Scotland's National Animal Is the Unicorn

The choice of a mythical creature as a national animal speaks volumes about Scotland's historical identity. In Celtic mythology, the unicorn symbolizes purity, innocence, and power. This proud and untamable creature was seen as fiercely independent and difficult to conquer, qualities that resonated deeply with the Scottish people throughout their history. Legends also told of the unicorn's incredible healing abilities, with its single horn believed to be capable of purifying poisoned water. These attributes of strength, nobility, and untamed spirit made the unicorn a perfect fit for a nation that fiercely valued its independence.

The unicorn first appeared on a Scottish royal coat of arms in the 12th century under William I. By the 15th century, during the reign of King James III, gold coins featuring the unicorn were in circulation. Before the 1603 Union of the Crowns, the Scottish Royal Arms featured two unicorns as supporters. However, when King James VI of Scotland also became King James I of England, he updated the coat of arms to symbolize this union, replacing one of the Scottish unicorns with the national animal of England, the lion.

This pairing on the Royal Coat of Arms is particularly fascinating as the lion and the unicorn were considered natural enemies in folklore, perpetually battling for the title of "king of beasts." This enduring mythological rivalry serves as a potent symbol of the long and often contentious history between Scotland and England. The Scottish unicorn on the coat of arms is also depicted with a golden chain around its neck, which is thought to represent the power of the Scottish kings, suggesting they were strong enough to tame the wild and powerful beast.