Mythical Creatures:
* Dragons: Powerful, wise, and often associated with fire and treasure.
* Unicorns: Pure, mystical creatures representing innocence and healing.
* Phoenix: Symbol of rebirth, immortality, and resilience.
* Griffins: Guardian creatures, often associated with strength and protection.
* Sphinxes: Wise and enigmatic creatures known for their riddles.
* Chimeras: Creatures made up of different animals, representing the power of transformation.
* Fairies: Enchanting and mischievous creatures associated with nature and magic.
Real Animals with Magical Associations:
* Cats: Often seen as mystical and independent, associated with witchcraft and the supernatural.
* Owls: Known for their wisdom and ability to see in the dark, often linked to magic and divination.
* Bats: Considered symbols of transformation and the unknown, often associated with darkness and magic.
* Snakes: Representing wisdom, transformation, and healing in some cultures, but also associated with danger and the dark side of magic.
* Ravens: Often linked to prophecy, mystery, and the supernatural, known for their intelligence and connection to the unseen.
* Frogs: Associated with transformation and fertility, often seen as guardians of magical realms.
* Butterflies: Representing transformation, rebirth, and the delicate beauty of nature.
Cultural Specific Examples:
* Basilisk: A legendary serpent from Greek mythology, said to kill with a single glance.
* Kirin: A mythical creature from Chinese mythology, a symbol of good fortune and peace.
* Manticora: A mythical creature from Persian mythology, with a lion's body, human head, and scorpion tail.
Remember, these are just a few examples. The specific animals associated with magic can vary widely depending on the culture, time period, and specific belief system.