Animals Quiz

How much do you know about animals?

Welcome to the Ultimate Animals Quiz!

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the fascinating world of wildlife? Whether you're an avid animal enthusiast or just curious about the diverse creatures that roam our planet, this quiz is designed to test your knowledge and maybe even surprise you with some intriguing facts. From the depths of the oceans to the canopies of rainforests, animals exhibit extraordinary behaviors and adaptations.

In this quiz, you'll encounter questions ranging from the common household pets to the most exotic species. Challenge yourself and discover how much you truly know about the animal kingdom. Are you prepared to prove your prowess as a wildlife whiz? Let's dive in and see if you can earn the title of Animal Expert!

Good luck!

Start the animals quiz

Questions and answers about animals

• What is the average lifespan of a domestic cat?

  The average lifespan of a domestic cat can vary based on factors like breed, health, and environment, but generally, domestic cats live for about 12 to 15 years. Proper care, including regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and a safe living environment, can help extend a cat's lifespan.

  • 12-15 years
  • 8-10 years
  • 20-22 years
  • 5-7 years

• How many teeth does an adult dog usually have?

  An adult dog typically has 42 teeth. This includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Puppies have about 28 deciduous (baby) teeth, which they lose as they grow older. Adult teeth in dogs are designed for various functions like grabbing, holding, and tearing food.

  • 42 teeth
  • 32 teeth
  • 28 teeth
  • 36 teeth

• Can parrots really mimic human speech?

  Yes, parrots can mimic human speech. They are among the few animals that can do this. Parrots don't have vocal cords; instead, they use their throat muscles to direct airflow to create sounds. Their ability to mimic human speech is due to their intelligent and social nature.

  • Yes
  • No
  • Only in rare cases
  • Only when trained from a young age

• What is the main diet of a rabbit?

  The main diet of a rabbit consists primarily of hay, which provides the necessary fiber for their digestive system. They also eat leafy greens, vegetables, and a small amount of pellets. Fresh water must always be available. Rabbits need a balanced diet for proper health and nutrition.

  • Hay
  • Carrots
  • Fruits
  • Seeds

• How long can a goldfish live under optimal conditions?

  Under optimal conditions, a goldfish can live for about 10 to 15 years. Some goldfish have been known to live even longer. Proper tank maintenance, adequate space, a balanced diet, and good water quality are crucial for their longevity and health.

  • 10-15 years
  • 3-5 years
  • 1-2 years
  • 20-25 years

• Which animal is known as man's best friend?

  The dog is commonly known as man's best friend. This title reflects the long history of close relations, loyalty, and companionship between humans and dogs. Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, serving various roles from companionship to working animals.

  • Dog
  • Cat
  • Horse
  • Parrot

• What do we call a baby horse?

  A baby horse is called a foal. A foal can be a male, known as a colt, or a female, known as a filly. Horses are usually called foals until they are one year old. After a year, they are referred to as yearlings until they reach adulthood.

  • Foal
  • Pony
  • Calf
  • Kid

• How many humps does a Bactrian camel have?

  The Bactrian camel, native to the steppes of Central Asia, is distinctive for having two humps on its back, in contrast to the dromedary camel, which has only one. These humps store fat, which can be converted to water and energy when food is scarce.

  • Two
  • One
  • Three
  • None

• What is a group of lions called?

  A group of lions is called a pride. A lion pride typically consists of several adult females, their cubs, and a few adult males. This social structure is unique among big cats and helps lions in cooperative hunting and rearing of the young.

  • Pride
  • Pack
  • Swarm
  • Herd

• Are dolphins considered fish or mammals?

  Dolphins are mammals, not fish. As mammals, they breathe air, give birth to live young, and nurse their offspring with milk. Dolphins are highly intelligent, social animals known for their playful behavior and ability to communicate using a variety of clicks and whistles.

  • Mammals
  • Fish
  • Reptiles
  • Amphibians

• Which bird is known for its beautiful tail feathers?

  The peacock, specifically the male of the species, is renowned for its stunning tail feathers. These vibrant and intricate feathers are used in mating displays to attract females. The peacock's tail feathers are known for their iridescent colors and eye-like patterns.

  • Peacock
  • Parrot
  • Flamingo
  • Eagle

• What is the fastest land animal in the world?

  The cheetah is the fastest land animal in the world, capable of reaching speeds up to 60-70 mph (97-113 km/h) in short bursts covering distances up to 1,500 feet (460 meters). This incredible speed is aided by their lightweight frame, long legs, and specialized spine.

  • Cheetah
  • Lion
  • Horse
  • Greyhound

• Can pigs really swim?

  Yes, pigs can swim. Contrary to some beliefs, pigs are quite adept at swimming and can swim over considerable distances. They are natural swimmers, and this ability can be observed in places like the Bahamas, where the famous swimming pigs reside.

  • Yes
  • No
  • Only when trained
  • Only young piglets

• What is the largest breed of domesticated cats?

  The Maine Coon is often regarded as the largest breed of domesticated cat. Known for their large size, friendly nature, and lush fur, Maine Coons can weigh up to 18 pounds (8 kg) or more and have a body length of up to 40 inches (100 cm).

  • Maine Coon
  • Bengal Cat
  • Russian Blue
  • Siberian Cat

• How high can kangaroos jump?

  Kangaroos are known for their powerful hind legs and are capable of jumping heights of up to 10 feet (3 meters) in a single leap. They can also cover distances of up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) in a single bound when moving at high speeds.

  • Up to 10 feet (3 meters)
  • Up to 5 feet (1.5 meters)
  • Up to 15 feet (4.5 meters)
  • Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters)

• What do we call a male deer?

  A male deer is commonly called a buck. In some larger species of deer, like the red deer, the male is often referred to as a stag. Male deer are characterized by their antlers, which they shed and regrow each year.

  • Buck
  • Doe
  • Fawn
  • Hart

• What is the only bird capable of flying backward?

  The hummingbird is the only bird that can fly backward. Their unique wing structure allows them to hover and fly in all directions, including backwards. This extraordinary ability is essential for feeding as they extract nectar from flowers.

  • Hummingbird
  • Parrot
  • Owl
  • Eagle

• Which bear is the largest carnivore on land?

  The polar bear is considered the largest carnivore on land. They can weigh up to 1,500 pounds (680 kg) and reach lengths of over 8 feet (2.4 meters). Adapted to the Arctic environment, their diet primarily consists of seals.

  • Polar Bear
  • Grizzly Bear
  • Brown Bear
  • Black Bear

• What is the main food of a giant panda?

  The primary food of the giant panda is bamboo. These bears are adapted to a diet that consists almost exclusively of bamboo, although they occasionally eat other foods like honey, eggs, fish, yams, shrub leaves, oranges, and bananas when available.

  • Bamboo
  • Fruits
  • Leaves
  • Insects

• How long is the gestation period of an African elephant?

  The gestation period of an African elephant is among the longest for any land animal, lasting about 22 months. This extended pregnancy is due to the complex development of the large and highly intelligent offspring.

  • 22 months
  • 12 months
  • 18 months
  • 24 months

• What color is the tongue of a giraffe?

  The tongue of a giraffe is famously blue-black in color. This unique coloration is thought to be a form of sun protection, as giraffes spend a significant amount of time feeding with their tongues exposed to the sun. The tongue can be up to 50 cm long.

  • Blue-black
  • Pink
  • Red
  • Green

• Can owls turn their heads 360 degrees?

  Owls cannot turn their heads a full 360 degrees. They can turn their heads about 270 degrees in either direction, which gives them the ability to look behind without moving their bodies. This is possible due to their flexible necks that have 14 vertebral bones.

  • 270 degrees
  • 360 degrees
  • 180 degrees
  • 90 degrees

• Which animal is known for its black and white stripes?

  The zebra is known for its distinctive black and white stripes. Each zebra's stripe pattern is unique, much like a human's fingerprint. These stripes are believed to serve several purposes, including camouflage, temperature regulation, and deterring flies.

  • Zebra
  • Panda
  • Skunk
  • Orca

• What is the smallest bird in the world?

  The smallest bird in the world is the bee hummingbird. Native to Cuba, the bee hummingbird is about 2.4 inches (6 cm) long and weighs around 2 grams. Males are slightly smaller than females and are known for their iridescent plumage.

  • Bee Hummingbird
  • Goldcrest
  • Chickadee
  • Puffin

• What do we call a group of frogs?

  A group of frogs is known as an 'army'. This term is often used to describe a large group of frogs, especially when they are seen together during breeding season or migration.

  • Army
  • Gaggle
  • School
  • Herd

• Which vertebrate animal has the longest lifespan?

  The Greenland shark has the longest known lifespan of any vertebrate species. Recent studies have found that these sharks can live as long as 400 years. They grow slowly and live in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans.

  • Greenland Shark
  • Tortoise
  • Whale
  • Elephant

• What is the main diet of a koala?

  Koalas primarily eat eucalyptus leaves. They are highly selective and will eat leaves from only a few of the over 700 species of eucalyptus trees. These leaves provide them with both moisture and nutrition but are toxic to most other animals.

  • Eucalyptus leaves
  • Bamboo
  • Fruits
  • Insects

• How many species of penguins are there?

  There are about 17 to 19 species of penguins. These birds are primarily found in the Southern Hemisphere, with one species, the Galápagos penguin, living near the equator. Penguin species vary greatly in size, habitat, and behavior.

  • 17 to 19
  • 5 to 7
  • 20 to 22
  • 10 to 12

• What is a baby kangaroo called?

  A baby kangaroo is called a joey. Joeys are born extremely small and undeveloped. After birth, they crawl into their mother's pouch, where they continue to develop for several months before they are ready to emerge and explore the world outside.

  • Joey
  • Cub
  • Fawn
  • Kid

• Which animal is known as the king of the jungle?

  The lion is often referred to as the 'king of the jungle', although they actually live in grasslands and plains rather than jungles. This title likely comes from their majestic appearance and social structure, where the male lion is the dominant member of the pride.

  • Lion
  • Tiger
  • Elephant
  • Gorilla

• What is the only mammal capable of true flight?

  The only mammals capable of true flight are bats. Unlike birds, bats have wings that are more similar to a human hand, with a thin membrane of skin stretched between elongated fingers. There are over 1,200 species of bats, ranging from the tiny bumblebee bat to the large flying fox.

  • Bats
  • Colugos
  • Squirrels
  • Opossums

• How many hearts does an octopus have?

  An octopus has three hearts. Two of these hearts pump blood to the gills, where it picks up oxygen, and the third heart circulates this oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. This unique circulatory system is efficient for an octopus's active lifestyle.

  • Three
  • One
  • Two
  • Four

• What is the largest reptile in the world?

  The saltwater crocodile is the largest reptile in the world. Native to regions in Asia and the Pacific, these formidable predators can reach lengths of over 20 feet (6 meters) and weigh as much as 2,200 pounds (1,000 kilograms). They are apex predators in their environments.

  • Saltwater Crocodile
  • Komodo Dragon
  • Leatherback Turtle
  • Green Anaconda

• Which bird has the largest wingspan?

  The wandering albatross has the largest wingspan of any living bird. These magnificent seabirds can have wingspans up to 11 feet (3.4 meters), allowing them to glide effortlessly over the ocean for hours or even days with minimal wing flapping.

  • Wandering Albatross
  • Bald Eagle
  • California Condor
  • Andean Condor

• Can chameleons change their color to match their environment?

  Yes, chameleons can change their color to match their environment. This ability is not just for camouflage but also for communication and temperature regulation. Chameleons change color through specialized cells under their skin called chromatophores.

  • Yes
  • No
  • Only in captivity
  • Only during mating season

• What is the largest rodent in the world?

  The capybara is the largest rodent in the world. Native to South America, capybaras can weigh up to 145 pounds (66 kg) and measure up to 4.3 feet (1.3 meters) in length. They are semi-aquatic and social animals, often found in groups near water bodies.

  • Capybara
  • Beaver
  • Nutria
  • Porcupine

• Which animal is known for its impressive antlers in the Arctic?

  The reindeer, also known as the caribou in North America, is known for its impressive antlers, particularly those of the males. They are the only deer species in which both sexes grow antlers. These antlers are shed and regrown annually and can be quite large in size.

  • Reindeer
  • Moose
  • Elk
  • White-tailed Deer

• What do we call a baby shark?

  A baby shark is called a pup. Shark pups are born in one of three ways: oviparous (egg-laying), viviparous (live birth), or ovoviviparous (a combination of egg-laying and live birth). Shark pups are usually independent from birth, ready to fend for themselves.

  • Pup
  • Cub
  • Fry
  • Larva

• Which freshwater fish is known for producing the strongest electric shocks of up to 600 volts?

  The electric eel, a freshwater fish native to South America, is known for producing the strongest electric shocks among electric fish, reaching up to 600 volts. These shocks are used for both hunting and self-defense. Despite its name, the electric eel is not a true eel but belongs to the knifefish family.

  • Electric Eel
  • Electric Ray
  • Electric Catfish
  • Stingray

• What animal is known for having eight arms and ejecting ink?

  The octopus is known for having eight arms and the ability to eject ink. This ink is used as a defense mechanism, allowing the octopus to escape from predators. Octopuses are also highly intelligent and capable of remarkable problem-solving and learning behaviors.

  • Octopus
  • Squid
  • Cuttlefish
  • Jellyfish

• Which primate is known for its blue and red face?

  The mandrill is known for its distinctive blue and red face. This striking coloration is more pronounced in males and is thought to play a role in social signaling and mating. Mandrills are the largest of all monkeys and are native to the rainforests of equatorial Africa.

  • Mandrill
  • Baboon
  • Chimpanzee
  • Orangutan

• What is the only venomous snake in Britain?

  The adder is the only venomous snake in Britain. Also known as the viper, the adder has a distinctive zigzag pattern along its back and is found across the UK. Although venomous, its bite is rarely fatal to humans but requires immediate medical attention.

  • Adder
  • Grass Snake
  • Smooth Snake
  • Corn Snake

• Which bird has the longest migration journey?

  The Arctic tern holds the record for the longest migration journey of any bird. Each year, these remarkable birds travel from their Arctic breeding grounds to the Antarctic and back again. This round trip covers an astonishing distance of over 25,000 miles (40,000 km), the longest migration of any animal on Earth.

  • Arctic Tern
  • Albatross
  • Swallow
  • Canada Goose

• What is the largest species of tiger?

  The Siberian tiger, also known as the Amur tiger, is the largest species of tiger. Males can weigh up to 660 pounds (300 kg) and measure over 10 feet (3 meters) in length. These tigers are adapted to the harsh climate of the Russian Far East and parts of China and North Korea.

  • Siberian Tiger
  • Bengal Tiger
  • Sumatran Tiger
  • Indochinese Tiger

• Which bird is famous for its dance rituals in the rain?

  The peacock is famous for its dance rituals, especially during the rain. This display is part of their mating ritual, where the male fans out its spectacular tail feathers to attract a mate. The sight of a peacock dancing in the rain is a captivating natural spectacle.

  • Peacock
  • Flamingo
  • Crane
  • Lyrebird

• What is the name of the largest known amphibian?

  The Chinese giant salamander is the largest known amphibian in the world. It can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. These salamanders are critically endangered and are found in the mountain streams and lakes of China. They are known for their wrinkled skin and large size.

  • Chinese Giant Salamander
  • Goliath Frog
  • Japanese Giant Salamander
  • Marine Toad

• Which insect has a 24-hour lifespan?

  The mayfly has one of the shortest lifespans in the insect world, with some species living for just 24 hours as adults. Their life is primarily spent as nymphs in water; the adult stage is solely for reproduction, and they die soon after mating and laying eggs.

  • Mayfly
  • Fruit Fly
  • Dragonfly
  • Housefly

• What animal is known as the unicorn of the sea?

  The narwhal is often referred to as the 'unicorn of the sea' due to its long, spiral tusk, which is actually an elongated tooth. These medium-sized whales are found in the Arctic and are known for their distinctive tusk and unique vocalizations.

  • Narwhal
  • Beluga Whale
  • Walrus
  • Orca

• Which deep-sea creature is known for its bioluminescent lure protruding from its head?

  The anglerfish is particularly famous for its bioluminescent lure, which it uses to attract prey in the dark depths of the ocean. This lure is a unique adaptation among deep-sea creatures, making the anglerfish stand out for its bizarre appearance and hunting technique. These fish are also known for their unusual method of reproduction.

  • Anglerfish
  • Vampire Squid
  • Gulper Eel
  • Dragonfish

• What is the rarest big cat in the world?

  The Amur leopard is the rarest big cat in the world. Native to the Russian Far East and parts of China, the Amur leopard is critically endangered, with only a few individuals left in the wild. These leopards are known for their beautiful spotted coat and adaptability to cold climates.

  • Amur Leopard
  • Snow Leopard
  • Clouded Leopard
  • Jaguar

Animal Curiosities

Here you have 15 examples of the remarkable and often surprising traits found in the animal kingdom:

From the ocean's depths to the highest mountain peaks, animals exhibit an array of astonishing characteristics and behaviors. Let's dive into some of these fascinating facts:

1. The Mysterious Octopus: Octopuses are not only known for having three hearts but also for their remarkable intelligence and ability to change color and texture in an instant. These creatures have been observed using tools, solving complex puzzles, and even escaping from secure aquarium tanks!

2. The High-Flying Birds: The bar-headed goose is famous for its high-altitude flight, often seen flying over the Himalayas where oxygen levels are extremely low. These geese can fly at altitudes over 29,000 feet, nearly as high as commercial airplanes.

3. The Deep-Diving Cetaceans: Whales are known for their deep-diving capabilities, but the champion of them all is the Cuvier's beaked whale, which can dive over 9,800 feet deep and hold its breath for more than two hours, making it the deepest and longest diving mammal.

4. The Humble Bumblebee: Bumblebees, despite their erratic flight patterns, are incredibly efficient pollinators. They have a unique method called 'buzz pollination', where they vibrate their bodies at a specific frequency to release pollen from flowers.

5. The Mighty Ant: The strength of an ant is legendary, with the ability to carry objects many times their own body weight. Some species can lift up to 50 times their weight, a feat unmatched in the animal kingdom when scaled to size.

6. The Color-Changing Chameleons: Chameleons are renowned for their color-changing skin, but it's not just for camouflage. These changes also communicate their mood, body temperature, and even intentions to other chameleons.

7. The Long-Lived Ocean Dwellers: Greenland sharks are one of the longest-living vertebrates, with some individuals estimated to be over 400 years old. These sharks grow extremely slowly and dwell in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans.

8. The Architect Spiders: The golden orb-weaver spider spins a web so strong that it can trap small birds. The silk of this spider is more robust than steel of the same thickness and is being studied for potential use in advanced materials.

9. The Echolocating Bats: Bats use echolocation to navigate and hunt in the dark. They emit high-frequency sounds that bounce off objects, helping them to "see" their environment through sound.

10. The Jumping Fleas: Fleas can jump distances over 100 times their body length, making them one of the best jumpers in the natural world, relative to body size. This incredible leaping ability is due to their long hind legs and a unique protein that makes their muscles exceptionally powerful.

11. The Laughing Kookaburra: Native to Australia, the kookaburra is famous for its distinct laugh-like call. This call, often heard at dawn and dusk, is actually a territorial sound to warn other birds to stay away.

12. The Flightless Wonders: The ostrich is the world's largest bird and, although flightless, it can sprint at speeds up to 45 mph. Their powerful legs can also be formidable weapons, capable of delivering deadly kicks.

13. The Night Glowing Sharks: Some species of sharks, like the swell shark, can glow in the dark. This bioluminescence is created by certain chemicals in their skin and is used for camouflage, attracting prey, or finding a mate.

14. The Intelligent Crows: Crows are among the smartest birds, demonstrating advanced problem-solving skills, tool use, and even the ability to recognize human faces. They have a complex social structure and can remember friendly or threatening humans.

15. The Desert Survivors: Camels don't store water in their humps as commonly believed, but fat, which they can convert into water. Their ability to go without water for long periods is due to their specialized blood cells and efficient water conservation in their bodies.

Do you love animals? We have plenty of quizzes of different difficulties for various ages to satisfy your curiosity and test your knowledge. Check them out!

Animals Quiz: 50 questions, very long and hard. You are here

Animals Quiz for Kids (4-8 years): Easy, just 10 questions.

Animals Quiz for Tweens (9-13 years): Medium difficulty, 15 questions.

Animals Quiz for Teens (14-17 years): Hard, 20 questions.