Horizon：National animals
【明報專訊】We often associate the giant panda with China and the red kangaroo with Australia. They are the national animals of the respective countries. A national animal is the symbol of a country. Can you name some?
◆Greece
Dolphin
Dolphins are very intelligent and helpful marine mammals. In ancient times, killing a dolphin in Greece led to death penalty. It shows that dolphins are highly respected in Greece. Dolphins eat fish, squid and octopuses. They are very social, energetic and playful. They produce sound waves to find food and avoid obstacles.
◆Pakistan
Markhor
The markhor is the largest wild goat species. They can be found across Pakistan. The word "Markhor" is Persian for "Snake Eater". However, they only eat grass and leaves. They have screw-like horns. Their brown or black coat is longer and thicker in winter. The markhor can endure the mountainous regions.
◆Russia
Brown bear
History books or newspapers often use bears to represent Russia. Bears symbolise power, endurance and resilience which are the characteristics of the Russians. They eat bird eggs, fish, small mammals, honey, cherries, berries and nuts. Brown bears are good at climbing and swimming. They scratch trees with their claws (picture 6) to mark their territories.
■Gear up
Answer the following questions according to the above paragraphs.
(1) Markhors means ''snake eaters'' in English. ( True / False )
(2) Which of the following is NOT correct?
A. Markhors live on highlands.
B. Dolphins are smart and helpful.
C. Markhors like eating snakes.
D. Bears are strong.
(Answers on next text)
■Glossary
obstacle (n) 障礙物
mountainous (adj) 多山的
endurance (n) 忍耐力
resilience (n) 恢復力
[Smarties' Power English 第264期]
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