Beaver vs. Polar Bear

As I returned from a mild hike through the fields and valley around my house I came across an article on the BBC News website which suggested that Canada was thinking of changing the animal that is their national symbol. It is apparently a beaver at the moment but some want to change it to a Polar Bear.

The argument for the Polar bear is that it is a ruthless predator at the top of the food chain. It is also endangered and as a result of the Canadian oil releasing huge amounts of CO2 it will soon have no habitat. Is that really what Canadians want? Might as well have the Dodo.

I have made several trips to Canada in my life and it is the fact that it is like the US but nicer is what I like about it. Much as I like going to the US I haven't always felt comfortable there. Can't put my finger on it sometimes and it might be all in my mind to be fair.

Although the difference in entering the two countries may go some way to explaining it. US border officials have a way of allowing you entry but only because they can't find a good reason to keep you out. My last visit to Canada felt almost like coming into the UK. Once the border agent felt secure I was not on any international wanted lists I was shown the door - to Canada.