National Animals | Famous Books for UPSC Exam (Summary & Tests) PDF Download

Introduction

Various countries have designated national animals or cultural symbols, which play a significant role in branding and marketing. These animals often appear on currency, stamps, and official logos, and serve as mascots for events and organizations. They symbolize the spirit of their respective countries, reflecting unique cultures and acting as a source of inspiration and pride for citizens.

National Animal of India: Royal Bengal Tiger

The Royal Bengal Tiger was officially declared India's national animal in 1972, replacing the lion. It is an emblem of strength, pride, and resilience. Native to the Indian subcontinent, tigers inhabit diverse regions, including the Sundarbans, Himalayan foothills, Western Ghats, Central India, and Northeast India.

Fascinating Information About India's National Animal

• Tigers are among the largest big cats, with males weighing up to 600 pounds and measuring over 9 feet from nose to tail.
• As an endangered species, India's tiger population is estimated at around 3,167 individuals in the wild, based on the 2022 All India Tiger Estimation.
• As apex predators, tigers maintain ecosystem balance by preying on deer, wild pigs, and other large mammals.
• Under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, tigers are protected, with hunting or trading their body parts strictly prohibited.

National Symbol of China: Giant Panda

The Giant Panda is a cultural icon of China, often referred to as a "national treasure." While not officially designated as a national animal, it symbolizes peace, friendship, and conservation efforts. Its distinctive black-and-white markings and gentle nature captivate people worldwide.

Fascinating Information About China's National Symbol

• The Giant Panda is the symbol of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), which adopted it in 1961 to promote conservation.
• Habitat loss from agriculture, deforestation, and infrastructure threatens pandas, with a wild population of approximately 1,800–1,900 individuals.
• Though taxonomically carnivores, pandas have a specialized diet, consuming up to 40–60 pounds of bamboo daily.
• As a vulnerable species, pandas benefit from extensive conservation efforts in China, including habitat restoration and breeding programs.

National Symbol of Pakistan: Markhor

The Markhor is a cultural symbol of Pakistan, representing pride, strength, and natural heritage. While not officially declared as the national animal, it holds significant status, particularly in conservation contexts. With its spiraled horns, the Markhor showcases Pakistan's rugged landscapes.

Fascinating Facts About Pakistan's National Symbol

• Markhors are known for tightly spiraled horns, which can grow up to 5.2 feet in males.
• The name "Markhor" derives from Persian and Pashto, meaning "snake eater," possibly referencing folklore about killing snakes.
• Adept climbers, Markhors navigate steep, rocky terrain in search of food.
• Found in northern Pakistan, as well as parts of Afghanistan, India, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

National Symbol of Sri Lanka: Sri Lankan Elephant

The Sri Lankan Elephant, a subspecies of the Asian Elephant, is a revered cultural symbol in Sri Lanka, though not officially designated as the national animal. Featured in ancient art and literature, it holds sacred status in many native cultures.

Fascinating Facts About Sri Lanka's National Symbol

• Sri Lankan Elephants are among the largest Asian elephants, with males reaching heights of 6.6–11.5 feet and weighing up to 11,000 pounds.
• Identifiable by smaller size, rounded ears, and unique skin patterns compared to other elephant species.
• Living in matriarchal herds, they form strong social bonds led by a dominant female.
• They consume a diverse diet of leaves, bark, grasses, and fruits, eating up to 200–250 pounds of vegetation daily.