Animal names that start with “zu.” Perfect for shiritori and word game hints!
Can you quickly think of any animals that start with “zu”? Many people probably struggle to come up with one right away.
In this article, I’ll introduce animals whose names start with “zu,” which can be surprisingly hard to think of.
I hope it helps you with shiritori, as well as various word games.
Some of the animals featured can actually be seen in real life, so please enjoy having a look.
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6 characters (1–10)
Green-fronted Redstart

The brambling, a member of the sparrow family, also starts with “zu” in Japanese.
It is widely distributed across Europe.
As its name suggests, its head has a bluish tint.
Red-headed long-tailed tit

There’s a little-known animal called the red-headed long-tailed tit.
It belongs to the same Aegithalidae family as the long-tailed tit that’s become popular in recent years, and it’s characterized by its red head.
7 letters (1–10)
Black-capped Bulbul

Let me introduce the Black Bulbul, known for its beautiful olive-colored plumage.
It inhabits Southeast Asia and is said to spend its time consistently in small groups of several individuals.
ribbon seal

If you’re going for an animal with striking looks, the hooded seal is the obvious choice.
It’s a seal that’s fairly well known, but what’s unusual is the bag-like sac on its nose that looks like a hat.
It inflates when they’re being threatening.
8 characters (1–10)
Zumaruhanekakushi
One that might make people feel a bit squeamish is the rove beetle (Zumaruhane-kakushi).
It looks similar to a winged ant and is known for feeding on living creatures and their remains.
Black-headed Jay

There’s a rather puzzling creature called the black-headed shrike-jay.
You might wonder whether it’s related to crows or shrikes, but in fact, it belongs to the sparrow family.
Translation
Black-headed Sparrow-Lark
If you’re looking for an animal with a long name, the Black-crowned Sparrow-Lark is also a good choice.
Its monochrome-colored head makes a striking impression, and it inhabits the savanna.


