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Animals That Start With The Letter E

Updated: Aug 11, 2023

When it comes to the vast and diverse animal kingdom, there are numerous fascinating creatures that captivate our attention. Exploring the animal world through the lens of the alphabet, we find ourselves at the letter E, where a whole array of extraordinary animals awaits. From the majestic elephants to the elusive echidnas, from the agile eagles to the enchanting elephant seals, animals beginning with the letter E encompass a wide range of species, each with its own unique characteristics and adaptations. Join us on this alphabetical adventure as we delve into the world of animals that start with the letter E, discovering their captivating traits and discovering the wonders that nature has bestowed upon them.


Let's Explore Animals That Start With The Letter E!

Eagle soaring through the sky.

Eagle

Eagles are large, powerful birds of prey that are known for their sharp vision and ability to soar to great heights. They are found on every continent except Antarctica and are adapted to a variety of different habitats. Eagles have strong, hooked beaks and sharp talons that they use to catch and kill their prey, which can include fish, small mammals, and other birds. Eagles are also known for their keen eyesight, which allows them to spot prey from a distance. Some species of eagles are endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and other human activities. Eagles are often considered symbols of strength and freedom and are depicted in art and literature around the world.

Closeup of an Eastern Blue Bird

Eastern Blue Bird

The Eastern bluebird is a small, brightly colored songbird that is native to the eastern United States. It is a member of the thrush family and is known for its distinctive blue and red coloring. The male Eastern bluebird has a bright blue back, wings, and tail, and a rust-colored breast, while the female is a duller blue-gray with a lighter breast. Eastern bluebirds are found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, fields, and gardens, and they feed on insects, fruit, and seeds. They are known for their beautiful songs and are a popular sight in many parts of their range. Eastern bluebirds are considered a symbol of happiness and prosperity and are often depicted in art and literature.


Closeup of an Echidna in the wild.

Echidnas, also known as spiny anteaters, are small, spiny mammals that are native to Australia and New Guinea. They are one of only two mammals (the other being the platypus) that lay eggs. Echidnas have a long, slender snout and a body covered in spines or hairs, which provide protection from predators. They have powerful front claws that they use to dig for insects, their main source of food. Echidnas are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts. They are solitary animals and are most active at dawn and dusk. Echidnas are known for their low reproductive rate and are considered a conservation-dependent species in some parts of their range.


An Eel with it's mouth wide open.

Eel

Eels are elongated, fish-like animals that are found in freshwater and saltwater environments around the world. There are over 800 known species of eels, which are known for their snake-like appearance and ability to swim and move on land. Eels have a long, slender body and a dorsal fin that runs the length of their body. They are carnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, including smaller fish, crustaceans, and insects. Eels are adapted to a variety of habitats, including rivers, lakes, and the open ocean, and they are found on every continent except Antarctica. Some species of eels are known for their long migration patterns, which can involve traveling thousands of miles to reach their breeding grounds.


Egyptian Mau's sitting in a window.

Egyptian Mau

The Egyptian Mau is a breed of domestic cat that is named after the ancient Egyptian word for cat, "mau." It is believed to be one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds, with roots dating back to ancient Egypt. The Egyptian Mau is known for its distinctive spotted coat, which is usually silver or smoke-colored, and for its athletic and graceful build. It is a medium-sized cat with a lean, muscular body and a long tail. Egyptian Maus are intelligent and playful cats that are known for their independence and affectionate nature. They are also known for their ability to run at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest domesticated cats.


Elephant in the wild.

Elephants are large, intelligent mammals that are found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, forests, and deserts, in Africa and Asia. They are known for their distinctive features, including their long trunk, large ears, and thick, gray skin. Elephants are the largest land animals on Earth and can weigh up to 24,000 pounds. They are social animals and live in herds led by a dominant female. Elephants communicate with each other through a variety of sounds and gestures and have excellent memories. They are known for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities and are considered a keystone species, as they play a vital role in their ecosystem. Some species of elephants, such as the African elephant and the Asian elephant, are endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.


Elephant Seal on a beach.

Elephant Seal

Elephant seals are large, earless seals that are found in the waters of the Pacific and Southern Oceans. They get their name from their enormous size and the males' large, inflatable snouts, which resemble the trunk of an elephant. Elephant seals are the largest seals in the world, with males reaching lengths of up to 18 feet and weighing up to 8,800 pounds. Female elephant seals are smaller, reaching lengths of up to 12 feet and weighing up to 2,600 pounds. Elephant seals are adapted to life in the water and can hold their breath for extended periods of time while diving in search of food. They feed on a variety of prey, including fish, squid, and krill. Elephant seals are known for their vocalizations and are often heard calling to each other on the beach during the breeding season.


Elephant Shrew in the wild.

Elephant Shrew

Elephant shrews, also known as sengis, are small, insectivorous mammals that are native to Africa. They are named for their long, flexible snouts, which resemble the trunk of an elephant. Elephant shrews are small, weighing only a few ounces, and have a long, slender body and short legs. They have a large brain for their size and are known for their quick movements and agility. Elephant shrews are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts, and they feed on a diet of insects and other small invertebrates. Elephant shrews are solitary animals and are active during the day. They are not closely related to true shrews or elephants and are placed in their own family, Macroscelididae.


Elk sparring during the rut.

Elk, also known as wapiti, are large, deer-like mammals that are found in North America, Europe, and Asia. They are the largest species of deer in North America and can weigh up to 1,000 pounds. Elk have a distinctive appearance, with a large body, long legs, and large, branched antlers on the males. They are adapted to a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and mountains, and they are known for their strong migratory instincts. Elk are herbivorous and feed on a variety of plants, including grasses, leaves, and twigs. They are social animals and live in herds, with the males establishing dominance through displays of their antlers. Elk are an important species for many Native American cultures and are also popular with hunters and wildlife watchers.


Emperor Tamarin in a tree.

Emperor Tamarin

The emperor tamarin is a small, arboreal primate that is native to the Amazon rainforest in South America. It gets its name from its distinctive white mustache, which resembles the mustache of the German Emperor Wilhelm II. Emperor tamarins are small, weighing only about one pound, and have a slender body, long tail, and a brown or gray fur coat. They are social animals and live in small groups with a dominant male, several females, and their young. Emperor tamarins are omnivorous and feed on a variety of foods, including insects, fruit, and nectar. They are known for their agile movements and are skilled at climbing and leaping through the trees. Emperor tamarins are endangered due to habitat loss and are also threatened by the illegal pet trade.


Emus in the wild.

Emu

The emu is a large, flightless bird that is native to Australia. It is the second-largest bird in the world, after the ostrich, and can reach heights of up to 6.2 feet and weights of up to 130 pounds. Emus have a long, slender neck, a small head, and long legs, and they are covered in shaggy, brown feathers. They are adapted to living in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and grasslands, and they are known for their powerful legs and ability to run long distances at high speeds. Emus are omnivorous and feed on a variety of plant and animal matter, including seeds, fruit, insects, and small animals. They are social animals and live in small groups or pairs, with the males responsible for incubating the eggs and caring for the young.

Ermine in the wild.

Ermine

Ermine, also known as stoats or short-tailed weasels, are small, carnivorous mammals that are native to Europe, Asia, and North America. They are known for their long, slender bodies and short, black-tipped tails. In the winter, ermine have a white coat with black tips on the hairs, which helps them to blend in with the snow and provides camouflage while hunting. During the summer, their coat becomes brown or yellow. Ermine are active and agile animals that are well-adapted to hunting in a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and tundra. They are carnivorous and feed on a variety of small prey, including rodents, birds, and insects. Ermine are also known for their high reproductive rate and are able to produce several litters of offspring each year.


Esox on a boat.

Esox

Esox is a genus of fish that includes several species of pike, a type of predatory fish that is found in freshwater environments around the world. The most well-known species of pike in the Esox genus is the Northern pike, which is native to North America and Europe. Other species of pike in the Esox genus include the muskie, the Amur pike, and the Siberian pike. Pike are known for their long, slender bodies and their large, sharp teeth. They are predatory fish that feed on a variety of prey, including smaller fish, frogs, and insects. Pike are popular game fish and are prized for their size and fighting ability. They are also popular with anglers and are often caught and released.


Eurasian Lynx running in the wild.

Eurasian Lynx

The Eurasian lynx is a medium-sized wild cat that is native to Europe, Asia, and the northern regions of Africa. It is the largest lynx species and can weigh up to 35 pounds. Eurasian lynxes have a thick, fluffy coat that is typically gray or reddish brown in color and is marked with black spots and distinctive tufts of black hair on the ears. They have long legs, large paws, and a short, bobbed tail. Eurasian lynxes are solitary animals and are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, mountains, and tundra. They are carnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, and sometimes larger animals such as deer. Eurasian lynxes are classified as a threatened species due to habitat loss and poaching, and conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve the remaining populations.


European Bison in the wild.

European Bison

The European bison, also known as the wisent, is a large, hoofed mammal that is native to Europe. It is the heaviest land animal in Europe and can weigh up to 2,200 pounds. European bison have a stocky, muscular build and a shaggy, brown coat. They have short, curved horns and a large head with a distinctive mane of long, shaggy hair. European bison are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and mountains, and they are herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plants, including grasses, leaves, and twigs. European bison are social animals and live in herds, with males establishing dominance through displays of their horns. European bison were once widespread throughout Europe, but they were hunted to the brink of extinction in the 20th century. Conservation efforts have helped to bring the species back from the brink, and there are now several thousand European bison living in the wild and in captivity.


Ewe with its baby.

Ewe

A ewe is a female sheep. Ewes are typically larger and heavier than rams, which are male sheep, and they are typically more docile and easier to handle. Ewes are intelligent and social animals that live in herds and form strong bonds with other members of their group. They are also maternal animals and are known for their strong maternal instincts. Ewes are typically bred for their wool, milk, and meat, and they are an important source of food and income for many people around the world. Ewes are also used in scientific research and are often used to study the effects of different drugs and treatments on reproductive function and maternal behavior.


Eyelash Viper in a tree,

Eyelash Viper

The eyelash viper is a venomous snake that is native to Central and South America. It gets its name from the distinctive row of scales above its eyes that resemble eyelashes. Eyelash vipers are small to medium-sized snakes, with an average length of about 2-3 feet. They have a slender, agile build and are typically green or brown in color, with markings that help them blend in with their surroundings. Eyelash vipers are arboreal snakes and are well-adapted to life in the trees, where they hunt and feed on a variety of small prey, including rodents, birds, and insects. They are venomous and have long, sharp fangs that they use to inject their venom into their prey. Eyelash vipers are not aggressive towards humans and usually only bite if they feel threatened or provoked.


Ezo Red Fox sitting on a road.

Ezo Red Fox

The Ezo red fox, also known as the Hokkaido red fox, is a subspecies of red fox that is native to Hokkaido, Japan. It is the largest subspecies of red fox and is known for its thick, fluffy coat, which is usually reddish-brown in color. Ezo red foxes have a long, bushy tail and a distinctive white tip on the end. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and mountains, and they are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, insects, and fruit. Ezo red foxes are social animals and live in small family groups, with the females responsible for raising the young. They are known for their intelligence and adaptability and are often depicted in Japanese folklore and culture.


Earthworm in a human hand.

Earthworm

Earthworms are small, slender, segmented worms that live in soil. They are found in many parts of the world and play a vital role in the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and improving soil structure. Earthworms are hermaphrodites, which means that they have both male and female reproductive organs, but they still need to mate with another earthworm in order to reproduce. They have a simple digestive system and breathe through their skin, which must remain moist in order to function properly. Earthworms are often used as bait for fishing and are also used in composting to help break down organic matter.


English Shepherd

The English Shepherd is a medium-sized breed of working dog that is believed to have originated in England. It is a versatile breed that has been used for a variety of tasks, including herding, guarding, and hunting. English Shepherds are intelligent, energetic, and loyal dogs that are known for their ability to adapt to a variety of environments and tasks. They have a strong work ethic and are eager to please their owners. English Shepherds are medium-sized dogs with a muscular, athletic build and a short, thick coat that comes in a variety of colors. They have a medium-length tail and a friendly, alert expression. English Shepherds are intelligent and trainable, but they can be strong-willed and may require a firm, consistent hand in training.


Everglades Rat Snake

The Everglades rat snake, also known as the Florida rat snake or the yellow rat snake, is a species of nonvenomous snake that is native to the southeastern United States, including the Everglades region of Florida. It is a medium-sized snake with a slender, agile build and a long, thin tail. The Everglades rat snake has a yellow or tan base color with black or brown bands or blotches. It is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and agricultural land, and it is an excellent climber. The Everglades rat snake feeds on a variety of prey, including rodents, birds, and eggs. It is not aggressive towards humans and will typically try to escape rather than bite if it feels threatened. The Everglades rat snake is not considered endangered and is not protected under the Endangered Species Act.


Eyelid Gecko

Eyelid geckos are a group of small, arboreal gecko species that are native to various regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, and the Americas. They get their name from the small, moveable eyelids that cover their eyes, which are not found in all gecko species. Eyelid geckos are small, typically only growing to about 4-6 inches in length, and have a slender, agile build. They have a wide range of colors and patterns, depending on the species, and are often brightly colored. Eyelid geckos are nocturnal animals and are well-adapted to life in the trees, where they feed on a variety of insects and other small invertebrates. Some species of eyelid geckos are popular pets due to their small size and docile nature.


Eyra

An eyra is a small carnivorous mammal that is native to South America. There are several species of eyra, including the kinkajou, the olingo, and the binturong. Eyra are arboreal animals and are adapted to life in the trees, where they are skilled climbers and have a prehensile tail that helps them balance and grasp branches. Eyra have a long, slender body and a round head, and they are covered in fur that ranges in color from brown to black. Eyra are omnivorous and feed on a variety of plant and animal matter, including fruit, insects, and small animals. They are nocturnal animals and are most active at night. Eyra are not commonly kept as pets and are protected in some areas due to habitat loss and poaching.


Eastern Coral Snake

The Eastern coral snake is a venomous snake that is native to the southeastern United States. It is a member of the Elapidae family, which includes other venomous snakes such as cobras and mambas. The Eastern coral snake is small, typically only growing to about 2-3 feet in length, and is brightly colored, with bands of black, yellow, and red around its body. It is often confused with nonvenomous species that have similar color patterns, such as the scarlet snake and the Arizona coral snake. The Eastern coral snake has a toxic venom that can cause respiratory failure and death if left untreated. However, bites from this snake are relatively rare as it is generally not aggressive and will only bite if provoked.


Earwig

Earwigs are insects that are named for the myth that they crawl into the ears of humans and lay their eggs there. In reality, this is not true and earwigs do not pose a threat to humans. There are over 2000 known species of earwigs, which are found on every continent except Antarctica. Most earwigs are nocturnal and are attracted to moist environments. They have pincers on the rear of their bodies that they use for defense and to capture prey. Some species of earwigs are also able to fly. Earwigs can be beneficial to gardens as they eat a variety of small insects and help to control pest populations. However, they can also damage plants, so it is important to keep an eye on their populations if you have a garden.


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