Ontario's Official Symbols

The name Ontario comes from an Iroquois word describing a large body of water. Since waterways form one-fifth of Ontario's geographical area, the name Ontario reflects the province's abundant natural riches.

Shield of Arms	The Shield of Arms consists of three golden maple leaves on a green background, situated below the Cross of St. George on a white background.
Coat of Arms	A moose, deer and black bear decorate Ontario's Coat of Arms. The Latin motto means: "Loyal she began, loyal she remains."
Red Ensign	This has been Ontario's flag since 1965. The Union Jack is on the left; Ontario's Shield of Arms on the right.
White Trillium	The trillium has been Ontario's official flower since 1937. Look for this spring wildflower in the woods in late April and early May.
Franco-Ontarian Flag	The Franco-Ontarian flag was unveiled for the first time on September 25, 1975 at Laurentian University in Sudbury. Since then, the Ontario French-speaking community has used it as its emblem.
Amethyst	Look for this semi-precious purple gemstone around the Thunder Bay area of northwestern Ontario. Amethyst has been Ontario's official mineral since 1975.
Common Loon	Ontario's official bird since 1994, this excellent swimmer, with a distinctive, haunting song, is seen on lakes throughout the province.
Eastern White Pine	Ontario's official tree since 1984 has been the white pine. The tree was important for pioneers and is a valuable resource today.

Photos courtesy of Ministry of Natural Resources, Communications Services Branch. All other images courtesy of Management Board Secretariat, Ontario Visual Identity Program of the Corporate Policy Branch