World’s Most Solitary Animals: Top 5 Species Which Travel and Live Alone

Some animals prefer company since traveling in groups and sticking together ensures safety and camaraderie. However, loners in the animal kingdom also like to eat, sleep, and hunt alone.

Being solitary is seen in both carnivores and herbivores. While humans often consider loneliness a negative behavior, it is a way of life for some creatures. In some cases, food sources are limited, so living alone is the only best hope for survival in some species. They only get together when it is time to mate or raise their young.

Here are five independent animals that have found a way to thrive without relying on anyone else.

1. Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)

Platypus is an egg-laying mammal that is endemic to eastern Australia. It is also dubbed duck-billed platypus because of its duck-like bill used in finding food in murky waters.

This semi-aquatic animal is known for being solitary, coming together only to mate. Platypuses spend most of their time alone, hunting for prey like shrimp and small fish. In some cases, however, several individuals can share the same body of water.

2. Sea Turtles (Superfamily Chelonioidea)

Turtles are another species that do not need a company to live a happy, healthy life. With their slow pace and protective shells, these reptiles are equipped to live independently.

Although it may seem like they lead a quiet life, turtles have plenty of skills that enable them to survive independently. For instance, many turtles can hold their breath for long periods, allowing them to stay underwater and away from predators.

3. Owl (Order Strigiformes)

The owl is one of the most solitary animals in the world. Known for their nocturnal habits and remarkable hunting skills, these birds of prey prefer to spend most of their lives alone.

Owls hunt and roost alone and only come together with other owls during mating season. Some owl species tolerate others in their territory but generally prefer to keep to themselves.

4. Tarantulas (Family Theraphosidae)

Tarantulas are a group of large spiders that are often hairy. They are known for being slow and deliberate movers, but they are accomplished nocturnal predators that hunt insects, small lizards, frogs, and snakes.

The long-lived arachnids spend most of their time hiding in their burrows or hunting for prey at night. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are very shy creatures that prefer avoiding confrontations.

5. Skunk (Family Mephitidae)

Skunks are mammals known for their ability to spray a liquid with a strong, unpleasant scent. Different species have warning coloration, which varies from black-and-white to cream, ginger, and brown.

While most animals are deterred by their potent defensive spray, skunks avoid interactions altogether. They are often solitary and prefer to spend their time alone hunting for insects and hunting small prey at night. During the day, they hide in dens or other sheltered areas, emerging only when they need to feed or find a mate.