What meanings and symbolism do birds have?

Birds can fly and because of that, they are seen as mediators and messengers between heaven and earth.

Flight symbolizes freedom from physical restrictions of earthly realms and because of that birds symbolize spirits, souls and the mystical experiences.

Warriors and nobles were often depicted with birds of prey such as eagles, falcons and hawks.

Falcons were used for hunting by aristocrats of China, Japan and Europe. In China, banners of high-ranking lords depicted falcons. In ancient Egypt, the falcon was the king of birds and the symbol for sky god, Horus.

Native American tribes regarded the hawk as the messenger with dead ancestors. In China, the hawk is a symbol of war and the sun.

The eagle was a symbol for ambitious, expansionist civilizations such as ancient Rome and the USA. In China, it symbolizes power. The eagle on the Seal of the President of the USA turns its head towards the olive branch, symbolizing a move from war to peace.

Ravens and crows have similar symbolism - ill omens, war, death and the supernatural. (See Why do birds chirp in the morning?)

In the Bible, the dove was a bird that returned to Noah's ark with an olive branch - a symbol of reconciliation between God and humankind. The dove also symbolizes purity, the soul, fertility and longevity. 

Due to their appearance, peacocks represent divinity, royalty, love and beauty. The peacock's tail was often identified with the eyes and stars.

Storks, a long distance migratory bird, represent travel. The saying that storks bring babies is connected to the idea that storks find souls of unborn children.

Because swans often mate for life, they are associated with fidelity.

Because of their nightly flights and intense eyes, owls are connected with the supernatural. In ancient Greece, and later with alchemists, the owl was a symbol of wisdom and knowledge.

Magpies are symbols of happiness and enthusiasm in Australia, while in Europe, they are seen as thieves and bringers of misfortune. (See The body language of happiness)

In Asia, cranes are traditional symbols of longevity and vigilance. In the West, they represent vigilance.