Animals in Isle of Man

The Isle of Man, an island located in the Irish Sea, was once home to a variety of animal species, many of which has since gone extinct. The island is known for its mild climate and heavy rains.

The most recognizable animal indigenous to the Isle of Man is the Manx cat, made unique by a naturally occurring genetic mutation that makes the species' tails much shorter than other cats. It is unknown how the cats originally got to the island, but Manx cats have been reported on the Isle of Man since the 1800s. Having a reputation for hunting, Manx cats are often sought out to keep rodent and other pest populations under control.

There is a breed of sheep, Manx Loaghtan, living on the island, which are mainly raised for slaughter. These sheep have four to six horns, short tails, and are woolless on their faces and tails.

Off the coast of the Isle of Man, Grey Seals and basking sharks have been spotted. Grey Seals typically stick to established breeding grounds, which includes many of the British Isles. Although Grey Seals do not breed in Isle of Man waters, they have been spotted hunting for food. Basking sharks are very large sharks with notably large mouths. Despite their size, basking sharks are filter feeders and are generally harmless.

Although an unusual climate for the critters, common lizards also populate the island. Typical in warmer European climates, three species of these lizards can be found on the Isle of Man, and are easiest to find in the summer.

While the island still boasts a dense population of birds, many species that once lived on the Isle of Man are now extinct. Other previously present animals that are now extinct on the Isle of Man include the Manx sheepdog, Manx horse, and Manx pig.