’s incredibly small size. This list gives you a broad view of the diversity and fascinating traits mammals with a “B” name can have.

Explore the detailed table below to learn more about each species and their important characteristics.

Scientific Name This column shows the official Latin name used by scientists to classify each mammal. It helps identify species accurately and avoid confusion from common names.

Habitat Here, you find the typical environment where each mammal lives. Knowing the habitat helps understand their behavior and how they survive in the wild.

Average Size (cm) This gives the usual size range of the mammal in centimeters, providing a quick idea of how big or small each species usually is.

Description This section offers a brief but informative explanation about the mammal’s unique features, diet, lifestyle, and other interesting facts. It highlights what makes each species special.

Mammals that start with B

MammalScientific NameHabitatAverage Size (cm)
BabirusaBabyrousa babyrussaTropical rainforests, swamps, and reedy areas of Sulawesi and nearby Indonesian islands.85-110
BaboonPapio spp.Savannas, grasslands, open woodlands, and semi-deserts across Africa and parts of Arabia.50-115
Bactrian CamelCamelus bactrianusDeserts and semi-deserts of Central Asia.220-350
BadgerMeles meles (Eurasian Badger), Taxidea taxus (American Badger)Woodlands, grasslands, and agricultural areas across North America, Europe, and Asia.60-90
BaijiLipotes vexilliferYangtze River, China.200-250
Baird’s Beaked WhaleBerardius bairdiiDeep temperate and subarctic waters of the North Pacific Ocean.1,000-1,100
Baird’s TapirTapirus bairdiiTropical rainforests and cloud forests of Central America and northern South America.180-200
Bald UakariCacajao calvusFlooded forests of the Amazon Basin, particularly in Peru and Brazil.40-50
Banded LinsangPrionodon linsangTropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia.35-40
Banded MongooseMungos mungoSavannas, open forests, and grasslands across Sub-Saharan Africa.30-45
Banded Palm CivetHemigalus derbyanusTropical rainforests of West and Central Africa.45-55
BandicootPerameles spp., Isoodon spp.Varied, from rainforests to deserts, across Australia and New Guinea.30-40
BantengBos javanicusTropical rainforests, bamboo forests, and open woodlands of Southeast Asia.190-225
Barbary MacaqueMacaca sylvanusForests and rocky areas of North Africa (Morocco and Algeria) and an introduced population in Gibraltar.50-70
Barbary SheepAmmotragus lerviaArid mountains and rocky deserts of North Africa.130-165
Barbastelle BatBarbastella barbastellusForests, woodlands, and mountainous regions across Europe.4-6
Bare-backed Fruit BatDobsonia spp.Tropical forests of Southeast Asia and Oceania.10-20
Bare-tailed Woolly OpossumCaluromys philanderTropical rainforests of Central and South America.20-30
Barking DeerMuntiacus spp.Forests and dense vegetation across South and Southeast Asia.90-110
BassariskBassariscus astutusArid and semi-arid regions, including rocky canyons and woodlands, of North America.30-40
Bat-eared FoxOtocyon megalotisSavannas and arid grasslands of Eastern and Southern Africa.45-65
Bearded PigSus barbatusTropical rainforests and mangrove swamps of Southeast Asia (Borneo, Sumatra, Malay Peninsula).100-160
Bearded SealErignathus barbatusArctic and sub-Arctic waters, typically associated with pack ice.210-270
BeaverCastor canadensis (North American Beaver), Castor fiber (Eurasian Beaver)Rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes in temperate regions of North America and Europe.75-100
Bechstein’s BatMyotis bechsteiniiOld-growth broadleaf woodlands across Europe.5-6
Beluga WhaleDelphinapterus leucasArctic and sub-Arctic coastal waters and rivers.400-550
BettongBettongia spp.Woodlands and grasslands of Australia.30-45
Bighorn SheepOvis canadensisMountainous regions and rocky deserts of western North America.150-180
Big Brown BatEptesicus fuscusDiverse, including forests, urban areas, and agricultural lands across North America.10-13
Big Free-tailed BatNyctinomops macrotisArid and semi-arid regions, often near cliffs or rocky outcrops, in North and South America.8-10
BilbyMacrotis lagotisArid and semi-arid grasslands and woodlands of Australia.29-55
BinturongArctictis binturongTropical rainforests of Southeast Asia.60-95
BisonBison bison (American Bison), Bison bonasus (European Bison)Grasslands, prairies, and open woodlands in North America and Europe.200-350
Black BearUrsus americanusForests across North America, from northern Canada to central Mexico.120-200
Black DuikerCephalophus nigerDense tropical rainforests of West Africa.80-100
Black LemurEulemur macacoTropical dry deciduous and rainforests of Madagascar.40-45
Black RhinocerosDiceros bicornisSavannas, grasslands, and bushlands of Eastern and Southern Africa.300-375
Black-and-white ColobusColobus guerezaVarious forests, from rainforests to montane forests, across Central and East Africa.50-70
Black-and-white Ruffed LemurVarecia variegataLowland rainforests of eastern Madagascar.50-55
Black-backed JackalLupulella mesomelasSavannas, grasslands, and open woodlands of Eastern and Southern Africa.70-80
Black-capped CapuchinSapajus apellaTropical and subtropical forests of South America.35-50
Black-capped Squirrel MonkeySaimiri boliviensisTropical rainforests in the Amazon Basin of South America.25-35
Black-footed CatFelis nigripesArid grasslands and savannas of Southern Africa.35-50
Black-footed FerretMustela nigripesPrairies and grasslands of North America.35-45
Black-headed Spider MonkeyAteles chamekTropical rainforests of the Amazon Basin in South America.40-55
Black-headed UakariCacajao melanocephalusFlooded forests of the Amazon Basin in South America.35-50
Black-tailed DeerOdocoileus hemionus columbianusForests, woodlands, and chaparral of western North America.150-180
Black-tailed JackrabbitLepus californicusDeserts, grasslands, and shrublands of western North America.50-60
Black-tailed Prairie DogCynomys ludovicianusShortgrass prairies of North America.35-40
BlackbuckAntilope cervicapraGrasslands and open plains of India and Pakistan.120-150
Blainville’s Beaked WhaleMesoplodon densirostrisTropical and temperate deep waters worldwide.450-550
Blanford’s FoxVulpes canaMountainous and desert regions of the Middle East and Central Asia.40-50
BlesbokDamaliscus pygargus phillipsiGrasslands and open plains of South Africa.140-160
Blond CapuchinSapajus flaviusAtlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil.35-50
Blue DuikerCephalophus monticolaForested areas of Central, East, and Southern Africa.55-70
Blue MonkeyCercopithecus mitisEvergreen forests and montane forests of East and Central Africa.40-70
Blue SheepPseudois nayaurHigh-altitude grasslands and rocky slopes of the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau.110-165
Blue WhaleBalaenoptera musculusAll oceans, from polar to tropical waters.2,400-3,000
Bobak MarmotMarmota bobakSteppes and grasslands of Eastern Europe and Central Asia.50-70
BobcatLynx rufusForests, swamps, deserts, and urban areas across North America.65-100
Bohor ReedbuckRedunca reduncaGrasslands and floodplains near water sources across Sub-Saharan Africa.100-130
BongoTragelaphus eurycerusDense tropical rainforests of West and Central Africa.170-250
Bonin Flying FoxPteropus pselaphonSubtropical forests of the Bonin Islands (Japan).20-25
BonoboPan paniscusHumid tropical forests south of the Congo River in the Democratic Republic of Congo.70-85
BontebokDamaliscus pygargus pygargusCoastal fynbos and renosterveld shrublands of the Western Cape, South Africa.140-160
Booted MacaqueMacaca ochreataTropical rainforests of Sulawesi, Indonesia.45-60
Bornean Ferret-badgerMelogale everettiTropical rainforests of Borneo.35-40
Bornean OrangutanPongo pygmaeusTropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests of Borneo.120-140
Bornean Pygmy ElephantElephas maximus borneensisLowland forests of northeastern Borneo.200-250
Bottlenose DolphinTursiops truncatusTemperate and tropical waters worldwide, both coastal and offshore.200-400
BoutuInia geoffrensisFreshwater rivers and flooded forests of the Amazon and Orinoco basins.180-250
Bowhead WhaleBalaena mysticetusArctic and subarctic waters.1,400-1,800
Brandt’s BatMyotis brandtiiForests and woodlands across Eurasia.4-5
Brandt’s VoleLasiopodomys brandtiiSteppes and grasslands of Mongolia, northern China, and Russia.10-14
Brazilian Free-tailed BatTadarida brasiliensisDiverse, from deserts to forests, across North and South America.9-11
Brazilian PorcupineCoendou prehensilisTropical rainforests of Central and South America.30-60
Brazilian TapirTapirus terrestrisTropical rainforests and wetlands of South America.180-250
Brazilian Three-banded ArmadilloTolypeutes tricinctusDry woodlands and savannas (Caatinga and Cerrado biomes) of northeastern Brazil.20-25
Bridled Nail-tail WallabyOnychogalea fraenataSemi-arid grasslands and open woodlands of Queensland, Australia.50-70
Broad-footed MoleScapanus latimanusVaried, from grasslands to forests, in California and Oregon, USA.12-16
Broad-nosed Gentle LemurHapalemur simusBamboo forests of eastern Madagascar.35-40
Brocket DeerMazama spp.Dense forests of Central and South America.60-80
Brown BearUrsus arctosForests, mountains, and open country across North America, Europe, and Asia.150-280
Brown BrocketMazama gouazoubiraForests, woodlands, and scrublands of Central and South America.55-75
Brown CapuchinSapajus apellaTropical and subtropical forests of South America.35-50
Brown Fur SealArctocephalus pusillusCoastal waters and islands of Southern Africa and Southern Australia.150-230
Brown HareLepus europaeusOpen grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands across Europe and parts of Asia.50-70
Brown HyenaParahyaena brunneaArid and semi-arid regions, including deserts and savannas, of Southern Africa.110-130
Brown LemurEulemur fulvusVarious forests, from rainforests to dry deciduous forests, in Madagascar.45-50
Brown Long-eared BatPlecotus auritusWoodlands, forests, and rural areas across Europe and parts of Asia.4-5
Brown RatRattus norvegicusGlobal, found almost everywhere humans live, particularly in urban and agricultural areas.20-25
Brown Spider MonkeyAteles hybridusTropical rainforests of northern Colombia and Venezuela.40-55
Brown-headed Spider MonkeyAteles fuscicepsTropical rainforests of northwestern Ecuador and southwestern Colombia.40-55
Brown-throated SlothBradypus variegatusTropical rainforests of Central and South America.50-70
Brush-tailed BettongBettongia penicillataDry eucalypt forests and woodlands of southwestern Australia.30-40
Brush-tailed PhascogalePhascogale tapoatafaDry eucalypt forests and woodlands across eastern and southwestern Australia.16-26
Brush-tailed PorcupineAtherurus spp.Tropical forests of Africa and Southeast Asia.40-60
Brush-tailed Rock-wallabyPetrogale penicillataRocky outcrops and cliffs in eastern Australia.50-70
Bryde’s WhaleBalaenoptera brydeiTropical and warm temperate waters worldwide.1,200-1,500
BuffaloSyncerus caffer (African Buffalo)Savannas, grasslands, and swamps of Sub-Saharan Africa.210-300
Bumblebee BatCraseonycteris thonglongyaiLimestone caves and surrounding forests of Thailand and Myanmar.3-3.3
Burchell’s ZebraEquus quagga burchelliiGrasslands and savannas of Southern Africa.200-250
Burmese Ferret-badgerMelogale personataTropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia.35-40
Burrowing BettongBettongia lesueurSemi-arid grasslands and woodlands of Australia (now mostly island populations).30-40
Bush DogSpeothos venaticusForests and wet savannas of Central and South America.57-75
Bush DuikerSylvicapra grimmiaDiverse, from woodlands to savannas, across Sub-Saharan Africa.70-100
BushbabyGalago spp.Forests, woodlands, and savannas across Sub-Saharan Africa.15-20
BushbuckTragelaphus scriptusVaried, from rainforests to savannas, often near water, across Sub-Saharan Africa.100-150
BushpigPotamochoerus larvatusForests, woodlands, and savannas across Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar.100-150
Bushy-tailed MongooseBdeogale crassicaudaTropical and subtropical forests of East and Central Africa.40-50
Bushy-tailed WoodratNeotoma cinereaRocky areas, cliffs, and forests of western North America.17-20

Descriptions

Babirusa
Unique pig-like mammals native to Indonesian islands, known for the males’ striking upward-curving tusks. They are omnivores, foraging for roots, fallen fruit, and invertebrates in their forest and swamp habitats. Solitary creatures, they are good swimmers.
Baboon
Large, Old World monkeys known for their dog-like muzzles, strong jaws, and keen eyesight. They live in large, complex social groups called troops and are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, grasses, insects, and small vertebrates.
Bactrian Camel
Large, even-toed ungulates distinguished by their two humps, which store fat. Highly adapted to harsh desert environments, they can withstand extreme temperatures and go long periods without water. Used for transport, milk, and wool.
Badger
Stocky, powerful, nocturnal carnivores known for their distinctive striped faces and strong claws, which they use for digging elaborate burrows called setts. They primarily feed on earthworms and small rodents.
Baiji
A critically endangered, likely functionally extinct, freshwater dolphin endemic to China’s Yangtze River. Known for its pale blue-gray color and long, narrow beak. Its decline was primarily due to human activity, including fishing, pollution, and dam construction.
Baird’s Beaked Whale
One of the largest beaked whales, characterized by its prominent forehead and two pairs of teeth visible even when its mouth is closed. They are deep divers, feeding on squid and fish in the open ocean.
Baird’s Tapir
The largest of the American tapirs, recognized by its stocky body and prehensile snout. They are herbivorous, feeding on leaves, twigs, and fruits, and are excellent swimmers, often found near water sources.
Bald Uakari
A New World monkey famous for its bright red, hairless face and shaggy, reddish-brown fur. The vibrancy of their face indicates health. They live in large groups and primarily eat fruit, especially unripe ones.
Banded Linsang
A small, slender Viverrid, recognized by its striking black bands and spots on a pale yellow or grayish body. Nocturnal and arboreal, it preys on small mammals, birds, and insects. Solitary and agile in the trees.
Banded Mongoose
Social mongooses characterized by distinctive dark bands across their backs. They live in large family groups and forage together for insects, small reptiles, and bird eggs. Known for their cooperative behavior and vocal communication.
Banded Palm Civet
A nocturnal, arboreal civet known for its unique striped pattern on its back and tail. It is primarily carnivorous, feeding on insects, small vertebrates, and eggs. Solitary and elusive in its forest habitat.
Bandicoot
Small to medium-sized marsupials with long snouts, large ears, and strong claws for digging. Primarily nocturnal and omnivorous, they forage for insects, worms, and plant material. Many species are endangered due to habitat loss.
Banteng
Wild cattle native to Southeast Asia, known for their distinct white rump patches and leg markings. Males are typically dark brown or black, while females are reddish-brown. They are social herbivores, grazing on grasses and leaves.
Barbary Macaque
The only macaque species found outside Asia, and the only primate native to Europe. These tail-less monkeys live in multi-male, multi-female groups and are omnivorous, foraging for fruits, leaves, and insects.
Barbary Sheep
A sturdy wild sheep, also known as Aoudad, distinguished by a long fringe of hair under its throat and forelegs. They are agile climbers, adapted to dry, harsh environments, feeding on sparse vegetation.
Barbastelle Bat
A rare and distinctive European bat with a pug-like nose and broad ears. It is a crevice-dweller, often roosting in tree bark or rock fissures. Feeds primarily on moths, using echolocation to hunt.
Bare-backed Fruit Bat
Also known as naked-backed fruit bats, they have wing membranes that meet along their back, giving the appearance of no fur on their back. They primarily feed on fruits and nectar, playing a vital role in seed dispersal.
Bare-tailed Woolly Opossum
A nocturnal, arboreal marsupial with a prehensile tail, which it uses for grasping branches. It is omnivorous, feeding on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. Lives high in the forest canopy.
Barking Deer
Small, solitary deer known for their distinctive bark-like vocalizations, especially when alarmed. Males possess short antlers and prominent canine teeth. They are shy and primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, shoots, and fruits.
Bassarisk
A small, nocturnal mammal related to raccoons, often called a “ringtail.” It has a long, bushy tail with alternating black and white rings. Agile climbers, they primarily eat insects, fruits, and small vertebrates.
Bat-eared Fox
A unique fox species distinguished by its exceptionally large ears, which it uses to locate insects, primarily termites and dung beetles. They are mostly nocturnal and live in social groups.
Bearded Pig
A wild pig known for its distinctive beard-like facial bristles. They are omnivores, foraging for roots, fruits, and carrion. Highly migratory, they move in large herds in search of food.
Bearded Seal
A large earless seal named for its prominent whiskers, which it uses to forage for bottom-dwelling invertebrates like clams and crabs. They have a thick layer of blubber for insulation in cold waters.
Beaver
Large, semi-aquatic rodents known for their ability to build dams and lodges. They have broad, flat tails and webbed hind feet, making them excellent swimmers. Herbivorous, feeding on bark, leaves, and aquatic plants.
Bechstein’s Bat
A relatively large and rare European bat characterized by its very long ears. It primarily hunts large insects, such as moths and beetles, in dense forest canopies, using highly sensitive echolocation.
Beluga Whale
A distinctively white whale, known for its round, flexible melon (forehead) and ability to swim backward. They are highly social, living in pods, and communicate using a wide range of sounds, earning them the nickname “sea canaries.”
Bettong
Small, nocturnal marsupials related to kangaroos and wallabies, characterized by their grasping, prehensile tails. They dig for fungi, roots, and invertebrates, playing an important role in forest health. Several species are endangered.
Bighorn Sheep
Iconic North American sheep, males recognized by their massive, curled horns. Agile climbers, they inhabit rugged terrain, feeding on grasses and shrubs. Horns continue to grow throughout their lives, forming annual rings.
Big Brown Bat
A common and widespread North American bat. It is a robust, insectivorous bat that often roosts in buildings, trees, and caves. Known for its adaptability and ability to tolerate cold temperatures, it often hibernates.
Big Free-tailed Bat
A large free-tailed bat named for its tail, which extends beyond the edge of the tail membrane. Known for its fast, high-altitude flight, it preys on moths and other insects. Roosts in caves and rock crevices.
Bilby
Nocturnal, burrowing marsupials with long, pointed snouts, large ears, and long tails. They dig extensive burrows and forage for insects, larvae, seeds, and fungi. An endangered species, a symbol of Easter in Australia.
Binturong
Also known as a “bearcat” due to its bear-like body and cat-like face, it is a civet with a prehensile tail. It is primarily arboreal and nocturnal, feeding on fruits, small mammals, and insects. Known for its popcorn-like scent.
Bison
Large, powerful bovines with shaggy coats and prominent shoulder humps. They are herbivores, grazing on grasses. Once widespread, populations were decimated but have seen recovery efforts. Essential to their ecosystems.
Black Bear
The most common bear species in North America. Despite their name, coats can range from black to brown to cinnamon. Omnivorous, they forage for berries, nuts, insects, and fish. Known for their excellent climbing abilities.
Black Duiker
A small, shy antelope with a glossy black coat, native to West African forests. They are solitary and secretive, feeding on fallen fruits, leaves, and shoots. They are often hunted for bushmeat.
Black Lemur
A medium-sized lemur with strong sexual dimorphism; males are entirely black, while females are reddish-brown with white ear tufts. They are arboreal and omnivorous, feeding on fruits, leaves, and insects.
Black Rhinoceros
A critically endangered large perissodactyl known for its two horns and prehensile upper lip, used for grasping leaves and branches. Solitary and territorial, they are browsers rather than grazers.
Black-and-white Colobus
Striking Old World monkeys with black fur contrasting with long white hair on their flanks and tail. Primarily arboreal and leaf-eating, they live in small social groups and are known for their loud calls.
Black-and-white Ruffed Lemur
One of the largest lemurs, distinguished by its thick, black and white fur and loud, roaring calls. They are highly arboreal, primarily frugivorous, and known for building nests for their young. Critically endangered.
Black-backed Jackal
A distinctive canid with a prominent black saddle extending from its shoulders to its tail. Highly adaptable and opportunistic omnivores, they hunt small prey and scavenge, often found in pairs or small family groups.
Black-capped Capuchin
An intelligent New World monkey known for its dark cap of fur and prehensile tail. Highly adaptable omnivores, they use tools to crack nuts and extract insects. They live in social groups.
Black-capped Squirrel Monkey
A small, agile New World monkey characterized by its black cap and white eye patches. They live in large, multi-male, multi-female groups and are omnivorous, feeding on insects, fruits, and small vertebrates.
Black-footed Cat
Africa’s smallest cat, recognized by the black soles of its feet and distinctive spotted coat. Primarily nocturnal and solitary, it is a highly efficient hunter of small rodents and birds. Considered vulnerable.
Black-footed Ferret
A critically endangered North American mustelid, identifiable by its bandit-like mask and black feet. Highly dependent on prairie dogs for food and burrows. Intensive conservation efforts are underway for its recovery.
Black-headed Spider Monkey
A large New World monkey with long limbs and a prehensile tail used like a fifth limb. They have black fur and a small head. Primarily frugivorous, living high in the forest canopy.
Black-headed Uakari
A New World monkey with a black, hairless face and a long, shaggy coat ranging from reddish-brown to blackish. Similar to the Bald Uakari, it is arboreal, frugivorous, and lives in large social groups.
Black-tailed Deer
A subspecies of mule deer, characterized by its proportionally large ears and black-tipped tail. They are herbivores, browsing on leaves, twigs, and fungi. Known for their distinctive bounding gait, called “stotting.”
Black-tailed Jackrabbit
A large hare with very long ears and powerful hind legs, enabling fast bursts of speed. Named for the black stripe on its tail. Primarily herbivorous, they are important prey for many predators.
Black-tailed Prairie Dog
A highly social, burrowing rodent known for its complex underground colonies, called “towns.” Herbivorous, they feed on grasses and forbs. Their “barking” calls warn others of predators.
Blackbuck
A striking antelope with a dramatic contrast between its dark brown or black back (males) and white underparts. Males have spiraled, ringed horns. They are known for their exceptional speed and agility.
Blainville’s Beaked Whale
The most widespread of the beaked whales, known for the male’s unusual tusks that protrude from its lower jaw and curve over the rostrum. They are deep divers, feeding primarily on squid.
Blanford’s Fox
A small, agile fox with unusually large ears and a long, bushy tail, which it uses for balance while climbing. Primarily nocturnal and solitary, it preys on insects, small rodents, and fruits.
Blesbok
A medium-sized antelope with a distinctive white blaze on its face and a brown coat. They are grazers, forming herds on open grasslands. Once nearly extinct, their populations have largely recovered.
Blond Capuchin
A critically endangered capuchin monkey, recognized by its golden-blonde fur. Like other capuchins, they are intelligent, omnivorous, and capable of using tools. Habitat destruction is a major threat.
Blue Duiker
The smallest antelope species, named for the bluish-gray sheen of its coat. Solitary and shy, they feed on fallen fruits, leaves, and fungi. They are often active during twilight hours.
Blue Monkey
A widespread Old World monkey with a bluish-gray coat, though the color is not always distinct. They live in social groups and are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, leaves, insects, and small vertebrates.
Blue Sheep
Also known as Bharal, these mountain ungulates have a grayish-blue coat and short legs. They are agile climbers, grazing on grasses and lichens. An important prey species for snow leopards.
Blue Whale
The largest animal on Earth, recognized by its long, slender body and mottled blue-gray color. A baleen whale, it filter-feeds on krill. Critically endangered due to historical whaling.
Bobak Marmot
A large ground squirrel living in extensive burrow systems. They are highly social, forming colonies, and are herbivorous, feeding on grasses and herbs. Known for their loud alarm calls.
Bobcat
A medium-sized wild cat with distinctive tufted ears, short tail, and spotted coat. Highly adaptable, they are solitary hunters of rabbits, rodents, and birds. Excellent stealth predators.
Bohor Reedbuck
A slender antelope with a reddish-brown coat and forward-curving horns in males. They are grazers, often found in pairs or small family groups, and are known to hide in tall grass when threatened.
Bongo
A large, striking forest antelope with a reddish-brown coat marked by white stripes and spiraled horns in both sexes. Nocturnal and shy, they are primarily browsers, feeding on leaves and shoots.
Bonin Flying Fox
A critically endangered fruit bat endemic to the Bonin Islands. They play a crucial role in seed dispersal and pollination. Threatened by habitat loss and predation.
Bonobo
An endangered great ape closely related to chimpanzees, but generally more slender and known for their matriarchal social structure and peaceful conflict resolution. Omnivorous, with a diet rich in fruit.
Bontebok
A rare and beautiful antelope endemic to South Africa, similar to the Blesbok but with more distinct white markings. They are grazers and were nearly extinct but have made a strong recovery thanks to conservation.
Booted Macaque
A Sulawesi macaque known for its relatively short tail and dark, often ochre-tinged fur. They live in social groups and are omnivorous, foraging for fruits, insects, and leaves. Endangered due to habitat loss.
Bornean Ferret-badger
A small, elusive badger-like mammal native to Borneo. It has a slender body, small ears, and a long tail. Nocturnal, it preys on insects, worms, and small vertebrates. Rarely observed in the wild.
Bornean Orangutan
A large, arboreal great ape known for its reddish-brown fur and solitary nature. Critically endangered due to habitat loss from deforestation for palm oil plantations and logging. Primarily frugivorous.
Bornean Pygmy Elephant
The smallest subspecies of Asian elephant, with relatively large ears, a rounder face, and a longer tail. Endangered, they play a vital role in their forest ecosystem as seed dispersers.
Bottlenose Dolphin
One of the most well-known dolphin species, recognized by its robust body and short, distinct snout. Highly intelligent and social, they live in pods and use echolocation to hunt fish and squid.
Boutu
Also known as the Amazon River Dolphin, recognized by its pinkish color, long snout, and flexible neck. Adapted to murky waters, they use echolocation to navigate and hunt fish. Considered endangered.
Bowhead Whale
A large baleen whale distinguished by its massive bow-shaped head, which can break through ice. They have the longest baleen plates of any whale and are known for their incredibly long lifespan, exceeding 200 years.
Brandt’s Bat
A small European bat, very similar to the whiskered bat. It typically roosts in tree holes and buildings. Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small moths, flies, and beetles.
Brandt’s Vole
A small rodent that lives in large, complex burrow systems. They are highly social and herbivorous, feeding on grasses and seeds. Known for population cycles that can impact ecosystems.
Brazilian Free-tailed Bat
One of the most abundant mammal species, forming enormous colonies, particularly in caves. Known for their fast, high-altitude flight and consumption of vast quantities of insects, including agricultural pests.
Brazilian Porcupine
An arboreal rodent covered in sharp quills for defense. It has a prehensile tail used for gripping branches. Nocturnal and herbivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and buds.
Brazilian Tapir
The most common tapir species, characterized by its stocky body, short, bristly mane, and flexible snout. Excellent swimmers, they are herbivores, browsing on leaves, buds, and fruits.
Brazilian Three-banded Armadillo
An armadillo known for its ability to roll completely into a ball for defense, unlike most other armadillo species. Primarily insectivorous, feeding on ants and termites. Endangered.
Bridled Nail-tail Wallaby
A medium-sized wallaby with a distinctive white “bridle” stripe from its shoulder to its ear, and a horny spur on the tip of its tail. Nocturnal and solitary, it grazes on grasses and herbs. Endangered.
Broad-footed Mole
A North American mole named for its large, paddle-like front feet, adapted for digging extensive underground tunnels. Primarily insectivorous, feeding on earthworms and other soil invertebrates.
Broad-nosed Gentle Lemur
A critically endangered lemur specializing in feeding on giant bamboo, despite its high cyanide content. It has a relatively broad snout and lives in small family groups.
Brocket Deer
Small, shy deer with simple, spike-like antlers (males). They are solitary and secretive, feeding on fruits, leaves, and fungi. Several species exist, ranging in color and size.
Brown Bear
A large, omnivorous bear species, encompassing various subspecies like the grizzly and Kodiak. They are highly adaptable, with diets varying by season and location, including berries, fish, and mammals.
Brown Brocket
One of the most common brocket deer species, characterized by its reddish-brown to grayish-brown coat. Solitary and nocturnal, it browses on fruits, leaves, and fungi.
Brown Capuchin
An intelligent and adaptable New World monkey, known for its brown fur and use of tools. They live in social groups and have a diverse omnivorous diet, including fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.
Brown Fur Seal
A large and widespread fur seal species, with males being significantly larger than females. They feed on fish, squid, and crustaceans. Known for forming large breeding colonies on rocky shores.
Brown Hare
A large European hare known for its long, powerful hind legs and black-tipped ears. Primarily nocturnal and solitary, it feeds on grasses and crops. Famous for its “boxing” behavior during mating season.
Brown Hyena
The rarest of the hyena species, recognized by its shaggy, dark brown fur and pointed ears. Primarily a scavenger, but also hunts small animals. They live in clans but often forage alone.
Brown Lemur
A medium-sized lemur with soft, brownish-gray fur. They are arboreal and cathemeral, active both day and night. Their diet consists mainly of fruits, leaves, and flowers.
Brown Long-eared Bat
A common European bat named for its exceptionally long ears, which it uses to detect insect movements. It is a slow, agile flyer, specializing in gleaning moths and other insects from foliage.
Brown Rat
A highly adaptable and ubiquitous rodent, known for its brown-gray fur and bare tail. It is an omnivore, consuming a wide range of foods. Often associated with human settlements and considered a pest.
Brown Spider Monkey
A critically endangered spider monkey, known for its long, slender limbs and prehensile tail. Primarily frugivorous, living in the forest canopy. Threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
Brown-headed Spider Monkey
A critically endangered spider monkey with a distinctive brown head and darker body. Highly arboreal, it uses its prehensile tail for locomotion and feeding. Primarily eats fruit.
Brown-throated Sloth
The most common and widespread three-toed sloth. Known for its extremely slow movement and arboreal lifestyle, spending most of its life hanging upside down. Feeds primarily on leaves, buds, and shoots.
Brush-tailed Bettong
Also known as the Woylie, this small, nocturnal marsupial has a prehensile tail with a distinctive black brush. It digs for underground fungi, playing a vital role in spore dispersal. Critically endangered.
Brush-tailed Phascogale
A small, nocturnal carnivorous marsupial with a distinctive black, brush-like tail. It is arboreal, hunting insects, spiders, and small vertebrates. Known for its rapid, jerky movements.
Brush-tailed Porcupine
A genus of porcupines characterized by a tail ending in a tuft of bristles. Nocturnal and terrestrial, they forage for roots, tubers, and fallen fruits. Found in dense undergrowth.
Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby
A medium-sized wallaby highly adapted to its rocky habitat, with long, coarse fur and a brush-tipped tail for balance. Nocturnal, it shelters in caves and crevices during the day. Endangered in some areas.
Bryde’s Whale
A baleen whale distinguished by three prominent ridges on its head, unlike other rorquals. It is a filter feeder, consuming krill, small fish, and cephalopods. Often found close to shore.
Buffalo
A large, powerful bovine with distinctive swept-back horns. African buffalo are formidable grazers, living in large herds near water sources. Known for their unpredictable and aggressive nature when threatened.
Bumblebee Bat
The smallest mammal in the world, about the size of a bumblebee. It has reddish-brown fur, a pig-like snout, and large ears. It is endangered and primarily insectivorous, emerging at dusk to hunt.
Burchell’s Zebra
A subspecies of plains zebra, distinguished by its broad stripes that often fade to a grayish-brown on its legs and belly. They live in herds and graze on grasses, migrating in search of food and water.
Burmese Ferret-badger
A small, nocturnal ferret-badger with a dark mask-like pattern on its face. It is omnivorous, feeding on insects, small vertebrates, fruits, and roots. Often found in forest clearings.
Burrowing Bettong
The only macropod to live entirely underground, creating extensive burrow systems called “warrens.” Nocturnal, it forages for fungi, tubers, and invertebrates. Extinct on mainland Australia.
Bush Dog
A small, stocky canid with short legs and a short tail. Highly social, they hunt in packs, primarily preying on large rodents like pacas and capybaras. Semi-aquatic, often found near water.
Bush Duiker
Also known as the Common Duiker, a small antelope found in a wide range of habitats. Solitary and secretive, it feeds on leaves, fruits, and flowers. Males have short, spiky horns.
Bushbaby
Small, nocturnal primates with large eyes and ears, known for their powerful leaping abilities. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects, fruits, and tree gum. Named for their baby-like cries.
Bushbuck
A solitary and secretive antelope with a reddish-brown coat often marked with white spots and stripes. Males have short, spiraled horns. Highly adaptable, they browse on leaves, shoots, and fruits.
Bushpig
A wild pig with a reddish-brown to dark brown coat, a white mane, and facial warts. Nocturnal and social, they live in family groups and are omnivores, rooting for food.
Bushy-tailed Mongoose
A relatively large, robust mongoose named for its long, thick, bushy tail. Primarily nocturnal and solitary, it forages for insects, small rodents, and reptiles in dense undergrowth.
Bushy-tailed Woodrat
A large rodent known for its bushy tail, similar to a squirrel’s. They build elaborate nests (middens) in rock crevices or logs, often collecting shiny objects. Herbivorous, feeding on plants.
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