The stories, myths and legends associated with more than 80 kinds of birds from around the world. Why are owls regarded either as wise or as harbingers of doom? What gave rise to the fanciful belief that storks bring babies? Why is the eagle associated with victory or the hummingbird with paradise? The answers are here in this engaging book. By re-telling the many legends, beliefs, proverbs and predictions associated with more than 80 birds from many nations, it brings into focus the close – and often ancient – links between humans and these remarkable feathered descendants of dinosaurs. Discover, for instance: - Why the cockerel features on many church spires - The one sacred bird that symbolises life and peace in most cultures - How to dispel bad luck if you see a certain black-and-white bird - The South American 'devil bird' once thought to be a dragon Birds: Myth, Lore and Legend draws on historical accounts and scientific literature to reveal how colourful tales or superstitions were shaped by human imagination based on each bird's behaviour or appearance. It offers a fresh and enchanting perspective on birds across the world.

This charming volume aimed at children explores the folklore that surrounds some of the more common birds, including the sparrow, owl, and magpie. Profusely-illustrated and written in simple, plain language, "Some Folk-Lore and Legends of Birds" is ideal for children with an interest in birds and nature, and it would make for a worthy addition to any family collection. Contents include: "Robin Redbreast", "Nightingale", "The Wren", "The Swallow", "The Sparrow", "The Cross-bill", "The Magpie", "The Raven", "The Woodpecker", "The Kingfisher", "The Hoopoe", "The Cuckoo", "The Owl", "The Golden Plover", "The Peewit", "The Wood-pigeon", etc. Many vintage books such as this are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. We are republishing this volume now in an affordable, modern, high-quality addition complete with the original text and artwork.

Accurate descriptions, histories, myths, and legends of more than 100 birds.

Birds have been important symbols in our art and culture for thousands of years. They have inspired poets and painters, and feature in many place names and legends. In this book, Niall Mac Coitir draws together the mythology, legends and folklore of Ireland's birds, both wild and domestic. The birds are presented in seasonal order based on their migratory habits (the cuckoo and summer) or on their cultural associations (the robin with Christmas). He also explores how birds are often powerful symbols of various virtues and qualities, such as the goose, which is a symbol of watchfulness and bravery. This challenges us to look at birds in a different way, as dynamic creatures that have influenced our society over the millennia. Written with imagination and enthusiasm, this mix of natural history, mythology and folklore will delight and enlighten all interested in the birds of Ireland.

The perfect bedside companion for every bird-watcher and nature lover, inside Flights of Fancy you’ll find: Cranes “Don’t promise the crane in the sky, but give the titmouse in your hand.” Russian proverb Magpies “One for sorrow, two for joy…” Traditional English rhyme Owls “The owl shrieked at thy birth, an evil sign.” Shakespeare, Henry VI, Part III Peacocks “The peacock is ashamed of its large black feet.” Medieval Persian tradition Ravens “When the raven tried to bring fire to the world, ash turned its feathers black.” Cherokee Indian legend Swans “Sewing a swan’s feather into your husband’s pillow will keep him faithful.” British superstition

"A Tongva creation story of Catalina Island and how the black-crowned night heron came to be"--

Containing historical facts, myths and real-life spiritual encounters with birds, this book features information for bird lovers who are interested in esoterica, history, folklore, and spiritual symbolism of birds throughout the world.

Get ready to travel through time with 21 dazzling stories of daring and deceit, reward and punishment. Meet gods and goddesses, serpents, coyotes, talking fish and clever spiders, and discover different versions of how the world began. This beautifully illustrated book features vibrant myths and epic legends told in countries around the world.

Duncan Williamson, one of Scotland's Travelling People, has been celebrated as the bearer of Scotland's greatest national treasure: the richest trove of story and song in Europe. In this collection, he passes on some of these wonderful children's folk and fairy tales, collected from sixty years of travelling around Scotland. This collection includes stories about silver horses and golden birds, cunning lions and trilling nightingales, brave princesses and magic scarecrows, the four seasons and old Father Time. At the heart of each story is a lesson about life and what it means to be a good person. The stories have been written down as faithfully as possible to Duncan's unique storytelling voice, full of colour, humour and life.

From crowded train stations to quiet woods, and from city centres to our own back gardens, birds remind us that nature is everywhere. As children we are fascinated by these magical flying creatures that live amongst us, and as adults we have a fondness for our feathered friends. Numerous books about different habitats and markings exists to help us find and identify birds, but for the first time one of Britain's finest storytellers has gathered together the best folk tales about birds. Suitable for all ages and charmingly illustrated by Lakeland artist Becca Hall, this is an essential collection of stories for all who love the natural world.