The Healing Bird

The legend of the caladrius, a bird with prognostic and healing powers, first appeared in early Indian writings as the haridruva - a yellow bird that cured jaundice. In classical Greek mythology it was a nondescript bird but in the medieval bestiaries it became pure white. The caladrius is used in the coats of arms of the South African Medical and Dental Council and also the Medical University of Soufhern Africa. These appear to be the first use of this medically significant bird in modern heraldry