Animals of Texas

3 featured species Β· 3 habitat zones

Animals of Texas

Texas boasts a wonderful mix of animals because it has forests, deserts, beaches, and grasslands. You might see armadillos roaming around, listen for the calls of roadrunners, or watch playful river otters in the water. Each place in Texas offers a special home for different creatures, making it a perfect state for anyone who loves nature and wildlife.

Featured Species

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Nine-banded Armadillo

Armadillo Β· Dasypus novemcinctus

LC

Armor-like shell

Grasslands [REVIEW] Habitat detail needed. Β· Throughout Texas

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Monarch Butterfly

Monarch Β· Danaus plexippus

NT

Long-distance migrator

Wildflower meadows Β· Migratory path through Texas

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Texas Horned Lizard

Horny Toad Β· Phrynosoma cornutum

NT

Camouflage skin

Deserts and semi-arid areas Β· Western and central Texas

Habitat Zones

Grasslands

Vast open spaces with grasses and wildflowers, home to many fascinating animals.

Armadillo, Bison

Deserts

Hot, dry areas where unique creatures have adapted to live.

Texas Horned Lizard, Roadrunner

Coastal Areas

Wetland habitats along the Gulf of Mexico, perfect for many bird species.

Brown Pelican, Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle

Size Comparison

10-year-old
Nine-banded Armadillo
About the size of a small dog
Monarch Butterfly
As big as the palm of your hand
Texas Horned Lizard
Like a big cookie

Where to Spot Them

Nine-banded Armadillo

Look in: Throughout Texas

Watch for: They dig burrows for shelter and to find food.

Monarch Butterfly

Look in: Migratory path through Texas

Watch for: They roost in large groups to conserve heat during colder nights.

Texas Horned Lizard

Look in: Western and central Texas

Watch for: They can squirt blood from their eyes as a defense mechanism.

Cultural Connection

Texas has a rich natural heritage, and many native species are celebrated in local cultures and traditions.

Vocabulary

Did you know Texas has more species of birds than any other state? This diversity makes it a paradise for birdwatchers!

Explore more topics in Texas

Compare with nearby countries

Related-country comparisons will expand as regional coverage grows.