Eagles, owls, phoenixes, and swallows; there are so many options when it comes to selecting the best bird tattoos. Birds represent various ideals for different people and different cultures. Depending on the species, a bird tattoos can symbolize wisdom (like star tattoos), transformation, and happiness. Birds come in a range of beautiful shades making them perfect for bright color tattoos. In ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and white bird tattoos, intricate grayscale shading can make the bird’s features and feathers appear almost lifelike. As many birds are monomorphic, any species can be worn comfortably by both ᴍᴇɴ or woᴍᴇɴ and they compleᴍᴇɴt cloud tattoos perfectly. Sharp dark lines tend to have a masculine feel while floral eleᴍᴇɴts can be added for a more romantic or feminine touch .
60 Best Bird Tattoos from the Fiery Phoenix to the Wise Owl
If you are interested in getting a bird tattoo , there are a few things to contemplate. Think about the action of the bird, such as perching on a branch, soaring through the sky, or sitting in a cage. A birdcage tattoo represents the idea of someone feeling trapped. The color and number of birds along with the location and placeᴍᴇɴt of the tattoo are all important considerations. Each species of bird has its own mood, meaning, cultural significance, and physical characteristics. A ᴅʀᴀᴍᴀᴛɪᴄ ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ raven invokes ᴍʏsᴛᴇʀʏ, a fiery red phoenix exudes energy and a cheerful yellow goldfinch emotes happiness and cheer. Bird tattoos can represent freedom, independence, wisdom, homecoming, and spiritual connection. Throughout these 60 diverse bird tattoos is an array of interesting styles (even biomechanical tattoos) to consider for yourself.
1. Abstract Phoenix Bird Tattoo Ideas in ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and Orange
Swooping from above, the symbolic phoenix in this awesome bird tattoos look as though it’s painted onto the skin. In an abstract art style, the phoenix is shown with wings wide open and claws outstretched. This energetic tattoo is simplistic in color using ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ ink and shades of orange, and it is a great idea for your tattoo artist.
2. Flaming Phoenix Rising from the ᴀsʜᴇs Tattoo
Invoking strength, transformation, and renewal , the magnificent phoenix bird is reborn from the ᴀsʜᴇs signifying a journey through fire or adversity. This stunning bird tattoo shows a brilliant red and orange phoenix rising up, its shadow below in solid ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ ink. Full of hope, this tattoo is truly dynamic.
3. Realistic Pheasant in Nature Full-Color Tattoo
Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers agree that the wild ring-necked pheasant is a strikingly handsome bird. Inked in full genuine color, this realistic pheasant tattoo is so lifelike you almost expect the wind to rustle its speckled feathers. These breathtaking bird tattoos should be shown off on your arm.
4. Two Ravens with Clock Grayscale Tattoo
Dark and ᴍʏsᴛᴇʀɪᴏᴜs, two beautiful ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ ravens sit perched upon a sturdy branch in this gorgeous grayscale tattoo. Behind the elegant ʙʟᴀᴄᴋbirds is an intriguing Asian inspired time clock. Representing protection and wisdom , prophetic bird tattoos are a wonderful choice for both ᴍᴇɴ and woᴍᴇɴ, and it is a great idea for your tattoo artist.
Bird and nature blend as one in this artistically styled tattoo showing an eagle in the mountains scene. Often used in strong, powerful tattoos, the noble eagle is a bird of honor, wisdom and victory. Abstract circular and linear components add to this majestic mountain and eagle head bird tattoo.
6. ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and White Geometric Realism Hawk Tattoo
This incredible ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and white tattoo of a hawk’s head mixes realism with crisp geometric shapes. The bird of prey’s realistic eyes looks off into the distance while its neck feathers become more graphic as they extend lower. Grayscale shading highlights the unique contours of this prodigious hawk tattoo.
7. Watercolor Red ʙʀᴇᴀsᴛed Robin Tattoo on Torso
Chirpy and cheery, the red-ʙʀᴇᴀsᴛed robin is a great choice for a simple colored bird tattoo . Using an artistic watercolor effect, this carefree robin tattoo looks like it’s painted on the skin. The robin’s brushstroke wings are left uncolored for an unfinished feel symbolizing the continuation of life.
8. ᴅʀᴀᴍᴀᴛɪᴄ ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and White Steampunk Raven Tattoo
Although the raven sometimes gets associated with darkness, the ᴅʀᴀᴍᴀᴛɪᴄ ʙʟᴀᴄᴋbird can also signify protection, prophecy, and wisdom. In this arresting ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and white bird tattoo , the ᴍʏsᴛᴇʀɪᴏᴜsly beautiful raven is accompanied by intricate steampunk details. The perspective combination of imagery makes for a remarkably bewitching bird tattoo.
9. Eagle in Sky Tattoo in Watercolor Style
Within the distinct outline of an eagle, a vividly colored sun setting upon the waterfront radiates. Using a watercolor painting effect, this exquisitely artistic eagle tattoo expresses freedom, strength, and independence . Bright blues, oranges, and reds mixed with the classic eagle give this superb tattoo a unique twist.
10. Vibrant Red and Blue Phoenix Shoulder and Elbow Tattoo
In this bold and brilliant bird tattoo , a hypnotizing fiery phoenix is surrounded by vibrant swirls of red and blue. The eye-catching flaming bird tattooed on most of the upper arm from the shoulder to the elbow. Representing spiritual awakeness, this captivating half sleeve tattoo is full of energy.
Perched upon a bunch of pretty purple flowers, a vibrant bluebird sits majestically while it gazes thoughtfully into the horizon. Saturated with soft and pleasing hues, this colorful bird tattoo exudes innocence, joy, and contentᴍᴇɴt. Charming and cheerful, this is a beautifully romantic floral and bluebird tattoo.
44. Two Birds on a Wire Wrist Tattoo
Birds flying on the wrist is a popular tattoo choice as the birds can usually be miniaturized without compromising authenticity. This pronounced bird tattoo distinctly shows the shadow of two birds perched upon a wire. By keeping the design simple with ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ ink only, the bird tattoo feels pure and hopeful.
45. Minimalistic ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and White Bird Outline Tattoo
Instead of a realistic or illustrative style, this noteworthy ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and white bird outline tattoo is more abstract and architectural. Each of the flying bird’s major feather groups is defined without the distraction of individual feathers. Simple and stylish, this attractive bird tattoo expresses creativity, independence, and freedom.
46. Native American Inspired Grayscale Eagle Tattoo
Many Native American tribes revere eagles as sacred animals representing strength, courage, and vision. In this intricate ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and white eagle tattoo, the honorable bird is flying with its great wings at full span. The tribal tattoo geometric details in the eagle’s wings and ʙʀᴇᴀsᴛ give spirit to this bird tattoo.
47. Enchanting and Delicate Colorful Flying Phoenix Tattoo
Majestic wings spread and delicate tail feathers flowing, this rainbow phoenix tattoo is breathtaking. The cheerful color scheme of soft blues, purples, oranges, and pinks is associated with vitality, warmth, the sun, and fire. Mystical and enchanting, this bird tattoo is an attractive and powerful emblem of positivity and change.
48. Subtly Colored Cardinal and Floral Side Tattoo
One of the most striking birds in nature, the red cardinal makes great color tattoos in any style and placeᴍᴇɴt. Inked on a woman’s side, this subtly hued bird tattoo features the flying cardinal amid a bouquet of beautiful flowers. Full of vitality and energy, this cardinal tattoo is exquisite.
49. Realistic Grayscale Flying Bird Tattoo on Back
Confident and adventurous woᴍᴇɴ are attracted to this highly detailed realistic flying bird tattoo. Shown on a woman’s back, this ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and white bird tattoo features fine lines and meticulous shading to create the authentic texture of feathers. Ready to soar, the flying bird tattoo symbolizes freedom and independence.
50. Watercolor ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and Yellow Bird Back Tattoo
Depicted on a woman’s upper back, this entrancing ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and yellow bird tattoo is inked in an illustrative watercolor style. Splᴀsʜᴇs around the picturesque bird make this watercolor tattoo look like it has been painted directly onto the skin. This creative bird tattoo is ideal for artists and free thinkers.
51. ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ Eagle with Pink Flowers Side Tattoo
Dark and seductive, this extravagant ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ eagle tattoo nearly covers a woman’s entire side from neck to knee. On a scale, this size, every remarkable detail of the elegant bird tattoo can be clearly seen. Accompanying the gorgeous ʙʟᴀᴄᴋbird in this impressive tattoo are pink flowers in full bloom. A cherry blossom tattoo design could also work well in this style.
52. Naturally Colored Cardinal on Branch Shoulder Tattoo
Perched upon the shoulder, this naturally colored cardinal tattoo is elegant and attractive. Charming and elegant, the pretty red bird sets pleasantly upon a branch covered in delicate blue and purple flowers. Underrepresented in bird tattoos, the distinguishable cardinal is a graceful bird of nobility and renewal.
53. Ornate ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and Red Bird Back Tattoo
In this amazing back tattoo, a charismatic bird with ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ, red, and orange feathers is covered in an ornate pattern. Reminiscent of leather and lace, delicate flowers and leaves are hidden throughout the intricate design. Vibrant and complex, this stunning bird tattoo is made for a strong, spirited woman.
54. Pair of Flying Birds Tattoo on Back
Captivating of the eyes and mind, the pair of birds flying in this realistically colored tattoo gaze lovingly at one another. Both of the delightful birds are shown with their feathered wings spread as if they are ready for an adventure. This cheerful bird tattoo expresses happiness and joy.
55. Unique Tattoos Idea: Brightly Colored Bird Tattoo with ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ Swirls
Rich red roses, brilliant orange sun, ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ swirls, and a colorful exotic bird fuse as one to produce this amazing multi-colored bird tattoo. Ceremonious and courageous, the magnificent bird has blue, orange, and white feathers highlighted by unique ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ markings. This breathtaking bird tattoo is beautiful and cerebral.
56. Colorful Goldfinch Tattoo with Pink Flowers
Like a ball of sunshine, the yellow-ʙʀᴇᴀsᴛed goldfinch contentedly sits among a beautiful bouquet of pretty pink flowers. A symbol of happiness, love, and fortune, this winsome bird looks great when inked on the skin in full color. Feminine and alluring, this meaningful bird tattoo is sweet and sophisticated.
57. Exquisite ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ and White Phoenix Hip Tattoo
In Chinese art, the phoenix is considered symbolic of powerful femininity and is depicted as the feminine companion of the male dragon. The shape and flow of this bird tattoo make the curvature of a woman’s hip the perfect placeᴍᴇɴt. This exquisite phoenix tattoo signifies personal strength gained through adversity.
58. Five Flying Swallows Stomach Tattoo in Grayscale
In various stages of flight, this amazingly realistic bird tattoo depicts five swallows flying across a woman’s stomach. Dynamic and lifelike, these cinematic swallows almost appear to be in motion. The tiny details and fine feathering in this ᴅʀᴀᴍᴀᴛɪᴄ bird tattoo make it a memorable piece of body art.
59. Stylized Male and Female Goldfinch Tattoo
There are a subtle romance and natural earthiness to this elegant stylized bird tattoo. A pair of goldfinches, one male and one female, are perched inside an assortᴍᴇɴt of refreshing green and yellow foliage. Muted colors, definite outlines, and conceptual details blend exquisitely to form this enthralling bird tattoo.
60. Pair of Origami Birds Flying in Grayscale
In the Japanese culture, origami bird tattoos are the symbol of peace, happiness, and recovery while the Chinese view the bird as a sign of long life and purity. This grayscale bird tattoo shows two dainty origami birds flying. The unisex origami bird tattoo suits both ᴍᴇɴ and woᴍᴇɴ.
60 Best Bird Tattoos for Creative and Intelligent ᴍᴇɴ and Woᴍᴇɴ
Meaningful and attractive, these assorted cool tattoos are only 60 of the best bird tattoos out of literally thousands of ideas. Because different bird species each have their own significance, it is understandable why bird tattoos are so popular. Birds represent strength, higher understanding, knowledge, freedom, good luck, and happiness. As a spirit guide, the bird encourages you to do more, to venture beyond your comfort zone, and dare to go higher and further than ever before. Whether you relate more to the wise owl, joyous bluebird, or traveling swallow, it’s time to spread your wings and get your dream bird tattoo.
