Why is the bear Russia's national animal?

Answer 1

Russians consider brown bear to be their national animal because they see many ways in which the bear resembles Russia. It is big and powerful, but is often thought of as sleepy (think hibernation), slow and clumsy. It is seen as docile, almost cuddly at times, but when roused it rises to its full terrifying height and mauls its opponent with its powerful claws.

And, of course, bears are widely spread all over Russia.