National Animal of Sri Lanka
When searching for the Sri Lanka national animal, there is often a bit of confusion. While many assume it is the majestic Lion or the Elephant, the official answer, though technically unofficial in some government records, is the Grizzled Giant Squirrel. This guide provides a comprehensive look at why this unique rodent holds the title, the cultural significance of other iconic animals, and key facts to help you identify them.
The Official National Animal: Grizzled Giant Squirrel
The Grizzled Giant Squirrel (Ratufa macroura) is widely recognized as the national animal of Sri Lanka. In Sinhala, it is known as Dandu Lena (දඬු ලේනා), and in Tamil, it is called Periya Anil (பெரிய அணில்).
Key Characteristics
- Appearance: Unlike the small squirrels seen in gardens, this giant can grow up to 25–45 cm (10–18 inches) in body length, with a tail that is often even longer.
- The “Grizzled” Look: It gets its name from the white or grey flecks of hair that cover its darker coat, giving it a salt-and-pepper appearance.
- Behavior: They are highly arboreal (tree-dwelling) and are famous for their incredible leaps between treetops, sometimes covering distances of over 6 meters.
- Endemic Status: While also found in southern India, the specific subspecies found in the highlands and wet zones are unique to Sri Lanka.
Why is it the National Animal?
The squirrel was chosen to represent the nation’s rich biodiversity and its unique forest ecosystems. It is a flagship species for conservation, symbolizing the importance of protecting Sri Lanka’s shrinking forest cover.
The Cultural Symbol: The Lion (Sinha)
If you look at the Sri Lankan National Flag, you won’t see a squirrel; you’ll see a Lion holding a sword.
- Cultural Significance: The lion is the most celebrated animal in Sri Lankan history. The majority ethnic group, the Sinhalese, literally translates to “People of the Lion.”
- Historical Context: Legend tells of Prince Vijaya, the first king of Sri Lanka, who descended from a lion.
- The “Sri Lankan Lion”: Historically, a prehistoric subspecies (Panthera leo sinhaleyus) once roamed the island but has been extinct for thousands of years. Today, the lion remains a symbol of bravery and sovereignty rather than a living national animal.
The National Treasure: The Sri Lankan Elephant
The Sri Lankan Elephant (Elephas maximus maximus) is often mistaken for the national animal because of its massive presence in the country’s culture and religion.
- Where to see them: Minneriya National Park is world-famous for “The Gathering,” where hundreds of elephants congregate during the dry season.
- Role in Society: Elephants are central to the Esala Perahera in Kandy, where they carry the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
- Conservation Status: Sri Lanka has the highest density of elephants in Asia, yet they are listed as Endangered due to habitat loss and human-elephant conflict.
Current Status and “The National Animal Debate”
As of 2025–2026, there has been significant discussion in the Sri Lankan government regarding the squirrel’s status.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: Because these squirrels have a fondness for coconuts and home-grown fruits, farmers often view them as “pests.” There have been formal proposals to delist the squirrel as the national animal to make it easier to manage their population in agricultural areas.
- The Replacement Candidates: If the Grizzled Giant Squirrel is officially removed from its pedestal, the Sri Lankan Leopard or the Sri Lankan Elephant are the top contenders to take its place.
