Birds:
* Robin: This bird is the most important animal in the story, often appearing to Mary and serving as a symbol of hope and renewal.
* Blackbird: Another bird Mary encounters in the garden, symbolizing the return of life and beauty.
* Sparrows: Common birds that Mary sees flitting about the garden, symbolizing everyday life.
* Thrushes: Known for their beautiful song, they represent the joy and peace of nature.
* Magpies: These birds are often associated with trickery and mischief.
* Birds of Paradise: While not specifically mentioned in the book, Dickon mentions seeing these beautiful birds in his travels, highlighting the wonders of nature.
Other Animals:
* Dog: Colin has a small dog named "Skip" who serves as his companion.
* Horse: Mary rides a horse called "Black Beauty" with Martha.
* Rabbits: Mary encounters wild rabbits in the garden, representing the wild and free nature of the secret space.
* Mice: Mary and Colin encounter mice in the garden, representing the small creatures that inhabit the hidden space.
* Sheep: Mary sees sheep grazing on the moors, symbolizing the peaceful and natural world beyond the garden.
* Cats: Although not specifically named, cats are mentioned as being present on the Misselthwaite estate, suggesting the presence of a wider range of animals.
The animals in *The Secret Garden* are not simply background elements, but often serve as symbolic representations of themes such as hope, renewal, freedom, and the power of nature.