Canada’s Flags & Symbols
Quick visual guide to Canada’s flags and official symbols — from the National Flag to provincial flags and national emblems — with key meanings to help you recognise them quickly as part of your Canadian citizenship preparation.
Flags
Canadian National Flag
Ontario (Provincial) Flag
Québec (Provincial) Flag
Symbols
Official Symbols of Canada
- Coat of Arms of Canada
Features the shield with symbols of Canada’s founding nations, supporters (a lion and unicorn), the maple leaf wreath, and motto “A Mari Usque Ad Mare.” - National Animal: Beaver
Recognised for its industrious nature and historical significance in Canada’s fur trade. - National Tree: Maple
The sugar maple leaf is a long-standing symbol used in Canada’s flag and emblems. - National Flower: Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis) / Maple Leaf
While the maple leaf is the most-used emblem, some provinces also use floral emblems; but the maple leaf remains the primary national floral symbol. - National Colours: Red and White
These colours were proclaimed official in 1921 and reflect Canada’s identity and flag. - Other Symbols
Examples include the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police), the beaver on coins, the loon on the one-dollar coin (“the loonie”), and the maple leaf motif widely used in government and sport.
Here are Canada’s most recognized symbols
Canadian National Flag
The red bars represent Canada’s Atlantic and Pacific coasts, and the white square features a stylized maple leaf (11-pointed) symbolizing peace, unity, and the natural beauty of Canada.
Coat of Arms of Canada
The shield shows the symbols of England, Scotland, Ireland, and France as a nod to Canada’s heritage. It is supported by a lion and unicorn, under a crown, and sits above a maple leaf wreath.
Beaver
Recognized as the national animal in 1975, the beaver symbolizes perseverance and the role the fur trade played in Canada’s development.
Maple / Maple Leaf
The maple leaf has been associated with Canada since the 18th century and is central to its identity, appearing on the flag, coins, emblems, and more.
RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police)
Known globally for their distinct red dress uniform and community policing, the RCMP is a major symbolic institution of law and order in Canada.
