Omens from animals and birds: Meanings in Popular Belief

Animals and birds are the oldest source of omens in India, because for farmers and travellers they were the first sign of weather, danger and the approach of strangers. The readings below are those that are commonly told. They differ from village to village, and they are traditions, not predictions.

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Crow cawing on the roofA guest or news from far is said to be coming. Crows are also linked with the ancestors, and food is offered to them during the shraddha rites.

Cat crossing your pathIn many parts of India it is read as a sign to wait or to delay for a moment before going on; many people pause, or let someone else cross first.

Dog howling at nightPopularly said to mean trouble near, though most people see it as a sign that the dog has noticed something.

OwlThe owl is the vehicle of Lakshmi, and in some regions it is a good sign; in others its hooting at night near the home is considered a bad sign. Views are mixed.

CowSeeing a cow, especially on leaving the house, is considered auspicious in most of India.

PeacockLinked with Krishna and Kartikeya, and considered a good sign.

Mongoose crossingSeen as a good sign for a journey in some regions.

Sparrow building a nest in the houseConsidered a sign of good luck and a happy home.

Lizard (chhipkali) falling on youThere is an old system (Gauli Shastra) that gives a different reading for each part of the body that a lizard falls on; it is a folk tradition, and many people simply wash and move on.

Honey beesA bees' nest in or near a house is read in many places as a sign of good fortune, though people are advised to take care.

ElephantSeen as a sign of Ganesha and good fortune; meeting an elephant on the way is considered favourable.

Snake crossingIn some regions, a snake crossing your path is a sign to turn back; in others it is a sign of good luck from the ancestors. Customs differ.

Omens from animals and birds

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