Animal Emblems

Mammal

Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, Ovis canadensis

The Bighorn is a majestic, native Alberta animal. Prehistoric remains have been found in most of the river valleys across Alberta, showing that at one time large herds of Bighorn Sheep roamed the province. Today the Bighorn is primarily found in the Rocky Mountain region.

(adopted August 18, 1989)

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Fish

Bull Trout, Salvelinus confluentus

The Bull Trout, one of eight species found in Alberta’s glacial fed waters, is often confused with the brook trout, but lacks black markings on its dorsal fins. In order to ensure Alberta’s population of bull trout never becomes endangered, there is a catch and release policy governing all bull trout fishing in the province.

(adopted May 2, 1995)

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Bird

Great Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus

The bird is a year-round resident of the province and represents the concern of Albertans for our wildlife.

(adopted May 3, 1977 by a province-wide children’s vote).