Animals

The Lion Rampant.

Although the National Flag of Scotland is the blue and white Saltire, the Scots also fly the Lion Rampant Flag.

The Lion Rampant is the Royal Flag of Scotland because, officially, the flag belongs to the monarchy and you should ask for permission to fly it.

The Unicorn.

The unicorn is the national animal of Scotland. The Royal Coat of Arms of Scotland, used prior to 1603 by the Kings of Scotland was supported by two unicorns and the current royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom is supported by a unicorn for Scotland along with a lion for England. The unicorn is frequently found as an ornament on mercat crosses.

In Celtic mythology the unicorn was a symbol of purity and innocence, as well as masculinity and power. Tales of dominance and chivalry associated with the unicorn may be why it was chosen as Scotland’s national animal.