The Most Popular Animal in Syria, Ranked

Choose the animal you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 06:29
In the heart of Syria, a love for animals binds the community together, shaping customs and stories passed down through generations. Recognizing the most beloved animal offers a unique insight into the cultural fabric of the region. It helps preserve the narratives and traditions that are central to the nation's identity. By casting your vote, you contribute to a crowd-sourced celebration of Syria's cherished wildlife. Each vote helps highlight which animal captures the hearts of the nation most profoundly. This ongoing tally not only reflects current preferences but also encourages a broader engagement with Syria's natural heritage.

What Is the Most Popular Animal in Syria?

  1. 1
    68
    votes
    It is the national animal of Syria and found in the mountains of the country. They are considered a symbol of strength and power.
    The Syrian brown bear (Ursus arctos syriacus) is a magnificent bear species that is known for its captivating beauty and strength. It is a subspecies of the brown bear and is native to the Middle East.
    • Size: Adult males can reach a length of 6 to 9 feet (1.8 to 2.7 meters) and weigh between 330 to 660 pounds (150 to 300 kilograms). Females are slightly smaller.
    • Appearance: They have a dense and lustrous fur coat that can range in color from light brown to almost black. Some individuals also have a distinctive light-colored crescent-shaped patch on their chest.
    • Habitat: Syrian brown bears are primarily found in the mountains and forests of Syria, Turkey, and Iran, with smaller populations in other neighboring countries.
    • Diet: Their diet primarily consists of vegetation, fruits, nuts, berries, and occasionally small mammals or insects.
    • Behavior: They are generally solitary animals but can be social when necessary, especially during mating season. Syrian brown bears are known for their strength, agility, and climbing abilities.
    Syrian brown bear in other rankings
  2. 2
    38
    votes
    A breed of horse that originated in the Arabian Peninsula, it is known for its beauty, agility, and endurance.
    The Arabian horse is a breed known for its stunning beauty and grace. It is one of the oldest and most influential horse breeds in the world, originating from the Arabian Peninsula. With its distinctive dished face, expressive eyes, and high tail carriage, the Arabian horse captures the hearts of equestrian enthusiasts across the globe. It is not only appreciated for its physical attributes but also revered for its loyalty, intelligence, and spirited nature.
    • Size: 14.1 to 15.1 hands (57 to 61 inches, 145 to 155 cm)
    • Weight: 800 to 1,000 pounds (363 to 454 kg)
    • Coat Color: Various solid colors, commonly bay, gray, chestnut, and black
    • Head Shape: Distinctive dished face with a prominent forehead and wide-set eyes
    • Ears: Small and well-placed, often curved inward
    Arabian horse in other rankings
  3. 3
    12
    votes

    Syrian hamster

    George Robert Waterhouse
    A popular pet, the Syrian hamster is a small rodent that is native to Syria.
    The Syrian hamster, also known as the golden hamster or Mesocricetus auratus, is a popular small rodent native to Syria and parts of Turkey. It was first discovered in Aleppo, Syria, by George Robert Waterhouse in 1839.
    • Species: Mesocricetus auratus
    • Common Names: Syrian hamster, golden hamster
    • Origin: Syria and parts of Turkey
    • Size: Approximately 5 to 7 inches (13 to 18 cm) in length
    • Weight: Around 4 to 8 ounces (110 to 230 grams)
    Syrian hamster in other rankings
  4. 4
    21
    votes
    Syrian wild ass
    Frederick York · Public domain
    A critically endangered species of wild ass that is found only in Syria and Israel.
    The Syrian wild ass, also known as the Asiatic wild ass or onager, is a species of wild equid found in Syria and neighboring regions. It is known for its slender body, long legs, and short mane. The coat of the Syrian wild ass is generally light to medium brown, with a white belly and a black dorsal stripe running along its back. It has large ears and a tufted tail.
    • Scientific Name: Equus hemionus
    • Average Height: 120-140 cm
    • Average Length: 210-240 cm
    • Average Weight: 200-300 kg
    • Habitat: Grasslands, deserts, and semi-deserts
  5. 5
    21
    votes
    A species of wild goat that is found in the mountains of Syria.
    The Nubian ibex is a species of wild goat native to the mountainous regions of Syria. It is recognized for its impressive set of horns and agile nature, making it a popular sight among wildlife enthusiasts and hikers in the area.
    • Scientific Name: Capra nubiana
    • Habitat: Mountainous regions of Syria
    • Physical Appearance: Medium-sized goat with a muscular build, reddish-brown coat, and distinctive long, backward-curving horns in males
    • Size: Adult males can reach a shoulder height of around 90-100 cm (35-39 inches) and weigh approximately 50-80 kg (110-176 lbs); females are smaller
    • Agility: Excellent climbers, capable of scaling steep slopes and cliffs with ease
  6. 6
    15
    votes
    A small mammal that is found in the deserts of Syria and other Middle Eastern countries.
    The Desert hedgehog, also known as the Brandt's hedgehog, is a small mammal native to Syria. It belongs to the Erinaceidae family and is characterized by its spiny coat for protection against predators. It is one of the most popular animals in Syria due to its unique appearance and habits.
    • Scientific Name: Paraechinus hypomelas
    • Average Size: 20-23 cm in length
    • Weight: 250-400 grams
    • Habitat: Desert regions with sandy and rocky terrain
    • Diet: Mainly insects, small vertebrates, fruits, and vegetation
  7. 7
    5
    votes
    A small rodent that is found in the deserts of Syria and other Middle Eastern countries.
    The Syrian spiny mouse, scientifically known as Acomys cilicicus, is a small rodent species native to Syria. It belongs to the family Muridae and the genus Acomys. The most distinctive feature of this mouse is the presence of spines on its back, which provide protection against predators by making it difficult to be swallowed. The spines are sharp and rigid, giving the mouse a spiky appearance. The coloration of the Syrian spiny mouse varies, but it is typically a combination of brown, gray, and white, helping it to blend into its natural habitat.
    • Scientific Name: Acomys cilicicus
    • Family: Muridae
    • Genus: Acomys
    • Size: Around 9-12 cm in length
    • Weight: Approximately 30-50 grams
  8. 8
    8
    votes
    A type of gerbil that is native to Syria and other Middle Eastern countries.
    The Syrian jird is a small rodent species that is commonly found in Syria. It belongs to the Meriones genus of the Gerbillinae subfamily. The Syrian jird is also known as the Syrian gerbil or desert rat. It has adapted to semi-arid and arid habitats, including desert areas and steppes.
    • Scientific Name: Meriones syriacus
    • Size: Approximately 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
    • Weight: Around 3-4 ounces (85-115 grams)
    • Appearance: Furry body, sandy or grayish-brown fur, long tail, large beady eyes
    • Lifespan: 2-4 years
  9. 9
    11
    votes
    Syrian serin
    Joseph Wolf · Public domain
    A species of bird that is found in Syria and other parts of the Middle East.
    The Syrian serin is a small bird species endemic to Syria. It belongs to the finch family and is known for its vibrant colors and beautiful song. The male Syrian serin has a bright yellow head and breast, light brown back, wings, and tail, and a black beak. The female, on the other hand, has more subdued colors with a duller yellow and brown plumage.
    • Scientific Name: Serinus syriacus
    • Size: Around 11 cm in length
    • Weight: Approximately 10-12 grams
    • Habitat: Mountainous regions, scrublands, and open woodlands
    • Distribution: Endemic to Syria, primarily found in western and central parts of the country
  10. 10
    9
    votes
    A species of woodpecker that is found in Syria and other parts of the Middle East.
    The Syrian Woodpecker is a small to medium-sized bird species belonging to the woodpecker family. It is predominantly found in the regions of Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and parts of Palestine. This woodpecker is known for its distinctive appearance and unique behavior.
    • Scientific Name: Dendrocopos syriacus
    • Size: Approximately 23 centimeters in length
    • Weight: Around 70-90 grams
    • Plumage: Males have a black upper body with a red crown and nape. Females have a black upper body with a black crown and lack the red markings.
    • Distribution: Found primarily in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and parts of Palestine

Missing your favorite animal?

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Ranking factors for popular animal

  1. Cultural significance
    Consider the historical, religious, or cultural importance of the animal in Syrian society. Some animals may have been revered or featured in myths, local folklore, or religious texts.
  2. Economic importance
    Assess the economic utility of the animal, such as its role in agriculture, livestock production, or as a source of food, clothing, or other products. Animals that contribute significantly to the livelihood of communities will likely be more popular.
  3. Geographic distribution
    Look at the range and habitat of the animal to determine its abundance and presence across Syria. Animals that are widely found and easily visible in the country will likely be more well-known and popular.
  4. Endemic species
    Give priority to species that are unique to Syria or have a significant population in the country. Endemic animals can be considered national treasures and may play a role in tourism or national pride.
  5. Wildlife conservation status
    Consider the conservation status of the animal. Endangered or threatened species may gain popularity through awareness campaigns and efforts to protect them.
  6. Household pets
    Evaluate the popularity of the animal as a household companion or pet. Animals that are kept as pets will likely be more popular among the general population.
  7. Media representation
    Examine the presence of the animal in local media, such as TV shows, movies, books, art, or online communities. Animals that are frequently featured in popular culture will likely have higher popularity.
  8. Perceived characteristics
    Consider the animal's traits, such as its intelligence, grace, beauty, strength, or friendliness. These characteristics can influence its popularity among the people of Syria.
  9. Symbolism
    Take into account the symbolic importance of the animal in Syrian society. Some animals may be associated with certain ideas, qualities, or values that are considered important or meaningful to the people of Syria.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular animal in Syria. 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

  • 1656 views
  • 201 votes
  • 10 ranked items

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 syria

Syria is a country with a diverse range of animal species, from the majestic Syrian brown bear to the elusive Arabian leopard. However, when it comes to the most popular animal in Syria, it is the Syrian hamster that takes the crown. These cute and cuddly creatures have been bred for centuries in Syrian households, and their popularity has spread throughout the world. In fact, the Syrian hamster is so beloved in Syria that it has even been declared the country's national animal. So if you're ever in Syria, keep an eye out for these adorable little creatures!

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