There’s something captivating about red eyes in the animal kingdom, especially when they shimmer in the moonlight or stare boldly in broad daylight. It’s easy to mistake an animal for having red eyes, though, as many creatures, such as foxes and rats, appear to have red eyes, but it’s just a trick of the light. In the UK, there aren’t all that many animals that truly have this eye colour, but around the world, there are plenty, including the following examples.
Albino Rabbits
Here in Great Britain, albino rabbits are a common sight in homes as pets, occasionally even in the wild, instantly recognisable by their snowy white fur and striking red eyes. Their eye colour is a result of a lack of pigmentation, allowing the blood vessels beneath to shine through. Though they may look delicate, these rabbits are often just as hardy as their darker-eyed counterparts, thriving with proper care and attention.
Red-Eyed Tree Frogs
You definitely won’t find this next creature in our country; the red-eyed tree frog is a tropical marvel, flaunting vivid red eyes that contrast sharply against its green body. Found in Central and South American rainforests, these frogs use their vibrant eyes as a defence mechanism, startling predators when they’re disturbed. Beyond their colours, they’re also known for their agility, leaping effortlessly between leaves, which is pretty amazing.
Pigeon Blood Discus Fish
Let’s be real–the name of the pigeon blood discus fish is pretty terrifying, but aquarium enthusiasts treasure this creature, not just for its vibrant body but for its striking red eyes. These freshwater fish, originating from the Amazon basin, depend on pristine water conditions to showcase their full beauty. There’s no doubt that their crimson gaze will add a hypnotic charm to any tank, making them a favourite among collectors.
Red-Eyed Vireos
The red-eyed vireo is a small songbird often heard before it’s seen, which is a shame, as it’s pretty cute. Typically, it will be found in North America, but it does occasionally stray to the UK during rare migratory accidents. If you do stumble across one, you can recognise it for its red eyes, a sharp contrast to its otherwise muted plumage.
Black Lemurs
All the way over in Madagascar, black lemurs are incredibly fascinating creatures. Their tufted ears and nimble tree-hopping skills are very cute, although the males of the species have piercing red eyes that glow with intensity, which can be pretty intimidating–especially in the dim light of their rainforest homes. Amazingly, this unique gaze is thought to aid in recognising each other among dense foliage.
Albino Corn Snakes
Popular in the exotic pet trade, albino corn snakes are easy to recognise by their red eyes and pale, creamy scales. You shouldn’t fear them, though, as they’re non-venomous and docile, making excellent pets for beginners. Their red eyes, a result of albinism, lend them a mysterious and somewhat otherworldly appearance that, understandably, captivates snake enthusiasts.
Eastern Newts
Often found near ponds and wetlands, Eastern newts possess a fascinating red-eyed look during the “red eft” stage of their life. During this phase, their overall orange-red colouration, including their eyes, signals toxicity to potential predators. As they mature, though, their colours fade, but their unique appearance during this stage remains a highlight.
Cane Toads
Cane toads are an invasive species in many regions of the world, but while they’re a nuisance, their red eyes are still pretty mesmerising. These large, warty amphibians have pupils surrounded by a red or orange ring, giving them an almost fiery stare. Furthermore, their toxic secretions make them a danger to predators and a concern in ecosystems they invade, so you’d be smart to be warned away by their creepy eyes.
Red-Eyed Bulbuls
As the name suggests, the red-eyed bulbul, a songbird from Africa, boasts a captivating stare that matches its lively personality. As with the cane toad, it features bright red rings encircling its eyes, making it stand out against the greens and browns of its habitat. Overall, their melodic calls and distinctive looks make them a joy to spot in the wild.
Albino Axolotls
Who doesn’t love axolotls? These salamanders are peculiar amphibians that seem to smile perpetually, and there’s something really adorable about that. In particular, albino varieties are very captivating, especially with their delicate red eyes. Bizarrely, these aquatic creatures remain in their larval stage throughout life, making them truly fascinating to observe.
Red-Eyed Damselflies
You’re very unlikely to be able to see the red-eyed damselfly’s eyes, as they’re just too small. However, sometimes, when they hover delicately over water bodies, their crimson eyes catch the light as they dart about. Common across Europe in summer, their eyes’ red colouration isn’t just for visual decoration; it ensures them excellent vision for spotting prey and predators alike.
Tokay Geckos
Often found in Southeast Asia, tokay geckos have an intense stare, which is made all the more dramatic by their red or orange eyes. Famously, these nocturnal reptiles have loud, clicking calls and striking patterns, so they’re really interesting to watch. Furthermore, their gaze is as bold as their personalities, making them a standout among gecko species.
Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks
You might not think that the name sounds very cute, but the red-eyed crocodile skink is actually very cute. It’s a small lizard with a look that seems straight out of a fantasy, sporting bright red rings around their eyes that contrast with their dark, scaly bodies, giving them a dramatic appearance. Sure, they might look kind of fierce, but they are shy creatures, preferring to hide rather than confront threats.
Albino Ferrets
How could this list be complete without mentioning the albino ferret!? These bundles of energy seem to be wrapped in a snowy white coat decorated with their fiery red eyes. Some people actually keep them as pets here in the UK, as they’re really quite playful creatures that love to explore and interact with their surroundings, often becoming the centre of attention.
Up Next: Surprising Predators in Your Garden – 16 British Animals to Watch Out For
In many ways, our gardens can feel like peaceful retreats, but don’t forget that it’s also a hunting ground for some of Britain’s stealthiest predators. It can be really rewarding to learn more about these ecosystems, so here is a list of surprising predators in your garden to keep an eye out for:
Surprising Predators in Your Garden – 16 British Animals to Watch Out For
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