16 of the Best Black and White Animals in the World

There is something about black and white animals that makes us stop and take notice.

Maybe it’s the stark contrast of colors or the fact that they are so rare to see in the wild.

Black and white animals have exceptional beauty.

Although many people believe that the most stunning animal species are those with the most color, such as parrots, striped tigers, and brilliant, patterned butterflies, black and white animals may be just as visually appealing.

Whatever it is, black and white animals have a special place in our hearts.

In this blog post, we will take a look at 20 of the best black and white animals in the world!

Why Are Animals Black and White?

Black and white coloration is a form of camouflage called “disruptive coloration.”

It allows an animal to blend into their environment either with spots, stripes, or mottled spotting.

Here are some of the best black and white animals that are known to man….or maybe some.

1. Eider Duck

The scientific name for eider duck translates to “softest down body,” which is a testament to its softness.

They can dive up to 65 feet deep and feed on mollusks, crabs, and invertebrates, swallowing them whole.

The eider duck establishes crèches, which are similar to daycares for their ducklings. Dozens of chicks may be cared for by a single female eider duck.

If you’re thinking of getting an Eider duck, check out our list of the best duck names to get you started with name ideas.

2. Downy Woodpecker

The downy woodpecker is somewhat smaller than the common woodpecker, with a proportionately shorter beak.

The male has a red highlight on top of his head and they have black and white checkered patterning.

The downy woodpecker is one of the most vocal and active birds during spring. They do well in suburban settings and enjoy wooded areas.

3. Pied Bat

The pied bat, also known as the badger bat, striped bat, or panda bat, is indigenous to Africa.

They only weigh 4-8 grams and live in tropical and subtropical areas. They were first discovered in the Belgian Congo in the late 1930s.

As of 2017, the pied bat was considered to be an endangered animal due to habitat destruction.

4. Ring-Tailed Lemur

The ring-tailed lemur is an endangered primate that can live up to 18 years old.

They are native to Madagascar in Africa. They have tails with spectacular black and white striped or ringed patterns.

Ring-tailed lemurs live in troops of up to 30. Ring-tailed lemurs are highly vulnerable since they dwell in forests that are being destroyed.

5. Egyptian Mau

Egyptian Mau is a cat breed that usually has white fur with black dots across the entire body.

It has a triangular-shaped head and large almond eyes with small-shaped ears.

The Mau has a glossy and soft-furred coat. Many people adore this cat because of its delicate appearance and exquisite fur pattern. Just like our Egyptian Mau cat names that will perfectly fit if you plan on getting one.

6. Razorbill

The razorbill is a type of bird that can be found in the Northern Atlantic.

The razorbill, like the murres, has a long tail that is generally cocked above the water’s surface when swimming.

They breed in the winter and live in flocks on the ocean during that season. A flock of razorbills may be seen flying low over the sea around the winter months.

7. Black and White Colobus

The black and white colobus monkey is a species of monkey that measures approximately 28 inches long, not including the tail.

As for the weight, this mammal can weigh up to 30 pounds for males and 20 pounds for females.

The black and white colobus has no thumb. The animal is jet black with white markings around its face and rump.

8. Osprey

The osprey, sea hawk, or river hawk is a large raptor that eats primarily fish and will plunge-dive to capture prey.

The Osprey is widespread throughout North America and Central America as well as areas of Europe.

They can live up to 30 years. After getting hurt by Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), the species recovered but have difficulties with eggshell thinning and fertility.

9. Dutch Rabbit

The Dutch rabbit is regarded as the most ancient of rabbits breeds compared to all others.

This rabbit breed starts to be known by people in the 19th century and also has other names, which are Hollander or Brabander.

In terms of size, this rabbit breed is tiny, but it is not as tiny as the dwarf rabbit breed. The Dutch rabbit’s popularity decreased due to the popularity of dwarf rabbits all over the world.

This breed has been officially registered by the British Rabbit Council and the American Rabbit Breeders Association.

10. Holstein Friesian Cattle

The Holstein Friesian Cattle are popular cow breeds mostly featured in milk advertising.

It is a white cow with black random patterns scattered around its body. This cow breed is originated in the Netherlands.

The Holstein Friesian Cattle produce high-quality milk compared to the other cow species.

11. White Tiger

The white tiger is also known as the bleached tiger. The reason behind their white fur is due to a lack of red and yellow pheomelanin pigments.

They are Bengals and have Bengal stripes but a white coat.

All white tigers are currently in captivity—there aren’t any in the wild. These animals have sapphire-blue eyes.

12. Dalmation Dog

This is a medium-sized dog breed originating from Croatia.

These dogs were used for defense in times of war. In modern times, they are identified as firehouse dogs in the United States.

When the puppies are born, their spots show up within a month. We all know how popular they are in 101 Dalmatians. If you’re planning to get a Dalmatian, check out our list of the best Dalmatian dog names.

13. Adélie Penguin

The Adélie Penguin resides in Antarctica and feeds on krill and fish.

They breed on sea ice and lay their eggs in rock-pile nests. Males and females take turns incubating their eggs.

Over the past 25 years, their population has decreased by 65% because of decreasing amounts of sea ice in Antarctica. We also have a list of the best penguin names if you’re thinking of getting one.

14. Zebra

Zebras are equids—of the horse family—and are well known for their stripes.

Scientific studies suggest that black is their main color, with white stripes and white abdomens being complimentary.

Stripes on the back of this species are meant to perplex predators with what’s known as “motion dazzle,” which makes it difficult for predators to pick out prey from a flock.

Zebras are hunted for their skin and many of their populations face extinction.

15. Orca

The orca, sometimes known as the killer whale, is a toothed whale and apex predator.

They feed on fish and other marine mammals. They are documented to inhabit every ocean on the planet.

Because their food source is dwindling owing to overfishing and various problems, certain groups of orcas are labeled threatened or endangered.

Pollution and habitat loss are heavy contributors as well.

16. Panda

The giant panda is a docile animal that is considered a national treasure in China.

They feed on bamboo and live at high altitudes in western China.

Despite their unusual tiny size during birth, these species may reach a weight of up to 330 pounds in adulthood.

Their wrist bone functions are opposite to the thumb which allows them to climb and forage.

If you’d like to name a panda that you see in your local zoo, or if you actually consider getting one, check our panda names for inspiration.

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Whether you’re looking for an interesting pet to keep you company or simply want to learn more about some of the coolest creatures on the planet, we hope you enjoyed this list of black and white animals.

We think they are some of the best in the world and can’t wait to see more amazing photos and videos of them.

What do you think? Are there any other cool black and white animals that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!