The swallows, martins, and saw-wings, or Hirundinidae, are a family of passerine birds found around the world on all continents, including occasionally in Antarctica. Highly adapted to aerial feeding, they have a distinctive appearance.

What does a pair of swallows mean?

A sailor would have one swallow tattooed before setting out on a journey, and the second swallow tattooed at the end of their tour of duty, upon return to their home port. ... It is also said that if the sailor drowns, the swallows will carry his soul to heaven.

Is a swallow a symbol of hope?

Historically, the swallow carried great symbolic value for brave, adventurous sailors to show their sailing experience and adventures. ... This led many sailors to start embracing the Swallow as a symbol of hope and the successful completion of a long voyage.