Nine-headed Bird

The nine-headed bird (九头鸟) is one of the earliest forms of the Chinese phoenix, worshiped by ancient natives in Hubei Province, which during the Warring States Period was part of the kingdom of Chu (楚). The nine-headed bird was also called the "Nine Phoenix" (九凤), which together with the Chinese dragon, were two of the most widely venerated mythical creatures throughout Chinese history.

The number nine was thought to possess mysterious power in Chinese culture. The nine-headed bird was, and still is believed to be a symbol of wisdom and good fortune.^{[citation needed]}