In our guide, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to the animal species that await you in GTA 6, including all the land animals, birds and sea creatures that are part of the GTA 6 wilderness and ecosystem.
The first trailer for GTA 6 has confirmed that the open-world title will be set in the fictional US state of Leonidas, which is based on the real-life state of Florida.
In the trailer, we can already see numerous animals that await us in the later game.
Below we cover all the confirmed and potential GTA 6 animals that will be returning from GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2.
List of all confirmed animals in GTA 6
- Alligator (confirmed by trailer 1)
- Lynxes (confirmed by leak)
- Birds (various species)
- Wild boar (confirmed by leak)
- Bucks (confirmed by leak)
- Cows (confirmed by leak)
- Crayfish (confirmed by leak)
- Deer (confirmed by trailer 1)
- Dolphins (confirmed by trailer 1)
- Dogs (confirmed by trailer 1)
- Chihuahua
- Ducks(confirmed by trailer 1)
- Flamingos (confirmed by trailer 1)
- Fish (various species)
- Frogs (confirmed by leak)
- Heron (confirmed by leak)
- Iguanas (confirmed by leak)
- Pigeon (confirmed by leak)
- Gopher (confirmed by leak)
- Raccoons (confirmed by leak)
- Rats (confirmed by leak)
- Sea turtles (confirmed by trailer 1)
- Möve (confirmed by trailer 1)
- Sharks (confirmed by trailer 1)
- Skunks (confirmed by leak)
- Snakes (confirmed by leak)
- Squirrel (confirmed by leak)
- Whales (confirmed by leak)
Other possible animals in GTA 6
This is a list of as yet unconfirmed animals in GTA 6 that are likely to make their way into the game, including returning animals from GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2:
- Biber
- Black bear
- Cats
- Chickens
- Squirrel
- Cormorant
- Coyotes
- Cranes
- Crows
- Eagle
- Little Egret
- Foxes
- Goose
- Seagulls
- Goshawks
- Horses
- Key Deer (a native deer species, exclusive to the Florida Keys)
- Lionfish
- Manatees
- Manta ray
- Muskrat
- Octopus
- Osceola
- Turkey
- Otter
- Panther
- Pelicans
- Pigs
- Rabbit
- Reptiles (Florida is known for its reptiles)
- Sheep
- Spoonbill
- Vulture
The huge leak from September 2022 has confirmed that we will also be served up the hunting and fishing activities from Red Dead Redemption 2 in GTA 6. It is therefore quite possible that a large number of the fish species from Red Dead 2 will also return, probably mixed with some new fish species and marine life.
After all, Florida has some of the best fishing opportunities in the United States and is also a very popular activity there. Even today, players in RDR2 use these activities in the open world to relax and take in the beautiful virtual nature.
Animals in Red Dead Redemption 2
In Red Dead Redemption 2, players can expect to encounter an extensive animal world populating the open wilderness of the late 19th century with a wide variety of mammals, birds, fish and reptiles. The different ecosystems, from the majestic mountains to the vast prairies and impenetrable swamps, provide a variety of habitats for the animal species.
Hunting and resource gathering are integral parts of the game. Players can hunt animals to obtain food, furs and other materials. Hunting requires tactical skill to avoid scaring off prey and allows players to improve their survival skills.
The realistic behavior of the animals captures the natural interplay of the animal world – from migration and hunting behavior to social interactions. Predators pursue their prey, while some species live in groups and act together.
Horses play a prominent role, not only as a means of transportation, but also as loyal companions. Players can tame wild horses, own different breeds and look after their animals.
Legendary animals present a special challenge and offer unique rewards for successful hunters. Rivers and lakes are rich in different species of fish that can be caught using different fishing techniques.
Wildlife is influenced by dynamic weather, which has a significant impact on animal behavior. Rain can blur tracks, while snow can slow down the animals’ movements. Overall, the lively and fascinating animal world of Red Dead Redemption 2 contributes significantly to the immersion and experience of the players in the game world.
Animals in GTA 5
In Grand Theft Auto 5 (GTA 5), the open game world of Los Santos and Blaine County offers a lively and diverse animal world. This helps to enliven the environment and create a realistic gaming atmosphere.
The wildlife in GTA 5 includes a wide range of species, including birds, fish, mammals and insects. Players can encounter various wildlife in the rural areas of Blaine County, including deer, cows, coyotes and mountain lions. These animals exhibit realistic behavior as they roam through forests or flee from threats.
Pets such as dogs and cats can be found in certain neighborhoods of Los Santos, giving the urban areas a more authentic feel. The waters off the coast are home to a variety of marine life, including fish and even whales.
In the suburbs, players can come across pets and farm animals such as dogs, cats and chickens. This helps to depict daily life in the different areas of Los Santos.
Although there are limited direct interactions with animals, players can make their characters observe animals, take photos of them or approach them to see their animations. Despite GTA 5’s focus on urban crime and action, the wildlife helps to enhance the level of detail and immersion in the game world.
Animals in GTA Online
Shortly after the Chop Shop Update, which was released on December 12, 2023, various animal species populate the game world on the two current-gen consoles PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
As part of the animal photography challenge, you have to take pictures of specified animals and send them to the Los Santos tourist office.
You can also transform into different animals in GTA Online if you find a peyote plant and consume it.