Flags With Doves or Pigeons Around the World
Doves and pigeons are birds belonging to the family Columbidae, which includes over 300 species. They are typically small to medium-sized birds with round bodies, short legs, and compact heads.
These flying creatures have strong, pointed wings that allow for agile flight and often have colorful plumage. Their beaks are relatively short and stout, adapted for cracking seeds and consuming fruits. They are known for their cooing vocalizations to communicate with other doves.
Across various cultures, due to their gentle appearance and peaceful demeanor, these flying creatures became a symbol of peace, love, and hope. They also mean purity, innocence, and spirituality.
In Christianity, these birds are associated with the Holy Spirit, representing divine presence and guidance. In ancient civilizations, doves are seen as messengers of good news or bearers of positive changes.
Doves can also be used as decorative elements, appearing in arts, fabrics, sculptures, and even flags, carrying significant meanings.
In this article, I will showcase flags featuring doves or pigeons, with a focus on the flag of Fiji, the only national flag in the world that contain the doves. We'll explore the symbolism of doves and pigeons on flags, uncovering the stories and messages they convey
National Flag of Fiji:
The national flag of Fiji has a simple yet meaningful design featuring a light blue background with the Union Flag in the upper left corner and the Fijian coat of arms on the right side.
The light blue background symbolizes the Pacific Ocean that surrounds the island nation. The Union Flag is a reminiscence of colonial past of Fiji and its historical connections to the British Empire.
The Fijian coat of arms is comprised of a shield that divided into red and white sections. The upper part of the shield features a red background with a golden lion that carry a cacao pod. This image represents strength, courage, and noble character. While lions are not native to Fiji, their inclusion in the coat of arms is another nod to British influence and heraldry traditions.
The lower part of the shield features a white background divided by a red cross into four sections, each showcasing a sugarcane plant, a coconut palm, a dove carrying an olive leaves, and a bunch of bananas. The sugarcane, coconut palm, the bunch of bananas, and as well the cacao pod held by the lion in the upper section symbolize the nation's abundant natural resources and its thriving agricultural sector.
The dove in the flag is located in the lower-left section of the coat of arms. It carries an olive leaves. This image represents Fiji's commitment to peace, harmony, and the bright future.
Other Flags From Around the World That Feature Doves or Pigeon
Sources of Information:
- Dove | Mourning, Columbidae, Pigeons | Britannica
- Caring For Doves From Preparing a Habitat to Proper Feeding | WebMD
- Mourning Dove Overview | All About Birds | Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Dove - Description, Habitat, Image, Diet, and Interesting Facts | Animals Network
- All the 344 Different Types of Doves: Pictures, Chart and Classification | Outforia
- 10 Essential Dove Facts About These Gentle Birds | TRVST
- Dove Symbolism (Meanings & Interpretations) | Bird Feeder Hub
- Why Doves are the Symbol of Peace and Other Dove Facts | Chirp Nature Center
- The Spiritual Meaning Of Doves + What To Do If They Keep Appearing | Mind Body Green
- The Dove Spiritual Meaning: Unraveling Its Symbolic Significance as a Guide - Avian | Bird Sand Tree
- Dove | Meaning & Significance | Spirit Animals Oracle Deck | About My Brain
- Doves Around The World - Our Different Impressions... | KBirdVentures
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.
© 2024 Errah Caunca