40 striking purple animals: Explore the lavender legends in nature
Despite being scarce, several purple animals live on the planet. However, no known mammals have this colour. This rarity is mainly due to a combination of biochemical, ecological, and evolutionary factors that make the development of purple pigmentation less common in the animal kingdom. Here are some of the striking purple animals and their exciting facts.
![Orchid dottyback (L). Purple-crested turaco (C). Pacific purple sea urchin (R) Orchid dottyback (L). Purple-crested turaco (C). Pacific purple sea urchin (R)](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/639d34ed73bbab60.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- 40 striking purple animals
- 1. Violet-backed starling
- 2. Orchid dottyback
- 3. Ochre sea star
- 4. Purple honeycreeper
- 5. Purple martin
- 6. Violet sabrewing
- 7. Splendid sunbird
- 8. Costa's hummingbird
- 9. Purple emperor
- 10. Heteractis magnifica
- 11. Carabus violaceus
- 12. Purple starling
- 13. Royal gramma
- 14. Varied bunting
- 15. Crowned woodnymph
- 16. Spanish shawl
- 17. Purple firefish
- 18. Purple shore crab
- 19. Purple-crested turaco
- 20. American purple gallinule
- 21. Amblyodipsas
- 22. Violet-eared waxbill
- 23. Coral beauty
- 24. Purplelined wrasse
- 25. Eastern indigo snake
- 26. Honeycreepers
- 27. Atelopus varius
- 28. Western swamphen
- 29. Black paradise flycatcher
- 30. Pacific purple sea urchin
- 31. Chlorocala africana
- 32. Hypselodoris bullocki
- 33. Dottyback
- 34. Sebae anemone
- 35. Anthiinae
- 36. Common starling
- 37. Purplish-mantled tanager
- 38. Great purple emperor
- 39. Velvet-purple coronet
- 40. Sea snail
- What is the purple flying animal?
- Are there any mammals with purple fur?
You may be scratching your head trying to find examples of purple animals, as they are scarce. These purple mammals offer a glimpse into the diversity of the natural world and play a vital role in maintaining a balance in the ecosystem.
40 striking purple animals
These cute purple animals can be found in the deep oceans, on land and in air. From birds like the purple honeycreeper, purple martin, and violet sabrewing, these animals offer a fascinating glimpse into the diversity of life on Earth.
1. Violet-backed starling
![A Violet-backed starling on a tree branch A Violet-backed starling on a tree branch](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/bbe9568d0c800092.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Violet-backed starling, also known as Cinnyricinclus leucogaster, is native to sub-Saharan Africa. Males have striking violet plumage, while females are brown and streaked. They are often found in open woodlands and savannas, where they feed on fruits and insects.
2. Orchid dottyback
![Orchid dottyback swimming in deep waters Orchid dottyback swimming in deep waters](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/a11c73817f3fdc77.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Orchid dottyback, or Pseudochromis fridmani, is a vibrant purple fish found in the Red Sea. It is known for its aggressive behaviour despite its small size. This species is widespread in marine aquariums due to its bright colouration and hardy nature.
3. Ochre sea star
![Ochre sea star in beach sand Ochre sea star in beach sand](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/9968cc7e88a38b46.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Ochre sea star, Pisaster ochraceus, is commonly found along the rocky shores of the Pacific Ocean. It can exhibit various colours, including purple, orange, and brown. This sea star plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by preying on mussels and maintaining species balance.
4. Purple honeycreeper
![Purple honeycreeper perched on a thin branch Purple honeycreeper perched on a thin branch](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/133368e0d11f3dcb.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purple honeycreeper, Cyanerpes caeruleus, is a small bird native to Central and South America. Males are bright blue with black wings, while females are green. They primarily feed on nectar but also consume insects and fruits.
5. Purple martin
![Purple martin perching on a branch Purple martin perching on a branch](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/bc1efe20b39e3117.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purple martin, Progne subis, is the largest swallow in North America. Males have glossy purple-black plumage and are known for their aerial acrobatics. These birds often nest in colonies and prefer man-made houses provided by humans.
6. Violet sabrewing
![A Violet sabrewing in flight A Violet sabrewing in flight](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/63089f6ead434e11.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Violet sabrewing, Campylopterus hemileucurus, is a large hummingbird in Central America. Males are a deep violet-blue with long tail feathers. They inhabit montane forests and are known for their aggressive territorial behaviour.
7. Splendid sunbird
![Splendid sunbird on a tree branch tree Splendid sunbird on a tree branch tree](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/3624d19fa623a287.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Splendid sunbird, Cinnyris coccinigaster, is a small, colourful bird in West Africa. Males have iridescent green, purple, and blue plumage, while females are brownish. They feed on nectar, insects, and spiders, often seen in gardens and forests.
8. Costa's hummingbird
![Costa's hummingbird sanding on the tip of a single branch Costa's hummingbird sanding on the tip of a single branch](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/679b6f89058b7f3d.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
Costa's hummingbird, Calypte costae, is a small hummingbird native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Males have a distinctive purple cap and throat. These birds are known for their acrobatic flight and are commonly found in desert habitats.
9. Purple emperor
![Purple emperor on the ground Purple emperor on the ground](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/62d94b22154978b4.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purple emperor, Apatura iris, is a large butterfly found in woodlands across Europe and Asia. Males have striking iridescent purple wings, while females are brown with white markings. They are known for feeding on tree sap, dung, and carrion rather than flowers.
10. Heteractis magnifica
![Heteractis magnifica in the deep waters Heteractis magnifica in the deep waters](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/3e8b7b611344ffa9.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
Heteractis magnifica, also known as the magnificent sea anemone, is found in the Indo-Pacific region. It hosts clownfish, which live within its tentacles for protection. This anemone can display various colours, including vibrant purple and red.
11. Carabus violaceus
![Carabus violaceus Carabus violaceus](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/8d5319f02bf9523e.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
Carabus violaceus, or the violet ground beetle, is found in Europe. It has a metallic violet or blue sheen and is nocturnal. This beetle is a predator, feeding on other invertebrates, including slugs and snails.
12. Purple starling
![Purple starling next to a drinking fountain Purple starling next to a drinking fountain](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/1b1251e6e62e11dc.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purple starling, Lamprotornis purpureus, is native to tropical Africa. It has glossy purple plumage and yellow eyes, making it quite distinctive. These birds are social and often found in flocks, feeding on fruits and insects.
13. Royal gramma
![Royal gramma in the deep waters Royal gramma in the deep waters](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/72294dc5c3c26805.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Royal gramma, Gramma loreto is a small, brightly coloured fish found in the Caribbean Sea. It has a striking purple front half and a yellow back half. This species is widespread in the aquarium trade due to its vivid colours and peaceful nature.
14. Varied bunting
![A Varied bunting chirping A Varied bunting chirping](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/a1c66f1cac7cbbed.jpeg?v=1)
Source: UGC
The Varied bunting, Passerina versicolor, is a small songbird native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Males have a mix of purple, blue, and red plumage, making them quite colourful. They inhabit arid and semi-arid regions, feeding on seeds and insects.
15. Crowned woodnymph
![Crowned woodnymph perched on a branch Crowned woodnymph perched on a branch](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/c7b9ea936f1944db.jpeg?v=1)
Source: UGC
The Crowned woodnymph, Thalurania colombica, is a species of hummingbird found in Central and South America. Males have bright green and purple plumage with a shimmering crown. They are often seen in forests and gardens, feeding on nectar and small insects.
16. Spanish shawl
![A Spanish shawl in the ocean A Spanish shawl in the ocean](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/06f8005742792f7c.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Spanish shawl, Flabellina iodinea, is a vibrant nudibranch found in the Pacific Ocean. It has a bright purple body with orange cerata, making it easily recognisable. This sea slug feeds on hydroids and is known for its striking appearance.
17. Purple firefish
![A Purple firefish swimming A Purple firefish swimming](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/58d5ebf8806c3c6b.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purple firefish, Nemateleotris decora is a small, colourful fish found in the Indo-Pacific. It has a distinctive purple and white body with a long, flowing dorsal fin. This species is widespread in marine aquariums due to its peaceful nature and bright colours.
18. Purple shore crab
![A Purple shore crab in sand A Purple shore crab in sand](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/3d7d0623d64fdc9b.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purple shore crab, Hemigrapsus nudus, is commonly found along the Pacific coast of North America. It has a purple or reddish-brown shell and is often seen in rocky intertidal zones. This crab feeds on algae and small invertebrates, playing a role in its ecosystem.
19. Purple-crested turaco
![A Purple-crested turaco A Purple-crested turaco](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/09e86b858e66e6ba.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purple-crested turaco, Gallirex porphyreolophus, is a vibrant bird native to Southern Africa. It has a distinctive purple crest and green body, with red flight feathers visible in flight. These birds are frugivorous, primarily feeding on fruits in forested areas.
20. American purple gallinule
![American purple gallinule landing on the reeds American purple gallinule landing on the reeds](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/5d13da217afcae5e.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The American purple gallinule, Porphyrio martinicus, is a brightly coloured bird found in wetlands across the southeastern United States and Central America. It has iridescent purple-blue feathers and a red and yellow bill. These birds are excellent swimmers and walkers, often seen foraging for seeds and insects in marshes.
21. Amblyodipsas
![Amblyodipsas on a sandy surface Amblyodipsas on a sandy surface](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/82d78e1a7339645b.jpeg?v=1)
Source: UGC
Amblyodipsas is a genus of snakes found in Africa, known for their small size and burrowing habits. These snakes often exhibit iridescent purple scales. They are primarily fossorial, living underground and feeding on small invertebrates.
22. Violet-eared waxbill
![Uraeginthus granatina on a rocky surface Uraeginthus granatina on a rocky surface](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/1ac1d9e77c5fb19c.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Violet-eared waxbill, Uraeginthus granatina, is a small passerine bird found in sub-Saharan Africa. Males have a striking violet-blue ear patch and breast contrasted with a red bill. They are often found in savannas and shrublands, feeding on seeds and insects.
23. Coral beauty
![Coral beauty Coral beauty](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/a4c9a2f13d7a9b11.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Coral beauty, Centropyge bispinosa, is a popular marine angelfish in the Indo-Pacific. It has a vibrant blue and orange body, making it a favourite among aquarium enthusiasts. This fish is relatively hardy and adapts well to captivity.
24. Purplelined wrasse
![A Purplelined wrasse swimming in the ocean A Purplelined wrasse swimming in the ocean](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/bea9809ab2cc43f2.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purplelined wrasse, Cirrhilabrus lineatus, is a colourful fish found in the coral reefs of the Western Pacific. Males have vivid purple and blue stripes, especially prominent during courtship displays. This species is widespread in the aquarium trade due to its striking appearance.
25. Eastern indigo snake
![A huge Eastern indigo snake A huge Eastern indigo snake](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/f79f4e593f30d386.jpeg?v=1)
Source: UGC
The Eastern indigo snake, Drymarchon couperi, is the longest native snake in the United States. It has glossy, blue-black scales and is non-venomous. This snake is a top predator in its habitat, feeding on various small animals, including other snakes.
26. Honeycreepers
![Two red-legged honeycreepers on a branch Two red-legged honeycreepers on a branch](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/109027ddf9f5802d.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
Honeycreepers are a diverse group of small, brightly coloured birds found in America's tropical regions. They have slender, curved bills adapted for feeding on nectar, although they also consume insects and fruits. These birds are often found in forests and gardens, where they play a role in pollination.
27. Atelopus varius
![A purple Atelopus varius A purple Atelopus varius](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/c812066a082690fd.jpeg?v=1)
Source: UGC
Atelopus varius, also known as the Harlequin toad, is a critically endangered amphibian found in Central America. It has a distinctive black and yellow pattern on its skin. This species is facing severe declines due to habitat loss and chytrid fungus.
28. Western swamphen
![A large Western swamphen A large Western swamphen](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/c91e89243ed0093d.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Western swamphen, Porphyrio porphyrio, is a large, colourful bird in wetlands across Europe, Africa, and Asia. It has a striking purple-blue body with a red bill and legs. These birds are known for their strong legs and are often seen walking on floating vegetation.
29. Black paradise flycatcher
![Black paradise flycatcher perching on a tree Black paradise flycatcher perching on a tree](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/9274e4d301b57a18.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The black paradise flycatcher, Terpsiphone atrocaudata, is among the cute purple animals in Asia, including Japan and Taiwan. Males have long tail streamers and iridescent blue-black plumage. They inhabit forests and feed on insects, often catching them in mid-air.
30. Pacific purple sea urchin
![Pacific purple sea urchin in the deep waters Pacific purple sea urchin in the deep waters](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/e659da458801c545.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Pacific purple sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, is found along the western coast of North America. It has a dark purple shell and long spines that protect it from predators. This species is essential for marine ecosystems as it grazes on kelp and other algae.
31. Chlorocala africana
![Chlorocala africana on deadwood Chlorocala africana on deadwood](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/35072981a2b91fad.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
Chlorocala africana is a species of beetle known for its metallic green and purple colouration. It is found in various parts of Africa and is often seen in flowers and fruits. This beetle is a scarab family member and plays a pollination role.
32. Hypselodoris bullocki
![Hypselodoris bullocki in the deep ocean Hypselodoris bullocki in the deep ocean](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/efd10577e10bd5af.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
Hypselodoris bullocki is a species of nudibranch, or sea slug, known for its striking purple body and yellow gills. It is found in the Indo-Pacific region, often on coral reefs. This nudibranch feeds on sponges and is known for its bright and attractive colouration.
33. Dottyback
![A small Dottyback swimming in the ocean floor A small Dottyback swimming in the ocean floor](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/4926a06001dc67b8.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
Dottybacks are a group of small, brightly coloured fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. They are known for their territorial behaviour and vibrant hues, often including purples and blues. These fish are prevalent in marine aquariums for their beauty and adaptability.
34. Sebae anemone
![Sebae anemone in underwater Sebae anemone in underwater](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/3a3dc5a8048cc9b8.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Sebae anemone, Heteractis crispa, is a giant sea anemone in the Indo-Pacific region. It hosts various species of clownfish, providing them with protection in its tentacles. This anemone can display multiple colours, including shades of purple and pink.
35. Anthiinae
![Anthiinaes in the deep waters Anthiinaes in the deep waters](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/5c833d151577eb07.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
Anthiinae, commonly known as anthias, are a subfamily of small, colourful marine fish found in coral reefs worldwide. They exhibit striking colours, including pinks, purples, and oranges. These social fish often form large schools, feeding on plankton in the water column.
36. Common starling
![A Common starling perching on a tree branch A Common starling perching on a tree branch](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/59cada09d28b0044.jpeg?v=1)
Source: UGC
The common starling, Sturnus vulgaris, is a highly adaptable bird native to Europe and Asia but now found worldwide. It has iridescent plumage that can appear purple and green. These birds are known for their mimicking abilities and often form large, noisy flocks.
37. Purplish-mantled tanager
![Purplish-mantled tanager perched on a tree branch Purplish-mantled tanager perched on a tree branch](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/eb384a08fa61f05b.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Purplish-mantled tanager, Iridosornis porphyrocephalus, is a colourful bird found in the Andean forests of Colombia and Ecuador. It has a distinctive purple mantle and blue body. This species inhabits humid montane forests and feeds on insects and fruits.
38. Great purple emperor
![Great purple emperor on a flower Great purple emperor on a flower](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/3e06b19bc7bb8281.jpeg?v=1)
Source: UGC
The Great purple emperor, Sasakia charonda, is a large butterfly found in East Asia. Males have brilliant purple wings, while females are brown with white markings. They inhabit forests and are known for their powerful, fast flight.
39. Velvet-purple coronet
![Velvet-purple coronet feeding on a flower Velvet-purple coronet feeding on a flower](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/27e73a3ec80d2aeb.jpeg?v=1)
Source: Getty Images
The Velvet-purple coronet, Boissonneaua jardini, is a striking hummingbird found in the cloud forests of Colombia and Ecuador. Males have iridescent purple plumage and are known for their aggressive territorial behaviour. They feed on nectar and small insects, playing a role in pollination.
40. Sea snail
![A purple Sea snail A purple Sea snail](https://cdn.legit.ng/images/1120/23eb5b5df249d268.jpeg?v=1)
Source: UGC
Sea snails encompass various marine gastropods. These molluscs are found worldwide, from shallow waters to deep sea. They play various ecological roles, including grazing on algae and serving as prey for other marine animals.
What is the purple flying animal?
Some of the famous flying animals include the purple honeycreeper, purple martin, violet sabrewing, splendid sunbird, Costa's hummingbird and purple starling.
Are there any mammals with purple fur?
Most mammals do not exhibit purple pigmentation in their fur due to the types of pigments their bodies produce. They are unable to create pigments for purple, blue or green. However, birds and insects can display purple through structural colouration.
These purple animals showcase the incredible diversity and beauty of the natural world, with each species contributing uniquely to its ecosystem. They remind humanity of the importance of preserving biodiversity and the habitats that support such remarkable life forms.
Legit.ng recently published an exciting post about animals that start with E. When thinking of E animals, many first think of the elephant and the eagle, but the list of E animals is extensive.
Knowing animals that start with the letter E is a gateway to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse life forms that share planet Earth. Most of these E animals are social, attractive, and harmless. Read on to discover some of the E-animals and some intriguing facts about them.
Source: Legit.ng