A swallow tattoo is a great addition to any ink enthusiast’s collection. Swallows are part of a family of birds called passerine birds, they are found in every continent in the world excluding Antarctica.

The swallow tattoo is an iconic design in tattoo history, it is the most popular bird tattoo to get.

Check below for outstanding original swallow tattoo designs and for great traditional swallow tattoos by clicking here.

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Traditional Swallow Tattoos

The swallow tattoo originates from Britain, in the early days of sailing the swallow tattoo was worn by sailors to symbolize their sailing experience. The swallow tattoo was also said to have protected the wearer from disappearing at sea. British sailors would often get a swallow tattoo just before departing on a long journey and a second swallow tattoo upon return to port, marking the success of the journey. The significance of the pair of swallow tattoos references one of the behavioral traits of swallows, who return to the same place every year to lay their eggs. If a sailor with a swallow tattoo perished at sea it was believed that the swallow tattoo would carry his soul to heaven.

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