The simple fact that birds can fly is enough for us to assign them otherworldliness, and a sense of the supernatural that might somehow be in our favor. Finding a feather on the ground or drifting towards us gives us a feeling of fortune that we can’t quite define, an unexpected blessing meant only for our eyes. In today’s blog we look at a few species of birds who have carried, albeit in blissful ignorance, our hopes, aspirations, and prayers for something good to happen.
In almost every culture and across the centuries, people have attributed symbolic meanings to birds, often associating them with messages of good fortune, protection, and even divine blessings. Some birds are multicultural, possessing qualities that everyone believes to be special, no matter where or when, whereas others are specific to a tribe, or country, or time.
The Northern or Red Cardinal is one of the most beloved birds in North America, and frequently heralded as a symbol of good luck and reassurance. Many believe that seeing a cardinal, especially during challenging times, is a sign that a loved one who has passed away is nearby, offering comfort or guidance. This belief is rooted in Native American traditions, where the cardinal represents a connection to the spirit world. Seeing a cardinal during a difficult time has its own name – the cardinal experience. A cardinal’s vibrant red feathers stand out beautifully, even more so in winter, earning a place on Christmas cards and decorations. Dreaming of one is regarded as a positive message of hope, resilience, and self-belief. Because of their monogamous nature, they also signify loyalty and faithfulness, adding to their allure as lucky omens.
Blue jays are rich in symbolism across various cultures and traditions. In contrast to the gentle, comforting symbolism of the cardinal, the blue jay carries a different kind of good luck. Known for its bright blue feathers and bold personality, the blue jay is often seen as a symbol of clarity, determination, and adaptability – seeing one while navigating a challenging situation signifies that you may need to embrace change yet persevere with your truth. Some Native American tribes associate the blue jay with protection and assertiveness. However, the Chinook tribe believe them to embody a trickster god who works with foxes and coyotes to carry out mischievous acts. Despite this cheeky aspect, they are considered a positive sign if seen near your home, suggesting that the household is being watched over. Because of their noisy chatter, they are also said to encourage people to speak up and act boldly, seizing their inner courage. Their bright blue color is linked to the throat chakra in spiritual traditions, symbolizing expression and truth, so they are often associated with clear communication and the ability to see situations from a broader perspective.
These cheeky corvids have a complex reputation in Western folklore, and their association with luck varies based on context. In Britain, a magpie sighting is linked to a well-known rhyme where, depending on the number you see, different situations will occur, some good, some bad. The superstition of seeing one magpie persists throughout many cultures to this day, and citizens aim to ward off the prospect of “sorrow” by hailing it in salute or speaking respectfully to it. However, in East Asia, particularly in Korea and China, magpies are seen as harbingers of good fortune. In China, magpies are thought to bring happiness and are associated with joyful announcements, often seen in art as symbols of prosperity and luck; however, if you kill one, expect only misfortune and loneliness for the rest of your days.
The crane is revered as a sacred bird in many East Asian cultures, symbolizing longevity, peace, and prosperity. In Japan, cranes are called “tsuru” and are thought to live for a thousand years, making them symbols of immortality and good health. Folding a thousand paper cranes is a tradition that embodies hope and healing, with cranes representing a heartfelt wish. In China, the crane is also viewed as an auspicious creature. As birds who connect the earth and the sky, they are said to bring good fortune to those who are lucky enough to encounter them. Chinese legends often depict cranes as carrying the souls of the departed to paradise, offering a peaceful journey into the afterlife, but to give a card bearing the image of a crane to someone in their advanced years is said to grant that person continuing good health and longevity.
Like many migratory species, swallows are considered lucky birds in various cultures as their arrival signals the coming of warmer months and fertility, fecundity, and fortune. In ancient European traditions, swallows were often seen as protectors of the home, warding off misfortune, and with the arrival of spring comes renewal and abundance. In maritime culture, sailors historically viewed swallows as a good omen, believing they would guide them home safely. Some superstitions even suggest that swallows nesting near a home are a sign of prosperity, bringing blessings to the family inside.
Many bird species hold unique cultural significance, often reflecting traits that humans admire, such as resilience, loyalty, and beauty. The consistent association of birds with luck and positive messages reveals our deep-seated desire to connect with the natural world and find comfort in its mysterious beauty. Humanity has woven birds into lore as symbols of good fortune and spiritual guardianship as people from all walks of life seek out, however fleetingly, moments of comfort, hope, and joy, placing trust in their symbolic power to bring positivity and luck into their lives.
