Thirteen farm animals that start with the letter I are found on farms around the world. These animals come from a variety of origins, including the rugged landscapes of Iceland, the green pastures of Ireland, and the sunny regions of Italy and Spain. Many of them are known for their hardiness and versatility, serving important roles like meat production, dairy, or farm work. This list covers common and well-recognized breeds that farmers rely on for both food and labor.
Explore the complete list below to learn about each animal’s unique traits and farm roles.
Farm Animals This column names each animal breed commonly raised on farms, helping you identify the species starting with the letter I.
Scientific Name Here, you find the exact scientific classification of each animal. This helps understand their species and relation to other animals on the farm.
Typical Use This tells you the main purposes of the animals on farms, such as producing meat, eggs, milk, or assisting with farm work.
Average Lifespan (Years) This column shows the usual life expectancy of each animal breed, giving insight into how long they typically live under farm conditions.
Descripción This brief description highlights key characteristics of each breed, such as their origin, appearance, and specific farm uses.
Farm animals that start with I
Farm animals
Scientific name
Typical use
Average lifespan (years)
Iberian Pig
Sus scrofa domesticus
Meat, cured ham
10-15
Icelandic Cattle
Bos taurus
Dairy, beef
15-20
Icelandic Horse
Equus caballus
Riding, farm work, showing
25-30
Icelandic Sheep
Ovis aries
Wool, meat, dairy
10-12
Ile-de-France Sheep
Ovis aries
Meat, wool
8-10
Indian Game Chicken
Gallus gallus domesticus
Meat, ornamental
5-8
Indian Runner Duck
Anas platyrhynchos domesticus
Eggs, pest control, ornamental
8-12
Iowa Blue Chicken
Gallus gallus domesticus
Meat, eggs, ornamental
5-8
Irish Donkey
Equus asinus
Draft work, companion, riding
25-30
Irish Draught Horse
Equus caballus
Draft work, riding, sport
20-25
Irish Moiled Cattle
Bos taurus
Beef, dairy
15-20
Italian Goose
Anser anser domesticus
Meat, eggs, pest control
15-20
Ixworth Chicken
Gallus gallus domesticus
Meat, eggs
5-8
Descriptions
Iberian Pig
A traditional, free-ranging pig breed from the Iberian Peninsula, renowned for its marbled meat and the production of high-quality cured hams. Often fed on acorns for distinct flavor.
Icelandic Cattle
A hardy, ancient breed of dairy cattle originating from Iceland, known for its adaptability to harsh climates. They are typically smaller than other breeds and can also be used for beef production.
Icelandic Horse
A unique, small horse breed from Iceland, known for its five gaits, including the tolt. They are hardy, long-lived, and versatile, used for riding, showing, and traditional farm work.
Icelandic Sheep
An ancient, hardy sheep breed from Iceland, known for its dual-coat wool used for high-quality garments. They are also valued for their flavorful meat and can produce milk.
Ile-de-France Sheep
A French sheep breed developed for rapid growth and meat production, known for its muscular conformation and good quality wool. It’s often used for crossbreeding to improve lamb production.
Indian Game Chicken
A distinctive breed of chicken originating from Cornwall, England, known for its broad, muscular body and erect stance. Primarily bred for meat production and for show purposes due to its unique appearance.
Indian Runner Duck
An upright, penguin-like duck breed known for its prolific egg-laying and foraging abilities. They are excellent foragers, consuming slugs and snails, making them valuable for natural pest control on farms.
Iowa Blue Chicken
A rare, dual-purpose American chicken breed known for its striking blue plumage. Valued for both good egg production and flavorful meat, it is a hardy and active farm bird.
Irish Donkey
Donkeys found in Ireland, historically used for light farm work, pulling carts, and as pack animals. They are known for their hardiness and gentle nature, often kept as companions.
Irish Draught Horse
A versatile and athletic Irish horse breed, historically used for farm work. Known for its strong build, gentle temperament, and jumping ability, it is popular for both riding and as a foundation for sport horses.
Irish Moiled Cattle
A rare, polled (hornless) breed of cattle native to Ireland, prized for its dual-purpose qualities. It is known for its hardiness, docile temperament, and ability to thrive on poorer grazing.
Italian Goose
A medium-sized, white domestic goose breed originating from Italy. Known for its moderate size, good foraging ability, and solid production of meat and large white eggs.
Ixworth Chicken
A rare British dual-purpose chicken breed, developed for rapid growth and meat quality, while also being a fair layer of tinted eggs. It’s known for its pure white plumage and robust build.
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