Buzz
As an island nation bordering the Arctic Circle, it's no wonder Iceland has chosen the Arctic Fox as its national symbol. With an irresistibly cute appearance, this beloved creature is adored by both Icelanders and tourists alike. The Arctic Fox (Scientific name: Vulpes lagopus), belonging to the Canidae family, boasts the warmest fur of any Arctic mammal, surpassing even the renowned polar bear. Even in temperatures as low as -70°C, the Arctic Fox can remain active without hibernation like other animals.
The Arctic Fox, with its pure white fur, reigns as Iceland's emblematic animal.
In the Arctic, where temperatures remain below 0°C year-round, nature has bestowed the Arctic Fox with its lustrous white fur, blending seamlessly with the ice and snow. However, as temperatures rise, this fur layer transitions to brown or gray to better suit hunting needs. It's safe to say that Iceland's emblematic creature is one of the most adept at thriving in the Arctic.
The Arctic Fox, adorned with its pristine white fur, stands as Iceland's emblematic creature.
Croatia – Pine Marten
The European pine marten (Scientific name: Martes Martes), belonging to the Martes genus within the Mustelidae family, is primarily found in Europe. This charming creature serves as the iconic symbol of Croatia's stunning landscapes.
The pine marten sports a dark brown fur with white/yellow markings under its neck. Its fluffy tail helps regulate body temperature in the temperate climates of Europe. Weighing around 1 – 2kg and measuring 60 -70cm in length, they are comparable in size to a small cat.
These pine martens are undeniably adorable.
These creatures are deeply cherished by the people of Croatia and are often kept as beloved pets in homes. Martens are highly independent, capable of using a litter box like cats, yet they are also very friendly, displaying affection towards humans akin to dogs.
Currently, pine martens face the threat of extinction due to excessive hunting. The Croatian government has implemented policies to prohibit hunting and conserve this species.
Russia – Brown Bear
The brown bear (Scientific name: Ursus arctos) is a large bear species, belonging to the Ursidae family, primarily found in the northern regions of both Eurasia and North America. Adult brown bears weigh between 100 – 635kg. Standing, they can reach heights of 2.4 – 3m. Despite their massive size, brown bears can run up to 65km/h. Symbolizing strength, size, and leadership, the brown bear represents the people of Russia. This iconic bear was even nominated as the mascot for the Sochi Olympics – the 2014 Winter Olympics held in Russia.
The brown bear symbolizes the strength of the Russian people.
Brown bears are omnivores, consuming a variety of foods including berries, roots, and young shoots, as well as other mammals such as rabbits and martens. Occasionally, these majestic creatures even steal food from wolves and lions. Brown bears are inherently territorial and can deliver fatal blows with a single swipe. They are now extinct in some areas and dwindling in others. It is estimated that there are only about 200,000 brown bears worldwide, with Russia hosting the largest population of 120,000 individuals. This is one of the reasons why Russia has chosen the brown bear as its national symbol.
Monaco: Hedgehogs, rabbits, and even... field mice
Monaco ranks among the world's most peculiar national mascots. This country has opted for three modest-sized rodents as its national symbols.
The porcupine (Scientific name: Erethizon dorsatus) belongs to the Rodentia order. They can inhabit various terrains including deserts, grasslands, mountains, forests, and tropical forests. Porcupines can make their homes in tree branches, tree roots, rock crevices, shrubs, or wooden logs. Despite their seemingly adaptable nature to different terrains, porcupines are considered one of the most vulnerable animals by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), especially the Philippine porcupine and the crested porcupine.
Porcupines, field mice, and rabbits are the iconic animals of Monaco.
Rabbits have become incredibly familiar to us with their adorable, petite appearance. The European rabbit (Scientific name: Oryctolagus cuniculus) was first documented by Phoenician settlers around 1000 years before Christ.
Porcupines, field mice, and rabbits are the iconic animals of Monaco.
The long-tailed field mouse (Scientific name: Apodemus sylvaticus) is a rodent species originating from Europe and Northwest Africa. They can be found everywhere, even in the tiniest nooks and crannies. Nowadays, many people even consider field mice as pets.
Porcupines, field mice, and rabbits are the iconic animals of Monaco.
Spain – Bull
When talking about Spain, one cannot overlook the infamous bulls. They are precisely known as Spanish fighting bulls, often seen in bullfights. Due to their ferocity and strength, the bull has become one of the national symbols of Spain and is the nickname for its national football team.
Spanish fighting bulls are selectively bred, nurtured, and trained to participate in bullfights and festivals in Spain. The male bulls chosen for combat must possess a combination of ferocity, strength, vitality, and resilience.
Fighting bulls are a prominent feature in the major festivals of Spain.
The San Fermin bullfighting festival is a cultural hallmark of Spain, dating back to the 13th century and continuing to this day. It is the largest bullfighting festival in Spain, attracting numerous tourists worldwide to witness genuine bullfights.
Today, bullfighting remains highly contentious in Spain and globally. Proponents argue it as a cultural tradition, while animal rights groups condemn it as a blood sport causing unnecessary suffering to the bulls.
Author - Dulichvietnam.com.vn (Compilation)
As reported by Vietnam Sports Newspaper
Posted by: Hoá Lù
Keywords: Exploring the iconic animals of countries around the world - Part 3: Europe
