Heraldic beasts are mythical or real animals used in heraldry, the practice of designing and displaying coats of arms and emblems. These creatures symbolize various qualities and traits, such as bravery, wisdom, or strength. Common examples include the lion, representing courage, and the eagle, symbolizing nobility. These beasts often appear in a stylized form on shields, banners, and other heraldic devices. Each heraldic beast has specific rules regarding its depiction, including posture and color, which convey different meanings. The use of heraldic beasts can be traced back to medieval Europe, where they served to identify individuals and families, such as knights and nobility.