Learning a new language offers a window into a different culture and worldview; this is especially true when it involves learning the names of animals, which can be fascinating given their cultural significance. Kannada, a language spoken in the Indian state of Karnataka, has a rich vocabulary for describing the animal kingdom. Whether you’re a language enthusiast or planning a trip to Karnataka, knowing these names can be very enriching. Here’s a list of common animal names in Kannada, complete with definitions and example sentences.

Huli (ಹುಲಿ) – Tiger
Tigers are revered animals in many cultures, and Kannada-speaking regions are no exception. The word for tiger in Kannada is Huli.
ಅರಣ್ಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಒಂದು ಹುಲಿಯನ್ನು ನೋಡಲು ಸಾಧ್ಯವಾಯಿತು.
(In the forest, it was possible to see a tiger.)

Aane (ಆನೆ) – Elephant
The elephant, a majestic creature, is called Aane in Kannada, and they often carry a significant role in Indian mythology and culture.
ಆನೆಗೆ ಬಹಳ ಬಲವಿದೆ.
(The elephant is very strong.)

Koli (ಕೋಳಿ) – Chicken
A common domestic animal, the chicken is known as Koli in Kannada. Chickens are a source of both meat and eggs.
ಕೋಳಿ ಮೊಟ್ಟೆಯನ್ನು ಇಟ್ಟಿತು.
(The chicken laid an egg.)

Naayi (ನಾಯಿ) – Dog
Man’s best friend, the dog, is referred to as Naayi in Kannada. Dogs are beloved pets and often considered part of the family.
ನಾಯಿ ಅವನ ನೆರೆಹೊರೆಯವರ ಜೊತೆ ಆಟವಾಡುತ್ತಿದೆ.
(The dog is playing with his neighbors.)

Becku (ಬೆಕ್ಕು) – Cat
Cats, with their graceful movements and independent nature, are called Becku in Kannada.
ಬೆಕ್ಕು ಮುಜುಗರದಲ್ಲಿ ಮಲಗಿದೆ.
(The cat is sleeping in the corner.)

Kudure (ಕುದುರೆ) – Horse
Known for their speed and strength, the word for horse in Kannada is Kudure.
ಕುದುರೆಗಳು ವೇಗವಾಗಿ ಓಡುತ್ತವೆ.
(Horses run fast.)

Meke (ಮೇಕೆ) – Goat
Goats, which are common in the rural parts of Karnataka, are called Meke in Kannada.
ಮೇಕೆ ಹುಲ್ಲನ್ನು ತಿನ್ನುತ್ತಿದೆ.
(The goat is eating grass.)

Karadi (ಕರಡಿ) – Bear
The bear, a powerful forest dweller, is Karadi in Kannada.
ಕರಡಿ ಶೇಡ್ಯೂಲ್ 1 ಪ್ರಾಣಿ.
(The bear is a schedule 1 animal.)

Hakki (ಹಕ್ಕಿ) – Bird
Any bird falls under the category of Hakki in Kannada, a word that represents the diversity of avian life.
ಆಕಾಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಹಕ್ಕಿಗಳು ಹಾರುತ್ತಿವೆ.
(Birds are flying in the sky.)

Haavu (ಹಾವು) – Snake
With a mixed reputation of fear and reverence in Indian culture, the snake is known as Haavu in Kannada.
ಹಾವು ನೀರಿನ ಬಳಿ ಹುಳು ಹಿಡಿಯಲು ಹೋಗಿದೆ.
(The snake went near the water to catch prey.)

By learning these words, learners can not only expand their Kannada vocabulary but also deepen their understanding of the local culture and its nuances. Given the richness of wildlife in the region, these words can serve as a starting point for exciting discussions and discoveries while exploring Karnataka or engaging with Kannada speakers anywhere in the world.