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Animals That Start With The Letter G

Updated: Aug 13, 2023

Get ready to go on a grand adventure as we gallivant through the glittering realm of animals that grace the animal kingdom with the glorious letter "G"! From the graceful gliders of the sky to the goofy grazers on the ground, we're about to dive into a galaxy of the most charming, grand, and giddy creatures. With growls, giggles, and gleeful squawks, these "G"-powered animals are gearing up to share their stories and steal the spotlight. So, gear up for a glorious journey as we gallivant through the great tales of the animals that start with the letter "G"!


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

Gazelle in the wild.

Gazelle

Gazelles are small to medium-sized antelopes that are native to Africa and Asia. They are known for their slender and graceful bodies, long legs, and distinctive horns. Gazelles are herbivores and feed on a variety of grasses, leaves, and herbs. They are social animals and typically live in herds. There are several different species of gazelle, including the Nubian gazelle, the dama gazelle, and the Thompson's gazelle. Gazelles are known for their speed and agility, and they are able to reach high speeds while running to escape predators.


Gecko in the wild.

Gecko

Geckos are small, nocturnal lizards that are found in a variety of habitats around the world. They are known for their unique ability to climb vertical surfaces and even upside down on ceilings, thanks to specialized toe pads that allow them to adhere to almost any surface. Geckos are generally insectivorous and feed on a variety of insects and other small invertebrates. Some species of gecko are also able to vocalize and make vocalizations that sound like clicks, chirps, or chattering noises. There are over 1,500 different species of gecko, including the leopard gecko, the house gecko, and the day gecko.


Gerbil in tunnel.

Gerbil

A gerbil is a small, burrowing rodent that is native to desert regions of Asia and Africa. They are closely related to mice and rats and have a similar appearance, but they are generally smaller and have longer tails. Gerbils are social animals and live in large groups in the wild, as well as in captivity. They are popular pets because of their small size, low maintenance, and gentle nature. Gerbils are herbivores and primarily feed on seeds, grains, and vegetables. They are known for their high levels of activity and are often seen running on a wheel or playing with toys in their enclosure. Gerbils are also known for their ability to dig and burrow, and they will often create complex tunnel systems in their environment.


Giant Anteater in the wild.

Giant Anteater

The giant anteater, also known as the giant antbear, is a large mammal found in Central and South America. It is the largest species of anteater and can reach lengths of up to 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) and weigh up to 140 pounds (64 kilograms). The giant anteater has a long, slender snout and a tongue that can be up to two feet (60 cm) long, which it uses to feed on insects, particularly ants and termites. It has a long, shaggy coat that is typically gray or brown in color and strong, sharp claws that it uses for digging and defense. The giant anteater is a solitary animal and is generally active during the early morning and late afternoon. It is listed as a vulnerable species due to habitat destruction and hunting.


Giant Panda in a zoo.

Giant Panda

The giant panda, also known as the panda bear or simply the panda, is a bear native to central and southwestern China. It is known for its distinctive black and white coat and is one of the most recognizable and popular animals in the world. The giant panda has a round head, small ears, and a large body and can grow up to 4.9 feet (1.5 meters) long and weigh up to 286 pounds (130 kilograms). Despite its name and appearance, the giant panda is actually a member of the carnivore family and feeds primarily on bamboo. However, it has also been known to occasionally eat fish, eggs, and small mammals. The giant panda is an endangered species due to habitat loss and a low reproductive rate.


Giant Salamander

The giant salamander is the largest species of salamander in the world and can grow up to 5.9 feet (1.8 meters) in length. It is native to Japan and China and is known for its distinctive appearance, which includes a large, flattened head, small eyes, and a broad, sturdy body. The giant salamander has moist, glandular skin and is typically brown, black, or olive in color. It is an aquatic animal and is found in cold, fast-flowing streams and rivers in mountainous areas. The giant salamander is a nocturnal, carnivorous species and feeds on a variety of small animals, including fish, worms, and insects. It is a threatened species due to habitat destruction and over-collecting for the pet trade.


Giraffe in the wild.

Giraffe

The giraffe is a large, iconic herbivorous mammal found in Africa. It is known for its long neck, long legs, and distinctive spotted coat. The giraffe is the tallest living land animal, with males reaching heights of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) and females reaching heights of up to 16 feet (4.9 meters). The giraffe's neck is so long that it has seven vertebrae, the same number as a human's, but they are much larger and heavier. The giraffe's legs are also long, and it can run at speeds of up to 35 mph (56 kph). Giraffes are found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and grasslands. They are social animals and live in herds of up to 15 individuals. Giraffes are herbivorous and feed on leaves, twigs, and flowers from trees and shrubs.


Gnus drinking water in the wild.

Gnu

Gnu is another name for the African wildebeest, a large, hoofed mammal found in eastern and southern Africa. The African wildebeest is also known as the gnu goat or the brindled gnu. It has a stocky build, a long, pointed head, and a short, curved tail. The African wildebeest is typically brown or black in color and has a distinctive, brindled coat. It can grow up to 5.9 feet (1.8 meters) long and weigh up to 1,100 pounds (500 kilograms). The African wildebeest is a herbivorous animal and feeds on grasses and other plants. It is a social animal and lives in large herds, often mixed with other hoofed animals such as zebras and antelopes. African wildebeest are known for their strong migratory instincts and participate in large, annual migrations in search of food and water.


Goat on top of a mountain cliff.

Goat

Goats are a type of domesticated mammal. They are closely related to sheep, and are often kept by humans for their milk, meat, and fiber. Goats are known for their hardiness and ability to survive in a variety of environments, and they are found in many parts of the world. They are social animals and are often kept in herds.


Goldfinch in a bed of wildflowers.

Goldfinch

The goldfinch is a small, brightly colored songbird that is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is a popular cage bird and has also been introduced to many other parts of the world. The male goldfinch has a bright red face and a yellow or gold patch on its wings, while the female is generally a duller brown color. Goldfinches are known for their distinctive, cheerful songs and are often depicted in art and literature. They are primarily seed-eaters, but they also feed on insects, especially during the breeding season.


Goldfish in a bowl of water.

Goldfish

Goldfish are a type of freshwater fish that are popular pets. They are known for their bright colors and ability to adapt to a variety of environments. Goldfish are a type of carp, and they are native to East Asia. They are easy to care for and can live for a long time, with some individuals living for over 20 years. Goldfish are typically kept in an aquarium or pond, and they require a consistent water temperature, proper filtration, and a balanced diet to thrive.


Gorilla in a zoo.

Gorilla

Gorillas are large primates native to Africa. They are one of the closest living relatives to humans and are known for their intelligence and complex social behavior. There are two species of gorillas: the eastern gorilla and the western gorilla. Eastern gorillas are found in eastern Africa, and western gorillas are found in central and western Africa. Gorillas live in groups called troops, which are led by a dominant male called a silverback. These groups typically consist of several females and their young, as well as a few subordinate males. Gorillas are herbivorous, and they primarily eat plants such as leaves, stems, and fruit. They are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and poaching.


Grasshopper on a twig.

Grasshopper

Grasshoppers are insects that belong to the suborder Caelifera. They are characterized by their long, powerful hind legs, which they use for jumping. Grasshoppers are found in a variety of habitats all over the world, including grasslands, forests, and deserts. They are herbivorous and feed on a wide range of plants, including grasses, grains, and vegetables. Some grasshopper species are known to be agricultural pests, as they can cause significant damage to crops. However, many species are important components of their ecosystems and serve as food for other animals.


Gray Fox in the wild.

Gray Fox

The gray fox is a species of fox found in North and Central America. It is characterized by its distinctive salt-and-pepper colored fur, which is typically gray on the back and red on the sides and legs. Gray foxes are smaller and more agile than other fox species, and they are known for their ability to climb trees. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and suburban areas. Gray foxes are omnivorous and feed on a wide range of items, including fruits, insects, small mammals, and birds. They are typically nocturnal and solitary animals, and they are known for their strong territorial behavior.


Gray Whale in the wild ocean.

Gray Whale

The gray whale is a species of baleen whale found in the North Pacific Ocean. They are known for their mottled gray coloring and stocky, streamlined body shape. Gray whales are found in coastal waters, and they migrate annually between their feeding grounds in the Arctic and their breeding and calving grounds in the warm waters off the coast of Mexico. They are filter feeders and primarily feed on small crustaceans called amphipods, which they filter from the water using their baleen plates. Gray whales are listed as a threatened species on the Endangered Species Act due to hunting and other human activities.

Great Blue Heron flying.

Great Blue Heron

The great blue heron is a large wading bird found in North and Central America. It is a type of heron and is known for its distinctive blue-gray plumage and long, S-shaped neck. Great blue herons are found in a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, swamps, and shallow lakes. They are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of animals, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. Great blue herons are solitary hunters and are known for their patient and stealthy hunting techniques. They are often seen standing motionless for long periods of time as they wait for prey to come within striking range.


Closeup of  Great Horned Owl in the wild.

Great Horned Owl

The great horned owl is a large owl found in the Americas. It is a nocturnal predator and is known for its distinctive ear tufts, or "horns," and its deep hooting call. Great horned owls are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. They are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of animals, including rodents, rabbits, birds, and reptiles. Great horned owls are solitary hunters and are known for their keen eyesight and excellent hearing, which they use to locate prey. They are also adaptable and can live in a variety of environments.


Great White Shark in the ocean.

Great White Shark

The great white shark is a species of large, predatory shark found in the coastal waters of all major oceans. It is known for its size, with some individuals reaching lengths of over 20 feet and weights of over 5,000 pounds. Great white sharks are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of prey, including seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals, as well as fish and other sharks. They are solitary hunters and are known for their powerful jaws and sharp teeth. Great white sharks are classified as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to overfishing and other human activities.


Closeup of a Grizzly Bear in the wild.

Grizzly Bear

The grizzly bear is a large subspecies of brown bear found in North America. It is characterized by its distinctive shoulder hump and long, shaggy fur, which is typically brown but can range from blond to black. Grizzly bears are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, mountains, and grasslands. They are omnivorous and feed on a wide range of items, including plants, berries, roots, insects, and small mammals. Grizzly bears are solitary animals, but they can also be found in small groups, particularly during the breeding season. They are known for their powerful physical strength and their role as a top predator in their ecosystem.


Gopher standing on hind legs in the wild.

Gopher

Gophers are small, burrowing rodents found in North and Central America. They are known for their underground tunnels and chambers, which they use for shelter and storage. Gophers are herbivorous and feed on a wide range of plants, including roots, stems, and leaves. They are adapted for digging, with strong front legs and sharp claws. Gophers are solitary animals and are known for their territorial behavior. They are considered pests by many people because they can cause damage to gardens and croplands by burrowing and feeding on plants. There are several species of gophers, including the pocket gopher, which is named for the pockets on its cheeks that it uses to carry food.


Goral laying down in the zoo.

Goral

The goral is a species of small, hoofed mammal found in the mountains of Asia. It is a type of goat-antelope and is closely related to the serow and the takin. Gorals are found in a variety of habitat types, including forests, grasslands, and rocky cliffs. They are herbivorous and feed on a wide range of plants, including grasses, shrubs, and tree leaves. Gorals are adapted to life in the mountains, with agile bodies, strong legs, and hooves that are well-suited for climbing steep slopes. They are typically found in small groups, and males are known for their territorial behavior. Gorals are classified as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss and hunting.


Goshawk on a branch.

Goshawk

The goshawk is a species of bird of prey found in a variety of habitats throughout the Northern Hemisphere. It is a type of hawk and is known for its powerful, agile flight and its ability to hunt a wide range of prey, including birds, small mammals, and reptiles. Goshawks are adapted for hunting, with keen eyesight and strong talons. They are typically found in forested areas and hunt by flying through the trees at high speeds and ambushing their prey. Goshawks are typically solitary hunters, but they may sometimes hunt in pairs. They are also known for their bold and aggressive behavior.


Gourami swimming in an aquarium.

Gourami

Gouramis are a type of freshwater fish found in Southeast Asia. They are popular aquarium fish and are known for their bright colors and intricate patterns. There are several species of gouramis, including the dwarf gourami, the pearl gourami, and the kissing gourami. Gouramis are typically peaceful fish and can be kept with a variety of tankmates. They are omnivorous and will eat a wide range of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods. Gouramis are known for their unique respiratory system, which allows them to breathe air as well as extract oxygen from the water. They have a labyrinth organ that enables them to take in air at the surface and oxygenate their blood.


Grackle standing on a branch.

Grackle

Grackles are a type of passerine bird found in North and Central America. They are known for their glossy black plumage and their long, keel-shaped tails. There are several species of grackles, including the common grackle, the boat-tailed grackle, and the great-tailed grackle. Grackles are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. They are omnivorous and will eat a wide range of food items, including insects, fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates. Grackles are social birds and are often found in large flocks. They are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of clicks, chirps, and whistles.


Green Iguana in wild.

Green Iguana

The green iguana (Iguana iguana) is a large, arboreal reptile found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. It is characterized by its distinctive green coloring, which helps it blend in with the foliage of its habitat, and its long, spiky tail. Green iguanas are herbivorous and primarily feed on leaves, flowers, and fruits. They are known for their ability to climb and are often found basking in trees or on branches. Green iguanas are popular pets, but they require a specialized diet and habitat to thrive. They can grow to be quite large, with some individuals reaching lengths of over 6 feet.


Green Jay in a tree.

Green Jay

The green jay (Cyanocorax yncas) is a species of passerine bird found in the forests of Mexico and Central America. It is a type of jay and is known for its bright green plumage and distinctive blue and black markings. Green jays are found in a variety of forested habitats, including deciduous, evergreen, and mixed forests. They are omnivorous and will eat a wide range of food items, including insects, fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates. Green jays are social birds and are often found in flocks. They are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of chirps, clicks, and calls.


Green Macaw on a branch.

Green Macaw

The green macaw is a species of large, brightly colored parrot found in the rainforests of Central and South America. It is a type of macaw and is known for its long, pointed tail and its bright green plumage. Green macaws are found in a variety of forested habitats, including deciduous, evergreen, and mixed forests. They are herbivorous and feed on a wide range of fruits, seeds, and nuts. Green macaws are social birds and are often found in pairs or small flocks. They are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of chirps, squawks, and whistles. Green macaws are endangered due to habitat loss and illegal trade.


Green Sea Turtle swimming in ocean.

Green Sea Turtle

The green sea turtle is a species of sea turtle found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the world. It is named for the greenish color of its fat, which is visible through its transparent shell. Green sea turtles are found in a variety of marine habitats, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and coastal areas. They are herbivorous and feed on a wide range of plants, including seagrasses, algae, and other marine plants. Green sea turtles are known for their long migrations, which can take them hundreds or even thousands of miles between feeding and breeding grounds. They are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, overfishing, and other human activities.


Greenfinch sitting on an evergreen branch.

Greenfinch

The greenfinch is a species of passerine bird found in Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. It is a type of finch and is known for its distinctive green plumage and conical beak. Greenfinches are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and gardens. They are omnivorous and will eat a wide range of food items, including seeds, fruits, insects, and nectar. Greenfinches are social birds and are often found in small flocks. They are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of chirps, trills, and warbles.


Grey Heron next to water.

Grey Heron

The grey heron is a large wading bird found in Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is a type of heron and is known for its distinctive grey plumage and long, S-shaped neck. Grey herons are found in a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, swamps, and shallow lakes. They are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of animals, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. Grey herons are solitary hunters and are known for their patient and stealthy hunting techniques. They are often seen standing motionless for long periods of time as they wait for prey to come within striking range.


Grey Seal on snowy rocky beach.

Grey Seal

The grey seal is a species of seal found in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is the largest seal species in the region and is known for its distinctive grey-silver coloring and large size. Grey seals are found in a variety of marine habitats, including coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. They are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of animals, including fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans. Grey seals are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of barks, growls, and whistles. They are also known for their strong territorial behavior, with males defending harems of females during the breeding season.


Groundhog in the wild.

Groundhog

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are a type of rodent found in North America. They are characterized by their chunky bodies, short legs, and brown fur. Groundhogs are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and suburban areas. They are herbivorous and feed on a wide range of plants, including grasses, herbs, and vegetables. Groundhogs are known for their burrowing habits and are often found in areas with soft, loose soil. They are also known for their use in predicting the arrival of spring, as it is believed that if a groundhog emerges from its burrow on February 2nd (Groundhog Day) and sees its shadow, it will return to its burrow, indicating that winter will last for six more weeks.


Grouper in the water.

Grouper

Groupers are a type of large, predatory fish found in the coastal waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, large mouths, and strong fins. Groupers are found in a variety of marine habitats, including coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky cliffs. They are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of animals, including fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Groupers are popular game fish and are also commercially important as a food fish. There are several species of groupers, including the red grouper, the black grouper, and the giant grouper. Some species are threatened due to overfishing and habitat loss.


Grouse in the wild.

Grouse

Grouse are a type of game bird found in a variety of habitats throughout the Northern Hemisphere. They are characterized by their strong legs, short wings, and plump bodies. Grouse are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and tundra. They are herbivorous and feed on a wide range of plants, including seeds, leaves, and berries. There are several species of grouse, including the ruffed grouse, the sharp-tailed grouse, and the spruce grouse. Grouse are popular game birds and are often hunted for sport. They are also important food sources for a variety of animals, including humans.


Guppy swimming in water.

Guppy

Guppies are a type of small, brightly colored fish found in the fresh and brackish waters of Central and South America. They are popular aquarium fish and are known for their wide range of colors and patterns. Guppies are omnivorous and will eat a wide range of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods. They are easy to care for and are suitable for beginners. Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. They are also known for their high reproductive rate, with females capable of producing several broods of offspring each year.


Guenon on fence post.

Guenon

Guenons are a type of Old World monkey found in Africa. They are known for their distinctive long, thin faces and their wide range of coloration, which can include shades of brown, red, green, and black. Guenons are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and wooded grasslands. They are omnivorous and feed on a wide range of foods, including fruits, leaves, insects, and small vertebrates. Guenons are social animals and are often found in large groups called troops. They are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of calls, barks, and whistles. There are several species of guenons, including the vervet monkey, the mandrill, and the patas monkey.


Guineafowls walking in the dirt.

Guineafowl

Guineafowl are a type of poultry found in Africa. They are closely related to chickens and are known for their distinctive, spiky plumage and their ability to forage for food. There are several species of guineafowl, including the helmeted guineafowl, the vulturine guineafowl, and the crested guineafowl. Guineafowl are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. They are omnivorous and will eat a wide range of food items, including seeds, fruits, insects, and small invertebrates. Guineafowl are social animals and are often found in large flocks. They are also known for their loud, harsh calls. Guineafowl are popular as food and are also kept as ornamental birds in some areas.


Gullbilled Tern flying.

Gullbilled Tern

The gull-billed tern is a species of tern found in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. It is a medium-sized tern with a distinctive, thick, black bill and pale grey upperparts. Gull-billed terns are found in a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, estuaries, and coastal areas. They are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of animals, including fish, crustaceans, and insects. Gull-billed terns are migratory birds and are known for their strong, agile flight. They are also known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of harsh, guttural calls. Gull-billed terns are classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to their wide distribution and stable population.


Fisherman holding a Gurnard fish.

Gurnard

Gurnards are a type of bottom-dwelling fish found in the coastal waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are characterized by their large, spiny heads and their wide, triangular pectoral fins. Gurnards are found in a variety of marine habitats, including sandy and rocky bottoms, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. They are carnivorous and feed on a wide range of animals, including crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Gurnards are known for their ability to produce sound by grinding their pectoral fins together. There are several species of gurnards, including the red gurnard, the gray gurnard, and the striped gurnard. Some species are popular as food and are also caught for sport.


Closeup of Gyrfalcon.

Gyrfalcon

The gyrfalcon is a large species of falcon found in the Arctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is the largest species of falcon and is known for its powerful, agile flight and its ability to hunt a wide range of prey, including birds, small mammals, and reptiles. Gyrfalcons are adapted for life in the Arctic, with thick, insulating plumage and powerful talons. They are found in a variety of habitats, including tundra, forests, and cliffs. Gyrfalcons are solitary hunters and are known for their fierce and aggressive behavior. They are also prized by falconers and have been used for falconry for centuries.


Gyrinocheilus

Gyrinocheilus is a genus of fish in the family Gyrinocheilidae. They are also known as algae eaters or Chinese algae eaters. They are native to the fast-flowing streams and rivers of Southeast Asia, and are commonly found in the aquarium trade. Gyrinocheilus species are characterized by their long, slender bodies and their ability to scrape algae off of rocks and other surfaces using their specialized teeth. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tankmates. However, they are known to become aggressive towards their own kind and may harass other fish if they are not kept in a sufficiently large tank. Gyrinocheilus species are considered to be hardy and easy to care for, making them a popular choice for beginner aquarists.


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