Top 10 Coolest Animals (Real or Imaginary)

In this list, you'll find both real-life animals that amaze us with their strength, agility, or sheer uniqueness, and legendary creatures that have fueled our imaginations for centuries.

You might lean toward the mysterious wolf, the strange and adorable platypus, or perhaps the combination of two great animals, like the rare liger. The options are endless, and that's what makes it so fun.

1. Tiger

   

   The tiger (Panthera tigris) is the largest living cat species and a member of the genus Panthera. It is immediately recognisable by its dark vertical stripes on orange fur and white underside. An apex predator, it primarily hunts ungulates such as deer and wild boar. It is generally solitary and territorial... read more

   Honest to God, I've loved tigers ever since I can remember. They are the most dangerous, fierce, powerful, skilled, courageous, unique, and gorgeous animals in creation. My list can go on forever. The largest big cats on Earth, these magnificent felines prowl through territory ranging from tropical jungles to freezing tundras. Tigers are incredibly powerful swimmers and are able to take down a water buffalo while swimming!

   I get teased nearly every day for loving them so much, but really, they're a true symbol of power, determination, and royalty. It angers me, and I mean outrages me, when people are killing off these amazing beasts for no good reason at all, just out of greed for money!

2. Wolf

   

   The wolf (Canis lupus), also known as the gray or grey wolf, is a large canine native to Eurasia and North America. Over 30 subspecies of Canis lupus are currently recognized. Gray wolves represent the wild subspecies. As the largest extant member of the Canidae family, the wolf is distinguishable from... read more

   I LOVE wolves! I love their eyes, their fur, their intelligence, and the way they show affection to their pack. I love everything about them. I hate people who hunt them. Wolves are rarely a threat to humans, and wolf attacks on humans are almost unheard of. These majestic creatures do not even hunt for sport. They only hunt for food, or they'll starve.

   Wolves are among the most intelligent and beautiful creatures. Also, just for the record, dogs are not direct descendants of wolves. A recent study was done, and it turns out dogs and wolves share a common ancestor that is now extinct. Again, it's important to remember that dogs are not wolves. They are two totally different species, and I really wish people would stop comparing them as much as they do. The biggest and most obvious difference is that wolves are wild, and dogs are domesticated. Anyway, wolves are still really awesome creatures.

3. Dragon

   

   A dragon is a legendary creature that appears in the myths and folklore of many cultures around the world. Typically depicted with serpentine or reptilian traits, dragons are often associated with strength, wisdom, and magical powers. In Eastern cultures, they are usually seen as benevolent, while in... read more

   Dragons are awesome. I mean, really, come on, people! Tigers are cool, but can they breathe fire, fly, have hard scales, or spikes on their tails? No, they just can't. Don't get me wrong, I love tigers, but they are just tigers. Just think, who would win if it was dragon vs. tiger? Let's see, we have one who is pretty strong and looks really cool, and has a lot of other cool stuff, and one who can fly, breathe fire, has really hard scales that are hard to break, can bite down hard, sometimes can spit acid, is really smart, and sometimes has a tail with spikes. Hmm, it's really hard to decide. Oh, I know, maybe the dragon because it has two very important advantages: it can fly and can breathe fire. So, how is a tiger cooler than a dragon? Mythical beats normal any day. But, it all depends on what type of dragon. But in general, dragons are the coolest thing ever.

4. Bear

   

   The polar bear is a carnivorous bear whose native range lies largely within the Arctic Circle, encompassing the Arctic Ocean, its surrounding seas, and surrounding land masses. It is the largest land carnivore and is well adapted to life on sea ice. Polar bears primarily hunt seals and are classified... read more

   Polar bears aren't just cool, they are too amazing for words! All animals that don't exist, for example, dragons and phoenixes, don't count. Lions, wolves, and tigers are nothing against this guy. Respect to the Polar Bears, may the P-bears be ever in your favor! (Watched too much Hunger Games)

   They're polar bears! They're awesome, and I want to hug one. They're bears! I love all bears, and if you don't like bears, I don't like you. Don't you just want to hug one? You have to like bears.

   One, polar bears are the best (there is no question about it). Have you ever seen a polar bear cub roll around on the floor?! If not, you haven't lived.

5. Platypus

   

   The platypus, also known as the duck-billed platypus, is a semiaquatic, egg-laying mammal native to eastern Australia, including Tasmania. It is one of the few existing monotremes, which are mammals that reproduce by laying eggs rather than giving birth to live young. The male platypus has a venomous... read more

   The platypus is so awesome! The male platypus has a secret weapon: spurs on its hind feet that are connected to a gland producing toxic venom. When released, this venom can kill a medium-sized dog and severely incapacitate a human. The first scientists who encountered this odd-looking platypus believed someone had sewn together the body of a beaver with a duck's bill as a joke. The animal appears to be an unlikely mix of the bill and webbed feet of a duck, a beaver-like tail, and the fur of an otter.

   Although they are one of a kind, they are very picky creatures. Zoos that house them have to be very careful where they put them and what other machines and animals are around them. The reason is that more than half of the platypuses in captivity die.

   They can sense electricity, which helps them hunt in murky water. Thus, any motors or other devices need to be muffled to make the platypuses comfortable.

6. Phoenix

   

   A mythical bird from Greek mythology, the Phoenix is said to burst into flames upon death and then be reborn from its ashes. It is often associated with themes of rebirth, immortality, and renewal. Traditionally, the Phoenix is depicted as a large, colorful bird with a melodious song, and it has appeared... read more

   I'm telling you, the Phoenix is the best, okay? The Phoenix is a bird surrounded by fire, and it's really awesome how it can control fire at will because my favorite element is fire! The Phoenix should be number one. They also have the ability to cure themselves and others. They can even revive from death. Basically, they never die. They possess eternal strength and power, unlike dragons or other mythical/existing animals. I'm telling you, the Phoenix is the most awesome and fabulous bird ever created, and my lifelong dream is to meet an actual Phoenix in front of my own eyes.

   Phoenixes are also faithful in the mythical world. Their songs are magical, and if you happen to get wounded, phoenixes use their tears for healing purposes. They die by catching on fire and are reborn from the ashes.

   If any of you are Harry Potter fans and love phoenixes and dragons, watch all of the Harry Potter movies.

7. Lion

   

   The lion (Panthera leo) is a large cat in the genus Panthera, native to sub-Saharan Africa and a single isolated population in western India. It has a muscular, broad-chested body, a short rounded head, round ears, and a hairy tuft at the end of its tail. Adult males are larger than females and have... read more

   Lions are more ferocious than tigers. Just watch the black and white video on YouTube of a lion fighting a tiger. It's wild, but the lion is winning. That's because lions are social animals that actively engage in 'warfare'. The male lion has to show dominance. The mane is a symbol of that cocky pride they need to have to be alpha. Tigers are lone creatures, which I can identify with, but solitary living can leave you a bit soft.

   Lions are cool animals! And to those people who say that males are lazy, they're not. They leave their territory to make sure no one tries to take over. Male lions also occasionally hunt by themselves. There have even been reports of lone lions taking down a Cape buffalo in its prime!

8. Liger

   

   The liger is a hybrid cross between a male lion and a female tiger, or tigress. Ligers typically grow larger than either parent species and exhibit traits from both. These hybrids are rare and are usually found in captivity because lions and tigers have different natural habitats.

   Ligers are so much better than any other animal on the face of the planet. Am I right? Even Napoleon Dynamite loves them. If you don't know who that is, then you should go look him up. Like, right now. Anyway, if you don't vote for Liger, then you are lame.

   The picture is photoshopped, but real ligers are even more amazing! Look up pictures, they're huge! They're bigger than the largest natural cat, which is the tiger! I never associated them with magic, though.

   Ligers can only be found in zoos because they are too big to survive in the wild. They nearly triple their mother's and father's size. I think they are amazing cats and should be respected.

9. Dog

   

   The dog, or domestic dog (Canis familiaris or Canis lupus familiaris), is a domesticated descendant of the wolf and is characterized by an upturned tail. Derived from an ancient, extinct wolf species, the modern wolf is its closest living relative. Dogs were the first species to be domesticated by humans... read more

   I had a dog that was there for me when I was sad, depressed, and lonely. He helped me with my depression, but ever since he was in pain from getting hit by a car, I became even more depressed. At the time, my grandmother ended up putting him down without telling me. I couldn't get out of bed for a week and still cry now, and it's been over 5 years, and I still mourn his death.

   Okay, dogs are super awesome and stuff. But what makes them great is all the different breeds! I love pugs because they are super adorable. But other people like golden retrievers, huskies, or whatever. That's what makes them so great. Thanks to all the loved breeds, dogs should be way higher on this list. Is a platypus a man's best friend?

10. Fox

    

    Foxes are small to medium-sized animals in the Canidae family, which also includes jackals, wolves, and domestic dogs. There are 37 species of fox, but only 12 are considered true foxes of the genus Vulpes. Foxes are omnivorous and adaptable, with diets that include small mammals, birds, reptiles, insects... read more

    Sneaky. Cunning. Intelligent. Beautiful. Small. Loyal. Foxes! I personally love them because they are one of the world's most loyal animals. If you get them as a pet, they will love you and never leave your side. I have one fox. We found her in the streets as a pup. A car ran over her paw, and we rescued her. She was forever thankful, and never left our side anymore. We have the license to own exotic animals, so, we are also thankful for having her. Her name is Kat. Instead of an orange color, her color is a little browner. When I saw her, she looked like a real, giant KitKat. I love foxes!

    Fox. Sneaky, cunning, intelligent. One of the mysteries of the night. You can try to find them at midnight, but chances are you won't. They can adapt to live in the city and even give birth there. Tough enough to kill your dog. Bright red fur, but when the sun comes down you can hardly see them.

    Why are platypuses on the top? They're pretty cool, but not as cool as a fox or maybe an owl. Why are dragons and phoenixes above foxes when they aren't even real?!

The Newcomers
11. ?

    African Wild Dog

    

    So cute! Cool, awesome, and smart. What else do you want?

12. ?

    Buffalo

    

    Buffaloes are large herbivorous mammals native to parts of North America, Africa, and Asia. In North America, they are more accurately referred to as bison, while the term buffalo correctly describes species found in Africa and Asia. These animals are known for their strong social structure and tendency... read more

    My dog barked at them. They are tough, have horns and a all around cool. They aren't the best, but shouldn't be last.

The Contenders

13. Lynx

    

    A lynx is any of the four species within the medium-sized wild cat genus Lynx: the Canada lynx, Iberian lynx, Eurasian lynx, and the bobcat. The name lynx entered Middle English via Latin from the Greek word λύγξ. It is ultimately derived from the Indo-European root leuk, meaning light or brightness... read more

    Favorite animal by far, they're fluffy, graceful, and overall awesome. Did you know the Iberian Lynx almost went extinct? But for unknown reasons, their fertility rate skyrocketed, going from 156 individuals to almost 200. It might sound like not a lot, but for repopulation, it's awesome! To this day, their numbers continue to increase!

    The lynx is one of the most majestic animals on the planet, if not the most. It also has giant feet, which add to its cuteness. They can be vicious, and they are overall beautiful animals who deserve much more attention. While everyone's voting for Tigers and Lions, Lynxes are the real top dog (or cat).

14. Elephant

    

    African elephants are elephants of the genus Loxodonta. The genus consists of two extant species: the African bush elephant, Loxodonta africana, and the smaller African forest elephant, Loxodonta cyclotis. They are the largest land animals on Earth and are native to various habitats across Africa.

    It is by far the strongest animal. It is able to take down trees to eat leaves and is not affected by any of the predators such as lions. The predators do not attack the elephant as they know they cannot mess with the sheer strength of the elephant.

    They are one of the smartest animals in the world, gentle, and caring. Giraffes are inferior to the elephant. There are three types of elephants: the African, Indian (Asian), and another kind that lives in forests (round-eared) and are rare.

    Elephants are slowly going extinct, and I don't want them to. They are such fascinating creatures! They don't deserve to be killed off. We must save them! I love elephants. They are adorable, beautiful, majestic, and they must be saved!

15. Cheetah

    

    The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is a large cat native to Africa and central Iran. It is the fastest land animal, capable of reaching speeds between 80 and 128 km/h (50 to 80 mph), with the fastest reliably recorded speeds being 93 and 98 km/h (58 and 61 mph). The cheetah has adaptations for speed, including... read more

    One of my favorite animals. I definitely vote for this to be higher. These animals are not just fast, they are speedy. They're the fastest animals in the world, more like! Their spots are beautiful, and they are a wonderful creature to live in this world. Maybe someday you can see these spectacular creatures. They are hunters, but they are wild animals. You would normally see these with lions and tigers in zoos. They should definitely be higher on the list. -TryNotToLaugh

    Running as fast as the wind, specially spotted to whiz through the air, the cheetah is pro. Also, the lines on the side of its muzzle help it look ahead despite the sun's glare.

16. Shark

    

    The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), also known as the white shark, white pointer, or simply great white, is a species of large mackerel shark found in the coastal surface waters of all the major oceans. It is notable for its size, with larger female individuals growing up to 6.1 m (20 ft... read more

    Sharks are awesome animals that are too misunderstood. If you hate sharks, please reconsider your stance. Without them, the whole ocean ecosystem would fall apart. Over 80% of sharks are docile and friendly creatures. Humans kill more sharks than sharks kill humans.

    Sharks are the most misunderstood creatures in the world due to movies. People who kill these amazing animals are appalling. Long live sharks!

    Sharks are hurting people because they mistake them for fish. However, I quite like sharks because they are big, and baby sharks are super cute.

17. Eagle

    

    Eagle is the common name for many large birds of prey in the family Accipitridae. Eagles belong to several genera, some of which are closely related. Most of the 60 species of eagle are found in Eurasia and Africa. Outside of these regions, only 14 species exist, with 2 in North America, 9 in Central... read more

    Eagles are birds full of pride, and they're also a symbol of America's pride and freedom!

    The powerful symbol of America is a great hunter and a devoted parent.

    So cool. Could beat any other bird in a fight, except maybe a Cassowary.

18. Black Panther

    

    Beautiful. I own one. Her name is BlackStream. We call her Berry because we rescued her as a kitten in the jungle, where her mother got shot and she ran from the hunters. We decided to save her because she would never have survived.

    The Black Panther is my brother's favorite animal. I know he is happy right now that I voted for the Black Panther.

    It's back in black. This cat is secretive and shy, but it is still super cool and amazing.

19. Dolphin

    

    A dolphin is an aquatic mammal within the infraorder Cetacea. Dolphin species belong to the families Delphinidae (oceanic dolphins), Platanistidae (Indian river dolphins), Iniidae (New World river dolphins), Pontoporiidae (brackish water dolphins), and the extinct Lipotidae (baiji or Chinese river dolphin... read more

    I love dolphins. I have gone swimming with them and have met them on multiple occasions since I live close to the ocean. They are truly beautiful. I also love multiple other sea creatures.

    I hate that they are being held captive. I understand that people want to see them, but trapping them in aquariums isn't good. Wouldn't you rather see happy dolphins frolicking in the oceans than them floating around in a glass tank? I think dolphins should be higher on this list. They are truly amazing animals, extremely smart, and have emotions.

    They are my favorite animals. They are so awesome, cute, and also cool. Why not put them in first place in the coolest animals list!

20. Cat

    

    The cat (Felis catus) is a domesticated small carnivorous mammal. It is the only domesticated species in the Felidae family and is commonly called the domestic cat to distinguish it from wild felines.

    Cats can be house pets, farm cats, or feral. They are often valued for companionship and for... read more

    Cats are better than dogs. I mean, why settle for 60? The Savannah is an awesome breed, often compared to dogs. Anyway, cats are cleaner and make good companions. Even though they can't learn tricks, they're still your friends. Cats are loyal and will always be there for you too.

    I had a cat that wasn't even mine! Every day, she'd visit me because she lived just across the street and loved me since I was always nice to her. Her name's Puff. I bet a dog that doesn't know you wouldn't do something so sweet. Come on, people, vote for the cat instead of any big cat or whatever else you voted for. It still represents the big cats and every other kind of cat.

    By the way, I also suggest voting for dragons, snakes, and the phoenix.

21. Leopard

    

    The leopard is one of the five "big cats" in the genus Panthera. It is among the most adaptable and widespread big cats due to its camouflaged fur, opportunistic hunting behavior, broad diet, and the strength to carry heavy carcasses into trees.... read more

    Leopards are, like, the coolest animals on the planet. Stealthy, smart, agile, fast, and so much more! Not only that, but they are also elegant and stunning. But when you look one in the eye, you can tell that both of you know who outranks whom on the food chain. They are pound for pound the strongest cat in the big cat family. Favorite animal for sure!

    Almost all humans, dogs, and whatever wear leopard patterns. No other mammal has that kind of pattern in the wild. It's called natural swag.

    Leopards can climb, swim, run, hide, fight, and much more! I say these should be in first place because of their talent.

22. Falcon

    

    Falcons are birds of prey in the genus Falco, which includes about 40 species. These birds are widely distributed on all continents except Antarctica, although closely related raptors did occur there during the Eocene period.... read more

    Falcons are fast-diving birds, and there's so much more to them. Their hunting tactics are incredibly cool, and these birds are super special.

    The Peregrine Falcon is the fastest animal in the world. It is a serious predator, eating pigeons and other birds.

    They dive or fly up to 242 mph. They kill with a literal falcon punch (they kill prey with their talons balled up).

23. Owl

    

    Owls are birds of prey from the order Strigiformes, which includes over 200 species. Most owls are solitary and nocturnal, and they are recognized by their upright stance, large heads, forward-facing eyes, excellent hearing, and feathers adapted for silent flight.... read more

    How is the owl not on here? They are amazing and by far my favorite animal. Owls can fly almost silently, but very slowly. Seventy percent of their skull is made up of eye sockets, while only five percent of a human's skull is made up of eye sockets. They can turn their heads all the way around because the veins are connected much differently than in humans. If a human attempted to do that, they would cut off their circulation and die. Owls can see at night because they see twice as bright as a human does. All in all, owls should be at the top of the list, in my opinion.

    I love owls. A lot of the Harry Potter wizarding world relies on owls, and they're very useful, but just don't ask them to deliver mail.

    I like the snowy owls the most.

24. Tasmanian Devil

    

    The Tasmanian devil is a carnivorous marsupial native to the island of Tasmania in Australia. It has a stocky body, black fur, and powerful jaws capable of crushing bones and cartilage.

    Tasmanian devils are known for their aggressive behavior and loud vocalizations such as screeches and growls... read more

    I love Tasmanian devils because they are really cute but are also quite funny with the way that they don't shut up. I also feel so sad that they are endangered from devil facial tumour disease.

    They are adorably vicious. I think all predators kill because they have to, not because they want to.

    Their ears turn red when they're mad. Totally awesome animals. I love them.

25. Alligator

    

    An alligator is a crocodilian in the genus Alligator, part of the family Alligatoridae. The two extant species are the American alligator and the Chinese alligator. Several extinct species are known from fossil remains, and alligators have existed since the Oligocene epoch, about 37 million years ago.... read more

    Alligators are tough and badass! Also, they're so cute when they're still hatchlings.

    They are super cool and super tough.

    I believe this is my spirit animal.

26. Narwhal

    

    The narwhal is a rare and distinctive type of whale that lives in Arctic waters. It is most famous for the long, spiral tusk that protrudes from the upper jaw of males and can grow over 8 feet long.

    This tusk is actually an elongated tooth, and scientists believe it helps with communication, environmental... read more

    Why do people like narwhals so much? Nar in Nordic means corpse, so basically you are singing, "Corpse whales are swimming. They are sea unicorns." They are cool, but I am just saying.

    They are animals that people barely know exist in the world. This is what makes them unique and awesome animals. Unicorns in the ocean or sea instead of on land.

    They are cool, and have you seen how many things are made after them? They are also sea unicorns. I don't need any more proof than that. I don't know about you.

27. Goat

    

    The domestic goat (Capra hircus) is a domesticated animal species that is part of the goat-antelope group. It was domesticated from the wild goat (Capra aegagrus) in regions of Southwest Asia and Eastern Europe. Goats belong to the family Bovidae and the tribe Caprini, making them close relatives of... read more

    The day will come when the goat shall be #1, I promise you. Just you wait, list.

    Goats are awesome. Come on, it's just a fact! You can't say no to a goat!

    Goats are the greatest of them all.