Symbolism of Animals:

Animals have appeared in art throughout history. Ancient cave paintings show various animals including dinosaurs and deer. Some ancient Egyptian symbols include animals as well as pottery. Throughout History animals have influenced both art and humans. Many cultures through history have animals representing gods, power and in cases of Native Americans, used in names.

Dove: A Dove is an important symbolic animal in Christianity representing the Holy Spirit. The white Dove is referred to in the story of baptism of Christ. The descending Dove is a very common on grave memorials.

Crocodile: Fear, time, magic, honour, speed, stealth, strength, instinct, cunning, bravery, efficiency, resilience, solar power, birth/creation, dependability, indestructability, emotional depth, primal/ancient power. 

Butterfly: A butterfly is occasionally seen on graves most commonly on children’s graves as this represents the resurrection of Christ. There are three stages of a butterfly; the caterpillar, the chrysalis and the butterfly. The three stages are symbols of life, death and resurrection.

Monkey:  The monkey is a symbol meaning fun, charm and an energetic nature. It is one of the signs of the Chinese zodiac which shows a person who has many friends. It is a sign of natural curiosity, but can show self-indulgence and rebellion.