The Most Popular Animal in Canada, Ranked

Choose the animal you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 8, 2024 06:29
Choosing the most popular animal in Canada can have practical benefits, such as informing conservation priorities and educational focuses. By understanding which animals capture the public's affection, organizations can better tailor their outreach and protection efforts. This not only helps in preserving beloved species but also in engaging the community in wildlife conservation. By participating in ranking these animals, individuals directly contribute to a broader understanding of national preferences. The information gathered can serve as a valuable tool for researchers and policymakers who are involved in habitat protection and environmental education. Additionally, seeing the live updates of ranking positions adds an element of excitement, encouraging more participation and interest.

What Is the Most Popular Animal in Canada?

  1. 1
    60
    votes
    The moose is considered to be the most popular animal in Canada due to its abundance in the country's forests and its iconic status in Canadian culture. The moose is also the largest member of the deer family and is known for its majestic antlers.
    The Moose, scientifically known as Alces alces, is a majestic and fascinating deer species that inhabits various regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is the largest extant species in the deer family.
    • Size: Adult males can reach heights up to 6.9 ft (2.1 m) at the shoulder, and can weigh between 1,200 to 1,600 lb (540 to 720 kg).
    • Antlers: Males possess impressive antlers, which can span up to 6 ft (1.8 m) across, showcasing a unique and intricate pattern.
    • Habitat: They inhabit boreal and mixed deciduous forests in the Northern Hemisphere, mainly found in North America, Europe, and Asia.
    • Diet: Moose primarily feed on vegetation, including twigs, leaves, bark, aquatic plants, and woody shrubs.
    • Behavior: Moose are generally solitary animals and are known for their calm and gentle demeanor. However, during the mating season, males can become territorial and engage in fierce competition.
  2. 2
    26
    votes
    The beaver is a national symbol of Canada and is known for its industrious nature. It is also featured on the Canadian nickel.
    The beaver is a semi-aquatic mammal found in Canada. It is well-known for its distinctive appearance and unique behaviors.
    • Species: Castor canadensis
    • Size: Weight: 16-32 kg, Length: 74-90 cm
    • Appearance: Stocky body, large paddle-shaped tail, dark brown fur
    • Habitat: Lakes, ponds, rivers, wetlands
    • Diet: Mainly herbivorous, feeds on tree bark, twigs, and aquatic plants
  3. 3
    24
    votes
    The polar bear is a symbol of the Arctic and is an important part of Canadian culture. It is also one of the largest carnivorous animals in the world.
    The Polar Bear is a large carnivorous mammal native to the Arctic region. It is considered one of the most perfect predators in its natural habitat due to its adaptability and hunting prowess.
    • Scientific Name: Ursus maritimus
    • Average Weight: 900-1600 lbs (408-725 kg)
    • Average Length: 7.25-8 ft (2.2-2.4 m)
    • Fur Color: White or off-white
    • Habitat: Arctic regions, mainly sea ice
    Polar Bear in other rankings
  4. 4
    28
    votes
    The grizzly bear is another iconic animal in Canada and is known for its strength and resilience. It is also one of the largest land predators in North America.
    The Grizzly Bear is a large and powerful mammal native to North America. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with a hump on its back, long claws, and a muscular build. It has a thick fur coat that ranges in color from light brown to almost black. Grizzly Bears are renowned for their strength and agility, and they can stand up to 8 feet tall on their hind legs. They have a keen sense of smell and excellent hearing, which assists in their hunting and scavenging activities.
    • Scientific Name: Ursus arctos horribilis
    • Average Length: 6 to 7 feet
    • Average Weight: 700 to 900 pounds
    • Shoulder Height: 3 to 4 feet
    • Lifespan: 20 to 25 years
    Grizzly Bear in other rankings
  5. 5
    12
    votes
    The wolf is a symbol of the wilderness and is known for its intelligence and social nature. It is also an important part of many Indigenous cultures in Canada.
    The Wolf Patronus is a graceful and majestic creature that symbolizes loyalty, instinct, and strong protective instincts. It has a sleek appearance, with a thick coat of silver-gray fur that shimmers in the moonlight. Its piercing amber eyes are filled with intelligence and determination, reflecting its keen senses and keen intellect. The Wolf Patronus exudes an aura of strength and resilience, embodying the wolf's reputation as a powerful and adaptable predator. It moves with a confident and purposeful stride, blending grace and agility effortlessly.
    • Meaning: Loyalty and protection
    • Symbolism: Instinct and intelligence
    • Appearance: Silver-gray fur with amber eyes
    • Aura: Strength and resilience
    • Movement: Confident and purposeful
  6. 6
    14
    votes
    The caribou is an iconic animal of the Canadian Arctic and is known for its migration patterns and distinctive antlers. It is also an important food source for many Indigenous communities.
    The Caribou is a large deer native to the North American continent, including Canada. It is known for its majestic antlers, which are primarily found in males. The Caribou is well-adapted to harsh arctic and subarctic environments, making it an iconic symbol of the Canadian wilderness.
    • Scientific Name: Rangifer tarandus
    • Animal Class: Mammalia
    • Family: Cervidae
    • Habitat: Mainly in northern and Arctic regions, including forests, tundra, and alpine meadows.
    • Size: Adult males: 180-210 cm (71-83 in) in length, 174-242 cm (69-95 in) in height, and weighs around 159-182 kg (351-401 lb). Adult females are slightly smaller.
  7. 7
    9
    votes
    The bald eagle is a symbol of freedom and strength and is also featured on the Canadian $5 bill. It is also an important part of many Indigenous cultures.
    The Bald Eagle is a majestic bird of prey known for its striking appearance and impressive abilities. It is a large raptor with a white head and tail contrasting against a dark brown body. The beak and feet are bright yellow. This iconic bird is native to North America and holds significant cultural and symbolic value in the United States.
    • Species: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
    • Wingspan: 1.8 to 2.3 meters
    • Body Length: 70 to 102 centimeters
    • Weight: 4 to 7 kilograms
    • Plumage: Dark brown body, white head and tail
    Bald Eagle in other rankings
  8. 8
    19
    votes
    Atlantic Salmon
    Hartley, William W. · Public domain
    The Atlantic salmon is an important fish species in Canada and is known for its delicious taste and health benefits. It is also an important part of many Indigenous cultures.
    The Atlantic Salmon, also known as Salmo salar, is a popular species of fish found in the Atlantic Ocean and its connected rivers. It is known for its remarkable migratory behavior, as adult salmon swim upstream to spawn in the same rivers where they were born. This species plays a significant role in both recreational and commercial fishing in Canada.
    • Scientific Name: Salmo salar
    • Habitat: Atlantic Ocean and connected rivers
    • Life Span: 3 to 7 years
    • Size: Typically 70 to 130 cm in length and 3.6 to 13.6 kg in weight
    • Coloration: Silver-blue on the ocean, darkening to brown or red during spawning
    Atlantic Salmon in other rankings
  9. 9
    9
    votes
    Humpback Whale
    Dr. Louis M. Herman. · Public domain
    The humpback whale is an iconic marine mammal in Canada and is known for its distinctive songs and acrobatic displays. It is also an important part of many Indigenous cultures.
    The Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a large marine mammal known for its majestic appearance. It is one of the most beautiful animals on Earth due to its unique characteristics and behaviors.
    • Size: Adults grow between 12 and 16 meters (39 to 52 feet) long.
    • Weight: They can weigh up to 36,000 kilograms (79,000 pounds).
    • Coloration: Their bodies are primarily black or gray with distinctive white ventral pleats.
    • Flippers: They have long pectoral flippers, measuring one-third of their body length.
    • Tails: Their tails, also known as flukes, can grow up to 5 meters (16 feet) wide.
    Humpback Whale in other rankings
  10. 10
    9
    votes
    The Canada lynx is a medium-sized wild cat that is found in Canada's forests and is known for its distinctive ear tufts and short tail. It is also an important part of many Indigenous cultures.
    The Canada Lynx is a medium-sized wild cat found in various regions of Canada. It is known for its distinctive tufted ears and dense fur coat that helps it survive in cold climates. With its beautiful appearance and elusive nature, the Canada Lynx has captivated the attention of many wildlife enthusiasts.
    • Scientific name: Lynx canadensis
    • Size: Body length: 80-100 cm, Tail length: 4-10 cm
    • Weight: 8-14 kg
    • Fur color: Mainly gray, with varying shades and patterns
    • Habitat: Boreal forests and remote mountainous areas

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Ranking factors for popular animal

  1. Survey and public opinion data
    Look for surveys or public opinion polls that indicate the popularity of various animals in Canada. This can help determine how much the general population likes or admires certain animals.
  2. Cultural significance
    Some animals may hold a more significant role in Canadian culture, heritage, or folklore. For example, the beaver is a national symbol of Canada.
  3. Representation in national and provincial symbols or emblems
    Look for animals featured in national or provincial flags, coats of arms, or other official symbols. This can also indicate their importance and popularity in the country.
  4. Native species
    Focus on animals that are native to Canada and have widespread distribution across the country. This may contribute to their popularity as they might be more familiar to the general population.
  5. Conservation status and public awareness
    Animals that are endangered or facing specific conservation challenges may be more popular, as there may be more public awareness and sympathy towards their plight.
  6. Wildlife tourism
    Animals that are a draw for wildlife tourism, such as polar bears or whales, might be more popular as they are associated with memorable experiences for both locals and visitors.
  7. Media coverage and representation
    Animals that are frequently featured in Canadian media, television shows, and movies may have an increased popularity due to their visibility and familiarity.
  8. Pets and domesticated animals
    Some animals might be popular because they are kept as pets or domesticated animals, like cats and dogs.
  9. Sports mascots and team names
    Animals used as mascots or in the names of sports teams can potentially boost their popularity among fans and supporters.
  10. Educational initiatives and outreach
    Animals that are part of educational programs, environmental initiatives, or outreach campaigns may be more well-known and popular among the public due to increased exposure.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular animal in Canada. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or animal is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2604 views
  • 210 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each animal once every 24 hours. The rank of each animal is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most popular animal in canada

Canada is known for its vast and diverse wildlife, with animals ranging from grizzly bears to beavers. But when it comes to the most popular animal in Canada, there is one clear winner - the moose. With its distinctive antlers and imposing size, the moose has become an iconic symbol of Canada's wilderness. It can be found in every province and territory, and is a common sight for Canadians living in rural areas. Despite its popularity, the moose also faces challenges such as habitat loss and hunting, making it a species of conservation concern. Nonetheless, the moose remains a beloved and important part of Canada's natural heritage.

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