10 Majestic National Animals Of The World And Their Fascinating Significance

OT Staff & Waquar Habib

India – Bengal Tiger

The Bengal Tiger symbolises strength, agility and grace. Found across India's forests, it is a keystone species crucial to ecosystem balance and is protected under Project Tiger conservation efforts.

A Bengal Tiger sits like a king | Shutterstock

Australia – Red Kangaroo

The Red Kangaroo, the largest marsupial, represents Australia’s unique wildlife. Known for its powerful hind legs and hopping gait, it thrives in arid interiors and appears on the country’s emblem.

A kangaroo with a baby in the pouch in Australia | Shuttertock

China – Giant Panda

The Giant Panda, an emblem of peace and friendship, is endemic to China. It feeds primarily on bamboo and has become a global symbol of wildlife conservation and diplomacy.

A Giant Panda in its habitat | Unsplash

United States – Bald Eagle

Chosen for its long life and majestic appearance, the Bald Eagle represents freedom and strength. It is native to North America and primarily feeds on fish, nesting near large water bodies.

A Bald Eagle sits majestically | Shutterstock

Russia – Eurasian Brown Bear

The Eurasian Brown Bear symbolises strength and resilience in Russian culture. Found in Siberia and forested regions, it plays a significant role in Russian folklore and ecological biodiversity.

A Eurasian Brown Bear in its habitat | Pixabay

Thailand – Thai Elephant

The Thai Elephant, a subspecies of the Asian Elephant, is revered in Thailand’s history and religion. It symbolises royalty and is central to traditional ceremonies and national identity.

A Thai Elephant in Ayutthaya, Thailand | Wikimedia Commons

South Africa – Springbok

The Springbok, a graceful antelope, embodies agility and speed. It is native to southern Africa’s grasslands and deserts, and its leaping behaviour, called pronking, is a notable defensive trait.

A Springbok in ita habitat | Wikimedia Commons

New Zealand – Kiwi

The flightless Kiwi is endemic to New Zealand and is active mainly at night. It has a strong sense of smell and symbolises the uniqueness and vulnerability of the country’s fauna.

A kiwi in New Zealand | emirates_247/instagram

Japan – Green Pheasant

The Green Pheasant, endemic to Japan, is known for its iridescent plumage and loud calls. It inhabits woodlands and agricultural fields and appears in Japanese art, literature and mythology.

A shot of a green pheasant, Japan's national animal | Wikimedia Commons

Scotland – Unicorn

The Unicorn, a mythical creature, is Scotland’s national animal. Symbolising purity, strength and pride, it features in heraldry and royal symbols, representing the nation’s historic affinity for legends and folklore.

A statue of a unicorn in Falcon Square, Inverness, Scotland | Wikimedia Commons

International Tiger Day 2025: 10 Places To See Tigers In India

A tiger roars as another one looks on in Ranthambore National Park | Shutterstock
Read More