Screenshot 1 of 6. Naturalist deer and fawn standing under the forest canopy in Minecraft
What Naturalist works with.
| Platform | Java Edition |
|---|---|
| Loaders | Fabric, NeoForge, Forge |
| Minecraft versions | 1.18.2, 1.19.2, 1.20.1, 1.21.1, 26.2, 26.3 |
| Environment | Client, Server |
Naturalist is a Minecraft Java mod that adds 47 animals and 66 variants to your world, built to fit into vanilla rather than sit beside it. The newest build, 2.0.5, targets 26.3 on both Fabric and NeoForge. It is required on both the client and the server, so a multiplayer world needs it installed on every side.
What Naturalist adds in-game
The aim is a wildlife mod where animals behave as part of the world. You may find mobs interacting with each other or with the terrain around them, animals carry their own drops, and some can be tamed. It is a broad addition, not a single feature, so expect a noticeably different cast of creatures once it is installed. Players searching for a nature mod or a wildlife mod for Minecraft will find the roster is the whole point.
How to install Naturalist
- 1.Pick the loader and Minecraft version you want to play, then install that loader.
- 2.Download the Naturalist file from Modrinth that matches both.
- 3.Add the dependencies for that build. The newest Fabric builds (1.21.1 to 26.3) require Fabric API. Fabric builds for 1.20.1 and earlier require GeckoLib, and the 1.20.1 build needs Fabric API as well. Every Forge build requires GeckoLib.
- 4.Put every jar in the mods folder inside your Minecraft game directory.
- 5.Launch with the loader's profile. On a server, install the same files on the server and on every client.
Compatibility and dependencies
- Fabric. 1.18.2 to 26.3. The newest build, 2.0.5 (2026-09-20), requires Fabric API. Builds for 1.20.1 and earlier require GeckoLib, and the 1.20.1 build needs Fabric API as well.
- NeoForge. 1.21.1 to 26.3. The newest build, 2.0.5, requires nothing. Some older 1.21.1 builds required GeckoLib.
- Forge. 1.18.2 to 1.20.1, GeckoLib required.
- Side. Client and server both.
- Edition. Java only. Bedrock cannot load it.
Questions about Naturalist.
5 questions
How do I install Naturalist?
Install the loader that matches your Minecraft version, then put the Naturalist jar from Modrinth in your mods folder. The newest Fabric builds need Fabric API alongside it. Forge builds and Fabric builds for 1.20.1 and earlier need GeckoLib. NeoForge's newest build needs nothing extra.
Which Minecraft versions and loaders does Naturalist support?
Fabric covers 1.18.2 to 26.3 and NeoForge covers 1.21.1 to 26.3, with 2.0.5 the newest build on both. Forge covers 1.18.2 to 1.20.1 and ends there on a 5.0 beta. Older builds have different requirements, so match the file to your version before downloading.
Does Naturalist need GeckoLib?
Not on the newest Fabric or NeoForge builds. Fabric 2.0.5 requires only Fabric API, and NeoForge 2.0.5 requires nothing. Forge builds, Fabric builds for 1.20.1 and earlier, and some older NeoForge 1.21.1 builds do require GeckoLib, so install it for your loader if you use one of those.
Does Naturalist work on multiplayer servers?
Yes, but it is required on both sides. Naturalist is listed as needed on the client and on the server, so a server running it will not work with clients that lack it. Install the same build on the server and on every player's game.
How many animals does Naturalist add?
Naturalist adds 47 animals and 66 variants. They are meant to blend into vanilla, with behaviours and drops of their own. Some interact with each other or the world around them, and some can be tamed.
