The natural world has inspired many aspects of human culture. Birds and animals are often the heroes of our stories, and we use them to pass down folklore from generation to generation. Birds, in particular, hold special significance. Their ability to fly places them closer to the spirit world, and they retain an air of mystery in cultures worldwide.
These symbols have become part of our everyday lives, representing everything from cars and sports teams to stamps and greeting cards. We celebrate meaningful events with birds, like the stork at the birth of a new baby or white doves released at a wedding. No matter where we look, they are woven into our culture at every level.
An Overview of Global Bird Symbolism
The significance of birds began in prehistoric times when birds were depicted in carvings and cave paintings. Later, they became religious symbols and superstitious icons. Today, their symbolism lives on. We commonly associate birds with freedom because they soar through the skies unencumbered by gravity. However, there are many more symbolic meanings to be found. Birds can even mean opposing things depending on the cultural interpretation.
Bird symbolism is a nuanced and fascinating topic. It gives insight into our past and current relationships with nature. Understanding how birds have garnered significance in history gives us a deeper appreciation of their beauty and splendor in today’s fast-paced society.
Birds and Their Symbolism in North America
The United States has a strong and well-known relationship with bird symbolism. The bald eagle has been a symbol of freedom and strength since 1782, when Congress designated it the national emblem. The eagle also appears on the presidential flag, official documents, military insignia, coins and bills, making it the most pictured bird in the country. It remains a symbol of strength, independence and freedom and is protected by the National Emblem Act of 1940.
Eagles are not the only birds of symbolic significance in the U.S. The owl is a symbol of wisdom countrywide, while the turkey is a symbol of family and thankfulness. The white dove is a symbol of peace. Modern America is a melting pot of cultural influences, and many birds have different significance depending on the location.
Bird Symbolism in Ancient Egypt
Birds were an essential part of Ancient Egyptian life. Some were even mummified as temple offerings. They held considerable cultural and religious significance, seen as messengers between the divine and earthly realms. Flocks of birds passed over Egypt twice a year on their migration between Europe and Africa. The ancient Egyptians, seeing these migrations, regarded birds as symbols of fertility and regeneration.
Several Egyptian gods and goddesses were associated with birds. Horus, the sky god, was often depicted as a falcon. Thoth, the god of wisdom and writing, was portrayed as an ibis. These fascinating creatures also formed part of the Ancient Egyptian alphabet, with different species representing various sounds. They were also common in Egyptian art, including wall paintings, carvings and sculptures.
Egypt is home to a diverse range of birds and wildlife, so many bird species took on symbolic meaning in Egyptian culture. For example, the owl was associated with death and mourning, while the vulture meant protection.
Bird Symbolism in Native American Cultures
Native American cultures have a strong relationship with various bird species. Birds move between the earth and sky and are believed to carry messages from the spirit world. Different tribes attributed various meanings to common birds and used feathers in rituals for healing and protection. Some tribes also have superstitions centered around birds. For example, the Apache viewed owls as a terrifying embodiment of their own dead and believed seeing an owl signified misfortune. The Dakota tribe, on the other hand, saw owls as powerful, protective spirits.
The eagle is a revered bird in many Native American cultures. It can fly high and see for miles, representing wisdom and spiritual insight. Eagles were often hailed as messengers between people and the Great Spirit. In some Native American cultures, the hummingbird symbolizes joy and accomplishing miracles.
Even bird feathers were a symbol of great honor. Native American warriors were awarded feathers for supreme acts of bravery. If a feather fell to earth, it was believed to carry the bird’s energy — a gift from nature and the sky. Eagle feathers are significant, symbolizing bravery, peace, prosperity and happiness.
Birds in Chinese Culture
In China, birds were believed to bring luck and prosperity. The rooster takes pride of place in the Chinese zodiac and is considered lucky. Birds also give hidden meanings in Chinese art, helping the virtuous or acting as an omen of trials to come.
Cranes are a common symbol in Chinese culture, meaning wisdom and longevity. As these birds are monogamous, they also symbolize loyalty and long-lasting love. The magpie was considered a harbinger of good news — a bird of joy that means romantic happiness. Like many other cultures, owls and ravens are ill omens. Cuckoos are symbols of sadness or depression, while the wild goose is a symbol of loyalty and integrity.
Bird Symbolism in Celtic and Norse Mythology
Celtic and Norse mythology is rich with symbolism, and birds like the raven, crow and swan played vital roles in their myths and legends. Like many other cultures, birds were seen as messengers of the otherworld. They could shape your destiny through their associations with various deities.
Ravens play a central role in these ancient myths and legends. Considered the most intelligent of birds, they come up over and over again, from the Morrigan — a Celtic battle goddess who could transform into a raven — to Odin’s raven familiars Huginn and Muninn, who brought him news from across the world. The owl and the hawk are considered symbols of protection in Celtic culture. Swans also make regular appearances associated with love and beauty in Celtic and Scandinavian mythology.
Birds in African Culture
African tribes have a rich and exciting history with birds. The Zulu, Sesotho and Tswana tribes called the birds names that mean “fat” or “fattening.” They saw the great migrations throughout the year as the birds bringing fertility and “fattening” the land for a rich harvest.
Like many other cultures, different birds have different meanings across Africa. The African fish eagle is believed to have the power to bring rain, and the blue crane symbolizes good fortune and protection. In West Africa, the owl is revered as a sacred animal and symbol of protection. In other parts of Africa, owls are, once again, a bad omen. Vultures are a symbol of fertility. Many tribes believed birds were the highest form of life, so when a human soul reaches its highest state, it becomes a bird. As such, they have a saying, “If you kill a tree, you kill a bird.”
Find Your Window to the Wild With FeatherSnap
Birds achieved their symbolic significance over centuries, and you can still enjoy them in your home today. Bird-watching technology has evolved to make connecting with birds accessible for everyone, from families to seasoned bird-watchers. With FeatherSnap smart bird feeders, you can bring local birds to your backyard. This innovative bird feeder connects to the FeatherSnap app — an AI-enhanced Life Book for identifying and tracking your avian visitors.
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