What is the National Animal of Wales?
What is the national animal of Wales? On a recent trip to Cardiff, I noticed that as far as the eye could see there were red dragons on every flag, sculpture, and storefront.
Occasionally it was just the red dragon itself, but much of the time it was centered on the white and green horizontal stripes of the Welsh flag!
Across my travels, I found that Wales is a nation full of culture and history, and its national symbols express its unique identity. From the iconic Welsh Dragon to the traditional Welsh emblem leek, these symbols are deeply embedded in Welsh culture and tradition.
In this post, you’ll learn more about the history behind how the red dragon became Wales’ national animal and other symbols!
What is Wales’ National Animal?
The national animal of Wales is the red dragon, also known as “Y Ddraig Goch”. The dragon has been a symbol of Wales since the 9th century when it was used to identify Wales on its banners and flags.
It’s even featured in the official Wales national anthem, “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau” (Old Country of My Fathers). The dragon stands for strength and courage, and has come to embody Wales’s proud past and its people’s resilience.
The dragon can be found on many Welsh flags and emblems, so it’s clear that this creature holds a special place in the hearts of those who call Wales home. The red dragon is also used as an official logo for several Welsh organizations and businesses, further demonstrating its importance in Welsh culture.
Commonly confused with the Red Kite, the dragon is actually the national animal of Wales.
How Did the Red Dragon Become the National Animal of Wales?
Starting in 1400, Owain Glyndŵr began using the dragon as a strong symbol of revolt against England’s government.
A bit later in 1485 following the victorious battle at Bosworth Field, Henry VII had the red dragon blessed at Saint Paul’s Cathedral as a new standard of representation of the Welsh people.
The United Kingdom officially recognized the symbol to be used for the Welsh flag in 1959 and it remains to this day.
FAQ
Is Sheep the National Animal of Wales?
While sheep are an iconic animal in Wales, known for their prevalence in the Welsh countryside and their importance to the Welsh agricultural industry, they are not the national animal of Wales.
That honor belongs to the Red Dragon, or “Y Ddraig Goch,” a symbol of strength, courage, and resilience that has represented Wales for centuries.
What are Wales’s Symbolic Animals?
In addition to the Red Dragon, which is the national animal of Wales, the country is symbolically represented by several other national animals.
The Welsh corgi, a dog breed native to Wales, is a beloved national symbol, and the Red Kite, a bird of prey and the national bird of Wales, has special significance as a symbol of Welsh wildlife.
Why is the National Animal of Wales a Dragon?
The national animal of Wales is the dragon owing to its strong symbolism and ties to Welsh culture.
The dragon stands for strength and courage, and was first used to identify Wales on its banners and flags as early as the 9th century. Several dragons are also featured on the official Wales Royal Coat of Arms (also known as the royal badge)!
What are the 2 National Symbols of Wales?
The 2 national symbols of Wales include the Welsh leek as well as the red dragon. While the dragon continues to represent the Welsh national animal, the leek is the national emblem of Wales.
What is Wales National Animal or Flower?
Now we know that the Wales national animal is the Red Dragon, but the national flower of Wales is actually the daffodil.
Why is the Daffodil a Symbol of Wales?
The daffodil is a symbol of Wales because it’s traditionally associated with Saint David’s Day, celebrated on March 1st annually.
Over time, the daffodil has been embraced due to its bright, cheerful color, and the fact that it blooms around the time of Saint David’s Day. This flower, with its sharp bloom and hearty resilience even in harsh weather, the locals believe encapsulates the Welsh spirit very well.
Does Wales Have a Dragon or Lion?
Although Wales is not represented on the Union Flag or the national flag of the United Kingdom, the Wales national animal is represented on the Wales flag which is a dragon.
The lion is actually the national animal of England!
What is the Welsh Dragon Called?
The Welsh dragon is called “Y Ddraig Goch” which translates to “The Red Dragon” in English.
This majestic symbol of Wales has been used for centuries to identify the region and its people’s courage, strength, and resilience.
What is the Symbol of Wales?
Unlike what many people may think, the national symbol of Wales is actually the leek, not the triple harp, the daffodil, or so forth.
The leek dates back to the 6th century during a battle against the Saxons when Saint David (a Celtic monk) ordered the Welsh soldiers to attach a leek to their helmets so they could easily be recognized and prevent accidental firing against their comrades.
However, there are several versions of this legend with dates varying from the 6th century to the 17th century. There is also debate as to whether or not the Welsh soldiers attached a leek to their helmets or if the battle took place in a leek field.
Depending on the source, you’ll find variations to the tale, however, it’s safe to say that the leek became an integral part of Welsh culture centuries ago.
Even in present times, every year on St. David’s Day, all Welsh regiments wear leeks in their caps to pay tribute to the Celtic monk who is believed to have saved the lives of many thanks to his creative and quick thinking!
Wales is well known throughout the world as the country of the Red Dragon, with this majestic creature being an important part of Welsh culture.
From its appearance in antiquity to its modern usage as the national animal of Wales, it’s undeniable that the dragon carries with it a deep-rooted pride and legacy.
