Mar 25, 2025
Every country has a national animal that represents its history and values. While some nations pick mighty lions or eagles, others choose truly bizarre creatures, which may include venomous ducks to mythical dragons, here are 10 countries with the strangest national animals
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The Turul is a mythical falcon-like bird from Hungarian folklore. Seen as a divine messenger, it symbolizes protection, strength, and national pride, it also plays an important character in Hungary’s origin legends.
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Famous for its striped tail and social nature, the ring-tailed lemur represents Madagascar’s biodiversity and cultural heritage. These playful primates are among the special animals to the island, just like much of its wildlife.
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The koi fish is a symbol of perseverance, strength, and good fortune in Japan. Known for swimming upstream against strong currents, it represents overcoming obstacles and resilience. Deeply rooted in Japanese culture, koi are admired for their beauty and determination.
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The Red Dragon is a mythical creature featured on Wales' national flag. Symbolizing strength, resilience, and Welsh heritage, it traces back to Arthurian legends and ancient battles. A powerful emblem of national pride, it represents Wales' enduring spirit.
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A nocturnal, semi-aquatic rodent. The beaver symbolizes Canada's fur trade history and industrious spirit, even serving as a mascot for the 1976 Olympics.
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It is the world's largest lizard, weighing up to 360 pounds. This real-life "dragon" represents Indonesia's formidable wildlife. Native to the Komodo National Park and nearby islands, this frightening predator is known for its powerful bite, venomous saliva, and exceptional hunting skills.
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The Chollima became an icon of rapid development, during the "Chollima Movement" in 1950s, which encouraged citizens to work harder and rebuild the country quickly after the Korean War. Statues of Chollima can be found in Pyongyang, symbolic of strength and national ambition.
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Often called the "forest giraffe," this rare mammal has a body similar to a giraffe but with zebra-like stripes on its legs. Found only in the dense rainforests of Central Africa, particularly in Congo, the okapi is a symbol of the country's rich and mysterious wildlife.
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An extinct, flightless bird that is a representation of Mauritius' unique biodiversity. The dodo was wiped out by human activity in the 1600s, and remains a poignant reminder of conservation of animals that are slowly fading away.
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A mythical creature that symbolises purity, strength, and independence. It was chosen in the 1300s and represents Scotland's rich folklore and appears on the Royal Coat of Arms.
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