Usable for Shiritori! A roundup of animals that start with “shi”
When it comes to animals that start with “shi,” the first ones that come to mind are often shika (deer) and shimauma (zebra).
So, what other animals are there?
In this article, we introduce animals that start with “shi” that you can use for word games like shiritori.
We’ve gathered a variety—from familiar animals you might see at zoos and aquariums to those you may know by name but rarely get a chance to see.
If you can’t think of anything besides shika (deer) and shimauma (zebra), be sure to use this as a reference!
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- Useful for word games and shiritori too! Animal names that start with “ko” (the “ko” sound)
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- Animal names that start with “zu.” Perfect for shiritori and word game hints!
- Animals that start with “na.” For reference in a word game!
- [Unusual creatures too?] Animal names that start with “nu”
- [Trivia] Do you know the answers? A roundup of animal quizzes
- [Word Chain / Word Play] Words that start with “gu”
- Animal riddles
- [For Adults] Fun recreational games. Perfect for short breaks too!
5 characters (1–10)
Beluga (white dolphin)
The beluga whale is a large dolphin that mainly inhabits the Arctic Ocean, characterized by its pure white, bulky body and endearing facial expression.
With no dorsal fin and a large, rounded head, it looks quite different from other dolphins.
In Japan, it’s said that you can see belugas at only three aquariums: in Chiba, Yokohama, and Nagoya.
Long-tailed tit (Shima-enaga)
It’s a bird in the family Aegithalidae that looks like a tiny ball of yarn.
Thanks to its fluffy, puffy form, it often gets featured on TV.
This cute bird is also known as the “snow fairy.”
6 characters (1–10)
Japanese tit (Parus minor)
It is a small bird found all around the world, including in Asia and Europe.
There is even an anecdote that its name, shijukara (Japanese tit), comes from the way its call sounds like “jijiji” or “jiju.”
Electric eel
It’s an eel that lives in the Amazon in South America and generates electricity.
It is said to discharge when attacking prey or escaping from predators.
Because of this unique trait, it often appears in manga and other media.
Blakiston’s fish owl (Shimafukurou)
Hearing the “Shima” at the beginning of “Shimafukurou,” some people might imagine it lives on an island.
In fact, it’s a bird that inhabits Hokkaido.
It is considered the largest owl in Japan.
In conclusion
We introduced animals that start with “shi.” What did you think? Not only land animals, but if you turn your attention to the sea, rivers, and birds that fly in the sky, you’ll find a variety of animals that begin with “shi.” Use this article as a reference and enjoy various word games!


