Animals and Nature in Ancient Egypt for Kids
The Nile, marshes, farms and deserts gave ancient Egyptians many animals to observe. Images of cats, crocodiles, birds, hippos and falcons can tell us about nature, work and religious ideas, but every image needs a little historical context.
Colour the sacred catLife beside river, marsh and desert
People met different animals in different environments. Fish and water birds belonged to river and marsh life, while cattle, sheep and goats were part of farming. Desert animals also appeared in art and hunting scenes.
A picture can show an animal as food, a working creature, a wild neighbour or a religious symbol. Ask which clues help you decide.
- Fish and water birds
- Cattle, sheep and goats
- Cats, dogs and working animals
- Hippos, crocodiles and desert wildlife
Animals, gods and symbols
Some Egyptian gods were shown with animal features or connected with particular animals. This did not mean that every animal of that kind was a god. It shows how artists used familiar forms to communicate ideas such as protection, kingship or power.
Horus could appear with a falcon connection, Bastet with a cat connection and Anubis with a jackal connection. These are introductions to symbols, not a complete guide to changing beliefs.
Look closely, then colour
Choose an animal picture and make three notes: where it lives, what it is doing and what the artist may want you to notice. Then colour it with a palette inspired by river, desert or night.
If you are unsure, say 'this picture suggests' rather than treating one artwork as proof of every person's life.
Continue exploring
Learning sources
Discover Nile animals, desert wildlife and sacred animal symbols in ancient Egypt through observation, stories and colouring activities.