What is the national symbol of Sri Lanka?

As an expert in the field of cultural and national symbols, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the national symbols of Sri Lanka. National symbols are often a reflection of a country's unique cultural heritage, history, and natural environment. They can include a wide range of elements such as animals, plants, colors, and even musical instruments. Sri Lanka, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural diversity, has a number of symbols that are deeply ingrained in its national identity. The elephant, lion, and grizzled giant squirrel are among the animals that are locally considered as national symbols, although it is important to note that there is no official national animal designated by the government of Sri Lanka. The elephant holds a significant place in Sri Lankan culture. Elephants are seen as a symbol of strength, wisdom, and prosperity. They are also an integral part of the country's ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the forest and contributing to the overall biodiversity. The lion, on the other hand, is perhaps the most celebrated animal among the Sinhalese people, who make up the majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka. The lion is a symbol of courage, power, and royalty. It is often associated with heraldry and is featured prominently in the country's coat of arms. The Sri Lankan lion is a prehistoric subspecies of the lion, which adds to its uniqueness and significance. The grizzled giant squirrel, while not as widely recognized as the elephant or lion, is another animal that is endemic to Sri Lanka. This squirrel is known for its distinctive appearance and agility. It is a symbol of the country's rich and varied wildlife. In addition to animals, Sri Lanka also has a national flower, the blue lotus (*Nymphaea stellata*), which is revered for its beauty and is often associated with spirituality and purity. The national tree is the ironwood tree (*Na* \[missing information\]), which is known for its hardness and longevity, symbolizing the resilience of the Sri Lankan people. The national colors of Sri Lanka are also significant. They are orange, representing the Buddhist majority, green for the Muslims, sacred blue for the Hindus, yellow for the Buddhist clergy, and red for the Christians and the minority Tamil population. Music and dance are also integral parts of Sri Lankan culture, with the traditional drum being a national symbol. The Kandyan dance is a form of classical dance that is closely associated with the country's cultural heritage. In conclusion, while there is no officially recognized national animal in Sri Lanka, the elephant, lion, and grizzled giant squirrel are all strong contenders for this title based on their cultural and ecological significance. Each of these animals, along with other national symbols, contributes to the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka's cultural identity.

There is no official national animal in Sri Lanka even though the elephant, lion, and grizzled giant squirrel are locally considered as such. Lions are the most celebrated animal for Sinhalese people, symbolising heraldry. The Sri Lankan lion is a prehistoric subspecies of lion.