5 Easter Animals From Around The World

It’s Easter! We’re all familiar with the bunnies and chicks that grace our decorations and chocolates over the easter period but what about other cultures? In this blog, we travel across the world to see what other animals are associated with easter and how they are celebrated!

5 Easter Animals From Around The World

Rabbit - UK

Probably the most recognisable animal surrounding easter, they are often linked in ancient religions to fertility, which is fitting for a celebration of rebirth and new life. In German folklore, rabbits were also said to judge whether children had been good or bad and lay colourful eggs for the good ones to find. In one version of the story, the goddess of springtime found a nearly frozen bird and took pity on it, turning it into a rabbit with lots of warm fur. The rabbit keep some of its bird-like traits and continued laying eggs.

Bilby - Australia

Rabbits are believed to be an invasive species in Australia, having been brought to the country in the 17^thcentury. In opposition to this, Australia picked a new easter mascot – the Bilby! This animal is well loved in the country and are also endangered so having them be the national symbol for easter raises awareness for their conservation!

Cuckoo Bird - Switzerland

This bird is popular at easter in Switzerland. They are considered a symbol of spring, representing new life and new beginnings. Switzerland is part of their natural habitat and are said to be the ones that bring eggs to children around easter. Cuckoo birds are notorious egg thieves which would explain the array of colourful eggs in their nests – they’re all from different birds!

Fox - Germany

In Germany, it’s the foxes, or the Osterfuchs, that deliver eggs to children before the easter bunny took over in the early 1900s. This association likely comes from early spring, when foxes emerge from the chilly weather and go on the hunt for food. They also relate to the tradition of Eierheischen, which is where people went door-to-door leading a fox on a leash, collecting eggs as donations.

Doves – Italy

In Italy, doves don’t deliver eggs but they still play an important part in the festivities. A traditional easter cake, Colomba de Pasqua, is baked in the shape of a dove and in Florence a dove shaped rocket zooms through the city to the cathedral and ignites fireworks. The dove also represents peace, linked with God’s ability to communicate with humanity.

So there you go! What was your favourite? Let us know in the comments and check out our dedicated easter workshop!