Here are 8 small animals that start with ‘N’, listed from “Naked mole-rat” to “Numbat”. They are mostly rodents, marsupials, and insectivores under five kilograms, useful as pets, study subjects, or wildlife-spotting highlights.

Small animals that start with N are species whose common names begin with N and usually weigh under five kilograms. For example, the naked mole-rat is famous for its eusocial colonies and unusual biology.

Below you’ll find the table with Common name, Scientific name, Habitat, and Lifespan.

Common name: The everyday name helps you recognize and search for the animal quickly across pet, field, and education sources.

Scientific name: The Latin binomial lets you confirm species identity and find precise scientific or care information.

Habitat: A short habitat phrase shows where the animal lives and helps you understand its natural needs.

Lifespan: Typical lifespan ranges help you plan care or studies and set expectations about longevity.

Small animals that start with N

Common nameScientific nameHabitatLifespan (years)
Naked mole-ratHeterocephalus glaberSubterranean arid grassland burrows30 years
Natterjack toadEpidalea calamitaSandy dunes, heathland and grassland pools10–15 years
NumbatMyrmecobius fasciatusEucalyptus woodlands and shrubland5–6 years
Nanday conureAratinga nendaySavanna woodland and forest edges20–30 years
Neon tetraParacheirodon innesiBlackwater Amazon streams and flooded forest5–8 years
Neon gobyElacatinus oceanopsCoral reefs and rocky crevices (reef aquaria)2–4 years
NightingaleLuscinia megarhynchosDeciduous woodland, dense scrub and gardens2–5 years
NeneBranta sandvicensisHawaiian grasslands, shrubland and wetlands10–25 years

Descriptions

Naked mole-rat
Hairless, eusocial rodent from East Africa that lives in large underground colonies; notable for long lifespan and cancer resistance.
Natterjack toad
Small, nocturnal Eurasian toad with a yellow dorsal stripe; breeds in shallow pools and favors open sandy habitats.
Numbat
Diurnal Australian marsupial that feeds almost exclusively on termites; distinctive striped back and endangered in the wild.
Nanday conure
Vocal, social parrot popular in aviculture with black facial mask and green plumage; thrives in flocks.
Neon tetra
Tiny, brightly colored aquarium fish with iridescent blue and red stripes; peaceful schooling species ideal for community tanks.
Neon goby
Small, active cleaner fish prized in reef tanks; slender body with bright stripes and mutualistic cleaning behavior.
Nightingale
Renowned songbird famous for rich, powerful nocturnal singing; migratory in many parts of its range.
Nene
Hawaiian goose adapted to volcanic landscapes; conservation success story after severe historical declines.
If you think there is a missing term, let us know using the contact form.