19 British Bird Superstitions You Didn’t Know

Birds have played an important role in the folklore and superstitions of the UK for centuries, with many beliefs surrounding different bird species and their behaviour. Here are some of those bird superstitions.

Birds have long been a source of fascination for humans, and throughout history, they have been associated with a wide range of beliefs and superstitions.

In the UK, there are many superstitions and folk beliefs associated with different types of birds, from small songbirds to large birds of prey. Some of these beliefs are based in ancient traditions, while others have evolved over time.

These superstitions can range from good luck omens to bad luck warnings, and they can vary from region to region. Regardless of their origins, bird superstitions remain an intriguing aspect of the UK’s folklore and cultural heritage.

19 Bird Superstitions

1. Seeing a blackbird is considered a good omen.
2. A robin in the garden is believed to be a sign of good luck.
3. It is believed that if a bird taps on your window, it is bringing you important news.
4. It is considered bad luck to kill a sparrow.
5. If you see a stork or swallow, it is a sign of good luck and a good harvest.
6. It is said that if a cuckoo sings in the month of April, it is a sign of good luck.
7. The sight of a magpie is said to bring both good and bad luck.
8. If a dove flies into your house, it is considered a sign of good luck.
9. It is believed that if you see a heron, rain is on the way.
10. The call of a curlew is said to be a warning of death.
11. The sight of a single crow is considered bad luck, while seeing two crows together is seen as a sign of good luck.
12. Owls are often associated with bad luck and death.
13. It is said that if you hear a woodpecker, it means that someone you know is going to die.
14. It is considered unlucky to see a single seagull, but lucky to see a flock of them.
15. A peacock feather is believed to bring bad luck if brought indoors.
16. A sighting of a blue tit is considered good luck.
17. Seeing a goldfinch is believed to be a sign of good luck and prosperity.
18. It is said that if a sparrow builds a nest on your house, it will bring good luck.
19. The appearance of a wren is believed to bring good luck and happiness.

Tell us your thoughts on any of these superstitions – do you have your own? Tell us in the comments section below!