merlion...(cough cough cough)...merlion!

Singapore originally meant 'Lion Island' or something in Sanskrit; when an ancient prince arrived to settle Singapore, he reportedly saw a lion at the mouth of the Singapore River and took this as a sign of good luck. This is commemorated by the merlion fountain shown above. It is unclear if the merlion was bred for its magic abilities; I will report back if I learn more.