20 Animals That Start With 'I': From Irish Setters to Ivory Gulls

The Indian elephant is one of the largest species of land animals. Found across South and Southeast Asia, these gentle giants are a subspecies of the Asian elephant. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems by shaping forests and spreading seeds.

Sadly, they are an endangered species due to habitat loss and poaching.

Also known as the Malabar giant squirrel, this striking rodent leaps through the forests of India with its vibrant fur coat. With its long, bushy tail and impressive agility, it easily moves between trees, foraging for fruits and nuts. This colorful creature is a crucial seed disperser in its environment.

This energetic and friendly dog breed has a striking red coat and boundless enthusiasm. Originally bred for hunting, the Irish setter is a fantastic companion for active families. Their keen sense of smell and love for the outdoors make them excellent sporting dogs.

The indigo snake is the longest native snake in the United States, sometimes growing almost 9 feet (2.7 meters).

Unlike many other snakes, it is nonvenomous and presses prey against walls or other structures to subdue them. This powerful reptile helps control rodent populations and is important for a balanced ecosystem.

The Indian cobra's hood expands when it feels threatened. Despite its fearsome reputation, it generally avoids humans unless provoked. This species lives in the Indian subcontinent and it is an invasive species in other areas, like in Queensland, Australia.

With its unique, star-patterned shell, this tortoise is a marvel of nature. Found in India and Sri Lanka, it prefers dry habitats and is primarily herbivorous. Sadly, the illegal pet trade has put this species at risk, making conservation efforts essential.

Considered the world’s most venomous snake, the inland taipan is a silent but deadly predator. Found in Australia, this reptile’s venom is so potent it could reportedly take down dozens of humans with a single bite.

Fortunately, it is reclusive and rarely comes into contact with people.

This elusive cat species is found only on Japan’s Iriomote Island, making it one of the rarest felines on Earth. As a critically endangered species, the Iriomote cat is under constant threat from habitat destruction. It’s a nocturnal hunter, preying on small mammals, birds and reptiles.

Found in the Arctic, these hardy birds often follow polar bears to scavenge their leftovers. Unlike many gulls, the ivory gull has a striking all-white plumage that helps it blend into its icy surroundings. Climate change and pollution threaten its survival.

Once widespread in the southeastern United States, the ivory-billed woodpecker may now be extinct. With its striking black-and-white plumage and distinctive bill, it was one of the largest species of woodpeckers in North America.

This fluffy, energetic herding dog hails from Iceland, where it has helped farmers for centuries. Known for its friendly demeanor and boundless energy, the Icelandic sheepdog thrives in cold climates. Its thick coat and sturdy build make it well-suited for rugged landscapes.

With its massive wingspan and golden-brown coloring, the imperial moth is a striking insect that lives in Central and South America as well as parts of North America.

The caterpillars of this species grow to impressive sizes before transforming into these stunning moths. They play a vital role in pollination and forest ecosystems.

Smaller than its North American relatives, the Indian wolf is a highly adaptable predator. Found in India and parts of Pakistan, it thrives in dry and open landscapes. Sadly, habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict have made this species increasingly rare.

Covered in protective scales, the Indian pangolin is a nocturnal mammal that relies on its powerful claws to dig for ants and termites. Found across South Asia, it is one of the most trafficked mammals in the world due to demand for its scales. Conservationists are working hard to protect this unique species.

This dazzling bird has vibrant plumage and elaborate courtship displays. Native to South Asia, the Indian peafowl is the national bird of India. Males spread their iridescent tail feathers to attract mates, creating one of nature’s most mesmerizing spectacles.

A playful and intelligent marine mammal, this dolphin lives in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. It uses echolocation to navigate and hunt for fish, forming strong social bonds with its pod members. Pollution and fishing nets pose serious threats to its survival.

One of the most distinctive crocodilians, the Indian gharial has a long, narrow snout that helps it catch fish. Once widespread in South Asia’s rivers, it now faces habitat destruction and overfishing.

This large frog has bright yellow skin during mating season, making it easy to spot. Found in South and Southeast Asia, it has a loud call that echoes through wetlands and forests. Unfortunately, habitat destruction and pollution threaten its survival.

A highly adaptable predator, the Indian jackal lives in various habitats across South Asia. It plays an essential role in maintaining ecosystem balance by scavenging and controlling rodent populations.

This small, striped rodent is a common sight in South Asia, as it often darts through trees in search of food. Its rapid movements and high-pitched calls make it a lively presence in urban and rural environments. It plays a crucial role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.