2025 Jul 8: Animal Symbolism

 While every culture has their own myths and stories featuring the local flora and fauna, there are certain animals that are almost universally associated with and/or used as an allegory for certain things - most commonly personality traits. Exactly where these associations come from is lost to the mists of time. Mortals have been travelling and sharing stories for thousands of years after all. The following list is of course not exhaustive.

Worms are associated with curiosity. It is widely believed that certain birds will tap their feet on the ground to entice the curious worms to poke their heads out, so that the bird can eat them. Another common theme is curious worms spoiling the fruit they inhabit. This is usually meant to parallel how curious people can bring misfortune to their entire community.

Otters, mammoths, and ducks are collectively known as 'the three wise beasts'. They are popular symbols for sorcerers, clerics, mystics, and others who commune with gods and spirits.

Rats are quick-witted or cowardly, depending on the story being referenced. People who embrace the comparison with rats are thought of as a bit of a braggart, and nobody seriously expects them to stick around once things start to go wrong.

Badgers, especially honey badgers are symbols of bravery, popular with warrior aristocrats. They also represent ferocity, resilience, and never giving up even when against insurmountable odds. 

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