The ostrich is mentioned several times in the Bible, often symbolizing desolation and abandonment. In the book of Job, the ostrich is described as a creature that lacks wisdom, yet is swift and powerful: "The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, but cannot match the pinions and feathers of the stork" (Job 39:13). The ostrich's behavior of leaving its eggs on the ground is noted as a lack of understanding, yet it is also admired for its speed and strength. In Lamentations 4:3, the ostrich is used metaphorically to describe the cruelty of the people: "Even jackals offer their breasts to nurse their young, but the daughter of my people has become cruel, like ostriches in the wilderness" . The ostrich's presence in desolate places is also highlighted in Isaiah 13:21 and 34:13, where it is associated with deserted and ruined lands.

Screech Owl

The screech owl is mentioned in the context of desolation and judgment. In Isaiah 34:14, the screech owl is listed among the creatures that inhabit the ruins of Edom: "The desert creatures will meet with hyenas, and one wild goat will call to another. There the screech owl will settle and find a place of repose" . The screech owl, often associated with night and darkness, symbolizes the eerie and forsaken state of a land under divine judgment. The presence of such creatures in prophetic literature underscores the completeness of desolation and the reversal of order in places once inhabited by people.

Gull

The gull is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, but it is often associated with unclean birds due to its scavenging nature. In Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, various birds are listed as unclean, though the gull is not specifically named. However, its characteristics align with those of other unclean birds, which are typically carrion eaters or birds of prey. The gull's presence in biblical lands, particularly near bodies of water, would have been familiar to the people of the time, and its behavior would have been observed as part of the natural order created by God.

Hawk

The hawk is mentioned in the Bible as a bird of prey, known for its keen sight and swift flight. In Job 39:26, the hawk's ability to soar and navigate the skies is attributed to divine wisdom: "Does the hawk take flight by your understanding and spread his wings toward the south?" . The hawk's migratory patterns and hunting prowess are seen as part of God's intricate design in creation. In Leviticus 11:16 and Deuteronomy 14:15, the hawk is listed among the unclean birds, emphasizing its role as a predator and its association with death. The hawk's presence in biblical texts serves as a reminder of the natural order and the boundaries set by God for His creation.