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An 'Ookpik' (sometimes spelled Ukpik) is the Inuktitut word for Snowy Owl. Also, an Ookpik was a popular toy (a small, round ball of fluff with two eyes and a beak, and small black talons). They are often made from wolf fur and other traditional materials.
Many Canadians and Americans remember owning an Ookpik, and remember the Ookpik as a popular symbol of Canada. The figures are still available in several forms at a cost of about $30. Several children's books have been written about this popular owl, including ''Ookpik Visits the USA'' which, when available, is valued at more than $1,500.
The Ookpik was famously featured in Douglas Coupland's book and film about Canadian culture, ''Souvenir of Canada''. He was also the subject of a poem by Dennis Lee in his famous book of children's poems entitled Alligator Pie.