By Priyanka Roshan | June 23, 2025
Every country’s national animal reflects its culture, history, and biodiversity. Exploring these unique creatures offers travelers a special connection to nature and heritage. Discover 10 fascinating countries and their iconic national animals that make for unforgettable wildlife adventures.
Image: Unsplash
Australia’s red kangaroo is a globally recognized symbol of its unique wildlife. These marsupials roam freely across the vast outback and protected national parks like Kangaroo Island and the Blue Mountains.
Image: Canva
The Bengal tiger, India’s majestic national animal, represents strength and grace. Tigers can be spotted on thrilling safaris in Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh, and the Sundarbans.
Image: Canva
Canada’s national animal, the beaver, symbolizes hard work and perseverance. Found across Canadian forests and waterways, they build iconic dams shaping the landscape.
Image: Canva
The springbok, a graceful antelope known for its unique “pronking” leap, is South Africa’s national animal. They thrive in game reserves such as Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant Park.
Image: Canva
China’s giant panda is a global conservation icon, native to Sichuan’s bamboo forests. Protected sanctuaries like Chengdu Research Base offer a chance to see pandas up close.
Image: Canva
The kiwi bird, a small, flightless, nocturnal bird, uniquely represents New Zealand’s natural heritage. Though elusive in the wild, kiwis can be seen at sanctuaries like Kiwi Birdlife Park in Rotorua.
Image: Canva
Thailand’s national animal, the elephant, symbolizes strength and wisdom. Revered in Thai culture, elephants can be seen in sanctuaries across Chiang Mai and Kanchanaburi.
Image: Canva
Japan’s national bird, the green pheasant, boasts iridescent plumage and a melodic call. Though shy in the wild, it represents the country’s rich natural beauty and is often spotted in rural woodlands.
Image: Canva
Mexico’s golden eagle represents power and freedom, featured prominently on the national flag. These majestic birds inhabit rugged regions and are admired in wildlife reserves.
Image: Canva
The brown bear, a symbol of strength and endurance, is Russia’s national animal. Vast wilderness areas like Kamchatka offer opportunities to observe these powerful mammals.
Image: Canva