Bird Animal Spirits

Bird Animal Spirits

Bird Spirit Animals assist in matters of higher knowledge. They are symbols of strength, freedom and unity of fellow creatures.

Albatross,-- Stamina and endurance, ability to remain in emotional situations for extended periods of time, awkward yet effective beginnings and endings, seeing the benefits of extended parenting

Anhinga,-- The advantages of keeping wet, not wildly flapping to get somewhere, patiently waiting for the opportunity to spear your quarry

Bee Eater -- Ability to see auras, use of color in healing, capture of moving objects, ability to dig to find answers

Bird of Paradise -- Extravagant and elaborate thoughts. On the positive side, it can symbolize lightness, closeness to God, and removal from worldly concerns.

Blackbird,,-- A guide to understanding energies of Mother Earth. Blackbirds are known for their hypnotic song, calling from the gateway between two worlds, which is said to awaken the psychic mind. The Blackbird teaches how to use your voice for healing purposes. A familiar of the goddess Rhiannon

• Red Wing Blackbird -- A slow learner who can adapt quickly to new situations. One who will do anything to be noticed. Red-Winged Blackbirds are directly connected to the Goddess and primal feminine energies
• Yellow Headed Blackbird -- Blackbirds with a yellow head oversee nature and nature spirits. The egg of yellow blackbird egg represents new life, bringing hope for the revitalization of the mistreated land.

Bluebird,-- Modesty, confidence, happiness, plaintive song, movement to a new level of being
Blue Jay,-- Linking directly to the power of the Earth and access to universal energies. (The word "jay" comes from the Latin,"Gaea"/for Mother Earth) Aggressive and noisy, driving others from resources. Hiding away more than needed to keep others from having it. Deceiving others by mimicking their behavior./(Negative characteristics often seen in humans, which makes them unpopular visitors.) The blue jay is fearless when it comes to protecting its partner, young and territory. So too are those with this animal as their totem. They will defend their positions against adversaries who seem much more powerful than themselves. They keep the same mate for life, which is symbolic of endurance, patience and loyalty.
Bobolink (Reedbird) -- Awaken to the changesin perceptionsthat are unfolding before you. Pay attention to dualities and adjust perceptions accordingly. Trust your intuition and watch for synchronicities to show the way. This is a period of balancing the light and dark and grounding the physical with the spiritual. Be ready to reevaluate your position.
Bobwhite -- (see under "Quail")
Bowerbird/-- Creating elaborate surroundings (bowers) to impress others. Acquiring a dowry to attract a mate. A need to make sensible and practical preparations for the future. Positive materialism

Bunting -- Knowledge and intelligence with an emphasis on utilizing your voice to "sing" your thoughts to speak from the heart. Learn to camouflage yourself in order to rest along with showing oneself when it is time. Emotions may need to surface or remain hidden in order to heal. Pay attention to the color of the bunting for this may mean adding color and vitality to life

• Blue Bunting -- Good, truth and love with spiritual origins.
• White Bunting -- Bringer of light and emphasis on purity, cleansing and healing.

Bustard -- The biggest thing flying. A faith that Spirit and Mother Earth will provide what is needed. If you can get through the first year you will make it.

Butcher Bird (Shrike) -- A predatory songbird, fearless and bold. A ferocious killer that will impale its victims. Check out your surroundings, know the value of having a surplus

Buzzard -- (see: 'Vulture/Turkey Vulture')

Canary,-- Beauty of voice, use of song in healing and enlightening, finding your souls song, ability to find joy in song during times in darkness, the importance of fresh air

Caracara (Mexican Eagle) -- Use available resources

Cardinal (Redbird) --Cardinal is a reminder that this is an opportunity to recognize the importance of discovering life's purpose. The bright red color of the cardinal is symbolic. The color red represents the blood or life force of the Mystic Christ. (The Cardinal's name derives from the bright red robes of the cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church.) In yoga the color red represents the vital force of the kundalini and the root chakra. The Cardinal signifies that.once on a spiritual path there is no turning back. The balancing of spiritual ideals and physical desires is necessary in order to achieve harmony so that life's purpose may be revealed and you will be able,to find your soul song. Add color to life and remember that every song you sing is important.

Cassowary/-- Jumping feet first into confrontations and knocking down the opposition. Address your need of Sacred Space and how you treat the Sacred Space of others.
Catbird/-- Language and communication, be careful what you say and to whom you say it, make it a point to mind your own business
Chickadee/-- The bird of truth, pinpoints truth and knowledge,,will show warriors where their enemy is vulnerable to attack

Chicken/-- Fertility and sacrifice, pecking out the answers that escape others, protection of family and community. Known for their hardiness chickens will run quickly and frantically away from danger. When danger is close they take off with a loud explosion which startles their predator. They are mindful creatures that have extreme sensitivity. Chickens feel the vibrations of mother earth and all life forms that inhabit her. This indicates its empathic abilities. Because empaths literally absorb the energy of everything around them a high strung nervous system can develop. If nervous energy isn't expressed in a balanced way sporadic unpredictable behavior can occur. Yoga or any other form of meditative movement can help those with this medicine acquire balance.

Cockatoo -- {see: Parrot}
Condor,-- Soaring above limitations, imminent changes, knowledge concerning the dead, a new vision through death and rebirth

• Andean Condor-- Condors motivate us to collectively reach out and share the knowledge we have stored within ourselves. Mapuche Indian Proverb: Dont try to be a Condor, because the mountains are high.
• California Condor -- Condor people are inspired to restore balance

Cormorant -- Dive deeper for answers and solutions
Corncake -- So called because of its fondness for feeding in grain fields. An elusive nature, but its loud call ensures that it gets noticed. A warning of misfortune to come.

Cowbird -- Child abandonment, avoiding responsibilities, parasitic relationships, the need to resolve old issues

Crane,-- Royalty, pride, balanced movement, inner meditation, the value of secretiveness, ancient symbol of justice, longevity and good fortune

• Brolga -- An inspired dancer. A sacred dance that will carry you into other realms. A love of the theater.
• White Crane-- Karmic justice, master of defensive maneuvers
• Whooping Crane -- Your actions may influence more than you think

Crow/-- The Keeper of the Universal Sacred Law. Nothing escapes the keen sight of the Crow and it instills the wisdom to see things beyond the limitations of one-dimensional thinking. Crow calls to see beyond cultural limitations and the accepted rules of right and wrong. Crow is an omen of change and when experiencing something new watches closely to see what happens and then learns from it. Learn to recognize potential danger and be watchful in vulnerable times. Watch what you believe and question your ideas about reality against a more universal standard. The crow is the spirit which represents the transcendence that will reveal the true path to life's mission. Crow merges both light and dark, both inner and outer and when in the darkness of emotional pain and turmoil the crow is the Carrier of Lost Souls into Light. The Crow/has a message for you! Native American Totem Animal for "Libra" (The Celtic Goddess 'Morrigan' will often appear in the guise of the crow.)

Cuckoo -- It is the time is for new beginnings and Cuckoo will show how to move at this time, heralding a new fate. Cuckoo shows how to maneuver through the physical world and to be more sensitive to other worlds. Trust your intuitions and look deeper for solutions. A diet balanced with protein and fruits so be aware of your diet.,It is,time to migrate or remain, time to be active or a time to rest. Pay attention to the eyes and care for them and how to walk carefully by feeling vibrations. You may notice feet sensitivity as you attune the senses.

Curlew -- Long believed by the Celts to be associated with sorrow. One of the names that the Highlanders have for the curlew is 'Guilbhron' (Wail of Sorrow) or 'Guilbinn' (Wailing Music). The curlew is the bird of Dalua, the faerie fool, who is often called "The Shadow Lord". It is said to be a Storm Bringer.

Dove/-- Associated with many goddesses, (most notably the Greek goddess Aphrodite), it is considered the embodiment of the maternal instinct. When the dove appears it is signaling a time to go within and to release emotional discord. It assists in releasing the memories of past trauma. The dove bestows healing on all levels so that when inner turmoil is released the possibility of peace and prosperity awaits. A spirit messenger bringing communication between the realms of the conscious and the unconscious.

• Brown Dove -- Represents a subconscious thought that is less than clear. Somewhere between awareness and ignorance, leaning to the side of being unaware. Give attention to being clearer about what is needed.
• Mourning Dove/-- Represents Spirit and communication with Spirit through all other creatures. When the mourning dove appears there will be messages and opportunities for growth. (Commonly thought of as a potential symbol of a coming death, but only if it is seen/under extremely unusual circumstances.)
• White Dove -- Universal symbol of peace and hope for the future.

Duck,-- Connection to the feminine and the astral plane, maneuvering through the emotional waters with grace and comfort, assisting others through emotional entanglements, spirit helper of mystics and seers, comfortable with other ethnicities, (bold colored ducks hold the qualities of strength and perseverance, iridescent colored ducks call you to examine your emotions)

• Sea Duck -- Tailor made for a life at sea. A delayed maturity that many never reach.A snappy appearance.The marine corps of the bird world

Eagle,-- A Sacred Messenger from Heaven and,the,Eye of the Sun. The eagle lives in the spirit realm and it carries prayers to the Creator and returns with a vision. The eagle possesses healing spiritual power and their magical feathers assist medicine men and women in connecting with Spirit for healing. Eagles will mate on the wind and they symbolize the power of creation when released from the confines of the Earthly realm,with a lesson of staying grounded when soaring high.,The eagle teaches that with limited vision we may not see the things that lie before us and how to look at life from a higher perspective.

• Bald Eagle,-- Swiftness, strength, courage, wisdom, ability to see hidden spiritual truths, rising above the material to see the spiritual, connection to spirit guides and teachers
• Golden Eagle,-- Understands the cycles of the Sun, clear vision, sees from the highest places, spiritual power of the Sun
• Wedge-tailed Eagle,-- The Persecuted King. Upperworld Messenger. Pride. Transcending the Ego. Flight of the Spirit.
• White-tailed Eagle -- A particularly sociable eagle, and this is reflected in the emotional support that he offers as a power animal. A powerful and agile hunter of fish, he can delve into the unconscious of his shaman companion to retrieve hidden images and influences with his sure and strong talons.

Emu,-- Fulfill your responsibilities while you explore your possibilities

Falcon,-- Comes when you require higher vision and knowledge, being in a position to see everything, knowing when to fully commit and act, teaching how to ride the wind. Accompanies the soul back to the soul world, soul healing. The Falcon represents visionary power and leads you to your life purpose. The Falcon carries a message of transition and change. Native American Totem Animal for "Aries"

• Peregrine Falcon -- Nobody's faster, know when to act and how to act, act upon opportunity, observing from on high, meditation and deep spiritual studies

Finch,-- Entertaining singer, variety of activities and experiences, new activity coming, often stuck raising other's children [see: Cowbird]

• Galpagos Finches (Darwin's Finches) -- Can change "in the blink of an eye", inspiration for revolutionary ideas.
• Goldfinch -- Awakening to nature spirits (fairies and elves), resolving family conflicts, at home in the rural or urban life, first marriage difficulties, wardrobe changes

Flamingo -- Ability to cleanse and filter what emotionally nourishes and heals, understanding how to maintain balance

Flicker -- New rhythm of growth and healing power, love, balance

Frigatebird -- A seafarer that cannot swim, puffing up the chest to appear important, will defend its own turf but no other, a pirate and a thief

Frogmouth -- Seek out the secrets being held by the Elders. Learn the ancient stories. Often mistaken for a wise old owl.

Goose/-- The symbol of the sacred circle and its migration announces the passage of the Great Circle of the Year. Sacred bird in the temples of the Roman Goddess Juno,,and it is the totem of the Winter Solstice for the Native Americans. The goose reminds us of the stories we are drawn to that often reflect our life mission. The goose is a call to the vision quest, travel and new adventure and the celebration of victory with dance. The goose never leaves one of its own kind behind. Geese annually migrate to warmer climates during the winter. Should a goose become injured during this trek, another goose will leave the migrating flock to stay with its fallen comrade. An individual whose outer personality is one of determination and resourcefulness, goose souls may become so single-minded in their drive to provide a safe nest for their mate and offspring that they may ultimately attain their beautiful and sturdy nest, only to turn around when it has been achieved to find there is no mate with whom to share it. Native American Totem Animal for "Capricorn"

• Canada Goose -- Cooperative and communal behavior, never leave the weak behind

Grackle,-- Grackles are very happy birds that look past the emotional turmoil and find joy in the smallest of things. Black is the color of the inner and the feminine and the purple and bronze coloring about the head especially usually indicates that emotions are coloring the thinking process. Situations are not always what they appear to be; particularly when dealing with emotions. Emotions that are not dealt with can even go on to produce physical congestion in the body. Grackles love to live in pine trees and the essence of pine can be used to help alleviate strong emotional states, particularly feelings of guilt. The grackle showing up is a sign that it is time to clear away emotional congestion and to deal with your emotions.

Grosbeak,-- Healing the family heart, when it comes to relationships the male and female sing a different song

• Rose Breasted Grosbeak -- Undergoing a time of pain and a reminder that the pain will pass. Healing through music and sound therapy

Grouse,-- Sacred dancing & drumming drawing one into the higher consciousness of the Dance of the Sacred Spiral. Focusing on what is needed to be manifest and through movement creating the energy to accomplish it. Understanding the circular nature of time. Guide to perceiving the order within the Sacred Geometry. (see also: 'Water Animal Spirits/Nautilus')

• Prairie-Chicken,-- Spirit dancer, shaman singer, attachment to the hereditary land. (Pheasants will lay their eggs in prairie chicken nests. The pheasant eggs hatch first; causing the prairie chickens to leave the nest thinking that the young have hatched. In reality their eggs did not hatch and their young usually die.) "Avoid taking on others responsibilities to the detriment of your own."
• Ruffed Grouse -- Quite trusting of others and friendly. But if that trust is broken, it will be very difficult to regain it. This leaves two states for people interacting with a grouse totem. They will either be a good friend or they will never be seen.
• Willow Grouse (Ptarmigan) -- Balance masculine and feminine energies whether and be neutral in actions and dominant only when needed. Changes will come in three stages where letting go of the past, grounding and timing will best serve. Learn the art of camouflage

Gull,-- Spiritual messengers, communication with deities, soar above your problems, watch how you behave and don't be a pest

• Herring Gull -- Always a complicated story, body language reveals the truth, prefers water to wine, gets what it wants,by bullying
• Seagull,-- The emotional side of the psyche and deep seated emotions that need to be healed, temper a carefree attitude with a responsible nature, first come first served

Hawk,-- Hawk is the Messenger of the Great Spirit, the protector and the visionary; delivering omens, spirit messages and blessings from the Creator in order that you may see the larger picture. It holds the key to higher levels of consciousness. This totem awakens vision, recalls past lives and inspires a creative life purpose. Be careful not to become caught up in the details; fly higher so you can see the big picture, the overall view. Observe and study your surroundings and work on accepting things the way they are, rather than forcing change. Soar high above the mundane and everyday problems and be reminded of the great responsibility of diligently working to fulfill your soul's purpose.

• Harrier,-- Sky dancer, constantly changing sides, getting in on the ground floor, a "Ramblin' Man"
• Nighthawk -- Patient, nocturnal vision, resting when others cannot
• Red-Shouldered Hawk -- Living in the old neighborhood, being mobbed, losing your home, joining with one enemy to challenge another
• Red-Tailed Hawk -- A Red-Tailed Hawk is a special totem. It has direct ties to the Kundalini, the seat of the primal life force. It teaches of higher expressions of psychic ability and vision, lessons of awareness and insight. The Red-Tailed Hawk represents the Sun and the Great Horned Owl the Moon. 

Heron,-- Aggressive self determination and self reliance, balance and wisdom, non-traditional roles ,enjoying your own company and not requiring or needing others, shamanic journeying, the Holy Spear

• Bittern,-- Heed promises made
• Egret -- Provides safe passage to the soul world, peace bringer, self-confidence, wading rather than swimming, symbol of the Audubon Society
• Great Blue Heron,-- Assert your authority and strike while you can

Hoopoe -- Humility in the wearing of laurels and fame, cleansing oneself, using odor for defense, tunneling as a means of escape. Hoopoe teaches the ability to tap into ancient wisdom to reach your own profound sense of regality. This bird signals ways to tap into your energy body and to connect to higher realms. She demonstrates touching Mother Earth for balance. (The hoopoe gives warning when it detected changes in the atmosphere that heralded an electrical storm. It detected earthquake light and piezoelectric charges on split rocks, in the ten or twelve hours before an earthquake.) (Hoopoe: from the Middle French word duppe.,One that is easily deceived or cheated; "to deceive by underhanded means. It suggests the unwariness of a person deluded.)

Hornbill -- Ability to rear young alone, Protection of young, Pecking your way through obstacles, Breaking out of difficult situations.

Hummingbird -- The Aztecs of Mexico regarded the hummingbird as a warrior. Despite the hummingbird's delicate appearance, it is a bold, quarrelsome bird who will readily attack any intruder that strays in,to its territory. The hummingbird is a symbol for accomplishing that which seems impossible. The hummingbird is all about making the effort and going the distance. The hummingbird is tireless in its efforts to sustain itself over vast migratory paths. Its tiny body is designed for ultimate efficiency and,it taps into massive energy stores to maintainits high pace. This totem reminds us to explore the past and extract the sweetness from it. It can help you find joy and sweetness in any situation. Grab joy as swiftly as you can.

Ibis,-- Connected to the Egyptian gods/goddesses and the moon. The ibis symbolizes wisdom and the ability to work magick. The ibis lives on cobras, the poisonous serpent means creative force misused and as eaten by the ibis it shows man protected and saved by Wisdom. In ancient Egypt the ibis was the totem of the god of knowledge Thoth, representing great wisdom. Modern bird watchers have noted that the Ibis is a gregarious bird, mixing easily with those from other species.

Jaeger (Skua Bird) -- A character who sticks up for their own kind and looks after their own. Upsetting others by bullying to get them to cough up what they have, often working in a pair.

Jay,-- Understanding how to use power wisely, comfort within shadow self, link between the world of dark and world of light, Moon magic. (The word jay comes from the Latin word Gaea,for Mother Earth)

• Gray Jay -- Thievery, trickery, quietplanning. (The Gray Jay only exists in North America, so its mythology is completely North American. It has been equated with the Algonquin crane spirit 'Wisakedjak', which gave rise to its name 'Whiskey Jack'. Wisakedjak was a trickster figure responsible for a great destroying flood and for creating the world with magic. He was a master thief and loves to play tricks on people. The Algonquin natives so hated his thieving that if they caught a Gray Jay, they would pluck it alive if they could catch it. To the Cree, while still a thief and trickster he is seen as a psychopomp type of divine figure. They love to pull pranks but it's done with such good humor that they are always forgiven for their transgressions.)
• Western Scrub Jay,(California Jay and Long-Tailed Jay) -- Unusual yet functional family units, scrub wisdom and connection to scrub spirits, theft and appropriation, urban wisdom, growth in urban areas, material wealth, saving something for later, delayed gratification, adapting and learning, great intelligence.

Junco -- Expression of Spirit, increased activity and opportunity, pay attention to how you express yourself
Kestrel -- Kestrel shows how to discover ones personal rhythm and act accordingly. As ones personal energy field is increased and broader vision is developed, one learns when to act and when not to. Kestrel teaches speed and action of thoughts must be done with a balance mind and heart along with patience to act at the opportune time. Kestrel aids in seeking out truths with clarity by illuminating the path.

Killdeer,-- A precocious little bird who runs into new experiences with its eyes wide open. One who gets along with those who are different and takes advantage of the opportunities these encounters provide. When you approach an adult the killdeer it may suddenly develop a broken wing. It struggles in front of you, as if it can barely walk, let alone fly. One or both wings drag pitifully on the ground. Somehow, while struggling to keep its balance, the killdeer manages to stay one step ahead of you. As you pursue it, the killdeer leads you farther and farther away from its downy killdeer babies crouching on the ground or half hidden under a tiny bush. When the killdeer feels that the young are safe from you, its broken wing heals suddenly, and the bird flies away, calling a loud "KILL-DEE" that sounds like a jeer.

Kingbird -- Love of open spaces, defense of environment, tenacity, fearlessness, balanced vision

Kingfisher,-- Ability to express oneself in a clear and concise manner, past life connections relating to the misuse of the ego

Kite -- Graceful and buoyant, responding with grace and gentleness, mediumship and a connection to the underworld, learning how to breathe to open psychic awareness. Kite will bring about truths and wisdom while keeping the watery emotions in balance and will teach how to skim the surface of knowledge to collect what you need for the moment. Observe carefully what is around you as resources will appear.

• Mississippi Kite -- Being able to bring great darkness into the light, being unafraid to fly, caring for and helping others, wind energy, being a spiritual messenger, all spiritual messages, inner and outer grace, a connection to death, the shadows and the underworld.

Kiwi -- Connection to the ancient wisdom of the Maori, ability to scratch out the truth, understanding earth changes

Kookaburra -- A disarming laugh that is used to deceive, diving headlong into situations, a need to live as close to water as possible

Lapwing --,Its name derives from its wavering flight. The lapwings meaning is disguise is the secret. The Greek proverb; more deceitful than a lapwing meant an artful beggar and this comes from the artful way in which the lapwing adapts its behavior to differing threats from differing predators combining illusion and discernment. It knows how to work a situation to its best advantage. Another interesting part of the spiritual myth of the lapwing is its connection to the goddess Ostara and the Easter Bunny. The myth goes that Ostara changed a lapwing into a hare to be her animal totem. (In the spring, the lapwing nests on the ground and hares have been known to sit in these nests therefore looking like they are hatching eggs.)

Lark,-- The mystery of sound, the power of voice, being awakened to your sacred song

Loon,-- Awakening of the imagination, the ability to separate the real from the unreal in the search for the truth, a haunting call that speaks of your dreams and wishes, pay attention to your dreams.

Lyrebird --,A timid, shy and solitary figure. Mixing a voice of its own with the voices of others. Songs and stories of long ago. Genetic memory stored in the DNA. (Appears on the Australian 10 cent piece.)

Magpie -- The Cunning Prophet. Occult knowledge, can open the door to the Spirit World, use of everyday ritual, jack of all trades and master of none, witch's familiar. The Magpie is common in European folklore and superstition. Generally speaking, the bird is associated with unhappiness and trouble. This may be because of its well known tendency to "steal" shiny objects, as well as its harsh, chattering call.

• Australian Magpie -- Spiritual custodian of cultural rule and law. Home protection. Making new friends. Gossip. Attacking people behind their back. Paranoia. The beauty of song. Aggressive territoriality. Attack.

Malleefowl -- Parenting. Going to great lengths for your children. Incubation. Going within. Patience. Caring for what you create. Nesting. Giving Your Creations Freedom. Knowing the inner earth. Trusting your instincts and intuition.
Martin -- Cooperation, peace seeker, team work and community action, accepting dinner invitations
Meadowlark -- Cheerful journey inward, sublimation, imagination, courageous, going inward for answers
Megapode -- Born of the heat of the volcanic furnace. Springing forth, Athena like, fully grown.  Mound builders who incubate their eggs buried in the ground. The association of the birds hatching from the volcanic soil has caused local natives of the South Pacific to see these birds more as evil spirits than totems.

Mockingbird,-- Finding your sacred songs and learning your life's purpose, recognition of your innate abilities, overcoming fear, learning through experience,exposing those people and,things that canhurt you, ("To Kill A Mockingbird",is to take away the innocence of a child)

Murre -- Dive deep for answers, cold weather activities, no fixed abode

Mynah -- Prolific talker and mimic, ability to learn a new language, traveling with large groups, an aristocratic pet

Nightingale -- Soft tempered, good speaker, smooth movement and voice, keeper of the night. When a nightingale appears it is there to teach you the healing power of song and to move through fear and shadow with grace.
Nutcracker -- Cracking open the outer shell in order to find what is hidden inside. Life tied directly to diet, willing to travel long distances, stay at home dad, yearning for the pine forests
Nuthatch -- Grounding of faith and higher wisdom. You need to crack something open to get at the truth.
Oriole,-- Ability to see how life is woven together, connection to tree spirits, ability to connect others to the fairy realm. Oriole is the symbol of approaching summer or sunshine, usually within a two-week period. An Oriole totem reflects this symbolism bringing sunshine (or positive changes) to your life and/or current projects.

Osprey,-- The osprey is connected to all aspects of solar worship. Osprey teaches how to plunder our resources and the necessity to move outside of our comfort zones in order to do this. Osprey teaches us to take risks, and to not be frightened of grasping opportunities just because they seem like they're out of our reach. Keen sight in seeing through illusions, freedom of spirit, connection to the Moon, understanding weather especially lightning

Ostrich,-- Learning how to use knowledge in a non-threatening way, become less visible, outrunning adversaries, avoidance and denial
Owl -- The owl is ruler of the night and seer of souls. The owl is honored as the keeper of spirits who had passed from one plane to another. Often myth indicates the owl accompanying a spirit to the underworld; winging it's newly freed soul from the physical world into the realm of spirit. Bringer of wisdom, revealer of secrets and omens, intuition and clairvoyance. Brings clarity and illumination to dreams, (Moon magick). The "night eagle", seeing and hearing that which others cannot. Be aware of omens and portents for the owl brings the power to extract secrets,out of the,darkness. Native American Totem Animal for "Sagittarius". ('Lilith', who was the first wife of Adam in the Garden of Eden and in Christian lore was said to be the first witch, is often depicted as appearing in the form of a screech owl or with screech owls as familiars. The owl is also the familiar of goddess'Athena')

• Barn Owl,-- Knowledge coming from intense scrutiny that is kept for information and not,directly used. Connection to house spirits. Mediumship.
• Burrowing Owl, -- Little bird with big ambitions, likes the daylight, stay grounded while working with spirits
• Great Horned Owl, - Messenger that announces new cycles often through clairvoyance. Can readily adapt to change. The Great Horned Owl represents the Moon and the Red-Tailed Hawk the Sun
• Screech Owl -- Creatures of the night who go about unseen. Bravery and ferociousness. Fiercely independent but,works well with others. Differing regional accents. Totem animal of 'Lilith'
• Short-Eared Owl,-- (Evening or Marsh Owl) -- Keeper of the flame and the light of inspiration. Keep your ear to the ground and be ready to take advantageof being in the right place at the right time.
• Snowy Owl,-- Carries wisdom from the Elders and inspires through the written word. Save your strength for the proper moment and be ready to act.
• Spotted Owl -- Threatening in appearance but not meaning to harm. Very sensitive to changes in temperature.,Makes and receives a lot of calls. Use of voice for effect.

Oxpecker -- Riding through life, perching on other's ideas, flying straight and landing solidly

Oystercatcher -- Large, conspicuous, and noisy. A time to realize that portions of you are being suppressed. (Christian legend says that the oystercatcher once hid Jesus in a time of danger and was rewarded by being given the mark of the cross on its back.) A need to protect children from being taken. A selfless act of concealment.

Parakeet --(see under 'Parrot')

Parrot,-- A bird of the sun and its bright colors and sunshine aspect are what gives it its magic. It is a teacher of the power of light and colors and its feathers can be used for healing and to invoke the energies of the Sun. Some parrots have been taught to mimic human speech and can, on one hand be linked to learning language. On the other hand a parrot can be a sign of insincerity; speaking another's words without meaning them. When Parrot appears, look to your left.

• Budgerigar (Budgie),-- A nomad who flies off to wherever it feels like, female jealousy and fighting (Translated roughly, from the Australian Aborigine word for "good to eat".)
• Cockatiel -- Goddess of New Holland", hissing when threatened or frightened, need to find out the source of fear and do away with it , needs games and toys or may go as "crazy as a loon
• Cockatoo -- Rain Magic. Travel. Joy. Crying with Joy. Emotional Freedom. Spiritual Freedom. Finding Spiritual Truths. Your Inner Fire. Creativity. The Muse. Inner Beauty. Inner and Outer Wealth. Preserving What You Care For.
• Macaw,-- Language, mockery, bringer of rain
• Parakeet --,Ability to change direction suddenly, imitation, trust, assists with goals within the community. (Horned Parakeet / Olive-Headed Parakeet / Plum-Headed Parakeet

Partridge -- A human spirit that has come to live on Earth as animal in order to serve the Goddess.,,(In the Greek myth of 'Perdix', who was one of the sacred children of 'Athene', Perdix was thrown from a tower to the sea. He was saved by the Goddess and carried to heaven in the form of a bird. "Perdix was the partridge and Athene was the pear tree.")

Peacock,-- Universal symbol of resurrection. The ability to see the connection between the past, the present and the future and its loud and raucous call, almost like laughter, reminds us to laugh at life. The peacock's feather in all ages has been considered as a sign of beauty and knowledge; beauty because it is beautiful, knowledge because it is in the form of,the all seeing eyes of the goddess 'Hera'.

Pelican,-- Overcoming troubles, rising above emotional turmoil, recovering from loss, sharing abundance with others, forgiveness, letting go of your judgments
Penguin,-- Lucid dreaming and the ability to alter the course of those dreams, out of body experiences and astral projection, leaping from the land (the conscious) into the water (the unconscious), the knowledge of the female within the male

• Fairy Penguin (Little Blue Penguin) -- The littlest one in the family. Know that you can overcome any limitation by adopting a resolute mindset. Be careful crossing the street.

Pheasant,--,A hardy bird that symbolizes warning and concealment. It teaches about fertility and sexuality as symbolized by its tail plumes. The pheasant feeds on grains and grasses and anyone with pheasant energy benefits by incorporating more grains into their diet.

• Golden Pheasant -- Preferring to hide one's beauty, the understanding of trees and their wisdom, taking refuge away from others, personality and presence that fades under the spotlight, avoidance of prestige and glamour, understanding the cold and lonely places, being exploited for your beauty, elusiveness, hiding your true nature.

Phoebe -- Heightening the powers of observation in the stillness within. Finding the balance between masculine and feminine energies; in the power and strength of the sacred feminine as well as the male and create a more solid foundation to build upon. Dont let the flies land on you.

Pigeon,-- Return to the security of home, use of senses to navigate life in a balanced way

Plover -- A shore dweller that likes to vacation inland. One who exhibits extremely flexible behavior when encountering difficulty and intruders that come into its life. One who will seem to walk away from a threatening situation, but turns back at the first opportunity. Taking long non-stop trips to get where you need to be. The plover call to us in desolate places to experience the wilderness, the wild and raw side of Nature. They also represent the wilderness and solitude within, where for some lurk so many of their fears.

Prairie-Chicken -- (see under 'Grouse')

Puffin -- Graceful in the water, clumsy on land and in the air, out of water there is difficulty finding equilibrium in life, using body language to convey messages, throwing tantrums when upset. The appearance of the Puffin signals a time for prayer.
Quail -- Living close to the Earth, group nourishment and protection. Seeing danger and finding peaceful alternatives. Having courage in times of hardship. (Quails have an intricate system of communication, and much of is revolves around avoiding danger. Quails have an uncanny sense of their surroundings, and are masters at eluding predators. They stay grounded, preferring the comfort of tall grasses over open skies. This reminds us to keep ourselves protected.) When Quail comes to call, be smart, communicate your hesitation clearly and be mindful to stay out of harm's way.

• Bobwhite (Virginia Quail) -- Social pairing, time to protect your secrets

Rail Bird / Rallidae -- (also: Crakes, Coots, and Gallinules) -- An evil or mischievous spirit thatseems almost invisible in its elusiveness. Its call is heard, but rarely is it seen
Raven --,The Keeper of Secrets. Guide to the unknown and the teacher of the mystic, the raven goes into the darkness to return with the light. Raven chooses its students according to their knowledge and stays only as long as needed to impart its lesson and return them to the light. Raven is the bearer of magic and mysticism. They mimic and use the calls of other species and can teach how to understand animal language. The raven is a shape shifter and can assist in shifting consciousness into various dimensional realms. When the raven appears prophecy shall be fulfilled. ,Morrigan the Celtic Warrior Goddess appears in battle in the guise of the raven and will not be driven quietly back into the darkness.

• From an anthropological standpoint the Raven is an interesting symbol in that it demonstrates the differences sometimes found between tribal groups and their interpretations of a spirit animal's appearance. Within the traditions of North American folklore the Raven is the creature who brought light into the World and its appearance is welcomed as a symbol of new life. However, in British folklore the Raven is seen as the harbinger of the Black Plague and a symbol of impending doom. The British mythology comes out of the mistaken perception that the Raven appeared before the arrival of the plague and,heralded the coming of death. In actuality, the Raven appeared after the plague had already struck, as a natural scavenger, to feed upon the unburied corpses. This is a misrepresentation arising from the transposition of the order of events in the early oral recounting of the story, but one should be forewarned that if you come from a background of North American mythology and you try to offer your Raven Spirit message to someone with a cultural reference from the British folklore, the mention of the Raven may cause them to mistakenly believe it foreshadows death looming on the horizon.

Redbird -- (see: 'Cardinal')
Road Runner -- Speed and agility, stimulate the mind, act quickly to avoid danger, understanding rapid change, always thinking how to get what it wants, proper use of running
Robin,-- Time of new growth, creative ideas, happiness, the wisdom of change, the throat chakra, divine sacrifice and rebirth (In Medieval Europe the robin was often depicted attending the Christ child.) The Robin will reveal your true path at the time you are ready to move forward.

• American Robin -- Changing luck and fortunes (for yourself and others), tomorrow is a new day, musicality, connecting to others through song, voice and words, constantly moving forward, bringing new growth into your life, finding beginnings more often than endings, being a pioneer, connections to disease and illness, lessons connected to coming in first place, learning how to spring forward.
• Red-Capped Robin -- The best and brightest, wariness, setting boundaries with other people, inflexibility, faring better in more open environments, preferring to stay away from the hustle and bustle, needing quieter spaces, staying grounded.

Rooster -- Roosters are considered sacred symbols in Japan, calling Shinto followers to prayer with its morning crow at dawn. The Rooster is considered a time-keeper and is a sign of time passing in our lives. Hearing a Rooster's voice may indicate we need a wake-up call, and need to pay attention to some circumstances in our lives. A solar symbol, symbol of sexuality, vain, likes gifts and attention, rising to meet the Sun, drives off evil spirits of the darkness

Seagull -- (see under: 'Gull')
Shrike -- (see: 'Butcher Bird')
Snowbird -- Manners and etiquette, hopping and leaping, aloof but not stand-offish, small families, eating left-overs
Sparrow,-- A common visitor, a love of old buildings, the triumph of common nobility, symbol of peasants and the common people. If a Sparrow totem has entered your life, ask yourself if you know your own self-worth. The sparrow will show you that even a common little bird can triumph.

Spoonbill -- Sweeping obstacles out of ones way, shyness, wariness, silence, protection from communal living

Starling -- Ability to control mobs, imitation, adaptability, mental receptivity. Starling teaches lessons of group etiquette, social standing an family relations and how you appear to the world in those relationships.
Stork -- The stork carries feminine or mothering energies. When the stork appears a birth or rebirth will soon happen and/or you may need to reconnect to your roots . Creation, birth, new beginnings, unspoken communication, dance, protection of the young
Swallow,-- Protection and warmth for the home,,proper perspective, communal life, connection to thunderstorms, (little cousin to the Thunderbird [see: Mythic Animal Spirits / Thunderbird])
Swan,-- A time of new states of awareness, ancient songs of true beauty and eternal mystery, powerful and graceful, seeing and accepting the future and going with your feelings, life partnership

• Black Swan-- Love, romance and monogamy. Partnership. Equality. Compassion. Tenderness. Protecting your loved ones. Enjoying the presence of others. Folklore and fairytale. Love stories. Invoking happiness in yourself and others. Spiritual love and freedom. The joy and freedom in serving another. (Black Swan Theory -- An event or occurrence that deviates beyond what is normally expected of a situation and that illustrates a severe limitation to our learning from observations or experience and the fragility of our knowledge. The term popularized by Nassim Nicholas Taleb.in his book "The Black Swan".suggests that upon observing 100 swans the norm is to fixate on the one black swan (the black swan event) to the exclusion of the ninety-nine other white swans. Taleb goes on the say that "9/11" was a "black swan event" in that its effect was to cause a fixation on the 1% of the time that there is a security threat to the exclusion of the other 99% of the time when there is no threat. Converesly Taleb suggests, had an individual on the day before "9/11" instituted a security policy that prevented the attack the actions of that individual (a white swan) would have gone unnoticed.as.there would have been no "black swan event" to bring the matter to attention. Therefore, "the hero who prevented 9/11 and changed the course of history" would never be recognized as having done so.)

Swift -- Speed and agility, journeying in the "Great Quest", responding to opportunities as they arise

Swisher -- Living in the "Between Time" (dawn/dusk), awakening to the fairy realm
Tanager -- (A species of songbirds of the southern forests consisting of over 240 varieties which often cross over into other species.) Traveling by night and catching meals on the fly. Riparian entertainment of a beautiful male song. A convoluted family tree.

• Blue-Grey Tanager (Blue Jean) -- Restless, noisy and twittering away life.
• Hepatic Tanager -- One who no longer associates with their family or group. Now considered,more related,to the cardinal family.
• Scarlet Tanager -- A harsh message must be heard
• Summer Tanager -- (The only entirely red bird in North America.) Add color to your life and remember that everything you do is of importance.
• Western Tanager (Coffee Bird) -- Maintain a secure,,food-filled home and the coffee tastes better too.
• Yellow-Winged Tanager -- Listen to a higher calling

Tern -- Enjoying all the comforts of Nature, refreshment on the fly,drinking of the local waters, screaming to get the point across
Thrush / Thrasher -- Coincidences and synchronicities will expand your spirituality in a profound way. Be alert to what may be hidden under the surface. A fierce protector of the environment.
Titmouse -- Fearless attitude, powerful voice, control of ego, not letting praise go to your head
Toucan -- Sharp tongued individual, a vast repertoire of sounds,,a need to tone down speech, knowing what to say and when to say it, either heard loud and clear or completely misunderstood
Towhee -- Makes noise until it gets attention, shabby, red-eyed, speaking with a southern accent

Turkey,(Wild Turkey) -- A symbol of sacrifice and a giver of life. Native American peoples saw the turkey as a sacred bird because their great abundance provided a source of good meat. It gives its life so others may live. The turkey symbolizes the harvest bounty and honoring of the Earth Mother. Wild turkeys were almost eliminated because they were taken for granted and the turkey teaches a need to remember that nothing is an endless resource and that all gifts that come from the Great Spirit must be honored. When 3 turkeys cross your path a strange and eerie encounter lies ahead.

• Today's domestic turkeys are not the,birds of the Native American peoples. While wild turkeys can fly for short distances, farm raised turkeys are bred to be so stout that they cannot fly. Domesticated turkeys have been genetically altered to grow twice as fast and twice as large, as their ancestors. Although this rapid growth poses a serious threat to the animal's health and welfare, the turkey industry continues pushing to grow bigger birds. Respiratory ailments and influenza are responsible for almost half of,the deaths of turkeys who don't make it to slaughter. Turkeys are debeaked by slicing off,one third of the beak with a red hot blade when the bird is about five days old. After 4 months, turkeys,have reached the right size,and are sent to the slaughterhouse.

Vulture,-- Symbol of death and rebirth, new vision, new beginning, and purification of mind and body. The vulture asks us to be patient with ourselves, and think things through. They encourage us to be quite sure of how we feel before we enter the arena of our plans and this symbolism is underscored by the magnificent level of patience the vulture exhibits. Being noticed more for what you do than how you look, soaring above the difficulties of life, associated with the sense of smell (aromatherapy).

• Black Vulture,-- Time of transformation is approaching
• Turkey Vulture,(Buzzard) -- Getting the blame by being in the wrong place at the wrong time, vomiting when stressed, diarrhea when things get too hot to handle

Warbler -- Characteristic regional manner, a distinctive voice,,pecks at its food, vagrancy

Wattlebird -- A shaman in disguise, drawn to the unusual, ventriloquist and mimic,,speaking will either set you free or imprison you, stand your ground and speak the truth

Waxwing -- Gentleness and courtesy, polite and sociable,,ability to see from all perspectives and change as needed, surefooted, foster parent, a diet,of fruit, without a song to sing

Weaver Bird --,(The Weavers are named for their highly complex woven nests) An innate talent as a street performer. Will come to a call from a long distance. Using artificial light to enhance the environment.

Whippoorwill -- Whippoorwill's nocturnal nature teaches the art of night time movements and camouflage. The art of invisibility may be utilized when he appears. Heightened senses may be activated at twilight, dawn with special emphasis on moonlit nights. It is time to adjust your cycle to correspond to the lunar one. Pay attention to the cycles and themes you are experiencing around the moon phases. It is time to listen to sounds in the spiritual realm and in your surroundings. Whippoorwill shows how to adapt to this new phase.

Willie Wagtail -- Extroversion. Cheerfulness and gregariousness. Anger and irritability. Friendliness. Curiosity. Socializing. Appealing to others. Effectively maintaining your space and home.

Woodpecker,-- The drummer of the forest, shamans ride the drumbeats of the Woodpecker's rhythm into other dimension of space and time. Woodpecker holds the power of rhythm and discrimination, listen to your inner rhythms and heed what they tell you. The woodpecker pecks away at deception and when you hear the woodpecker knocking, the truth will be revealed. Native American Totem Animal for the Astrological Sign "Cancer"

• Sapsucker -- Digging for hidden nourishment in two different ways, intuition, rhythm, being resourceful without depleting

Wren,-- The wren brings a message of going beyond the realm of the known and to pursue the adventure that awaits there. Resourcefulness and boldness. Medicine for the environment and for the healing of sibling relationships

• Fairy Wren-- Infidelity and promiscuity. Not staying loyal to people or projects. Assessing many different options. Canvassing. Unable to focus on one thing at a time. Carnality. Lust. Moving on.

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Land Animal Spirits

Water Animal Spirits

Reptile Animal Spirits

Buzzing Bugs & Crawling Critters

Mythical Animal Spirits

Extinct Animal Spirits

Spirit Guides

http://spiritwalkministry.com/spirit_guides/bird_animal_spirits