However, the most common way of gaining knowledge from animals in Welsh and Celtic mythology was to talk with them or to interpret their actions. Exceptionally magic or ancient animals speak the language of humans and can pass on their wisdom through speech. By and large birds are associated with speech. A special understanding of the speech of animals can yield a great advantage. Some heros have gained knowledge of the speech of birds, enabling them to be warned of danger or told secrets by the birds.
Animals appear as an omen by their appearance and activity through a symbolic message.
The type of animal and their activity is the substance of the message. On the eve of his battle with Sir Mordred, King Arthur dreamt of being devoured by serpents, dragons, and other water beasts. The serpents and dragons alone mean great troubles within the land. Another example of an omen is Deirdre's dream of the three great birds. Shape changing is another theme generally involving animals.