Choosing a name for your baby boy can be an exciting yet challenging task. If you love nature and animals, picking a name that means something animal-related could be a great idea. Animals often symbolize strength, loyalty, and freedom, making these names not only unique but also meaningful.
Today, we’ll look at a variety of boy names that have animal meanings. Whether you’re drawn to fierce creatures like wolves and lions or gentle ones like doves and lambs, there’s a perfect name out there for your little one. Let’s uncover some great options that celebrate the animal kingdom!
Boy Names That Mean Animal
1. Griffin
The name Griffin refers to a mythical creature combining an eagle and a lion, symbolizing strength and courage. This makes it a powerful choice for a boy’s name with animal connotations.
2. Leo
With its meaning simply being ‘lion,’ Leo represents bravery and ferocity. This name is a great option for parents wanting to honor the majesty of this king of the jungle.
3. Rowan
The name Rowan is derived from the rowan tree, often associated with protection and wildlife. It represents not just a tree but also the birds that often use it as shelter.
4. Phoenix
Phoenix is a mythical bird that symbolizes rebirth and immortality. This name embodies resilience, making it a unique and powerful choice for a boy.
5. Colt
The name Colt refers to a young horse, embodying the spirit of freedom and adventure. It’s perfect for parents who love equestrian themes.
6. Wolf
Wolf symbolizes loyalty and courage in many cultures, making this name a strong choice for a boy. It connects to the wild and untamed spirit of nature.
7. Doyle
Doyle is an Irish name meaning ‘dark foreigner’, but it is also associated with ‘the black’ wolf, making it a charming name that carries animal-related meanings.
8. Bear
The name Bear evokes strength, bravery, and a protective nature, all qualities of this magnificent creature. It’s a great name for parents looking for something strong and unique.
9. Leoan
Similar to Leo, Leoan translates to ‘lion’ in various cultures, tying this name closely to the idea of bravery and nobility.
10. Javan
Javan means ‘sea’ but is also associated with the name of a certain variety of wild boar found in Asia, reflecting a connection to wildlife.
11. Hawk
The name Hawk symbolizes keen vision and agility. It’s not only a unique name but also represents the fierce and majestic bird of prey.
12. Bennett
Bennett means ‘blessed’, but in some contexts, it’s associated with the ‘brave as a bear’ meaning, adding a layer of strength to this charming name.
13. Ravi
Ravi is a name meaning ‘sun’, but the sun is often associated with lions in many mythologies, creating an animal connection with this bright name.
14. Finley
The name Finley means ‘fair-haired hero’ and can also be a nod to ‘fair’ or ‘white’ animals, tying it comfortably to the animal kingdom.
15. Wren
Wren refers to a small songbird known for its beautiful singing, making this a sweet and gentle choice for a boy’s name.
16. Rocco
The name Rocco means ‘rest’, but it can also connect to the ‘rock’ of animals like tortoises and lizards who adapt to their environment.
17. Phelan
Phelan is an Irish name meaning ‘wolf’, denoting loyalty and protection, reflecting the very characteristics that make wolves admirable.
18. Oren
The name Oren translates to ‘pine tree’ but is also associated with the idea of animals that inhabit such trees, demonstrating a close bond with nature.
19. Soren
Soren means ‘stern’, but culturally carries connotations of strength akin to a lion, linking it back to the animal realm.
20. Barrett
Barrett means ‘bear strength’, clearly connecting the name to the mighty bear, symbolizing protection and bravery.
21. Kael
The name Kael means ‘mighty warrior’, but warriors like lions or wolves are often seen as symbols of strength, linking it to animal roots.
22. Alden
Alden means ‘old friend’, but it alludes to animals like the wise owl, giving subtle nods to wildlife in its meaning.
23. Cyril
Cyril means ‘lordly’, but is also often linked with the strength of animals such as lions, making it a fierce name for a boy.
24. Rex
Meaning ‘king,’ Rex can be associated with lions, the kings of the jungle, and it continues the animal theme that many parents might appreciate.
25. Alaric
Alaric means ‘ruler of all,’ and while it doesn’t directly mean an animal, it evokes the imagery of a powerful leader like that of a lion.
26. Adolph
The name Adolph means ‘noble wolf’, providing a direct reference to the animal itself and highlighting characteristics such as loyalty and cunning.
27. Leoan
Similar to Leo, Leoan translates to ‘lion’ in various cultures, tying this name closely to the idea of bravery and nobility.
28. Zeke
Zeke means ‘God strengthens’, but its strong sounds resonate with the imagery of powerful animals, adding a subtle connection to wildlife.
29. Tobias
Tobias means ‘the Lord is good’, but is also connected to ‘tiger’, offering a unique blend of spiritual and animal significance.
30. Sage
While Sage means ‘wise’, the sage grouse is a bird that is often cited in nature, providing an indirect link to animal names.
31. Orion
Named after the constellation representing a hunter, Orion connects to the fierceness and resourcefulness seen in many animals.
32. Cedric
The name Cedric means ‘bounty’ and can metaphorically relate to animals who provide resources to their ecosystems.
33. Malik
While Malik means ‘king’, it can also signify ‘leader’ such as a lion who leads its pack, giving it that animal context.
34. Arvid
The name Arvid means ‘eagle tree’, bringing a sense of wildlife and animal connections alive in a meaningful way.
35. Thane
Thane means ‘warrior’ but evokes strength akin to that of powerful animals, thus maintaining a strong connection to the animal topic.
36. Alfie
Alfie means ‘wise counselor,’ but it is linked to ‘elf’ like creatures often intertwined with wildlife themes.
37. McCoy
The name McCoy means ‘son of the one-eyed one’; however, it can evoke imagery association with the wise owl, keeping in line with animal connotations.
38. Puma
Directly named after the big cat, the name Puma embodies strength and grace, making it a unique and fierce option for a boy.
39. Alistair
Alistair means ‘defending men’, but can draw parallels to animals that protect their territories or packs, tying back to animal meaning.
40. Connelly
Connelly means ‘love’ but also hints at animals within the name: dogs have been bred to be loving companions, integrating this theme into its meaning.
41. Jaguar
The name Jaguar refers directly to the big cat itself, known for its strength and agility, representing a strong animal-inspired name for boys.
42. Griffin
Griffin refers to a mythical creature combining an eagle and a lion, symbolizing strength and courage, reinforcing animal themes in a boy’s name.
43. Wulf
The name Wulf is an Anglo-Saxon variant of Wolf, a name that resonates with loyalty and courage, making it strong and memorable.
44. Hunter
Hunter signifies one who hunts but also calls to mind powerful and prey animals, connecting deeply with the animal kingdom.
45. Crow
This name evokes the intelligent bird, known for its adaptability and cleverness, making it an unconventional yet meaningful choice.
46. Dale
Dale means ‘valley’, but valleys often host a variety of wildlife, subtly linking this name to animal themes.
47. Orlando
While Orlando means ‘famous land’, its root association often connects to powerful characters in animal-related stories, providing a hint of wildlife.
48. Sable
Sable refers to a dark-colored fur animal, often associated with power and prestige, thereby infusing an animal meaning into the name.
49. Ash
The name Ash brings to mind the ash tree, a habitat for many animals, creating an indirect connection to wildlife and nature.
50. Dragan
Dragan means ‘dear one’ but can allude to creatures like dragons that represent strength and mythological ties to animals.
51. Koa
Koa means ‘warrior’, invoking connections to strong, fearless animal archetypes within nature.
52. Lynx
Lynx refers directly to the wild cat, bringing forth characteristics of agility and sharp instincts that resonate with this animal theme.
53. Tarik
Tarik means ‘morning star’, but the associations of nocturnal creatures adds depth linking back to animals in nature.
54. Dorian
Dorian means ‘from Doris’, but there are connections to ‘dolphins’, bringing marine animals into the name discussion.
55. Robin
Robin, named after the small bird known for its song, is a perfect choice for animal lovers who appreciate the beauty of nature.
56. Huxley
Although Huxley means ‘Hugh’s meadow’, it often reflects animal life present in those meadows, infusing wildlife themes into the name.
57. Boaz
Boaz means ‘swiftness’, invoking imagery associated with fast animals, creating an advantage for a child with an awesomely named identity.
58. Mael
Mael translates to ‘prince’, but can signify the powerful presence similar to a lion’s rule in the animal kingdom.
59. Cormac
This name means ‘charioteer’ and adds a certain majesty akin to the powerful eagles soaring above.
60. Mohawk
The name Mohawk refers to a famous Native American tribe but also relates to the ‘hawk’, easily linking it back to animals.
61. Birch
Birch symbolizes renewal but brings connections of forest wildlife that depend upon trees for shelter, blending wonderfully to nature names.
62. Denzel
Denzel means ‘from the island’, but the representation of wildlife thriving in islands enriches this name with animal meaning.
63. Sion
Sion means ‘the Lord is gracious’, reflecting the grace often seen in strong creatures of the animal kingdom.
64. Langston
This name means ‘long town’, but many towns host diverse wildlife, linking to the scenic imagery of animals.
65. Asher
Asher means ‘happy’, but the joy often seen in playful animals like puppies and kittens adds a nice touch.
66. Foster
The name Foster conveys nurture but also tends to relate to fostering animals for care, integrating this into a boy’s identity.
67. Loki
Loki, originally from Norse mythology, invokes the figure of the trickster, similar to clever animals that navigate the wild cleverly.
68. Zander
Zander means ‘defender of the people’, connecting with the protective instincts of animals like wolves or lions.
69. Kipling
Kipling means ‘from the boat landing’. This brings forth images of nature and all the creatures within it calling it home.
70. Rowan
Rowan means ‘little redhead’, but there’s also an association with protective rowan trees offering shelter to various wildlife.
71. Fennec
Fennec directly relates to the fennec fox, known for its distinctive large ears, making it an exotic and adorable name choice.
72. Vixen
A playful surname referring to a female fox, but can symbolize agility and cleverness that can inspire an interesting boy’s name.
73. Oswin
Oswin means ‘God’s protection’, but it’s often associated with animals being protective of their young, making it an animal-inclusive name.
74. Tarzan
With ties to the jungle tales, Tarzan signifies a natural bond between man and the wild animals that live there.
75. Caelan
Caelan means ‘slender’ but also can refer to the swift movements of animals like deer, enhancing its charm.
76. Drago
Drago means ‘dragon’, a mythical creature deeply connected to animals and often celebrated in folklore.
77. Cortez
Cortez pertains to a historical sea explorer. The history of exploration was often tied to encounters with various animals in newly discovered lands.
78. Orion
Orion meaning ‘rising in the sky’, suggests connections to celestial animals and mythologies that contain animal-folk themes.
79. Flint
Flint stands for firmness; it ties well with the tenacity found in many animal behaviors.
80. Sidra
Sidra means the tree of heaven, creating connections to wildlife living within those rich environments.
81. Davi
Davi means ‘beloved’, often reflecting a pet’s role in a family, hence fostering animal connections.
82. Urijah
The name Urijah means ‘my light is Yahweh’, but it can signify the light and guidance often found in animals leading the way through nature.
83. Grayson
Grayson means ‘son of the steward’, but transitions into imagery of animals one often associates with strength and guardianship.
84. Elton
Elton means ‘Ella’s town’, but towns often blend beautifully into landscapes where wildlife roams freely.
85. Sycamore
Named directly after the sycamore tree, this connects to various birds and wildlife dependent on this tree type.
86. Baird
Baird means ‘poet’, but names often reflect animal species that are known for their songs in nature.
87. Everest
While Everest refers to the mountain, it can also symbolize wildlife adapted to high altitudes, enhancing its wild connotation.
88. Sparro
Sparro symbolizes the small bird, known for its agility and adaptability, making an excellent name honoring various species.
89. Cedar
Named after the tree, Cedar symbolizes safety for various forest animals, incorporating a rugged animal approach into the naming.
90. Ewan
Ewan means ‘youth’, but it can reflect the playfulness of young animals, thereby enriching the name with a spirit of liveliness.
91. Foster
Foster means one who cares for others; in a similar light, it pertains to those who care for animals, enhancing its wildlife connections.
92. Lumi
Lumi means ‘snow’, and it evokes imagery of snowy regions where specific animals thrive, showcasing the need for warmth and protection.
93. Carrick
Carrick means ‘rock’, referencing the wildlife living in rocky terrains, tying back to its nature essence.
94. Carlin
While Carlin means ‘little champion’, it symbolizes strength seen in various proud animals.
95. Jett
Jett means ‘jet black’ but connects to animals with dark hues that often wander the forests.
96. Trevin
Trevin means ‘big village’, referring back to regions where wildlife interacts with human settlements.
97. Aloe
Aloe means ‘bitter’ but can signify natural wildlife medicinal practices connected with the plants.
98. Nestor
Nestor means ‘homecoming’, embodying animals who return to their nests or burrows.
99. Heath
Heath refers to open land, which calls to mind the wildlife thriving in those natural landscapes.
100. Callum
Callum means ‘dove’, bringing a peaceful nod to wildlife through the symbolism of birds.
101. Bajos
Bajos signifies ‘low’ and ties to animal species that dwell in valleys while providing a special connection.
102. Reggie
Reggie means ‘counsel power’, linking to animals who display wisdom and leadership in a group context.
103. Craig
Craig means ‘rock’, offering connections to wildlife that make their homes in rocky habitats.
104. Corbin
Corbin means ‘raven’, symbolizing intelligence, mystery, and adaptability amongst animals.
105. Grady
Grady means ‘noble’, yet displays the essence of noble creatures often seen in literature as heroic or greater beings.
106. Zeke
Zeke means ‘God strengthens’, but can also reflect the inherent strength found in animals like beasts of the wild.
107. Grayson
Grayson means ‘son of the steward’, blending in unique ways to remind of nurturing wilds.
108. Cliff
Cliff means ‘riverbank’, which highlights ecosystems where wildlife thrives, proving a nature link.
109. Lark
Lark directly alludes to a playful songbird, making it a sweet boy’s name with animal spirit.
110. Emerson
Emerson means ‘brave, powerful’, drawing connections back to the strength seen within the animal kingdom.
111. Radley
Radley means ‘from the red meadow’, providing a link to the animals that thrive in meadows.
112. Seamus
Seamus, the Irish form of James means ‘supplanter’, reminiscent of predatory animals challenging wildlife territories.
113. Galen
Galen means ‘calm’, echoing the spirit of a tranquil animal such as a deer that remains still amidst nature’s chaos.
114. Ansel
Ansel means ‘divine protection’, calling to mind protective wildlife that guard their young.
115. Axl
Axl means ‘father of peace’, yet can invoke images of peaceful creatures like doves, enhancing its charm.
116. Kieran
Kieran means ‘little dark one’, similar to certain animals with dark fur that have impressive survival tactics.
117. Finnegan
The name Finnegan references ‘little fair one’, but conjures up shades of softness often found in infant animals.
118. Tarek
Tarek means ‘morning star’ with connections to the dawn chorus of birds, intertwining animals within its essence.
119. Monty
Monty means ‘mountain’, bringing about wildlife that resides within mountainous terrains.
120. Angus
Angus means ‘one choice’ and can hint at animals being the ‘chosen ones’ in a specific purpose context.
121. Nakai
Nakai means ‘one who is close to the earth’, alluding to earthy animals that thrive in various environments.
122. Russell
Russell means ‘little red one’, a perfect nod to russet-colored animals like foxes.
123. Ahmed
Ahmed means ‘most commendable’, drawing parallels to notable animals recognized in stories.
124. Remington
Remington means ‘raven estate’, providing a lovely blend with animal themes associated with ravens.
125. Duran
Duran means ‘enduring’, connecting to the resilient spirit found in animals across various terrains.
126. Koda
Koda means ‘friend’, often linking to the friendships seen between boys and their pets or wildlife connection.
127. Asa
Asa means ‘physician’, yet can relate to the healing properties observed in some animals proven beneficial for humans.
128. Evander
Evander means ‘good man’, suggesting the caring nature of certain animal types worthy of admiration.
129. Lyle
Lyle means ‘island’, alluding to the diverse animal life found on isolated islands.
130. Quillon
Quillon means ‘crossing swords’; it can refer back to powerful animals often seen in tales.
131. Atticus
Atticus means ‘man of Attica’, showcasing characters in animals associated with craftiness.
132. Ewan
Ewan means ‘young warrior’, connecting closely to the bravery of young feral animals getting ready to face the world.
133. Flint
Flint means ‘rocky land’, reminding us of the habitats where many wildlife thrive.
134. Braeden
Braeden means ‘salmon’, directly linking the animal world with the water element within the name.
135. Balthazar
Balthazar refers to intelligence, which reflects the wisdom animals carry within their intuition throughout their lives.
136. Jasper
Jasper means ‘treasurer’, it can symbolize a guardian role as with those who protect animals within ecosystems.
137. Zalon
Zalon is a unique name meaning ‘strong’, which aligns well with strong beasts often referenced in folklore.
138. River
The name River symbolizes water bodies often inhabited by various species, subtly linking back to a more animal aspect.
139. Oakley
Oakley means ‘meadow near an oak tree’; it reflects the animal life around those greenery.
140. Hero
The name Hero means ‘brave one’ which resonates strongly with the bravery seen in various animals through folklore.
141. Wren
This name brings a shy, elusive bird into the spotlight; a gentle name for those who honor bird life.
142. Nael
Nael means ‘gift’ but reflects an animalistic aspect associated with family roles like their brood.
143. Firth
Firth means ‘estuary’, where different animals often come together connecting names to their homes.
144. Roan
Roan signifies a reddish-brown color, familiar within many horse breeds, offering ties to this realm.
145. Sterling
Sterling means ‘of high quality’, akin to the majestic nature of many species, speaking to their resilience.
146. Indy
Indy symbolizes independence, an admirable trait attributed to many wild animals.
147. Lenox
Lenox means ‘with elm trees’, often houses diverse animal life within its branches.
148. Dasha
Dasha refers to the ‘gift’ aspect and connects nicely to themes caring for domesticated animals.
149. Varun
Varun refers particularly to water, which is an essential habitat for aquatic animals giving it a flair.
150. Colton
Colton means ‘from the coal town’, yet often draws impacts closest to wildlife and the wilderness found in regions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a boy’s name that means animal can offer a wonderful connection to nature, strength, and personal heritage. With such a wide variety of names to choose from, you can find one that resonates with your family values or personal interests. Names like Griffin, Leo, and Wren offer a special flair that reflects the beauty of the animal kingdom.
Whether you prefer fierce or gentle creatures, each name tells a story and brings a rich legacy of qualities related to those animals. Explore these options to find the name that feels right for your newborn.
If you’re interested in finding out more about names inspired by the animal world, don’t hesitate to check out this list of names that mean animals or discover fox-inspired names. The choices are endless, and every name can hold a treasured meaning.