How to Draw Animals

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cat drawing­­­
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Learn how to draw this cat a­nd other animals in this article.
See more pictures of cats.

Drawing animals can be fun­, and it's not as hard as you may think. By follo­wing the step-by-step instructions in this article, you can learn to draw many different kinds of creatures. By copying these pictures, you will learn basic draw­ing skills. You will be able to use those skills to draw other animals and even other things.

Before you start drawing, there are some basic tools you will need. Make sure you have a pencil, a pencil sharpener, an eraser, a felt-tip pen, and paper.

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The animal sketches start with larger basic shapes like ovals, rectangles, and triangles. Draw the full shape, even if all of it will not be seen in the final drawing. You can erase the part you don't need later.

Each consecutive step adds more detail until you have the finished animal drawing. The steps are colored to show exactly what to draw when. The lines for each new step are shown in red, while the lines from previous steps are shown in gray.­

After all the steps are drawn, use a felt-tip pen to go over the pencil lines. Only ink over the lines you need in the final drawing. After giving the felt-tip ink some time to dry so it won't smear, use an eraser to erase the pencil lines.

And there's your completed drawing!

Learn to draw your favorite animal with the articles in this series:

  • Dog (5 steps)­
  • Pig­ (5 steps)
  • Cow­ (5 steps)

See all How to Draw articles.

Go to the HowStuffWorks home page.­

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How to Draw a Goldfish

A goldfish is a popular pet for people of all ages. You can draw one and imagine it swimming happily in its fish bowl or in a pond.

Learn how to draw this goldfish.
Learn how to draw this goldfish.

In this section, we'll show you how to draw the above goldfish. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We'll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Draw the shapes for the goldfish's body, tail, and eyes.

Step 1: Start with a sideways teardrop for the body. Draw two ovals at one end for the tail. Add more ovals or circles for the eyes and pupils.

Draw three fin shapes, circles for bubbles, and curves for the gills and mouth.

Step 2: Draw three fin shapes, one on top and two on the bottom. Add some circles for bubbles, and draw curves for the gills and mouth.

How to draw a goldfish, step 3.

Step 3: Add curved lines for the scales on the side. Draw lines for the details on the fins.

felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep in your goldfish drawing.

Step 4: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Congratulations! Your goldfish drawing is complete. If you don't like your finished drawing, you can practice drawing it again until you get it just right. Learn how to draw a completely different kind of animal -- a bear -- in the next section.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Bear

Drawing this friendly brown bear is a great way to improve your drawing skills.

Learn how to draw this bear.
Learn how to draw this bear.


In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above bear. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Draw an oval for the bear's body and circles for the head, ears, and nose.


Step 1: Sketch an oval for the body. Add a circle for the head and three ovals or circles for the ears and snout.

Next, draw the bear's legs and paws.

Step 2: Draw the leg shapes, and follow them with ovals for the paws.

Add the details to complete the bear's head and face.

Step 3: Add lines for the neck to connect the head to the rest of the body. Draw ovals and circles for the eyes and pupils, lines for the eyelids, and ovals for the details inside the ears. Add one more oval for the tail. Inside the snout, draw a triangle nose. Add some curved lines for the mouth. Finish sketching by adding hair details on the back and head and details on the toes.

Finish your bear drawing by tracing over the lines you want to keep.

Step 4: Trace the pencil lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

Now that your bear drawing is finished, bring it to life by coloring it. Next, we'll show you how to draw an animal that loves the water. Continue to the next page to get step-by-step instructions for drawing a duck.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Duck

Learn how to draw this playful duck and then place it in any scene you like -- waddling along with its siblings, swimming in a lake, and more. It's easy when you start with basic shapes.

Learn how to draw this duck.
Learn how to draw this duck.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above duck. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing basic shapes for the duck's body, neck, and head.


Step 1: Draw a curved teardrop shape for the body and a flattened circle shape for the head. Add curved lines for the neck, connecting the head to the body.

The second step is to draw the duck's wing, legs, and feet.


Step 2: Draw a smaller teardrop shape inside the body for the wing. Add two shapes for the top and bottom of the beak. Draw an oval for the upper leg and long shapes for the lower legs. For each foot, draw half an oval attached to the leg with webbing across the front.

Next, draw details like the duck's eyes and tongue.

Step 3: Draw circles for the eyes and ovals for the pupils. Add a triangle inside the beak for the tongue. Finish the sketch with curved lines for feather, nose, and foot details.

Finally, trace over the lines you want to keep in your duck drawing.

Step 4: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines. Adding white dots to the eyes makes them look wet and more alive.

You've finished your duck drawing! Feel free to practice drawing it again to perfect your skills. In the next section, we'll show you how to draw one of the most popular pets around -- a dog.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Dog

Man's best friend is often the subject of artwork. Learn how you can turn basic shapes into your favorite canine character.

Learn how to draw this dog.
Learn how to draw this dog.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above dog. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Finish your dog drawing by tracing over the lines you want to keep.


Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body. Add ovals for the head and snout.

Finish your dog drawing by tracing over the lines you want to keep.


Step 2: On the dog's near side, draw the shapes for one front leg and one back leg, and add ovals for the paws.

Draw the dog's ears, neck, tail, and other two legs.


Step 3: Draw curved shapes for the ears. Connect the head to the body with curved lines, and add more curved lines for the tail. Draw the shapes for the two legs on the other side, and add ovals for the paws.

Add details to the dog drawing as shown.


Step 4: Draw ovals for the eyes, pupils, and nose. Add spots on the dog's body. Put in more curved lines for details of the mouth, the toes, and the hair on the dog's head.

Finish your dog drawing by tracing over the lines you want to keep.


Step 5: Trace the pencil lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

If you're happy with your finished drawing, the next step is to color it. If you're not happy with your drawing, practice drawing it again until you perfect it.

Want to draw a larger, more majestic animal? The next section has instructions for drawing an elephant.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw an Elephant

With its distinctive trunk and tusks -- not to mention its impressive size -- an elephant is a great addition to the cast of creatures you can learn to sketch.

Learn how to draw this elephant.
Learn how to draw this elephant.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above elephant. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

First, draw a oval for the elephant's body and a circle for its head.

Step 1: Draw an oval for the body and an overlapping circle for the head.

Sketch rectangular shapes for the legs and triangle for the ears.

Step 2: Draw four slightly curved rectangular shapes for the legs. Then add two triangles with rounded corners for the ears.

Draw curved lines for the elephant's tail, trunk, and tusks.

Step 3: Sketch some curved lines for the tail and trunk. Put an oval shape at the end of the tail, and add two boomerang shapes next to the trunk for the tusks, one on each side.

Add the elephant's eyes, mouth, and toes as shown.

Step 4: Draw ovals for the eyes and the pupils. Add some curved lines below the trunk and tusks to show the mouth. Put in some details on the ears and toes. Draw eyelashes and some hair on the head.

Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep in your elephant drawing.

Step 5: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep in the drawing, and erase the extra pencil lines.

You did it! Step back and look at your finished drawing. Then color it with crayons, colored pencils, markers, or even paint.

Next, we'll show you how to sketch a real swinger. Step-by-step instructions for drawing a monkey start on the next page.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Monkey

Monkeys swing through the trees with ease using their strong hands, feet, and tail. Find out how to sketch this jungle acrobat.

Learn how to draw this monkey.
Learn how to draw this monkey.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above monkey. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing shapes for the monkey's body, head, and ears.

Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body. Add an overlapping oval and circle for the face and the head. Draw two more ovals, one on either side of the head, for ears.

Next, draw the monkey's curvy tail, and the legs and feet.

Step 2: Draw a curving, snakelike shape for the tail. Add two long shapes from the bottom of the body for legs. Sketch the feet, and don't forget that monkeys' feet look like hands.

Add the monkey's arms and hands.

Step 3: Add two more curved shapes for the arms. At the end of the arms, draw the shapes for the hands.

Add details to your monkey drawing as shown.

Step 4: Draw ovals for the eyes, pupils, and nostrils. Add a crescent shape for the mouth. Sketch curved lines for eyebrow, nose, and hair details. Put details in the ears, mouth, fingers, and toes.

Lastly, use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep.

Step 5: Trace the pencil lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

Congratulations! You've learned how to draw a monkey in just a few steps. You can make your drawing even better with practice.

The next animal drawing begins with two simple oval shapes. Read on for detailed directions for drawing a penguin.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Penguin

Penguins have so much personality that they've been featured in several popular movies and cartoons. You can make your own penguin drawing in just five simple steps.

Learn how to draw this penguin.
Learn how to draw this penguin.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above penguin. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Begin by drawing oval shapes for the penguin's body and head.

Step 1: Draw a long egg shape for the body and then an oval for the head.

Next, draw the penguin's belly, beak, and feet.

Step 2: Draw a thinner egg shape inside the first one for the belly. Add a teardrop beak and two webbed feet.

Sketch the penguin's flippers and neck shape.

Step 3: Draw the flippers and the neck shape.

Draw ovals for the penguin's eyes and add other details as shown.

Step 4: Draw ovals for the eyes. Add a line to each webbed foot for detail. Finish this step with curved lines for the mouth, nostril, eyebrows, and feathers on top of the head.

Trace the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen.

Step 5: Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Now that your penguin drawing is complete, you can either color it or draw it again for more practice. Want to learn how to draw another aquatic animal? We'll teach you how to draw a dolphin in the next section of this article.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Dolphin

Dolphins are intelligent mammals that delight crowds with fantastic jumps and tricks. Draw your own dolphin and imagine it gracefully swimming in the water or bounding above it.

Learn how to draw this dolphin.
Learn how to draw this dolphin.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above dolphin. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

First, draw a teardrop and an oval for the dolphin's body and snout.

Step 1: Draw a curved teardrop for the body and an oval for the snout.

Next, add five triangles for the dolphin's fins.

Step 2: Add five triangular shapes for the fins: one on top, two on the sides, and two at the end for the tail.

Sketch the dolphin's eyes, mouth, and blowhole.

Step 3: Draw circles for the eye and an oval at the top of the head for the blowhole. Add curved lines for the mouth.

Trace the lines you want to keep in the dolphin drawing.

Step 4: Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Your dolphin drawing is done and ready to color! Dolphins and other animals come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. In the next section, we'll teach you which shapes to use to draw a tiny mouse.

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How to Draw a Mouse

Although a mouse is small, drawing it can still be a challenge. Fortunately, these instructions make it easy to sketch this squeaky, cheese-loving animal.

Learn how to draw this mouse.
Learn how to draw this mouse.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above mouse. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by sketching shapes for the mouse's body, head, and ears.

Step 1: Draw a curved bean shape for the body and a teardrop shape for the head. Add two circles for the ears.

Follow this diagram to draw the mouse's body parts.

Step 2: Draw two more circles inside the ears for the inner ears. Sketch a circle toward the bottom of the body for the thigh of one leg. Add shapes for both feet. Draw a curving, snake-like shape for the tail and two more curved shapes for the arms. Add the hands and nose.

Draw the mouse's eyes, hair, and other details as shown.

Step 3: Draw ovals for the eyes. Add some curved lines for the hair and eyelash details and some more for mouth and toe details.

Finally, use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep.

Step 4: Trace the pencil lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

Don't worry if your mouse drawing isn't perfect. You can practice drawing it again and again to hone your drawing skills. Now that you've learned to draw a tiny animal, in the next section we'll show you how to draw a very large one, a giraffe.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Giraffe

Chomping leaves as it towers over the trees, the giraffe is one of the most popular animals at the zoo. Learn how to draw this gentle giant.

Learn how to draw this giraffe.
Learn how to draw this giraffe.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above giraffe. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing shapes for the giraffe's body, head, and long neck.

Step 1: Draw a sideways pear shape for the body and a peanut shape for the head. Connect the head and body with a long rectangular form for the neck.

Next, draw the giraffe's legs.

Step 2: Draw the giraffe's four leg shapes.

Draw the giraffe's eyes, tail, horns, and mane.

Step 3: Draw ovals for the eyes and pupils. Add a curved shape for the tail with a teardrop shape at the end. Draw two small upside-down pear shapes for the horns and a mane down the head and part of the neck.

Step 4: Draw an oval for the ear and each nostril. Put in lines for mouth, hoof, and tail details.

Next, add the giraffe's spots.

Step 5: Draw the giraffe's spots on the body, neck, and legs.

Finally, trace the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen.

Step 6: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep in the drawing, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Step back and admire your finished drawing. If you want to improve it, try drawing it again.

A giraffes isn't a household pet, but cats most certainly are. Continue to the next section for directions on how to draw this more common indoor animal.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Cat

Practice drawing this cool cat to purr-fect your drawing skills.

Learn how to draw this cat.
Learn how to draw this cat.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above cat. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

First, draw shapes for the cat's body and head.

Step 1: Draw an upside-down pear shape for the body, and add the head shape.

Draw shapes for the cat's legs and ears.

Step 2: Sketch two football shapes for the legs. Add two rounded triangles for the ears.

Next, add the cat's tail and paws.

Step 3: Draw a curved shape for the tail. Put in short ovals for the front paws and curved rectangles for the back paws.

Draw shapes for the cat's facial features.

Step 4: Draw ovals for the eyes, and add smaller ones for the pupils. Sketch a triangle for the nose with curved lines underneath it for the mouth. Put smaller triangles inside the ear shapes. Add curved lines for eyebrows and eyelashes and details on the toes, hair, legs, and whiskers.

Trace over the lines you want to keep in the cat drawing.

Step 5: Trace the pencil lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

Now your cat drawing is complete and ready to color!

Cats might not come to mind when you think of Australia, but kangaroos most likely do. We'll show you how to draw this pouched marsupial in the next section.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Kangaroo

Kangaroos carry their young in a pouch and have powerful hind legs for jumping. Even if you've never seen a kangaroo in person, you can easily draw one of your own.

Learn how to draw this kangaroo.
Learn how to draw this kangaroo.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above kangaroo. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start your kangaroo drawing by making shapes for its body, head, snout, and neck.

Step 1: Draw an oval for the body and a circle above it for the head. Add a slightly rounded rectangle for the snout, and connect the head and body with curved lines to make the neck.

Add shapes for the kangaroo's legs, arms, and feet.

Step 2: Draw two large ovals for the legs. Add a smaller oval for the top part of the arm, then sketch the forearms. Draw long shapes for the feet.

Draw the kangaroo's hands and tail.

Step 3: Draw a curved shape for the tail. Add small ovals for the hands.

Draw the kangaroo's facial features and other details as shown.

Step 4: Draw football shapes for the ears. Put two more oval shapes inside for the ear details. Add ovals for eyes and the nose. Sketch curved lines for the mouth, hands, feet, pouch, and hair details.

Trace over the lines you want to keep and erase the pencil lines.

Step 5: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

That's it! You've finished the kangaroo drawing. You can either color it now or try drawing it again for more practice.

Want to learn how to draw more animals? You're in luck, because this article has many more drawings to teach you. Next, we'll show you how to draw a pig, complete with a curly tail and a large snout.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Pig

Most people recognize a pig by its snout and curly tail. In this section you can learn how to create those features on your own pig drawing. Add in a cow, horse and chicken drawing to create your own farm scene.

Learn how to draw this pig.
Learn how to draw this pig.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above pig. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Draw shapes for the pig's body and head.

Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body. Add an oval for the head, but put a lump on it for the chin.

Next, draw the pig's legs, snout, and tail.

Step 2: Draw two short, rounded rectangles for the legs. Add another for the snout, and sketch a squiggly shape for the tail.

Next, sketch the pig's legs, ears, and mouth.

Step 3: Draw the other two legs on the near side, and add shapes for the ears and mouth.

Draw the pig's facial and other details as shown.

Step 4: Draw hoof shapes at the end of the legs, and add triangles for detail. Sketch in the snout, and add ovals for the eyes and nostrils. Finish with curved lines for eyebrows, hair, cheeks, tail, and ear detail.

Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep in the pig drawing.

Step 5: Trace the pencil lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

Are you happy with your drawing? If not, try drawing it again. Otherwise, get your coloring tools and bring your pig to life. The next animal drawing we'll show you is a real croaker. Read on for the details.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Frog

Picture this frog jumping from its lilypad or sitting still, waiting to capture a passing fly for lunch. Once you learn how to draw it, you can draw it again and again.

Learn how to draw this frog.
Learn how to draw this frog.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above frog. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing shapes for the frog's body, eyes, and legs.

Step 1: Draw an apple shape for the body, and add two circles for the eyes. Put in two football shapes for the legs.

Next, draw shapes for the frog's arms and back feet.

Step 2: Draw the arm shapes and the webbed back feet. Add curved lines for the leg details.

Now add details to the frog's face and body.

Step 3: Draw small circles for the eye pupils. Add hand shapes, and draw circles for details on the skin. Put in curved lines for the mouth, back feet, and eyebrows.

Finally, use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep.

Step 4: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Congratulations! You've learned how to draw a frog. Ready to learn how to draw another animal? Simple directions for drawing a sheep are in the next section.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Sheep

This easy project shows you what shapes to use to draw a sheep's woolly coat. Three quick steps later, your sheep drawing is done!

Learn how to draw this sheep.
Learn how to draw this sheep.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above sheep. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start the sheep drawing with two overlapping cloud shapes.

Step 1: Draw two overlapping cloud shapes -- one round and the other oval -- for the head and body.

Draw shapes for the sheep's legs, hooves, and face.

Step 2: Draw curved rectangles for the legs, and add ovals for the hooves. Sketch the shape for the face with some bumpy lines where it comes out of the head to show the wool.

Draw the sheep's facial features, tail, ears, and hooves.

Step 3: Draw ovals for the eyes and nose. Add a small cloud shape for the tail. Add in two more ovals for the ears. Sketch in curved lines for the mouth, eyelashes, hooves, and detail in the wool.

Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep in the sheep drawing.

Step 4: Trace the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

Next, color your sheep drawing as shown in the first illustration above. Or, practice drawing it again if you like. The king of the jungle is up next. Learn how to draw a majestic lion in the next section of this article.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Lion

This big cat, with its distinctive mane and tail, is an impressive drawing to add to your repertoire.

Learn how to draw this lion.
Learn how to draw this lion.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above lion. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing shapes for the lion's body, legs, and head.

Step 1: Draw an upside-down teardrop shape for the body. The top of the body should be flat. Add two long football shapes for the legs. Draw the head shape.

Draw the lion's paws, ears, and face outline.

Step 2: Draw two shapes for the lower legs and paws. Add two ears and a shape for the face.

Next, draw the lion's front legs, paws, and tail.

Step 3: Draw long, rectangular shapes for the front legs. Add ovals at the bottom for the paws. Draw matching long S-curve lines, rounded together at the top and bottom, for the tail. Add a teardrop shape at its end.

Now draw the lion's facial and other details.

Step 4: Draw two small ovals for the eyes and a rounded triangle for the nose. Add detail lines for the ears, mouth, leg, and toes. Finish this step with lines for hair details in the mane and tail.

Finally, trace over the lines you want to keep in the lion drawing.

Step 5: Trace the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase the extra lines.

If your drawing didn't turn out well, no problem -- just practice drawing it again until you get it right. Then you'll be ready to color it and display it proudly.

There are many more animals you can learn to sketch. In the next section, find out how to draw a parrot on a perch.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Parrot

Imagine this pretty parrot mimicking your every word as it sits on its perch. It may look challenging to draw, but these instructions make it easy.

Learn how to draw this parrot.
Learn how to draw this parrot.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above parrot. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Draw the basic shapes for the parrot's body, head, tail, and wing.

Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body and a circle for the head. Add long teardrop shapes for the tail and wing.

Sketch the parrot's eyes, beak, legs, and perch.

Step 2: Draw ovals for the eyes and pupils. Add two shapes for the top and bottom of the beak. Put in two circles for the upper legs as well as two rectangles for the lower legs. Add a branch shape with a leaf at one end.

Next, draw the parrot's claws and feather detail.

Step 3: Draw four crescent-moon shapes for the claws grabbing the branch. Add some curved lines around the body to give the shapes some feather details. Put in some feathers on top of the head.

Detail your parrot drawing as shown here.

Step 4: Draw more feathers on the inside of the wing and tail. Add a nostril and eyelashes. Put a center line on the leaf and a swirl on the branch end.

Trace over the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen.

Step 5: Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

You've reached the finish line! Now you're ready to color your parrot drawing. Next, we'll teach you how to draw a completely different kind of animal: a moose. Go to the next section for detailed directions.

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How to Draw a Moose

This curious moose looks like it might be peering through some trees in the forest. Find out how to recreate this drawing in only five steps.

Learn how to draw this moose.
Learn how to draw this moose.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above moose. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing shapes for the moose's head, nose, and body.

Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body and two circles for the head and nose.

Next, sketch the moose's legs and neck.

Step 2: Sketch the shapes for two legs, and add a thick rectangular shape for the neck.

Add the moose's antlers, tail, and other two legs.

Step 3: Draw a small football shape for the tail. Add the other two leg shapes, and draw two shapes like a fat comb for the antlers.

Draw the moose's eyes, ears, and other details as shown.

Step 4: Draw ovals for the eyes and nostrils. Put in the ear forms, and add details inside the ears and eyes. Sketch the hoof shapes, and add curved lines for the hair, mouth, and hoof details.

Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep.

Step 5: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Display your finished moose drawing as is, or color it with your favorite markers, paint, or crayons first. In addition to the moose, there is another forest animal that is just as easy to draw. Go to the next section to learn how to draw a rabbit.

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How to Draw a Rabbit

Rabbits have been portrayed as cheerful yet mischievous animals, known for bringing Easter goodies and raiding gardens for carrots.

Learn how to draw this rabbit.
Learn how to draw this rabbit.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above rabbit. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Draw shapes for the rabbit's head, body, and ears.

Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body, and add the head shape. Sketch in two ear shapes, one like a skinny football and the other like a boomerang.

Draw the rabbit's inner ear shapes, two arms, and tail.

Step 2: Draw the inner ear shapes, remembering that one ear is bent down. Add shapes for two arms and a small cloud shape for the tail.

Next, draw shapes for the rabbit's eyes, nose, teeth, legs, and feet.

Step 3: Draw ovals for the eyes, a triangle for the nose, and a shape for the teeth. Put in shapes for the legs and feet.

Add details to the rabbit's face, head, arms, and legs.

Step 4: Draw ovals inside the eyes for the pupils. Add curved lines for details on the eyebrows, ears, mouth, and teeth. Sketch a tuft of hair on the head. Finish with more details on the arms and legs.

Finally, use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep in the rabbit drawing.

Step 5: Trace lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

That's it! Your rabbit drawing is complete. With practice, you'll master this drawing and other animal drawings.

Sharpen your pencil for the next project. We'll teach you how to draw an alligator, step by step.

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How to Draw an Alligator

Alligators are amazing reptiles found in only the southeastern United States and China. Learning to draw this impressive animal will hone your artistic talents.

Learn how to draw this alligator.
Learn how to draw this alligator.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above alligator. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing shapes for the alligator's body, head, and tail.

Step 1: Draw a large oval for the body, then another smaller oval for the head and snout. Add two rounded rectangular shapes for the curving tail.

Draw ovals for the top of the alligator's head, and its nose and legs.

Step 2: Add more ovals for the top of the head, the nose, and the upper part of each leg on this side.

Next, draw rectangles for the alligator's legs and circles for the eyes.

Step 3: Draw rounded rectangles for the lower legs. Sketch two circles with black dots in the center for the eyes. Don't forget to include the white dot in the pupils.

Draw the alligator's nostrils, mouth, eyebrows, belly, and tail detail.

Step 4: Add ovals for the nostrils. Draw curved lines for the mouth, eyebrows, belly, and underside of tail.

Sketch the alligator's claws and scales.

Step 5: Sketch triangle shapes for the claws. Add lines on the belly and tail to show scales. Draw lumps along the back for more scale details.

Finish by tracing over the lines you want to keep in the alligator drawing.

Step 6: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

From water to land, we move from alligators to camels, an animal that's just as easy to draw as alligators with our step-by-step instructions. Read the next section to find out how.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Camel

Camels live in desert climates and can live for more than 50 years. Some camels have two humps, while others have only one. Fortunately, learning to draw this interesting animal isn't as difficult as it might seem.

Learn how to draw this camel.
Learn how to draw this camel.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above camel. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

First, draw shapes for the camel's body, neck, head, and snout.

Step 1: Draw an egg shape for the body. Add a curved shape for the neck, and finish this step with two ovals at the end of the neck for the head and snout.

Draw rectangular shapes for the camel's front legs.

Step 2: Sketch two long rectangular shapes for the front legs.

Next, draw shapes for the camel's hind legs, tail, eyes, ears, and nostrils.

Step 3: Add an oval at the back for the near hind leg. At the bottom of the oval, add a rectangular shape for the lower leg. Make a smaller set of these shapes for the leg on the far side of the camel. Draw ovals for the eyes, nostrils, and ear. Put smaller ovals in the eyes for pupils. Sketch a slightly curved shape for the tail with a teardrop shape at the end.

Add the camel's feet and other details as shown.

Step 4: Add ovals for the feet. Draw curved lines for the mouth, feet, and tail details. Add some curved lines on the bottom of the neck for hair detail.

Finish by tracing the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen.

Step 5: Trace the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

If you want to add a special touch to your camel, use the colored illustration at the top of this page as a guide to color your finished drawing.

Let's move to the sea for our next drawing assignment. We'll show you how to draw an eight-legged octopus in just four steps.

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How to Draw an Octopus

An octopus crawls through the water using its eight arms. Picture this one scurrying near the ocean bottom, searching for a snack.

Learn how to draw this octopus.
Learn how to draw this octopus.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above octopus. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing shapes for the octopus's head and four of its arms.

Step 1: Draw an upside-down egg shape for the head. Add four curved shapes for some of the arms.

Next, draw four more arms and the octopus's facial features.

Step 2: Draw four more curved shapes for the rest of the arms. Add the eye shapes and pupils. Sketch a crescent shape for the mouth.

Draw detail lines for the octopus's eyes and mouth, and spots on its arms and head.

Step 3: Add some detail lines around the eyes and mouth. Finish this step by drawing some round spots all over the arms and head.

Using a felt-tip pen, trace the lines you want to keep in the octopus drawing.

Step 4: Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Add some color to your finished drawing with paints, crayons, markers, or colored pencils. Another animal that starts with the letter O is next. Read on to find out how to draw an ostrich.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw an Ostrich

An ostrich can't fly, but its powerful legs help it run very fast. This unusual bird will make a fantastic addition to the cast of creatures you can draw.

Learn how to draw this ostrich.
Learn how to draw this ostrich.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above ostrich. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing shapes for the ostrich's body, wing, head, and neck.

Step 1: Draw a sideways teardrop for the body and a circle above it for the head. Add a long shape for the neck, connecting the head to the body. Draw an oval for feathers where the neck meets the body, and add a shape for the wing.

Next, draw the ostrich's beak, legs, and feet.

Step 2: Draw ovals for the upper legs and two long rectangles for the lower legs. Add the beak and toes.

Next, sketch the ostrich's eyes, toenails, and feathers.

Step 3: Draw ovals for the eyes, and add lines for the eyelids. Put pupils in the eyes. Draw small ovals for the toenails on the front and back toes. Add curved lines for feathers around the neck and on the back wing, upper legs, and tail.

Add more details to the ostrich drawing as shown.

Step 4: Sketch in lines for details on the mouth, eyes, nostril, lower legs, and feet. Add more curved lines for feathers on the head, neck, wing, and tail.

Finish by tracing the lines you want to keep in the ostrich drawing.

Step 5: Trace the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase any extra lines.

Step back and admire your finished drawing. If it looks good, you're ready to color it. If not, practice drawing it again. After all, practice makes perfect!

In the next section, we'll teach you how to draw another speedy animal -- a horse.

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How to Draw a Horse

You can draw this animal in a number of different settings: on a farm, on a racetrack, with a cowboy, pulling a carriage, and more. Let your imagination run wild!

Learn how to draw this horse.
Learn how to draw this horse.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above horse. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

First, draw shapes for the horse's body, head, and neck.

Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body and a peanut shape for the head. Add a rectangular form between them for the neck.

Draw the horse's legs and ears.

Step 2: Draw the two front legs. Sketch the closest back leg in two pieces, one pear shape and one rectangular shape. Add a rectangular shape for the back leg on the far side of the horse. Put in ovals for the ears.

Draw S shapes for the horse's mane and tail.

Step 3: Draw two long S shapes for the tail and mane. Add the small mane on top of the head.

Now add the horse's facial and other details.

Step 4: Draw ovals for the eyes, nostrils, and ear details. Put pupils in the eyes. Add hooves at the bottom of each leg. Finish this step with lines for the mouth, tail, and mane details.

Trace the lines you want to keep in the horse drawing.

Step 5: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

That's it -- your horse drawing is complete! Now you can color it and display it proudly. If you'd like to learn how to draw other farm animals, you're in luck. Next, we'll teach you the easy way to draw a cow. Go to the next section for the details.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Cow

When you think of farm animals, chances are the cow is the first one that comes to mind. Add this popular animal's sketch to your collection of farm critter renderings.

Learn how to draw this cow.
Learn how to draw this cow.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above cow. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Step 1: Draw two ovals for the head and nose. Add a kidney-bean shape for the body.

Draw the cow's neck and legs.

Step 2: Draw a rounded rectangle for the neck, connecting the head, nose, and body. Add a long shape for the front leg on the near side. Draw the shape for the top of the back leg on the near side, connecting it to the body. Add a rectangle for the lower leg.

Next, draw the cow's legs, tail, horns, and facial features.

Step 3: Draw a long shape for the front leg on the far side. Draw a small oval for the top of the back leg on the far side, and add a rectangle for the lower leg. Put in a curved shape for the tail, and sketch a teardrop shape at the end of it. Add ovals for the eyes, nostrils, and ear. Be sure to add the pupils inside the eyes. Draw two horn shapes.

Add the cow's hooves and other details as shown.

Step 4: Draw hooves at the bottom of each leg. Put in curved lines for mouth, tail, and hoof details. Add spots in any pattern you like.

Next, draw the cow's legs, tail, horns, and facial features.

Step 5: Trace the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase the extra lines.

Now you're ready to color your cow, spots and all. Use the illustration at the top of this page to guide you.

In the next section, learn how to draw an animal you might see every day: a squirrel.

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How to Draw a Squirrel

A squirrel makes a great subject for an outdoor drawing, whether it's scampering up a tree, holding a nut in its tiny paws, or just sitting in the green grass trying to remember where it buried its stash.

Learn how to draw this squirrel.
Learn how to draw this squirrel.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above squirrel. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Start by drawing basic shapes for the squirrel's body, head, and tail.

Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body and a teardrop shape for the head. Add a fat, backward question-mark shape for the tail.

Next, draw shapes for the squirrel's legs and arms.

Step 2: Add the shapes for the legs and the shapes for the arms.

Draw the squirrel's ears, eyes, nose, teeth, and details as shown.

Step 3: Draw ovals for the ears and eyes. Make sure you add details to the eyes and ears. Add the nose and teeth. Put in curved lines for the paws, the eyebrows, and the mouth, and details on the arm and legs. Sketch hair on the head and details to make the tail appear bushy.

Using a felt-tip pen, trace the lines you want to keep in the squirrel drawing.

Step 4: Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep in the drawing, and erase the extra pencil lines.

And that's it! If you want, try coloring in your squirrel drawing to give it a little life.

If you're up for more, continue on to the next page to practice your drawing skills by learning how to draw a chicken.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Chicken

You can transform basic geometric shapes into this familiar farm-dweller in just a few minutes.

Learn how to draw this chicken.
Learn how to draw this chicken.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above chicken. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

Draw basic shapes for the chicken's body, head, neck, and tail.

Step 1: Draw one oval for the body and another for the head. Connect the body and head with a rectangular shape for the neck. Add a triangle for the tail.

Next, draw shapes for the chicken's wing, beak, legs, and toes.

Step 2: Draw an oval shape for the wing and a smaller one for the upper leg. Add a triangle for the beak. Sketch both the leg and toe forms.

Sketch the chicken's eyes, comb, claws, and other details.

Step 3: Draw ovals for the eyes, and add the pupils and eyelashes. Add some curved shapes for the comb on top of the head. Put in more curved lines for the mouth, nose, chin, and feather details. Draw the claws.

Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep in your chicken drawing.

Step 4: Use a felt-tip pen to trace over the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

You've finished your chicken drawing, and now you're ready to color it. Use the illustration at the top of this page as a guide for coloring.

The next animal moves slowly, but you'll be able to draw it quickly with our instructions. Discover how to draw a turtle in the next section.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Turtle

There are many different kinds of turtles. Some weigh hundreds of pounds while others weigh just a few ounces! In your artwork, you can make this turtle as big or as small as you want.

Learn how to draw this turtle.
Learn how to draw this turtle.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above turtle. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

First, draw shapes for the turtle's head and shell.

Step 1: Draw an egg shape for the head. Add a large shape for the upper shell and a shallow crescent below it for the lower shell.

Next, draw shapes for the turtle's leg, tail, and neck.

Step 2: Add shapes for a leg, tail, and neck.

Draw the turtle's eyes, nostrils, and legs.

Step 3: Draw ovals for the eyes and nostrils. Add pupils to the eyes. Draw two more leg shapes. Use some curved lines for the mouth and hair on the head.

Add details to the turtle drawing as shown.

Step 4: Put in curved lines to show where the head and legs come out of the shell. Draw boxy shapes for shell detail. Add some curved lines for toe and neck detail.

Trace the lines you want to keep in the turtle drawing and erase the others.

Step 5: Trace the lines you want to keep with a felt-tip pen, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Now you can add your finished turtle drawing to your animal art collection. Learn how to draw more animals to improve your artistic abilities.

The tiger drawing in the next section may seem complicated at first, but just follow our six simple steps and you'll master it in no time.

Want to expand your drawing skills? See:

How to Draw a Tiger

Many artists have chosen this regal cat's striking stripes as a subject for their artwork. Now you can make this stunning animal part of your portfolio.

Learn how to draw this tiger.
Learn how to draw this tiger.

In this section, we’ll show you how to draw the above tiger. Either draw it freehand while looking at your computer monitor or print out this page to get a closer look at each step.

Follow the red lines in each illustration to learn exactly what to draw in that step. The lines drawn in previous steps are shown in gray. We’ll show you an illustration of each step and then give you a description of how to draw it.

First, draw the shapes for the tiger's body, head, and tail.

Step 1: Draw a kidney-bean shape for the body and a squat bell shape for the head. Add an S shape for the tail.

Sketch the tiger's legs, ears, paws, and snout.

Step 2: Draw the leg forms on the near side of the body, and add ovals for the ears and paws. Sketch a circle shape for the snout.

Next, draw the tiger's other legs and paws, its snout, and its mouth.

Step 3: Draw the shapes for the legs on the other side of the body, and add ovals for the paws. Put in a snout, and add a triangle nose and a mouth shape.

Now draw the tiger's facial features and other details as shown.

Step 4: Draw ovals for the eyes and circles for the inner ears. Add detail to the eyes and curved lines for the eyebrows, mouth, and toes. Put in spots next to the nose for whiskers. Add hair lines on the head, ears, chest, and cheeks.

Add stripes to the tiger's body, legs, tail, and head.

Step 5: Draw stripes over the body, legs, tail, and head.

Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep in the tiger drawing.

Step 6: Use a felt-tip pen to trace the lines you want to keep, and erase the extra pencil lines.

Next, bring your tiger to life by coloring it with vibrant orange and contrasting black as shown above.

Drawing animals may seem difficult, but when you start each drawing with basic shapes and then add the details, it becomes easy. Practice drawing the animals presented in this article to perfect your artwork. You can also use these techniques to draw other animals that we haven't included. Soon you'll be an expert animal artist!

Want to expand your drawing skills? See: