When it comes to learning about the animal kingdom, each letter of the alphabet carries a different set of creatures to uncover. The letter X is no exception, with fascinating animals including the xantus’ hummingbird, a unique mid-sized species found only in Baja California; the xeme, a fork-tailed gull that can be spotted in the Arctic tundra and other locations around the world; and the xantic sargo, a fish that lives in the sea and has special toes adapted for climbing rocks.
In addition to exploring mammals like the xoloitzcuintli and xeme, we’ve also taken a detour into the world of the ocean with the Xenophyophore and Xestospongia, two single-celled organisms that live in coral reefs. The list of animals that start with X also includes the xantusia, a type of frog with iridescent scales, and the xantus leaf-toed gecko, which lives in rocky habitats of Baja California and has toes adapted for climbing.
Mammals are a fascinating group of animals with warm blood and diverse habitats, and the ones that begin with the letter X are no different. The xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican hairless dog, is a domesticated breed with a rich history of tradition and significance in Mexico; the xeme is a migratory seabird that’s part of the gull family and can be spotted in the Arctic tundra of North America, Eurasia, and other parts of the world; and the xerus is an African ground squirrel that showcases the adaptive capabilities of mammals in arid environments.