What Does it Mean When You See or Dream About a Blackbird?

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Learn all about blackbird superstitions

Co-authored by Raven Minyard, BA Reviewed by Jason Zuk

Last Updated: May 28, 2025 Fact Checked

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Spiritual Meanings

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Cultural Meanings

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Dream Interpretations

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Blackbirds symbolize many different things across various cultures. While they’re positively associated with intuition, adaptability, and protection, they can also represent death and bad omens. If you’ve been seeing or dreaming of blackbirds, look no further. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about the spiritual and cultural meanings of blackbirds, plus various dream interpretations.

What Blackbirds Mean Spiritually

Blackbirds have many spiritual associations. They encourage you to trust your instincts and guide you on your spiritual path, and they often symbolize adaptability and intelligence. However, they’re sometimes also seen as a bad omen due to their connection with death.

Section 1 of 3:

Spiritual Meanings of Blackbirds

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Intuition Blackbirds are frequently associated with the inner self. When you see one, it might be a sign to trust your instincts and follow your heart. The bird may be guiding you to the right path.
- Red-wing blackbirds in particular offer spiritual guidance and bring good luck and prosperity.
- When learning to follow your intuition, pay attention to your body’s physical reactions. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
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Death and bad omens Across various cultures, blackbirds are connected to death and the afterlife. Seeing one could mean you’ll soon experience loss or negativity in your life, but as they also symbolize rebirth, this situation could provide you with a fresh start you’ve been needing.^{[1]
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- Because many cultures also view blackbirds as messengers between the physical realm and the spiritual one, seeing a blackbird could mean a deceased loved one is sending you a message.
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As wise and serious birds, many people believe you’ll see blackbirds during an important time in your life. This could be a new relationship, a new job, or any situation that might bring drastic change. The blackbirds serve as a reminder to take the situation seriously and consider your actions before jumping into a decision.
Blackbirds are wise creatures often associated with the pursuit of knowledge. If you see one, take it as a sign to continue learning and understanding the world around you. Just as they remind you to trust your instincts, blackbirds also remind you to trust your intelligence. Remember, you know what’s best for you, so don’t doubt yourself.^{[2]
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Defense and protection Blackbirds are believed to offer protection to those who need it. They also symbolize a person’s ability to stand up for themselves and others. When you see a blackbird, remember to be aware of your surroundings and stand up for what’s right.
- The first step to standing up for yourself is to have confidence. Try giving yourself a pep talk, repeating positive affirmations, or even learning a new skill.
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Adaptability Blackbirds are often seen as symbols of change that encourage us to be open to new experiences and ways of thinking. If you see a blackbird, embrace change and be willing to adapt to new situations with confidence.^{[3]
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- It’s okay to be scared of change, but don’t run from it. Remember, every good thing in your life was new to you at one point. Focus on the positive changes you’ve experienced rather than the negative.

Section 2 of 3:

Cultural Meanings of Blackbirds

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In Native American cultures, blackbird totems represent great leaders. Blackbirds are optimistic, intelligent creatures, and these traits are often found in those who have them as their totem animal. These people embrace their individuality and follow their intuition.^{[4]
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- Similarly, if someone has a blackbird spirit animal, they’re smart, adaptable, and intuitive.
- Those with a red-wing blackbird totem animal in particular help others live up to their potential. They show others how to live with determination, tenacity, and focus.
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Some Plains Native tribes believed they served the Mother of Corn. Groups like the Arikara and Mandans believed blackbirds were spiritual messengers who communicated if the guardians of the corn were pleased. If the birds destroyed the crops, the Natives believed they were not honoring the spirits well enough and would perform rituals to appease them.^{[5]
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- Other tribes, like the Hopi and the Cherokee, believed blackbirds were connected to both the underworld and the true self. Blackbirds were considered power animals who helped tribe members with self-discovery.
- Some tribes also used blackbird feathers and eggs for fortune-telling and divination rituals.
The goddess Rhiannon believed blackbirds understood the nature of history and time and had prophetic abilities. She owned 3 sacred birds whose song could bring people back to life or send them to their graves. For this reason, the Celts often associated blackbirds with the underworld.^{[6]
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In Christian mythology, blackbirds are associated with sin. In the Bible, the devil disguised himself as a blackbird to tempt St. Benedict. The bird is linked specifically to lust and desire.^{[7]
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- Jewish mythology is similar, as only white birds are considered pure.
Because blackbirds migrated to and from Egypt each year, it appeared as though they were dying and being reborn. For this reason, the Egyptians began associating them with rebirth and renewal.^{[8]
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This is especially true for marriages. The birds are also associated with the god Izanagi and are believed to help guide souls to the afterlife or their next incarnation.^{[9]
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Section 3 of 3:

Dreaming of Blackbirds

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Dreaming of buying a caged blackbird This dream scenario often indicates you’re having a hard time letting go of a person or situation. You’re trying too hard to keep them in your life despite them no longer wanting to be a part of it. Remember, if you love something, let it go.
- If you’re struggling to let someone go, allow yourself to feel your emotions. Don’t try to bottle them up and pretend everything’s okay. Let yourself cry or vent to someone who cares about you.
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Dreaming of selling a caged blackbird This dream might mean you’re dealing with negativity in your life. You may have had to do or say something that others didn’t like, and their criticism is taking a toll on your self-esteem. However, know that you did what had to be done, and there’s nothing to feel guilty about.
- Handling criticism can be tough, so it’s important to know if it’s constructive or not. If someone is trying to offer you helpful suggestions, it might be worth listening to. If they’re just insulting you, however, it’s best to ignore them.
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Dreaming of catching a blackbird This indicates you’re a hard-working, pragmatic individual. You don’t waste time daydreaming; if you want something, you go after it. You believe the only one standing in the way of your happiness and success is yourself.^{[10]
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- Similarly, if you dream of holding a blackbird, it means you’re embracing life’s mysteries. You’re comfortable with yourself and ready to take on new adventures.
In these dreams, blackbirds symbolize misfortune, so in killing them, you’re chasing your problems away. If you or your loved ones have been dealing with hardship, this often means you’ll make the right decisions to improve your lives and relationships.
Expect a major change in your life. This could be a professional or personal change, but either way, you should embrace it, as it will bring positivity and joy to your life.^{[11]
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Dreaming of a blackbird at your window You may be experiencing negative emotions like sorrow and fear. In dreams like these, blackbirds may symbolize the death of a person or a situation which can be difficult to cope with. Don’t give up, however, and try to remember there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.
- Dreaming of a blackbird attacking you often has a similar meaning.
In this scenario, you may be running from a situation you aren’t ready to face in your waking life. Remember, you can’t run from your problems forever. Sometimes it’s better to face them head on so you can address the situation and stop worrying about it.
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Dreaming of a red-wing blackbird If the bird in your dream has red wings, you may feel unmotivated in life and struggle to live up to your potential. Alternatively, red-wing blackbirds represent jealousy and temptation. You may be struggling with your relationships.
- If the red-wing blackbird is nesting or feeding its young, however, the dream may foretell a future of close familial bonds.
- If you’re struggling to get motivated, try creating a reward system. After you complete the task you’ve been putting off, get yourself a treat like an iced coffee or an ice cream.
- If you’re feeling jealous, don’t keep the feelings bottled up. Talk to your partner, or whomever you feel jealous of, and let them know what you’re experiencing. Remember to use “I feel” statements so it doesn’t seem like you’re accusing them.