Animals are featured in a plethora of tattoos and sometimes help to convey certain admirable characteristics about the individual. While the chosen animal ultimately depends on the person in question, it’s safe to say there are commonalities among the more popular creatures in the animal kingdom.
It’s important to remember that any of the animals below can have their own significance to specific people, and this shouldn’t be a deterrent to getting the tattoo you want! Take a look at the list below for some ideas and inspiration for your next tattoo appointment.
Bear Tattoos
Bears are notoriously protective of their cubs in the wild, so it’s no wonder they’re associated with family, courage and strength. Many who have bear tattoos also like to highlight their ferocity in the face of danger, since they can be quite intimidating when handling threats. Bears are also popular to incorporate within nature tattoos, since they’re often associated with forest ecosystems.
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Big Cat Tattoos
Much like the bear, lion tattoos are known to signify bravery and conquering obstacles. Lions are unafraid to attack unknown predators when they feel threatened, and this transfers to people viewing them as strong and fearless. Lions are also known to not give up on a hunt or on their cubs, and this conveys that the wearer will prioritize these attributes.
Tigers, the other big cats of the tattoo world, are commonly associated with wisdom and good fortune. Japanese tattoo style especially highlights tigers as being prosperous, but that doesn’t dismiss them being strong and ferocious in the pursuit of their prey.
Snake Tattoos
In tattooing, snakes are often associated with transformation since they shed their skin in their growth process. This is a relatable idea through tattooing for people who have gone through many different phases throughout their lives. A snake ready to strike is ready to defend itself in the face of danger, and tattoos referencing this can also signify strength and determination.
Eagle Tattoos
Virtue is one of the big themes associated with eagle tattoos, along with courage. The eagle can also symbolize pride of country, since it’s usually associated with being the mascot for the USA. Eagle tattoos are generally large, but they can also be subtly incorporated into nature-focused tattoos as well.
Pet Tattoos
It almost goes without saying that pet tattoos are an expression of selfless love. While there are many creatures humans bond with, none are more special than the love of a pet. Whether it’s a pet that’s passed on or a current pal that you enjoy the company of, pet tattoos are a safe bet both for memorializing and honoring your favorite furry friend.
Hey readers! I’m Jeffrey and your tattoo artist of the day;) I have been drawing and painting my whole life, and after graduating high school I decided it was time for a bigger challenge and I started drawing on people. I’m so fortunate I got to express my creativity through my body art and even more so to share my passion with my now wife Emilie. She started working with me in my tattoo shop as a piercer and I started writing about and photographing, my creations on this blog. I love to hear from you and hope you enjoy our work together!