Canada’s Flags & Symbols

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.

  

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.