New Delhi: The Christmas countdown has begun, and with it comes creatures and folklore. Whether you are looking out for Santa’s Reindeer or the mischievous lutins, you may not even have heard of a whole world of characters.
Christmas creatures pop up every December in different places around the world. As Christmas nears, let us look at some of the animals that are associated with Christmas and where you can find them.
Reindeer, Polar Bears and Other Classic Christmas Animals
Aside from gifts, decorations, and the popular Christmas dinner, many animals are also linked to Christmas. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is probably the most famous, but several others exist. Here’s a list of animals we enjoy hearing about during the holiday season:
Reindeer
These animals are well-known for helping Santa pull his sleigh. They thrive in cold climates and are a beloved part of Christmas.
Polar Bears
With their thick fur and love of snow, polar bears are often found in Christmas decorations. They symbolise the icy landscapes of winter.
Goats
While they are not typical decorations, goats are important in Scandinavian Christmas traditions. The Yule goat, which is said to have pulled Thor’s chariot, is celebrated in Norway, Finland, and other northern European countries.
Donkeys
In Christianity, donkeys are significant during Christmas. They represent the long journeys people take to be with family. The most famous Christmas donkey is the one that carried pregnant Mary to Bethlehem, where she gave birth to Jesus.
Robins
Often considered winter birds, robins can be seen year-round. Their red breasts resemble a postman’s outfit, symbolising the giving and receiving of Christmas cards.
Squirrel
The squirrel is the main character on our Christmas cards and is good at staying warm in the cold. The grey squirrel doesn’t hibernate because it can’t store enough energy without food for a long time. This clever animal prepares by burying nuts in different places during autumn. Rather than putting them all in one spot, the squirrel scatters the nuts around and finds them by smell, not memory. When it is very cold, the squirrel stays in its drey, often sharing it with other squirrels for warmth.
Partridge
Partridges are known for a popular Christmas carol. We don’t hear much about them, especially those sitting in pear trees, at other times of the year.
Camels
Like donkeys, camels symbolise long journeys and family love. They brought the three wise men to Bethlehem, making them an important part of the Christmas nativity. The wise men wouldn’t have reached Jesus without camels and their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, which is why camels are also treasured during Christmas.
Owl
The Christmas owl, or “chrowl,” is very popular during the holiday season. You can find the bird on many festive products each year. Some sources suggest that owls have been featured on Christmas ornaments since the 19th century. The bird represents intelligence and wisdom, which people connect with Christmas wishes. Walking through a store is hard today without seeing owl cushions or candles.
Other animals you would love to have around Christmas
Fox
As you move further north, foxes have thicker fur. The Arctic fox knows the most about cold weather. Its dense fur keeps its body warm in freezing temperatures. The Arctic fox also has furry paws that help it walk on snow and ice. Its round, compact body has less surface area exposed to the cold. Additionally, its nose, ears, and legs are short to help it conserve heat.
Llama
The native people of the Andes in South America have used llamas as pack animals for centuries. Llamas are believed to be the first domesticated animals, first kept in Peru around four thousand years ago. Pack trains of llamas, which can include hundreds of animals, carry goods over the challenging mountainous terrain. Each llama can carry heavy loads, up to 30 per cent of its body weight, and can travel up to 20 miles in one day.
This article explores the diverse animal kingdoms associated with Christmas traditions worldwide. From the iconic reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh to less familiar creatures like the Yule goat and the Christmas owl, we delve into the history and symbolism behind these festive fauna. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
