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.
- A compilation of anime titles that start with 'Zu' (ず)
- [Word Chain / Word Play] Words that start with “gu”
- Let's learn the names of animals and creatures that start with 'yo'!
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- [Unusual creatures too?] Animal names that start with “nu”
- Usable for Shiritori! A roundup of animals that start with “shi”
- [By character count] Words that start with “bu.” Hints for shiritori and word games.
- Animals that start with “na.” For reference in a word game!
- Useful for word games and shiritori too! Animal names that start with “ko” (the “ko” sound)
- A must-see for anyone struggling with word games like shiritori! Animals that start with 'ro'
- List of animals that start with “n”
- [By character count] Names of animals and living creatures that start with “gi”
- What animal is this kanji? A quiz on difficult animal kanji.
2 characters (1–10)
Zuku
Another topic that might make for good conversation is “zuku.” Many of you have probably never heard it.
This is an old name for the long-eared owl.
It’s said to come from the phrase “mimi-tsuku” (ears sticking out), referring to its distinctive ear-like tufts.
4 letters (1–10)
caddisfly larva
Let me introduce the rice stem borer, which many people probably dislike.
In a word, the rice stem borer is a moth larva.
It occurs throughout Japan and is known for feeding on rice.
Zuguei
Do you know the zuguay (Zugu-ei)? The zuguay is a type of ray, a group of fish we’re quite familiar with.
Although it is caught in large quantities for food, there are also concerns that it may be at risk of extinction.
5 characters (1–10)
snow crab
When it comes to animals that start with 'zu' (ズ), many people think of the snow crab (zuwai-gani).
It’s a quintessential luxury ingredient and is loved by many.
Bull-headed Shrike
For shiritori, the rufous-backed shrike (Zuakamozu) is also recommended.
Amazingly, you can respond with “zu” again.
By the way, Zuakamozu is a species in the shrike family.
6 characters (1–10)
Dusky-headed Parakeet
One cute animal that starts with “Zu” is the Zu-guro parrot (black-headed caique).
It looks like the parrots we’re familiar with and is loved as a pet.
They’re said to be quite intelligent.
Zunaga nigoi
Let me introduce the Zunaga nigoi, which you may have seen at an aquarium.
It is a freshwater fish in the carp family and is said to inhabit Japan and China.