The symbolism of no other animal is quite so simple and unambiguous as that of the eagle. The majestic bird is associated with the sun and, largely by implication, with monarchs. Eagles have remarkable eyesight and appear able to gaze directly into the sun.

Doves seem holy and clean, but pigeons appear commonplace and dirty. Nevertheless, the two are very closely related in biology and closely associated in folklore. In ancient texts it is often impossible to know which is meant, and perhaps the best way to think of these birds is as the sacred and profane aspects of a single creature.