Cemetery symbolism: what does an animal on a headstone signify?

Bird: often a symbol of peace. If the bird is flying may represent the winged soul and resurrection as used in Ancient Egyptian times
Butterfly: often used for children and the soul, symbol of a short life, death and resurrection similar to the caterpillar, the chrysalis, and the butterfly.
Dove: a symbol of resurrection, innocence and peace
Dragon: a Western symbol of evil and the serpent. For Eastern nations it can be the symbol of imperial power and the universe
Dragonfly: Japanese national emblem, can also be a symbol of change and transformation, joy and lightness
Eagle: courage and fierceness, ascension, heavenly conqueror
Fish: Christianity and faith
Fox: cruelty, cunning and intelligence
Horse: courage or generosity
Lamb: innocence, on the grave of a child or the sacrificial lamb of God
Lion: guardian in the cemetery, protecting a tomb from unwanted visitors and evil spirits. It symbolizes the courage and bravery of the departed and strength
Owl: a symbol of the goddess of wisdom, Athena, wisdom and watchfulness
Ox: patience, strength
Peacock: incorruptibility of the fresh, and a symbol of immortality
Rabbit: humility, gentleness and self-sacrifice
Ram: sacrifice
Rooster: vigilance and wakefulness
Serpent: a Celtic symbol for eternity, the Egyptian symbol for life and health. A snake: Satan, sin, fall of man
Swallow: immortality, unity, nourishment of the soul – can indicate child or motherhood

Want to know more about symbolism, see our blog Headstone symbolism: what do plants, fruit and vegetables mean on headstones? Keep an eye out for more cemetery interest blogs on our website.