Which National Animal Represents You?

Are you more like a kangaroo, a beaver, or perhaps… a unicorn? Discover how you connect with various national animals to gain insights into your next travel destination!

Every location boasts its own unique culture, identity, and attractions, making it essential to do thorough research when selecting your next trip. However, one quick way to understand a country's self-perception is through its national animal! For instance, in the United States, the majestic bald eagle symbolizes strength and freedom, while national animals worldwide reflect the values cherished by each nation.

Just as you choose your travel personality to find the perfect travel companions, discovering which national creature resonates with you can assist in planning your next adventure.

Golden Eagle: Mexico

Characteristics:  Embodies history, mythology, and ancient traditions

For those fascinated by mythology and history, the Golden Eagle is a perfect emblem. Featured on both the Mexican flag and coat of arms, it depicts the bird perched on a cactus, devouring a serpent. This imagery is rooted in Aztec legend, where the gods instructed the people of Tenochtitlan to establish their city upon witnessing this eagle and serpent. They discovered it on a lake, which is now modern-day Mexico City.

Reflecting the richness of Mexican heritage, this majestic bird is linked to ancient civilizations. The other prominent group were the Mayans, located further east, who were renowned for their chocolate, tamales, and for constructing remarkable pyramids by hand near Cozumel.

Beaver: Canada

Characteristics:  Enjoys swimming, thrives in cool climates, and will go to great lengths for scenic water views

If the beaver resonates with you, there are countless Canadian cities centered around water! Take a trip to Halifax, where the historic natural harbor has been welcoming ships from all over the world for centuries. 

Beavers are remarkable swimmers and spend a significant amount of time near water, which is why they construct their “lodges” in lakes and rivers. If this sounds like an appealing lifestyle, consider visiting Saint John, where the river flows through the city and the Bay of Fundy is just around the corner. And if you head to the west coast, be sure to explore the bustling seaport of Vancouver.

Moose: Alaska

Characteristics: Grand, self-reliant, and a true admirer of the wilderness

Alaska is home to a significant population of Bald Eagles—indeed, the highest in the world! As the 49th state in America, it boasts a sense of independence like no other, making the Alaskan eagles worthy of recognition, though they aren't the top wildlife leaders in the region.

The Alaskan Moose, the largest of its kind, roams freely throughout the state, particularly near the majestic Mt. Denali, the tallest mountain in the U.S. If you relish the idea of immersing yourself in the wilderness alongside these often solitary giants, Alaska has much to offer—such as the floating ice and glaciers of the Tracy Arm Fjord and the breathtaking, rugged Chilkoot trail in Skagway.

Kangaroo and Emu: Australia

Characteristics: Always moves forward, covering great distances

Both of these indigenous national animals appear on the Australian coat of arms, are incredibly swift on land, and find it difficult to move in reverse. This is why they were chosen to represent the motto, “Advance Australia.”

While a trip down under might be a bucket list adventure, the iconic architecture of Sydney and the vibrant art scene of Melbourne certainly live up to the motto, making the visit worthwhile. A rising star, Brisbane also deserves attention.  

Unicorn: Scotland  

Characteristics: Enchanting, untamed, brave

Believe it or not, the unicorn is the national animal of Scotland. Why not embrace it? This Celtic land has long cherished myths and legends. The unicorn first appeared on the Scottish royal coat of arms in the 1100s, and you can still find ancient stone engravings of unicorns in Edinburgh.

Scotland is also home to another legendary creature known as “Nessie,” the Loch Ness monster. Additionally, Wales, another member of the British Isles, features the Welsh Dragon as its national animal, making Scotland a part of a fascinating company.

Red-billed Streamertail: Jamaica

Characteristics: Lively, vibrant, and a true flower enthusiast (and sweet tooth!)

The national animal of Jamaica is a perfect representation of the island—green and black like its flag and bursting with energy! This hummingbird is native to Jamaica and can be spotted from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios.

Red-billed Streamertails can also be observed throughout the stunning Blue Mountain National Park, renowned for its coffee—a humorous twist for a bird that flutters at 70 wingbeats per second. They feast on insects and sip nectar from Jamaica’s bright, tubular flowers, pollinating them along the way.