Fei Yi Bird

Origin and Mythology

Shan Hai Jing · Xishan Jing

Fei Yi is recorded among the birds of Mount Ying, where the source also notes local plants, minerals, and waterways. The text says that eating the bird would cure li, an old term connected with skin disease, and kill insects. This is ancient mythic and medical lore, not modern health guidance or a reason to consume any animal.

Appearance

The Shan Hai Jing describes the bird Fei Yi as quail-like, yellow-bodied, and red-beaked. This coloring design interprets the source with a curled crest, layered golden feathers, teal and vermilion accents, an ornate tail, and cloud-filled branches. The exact plumage patterns, crest, and scenery are modern artistic additions rather than fixed details from the source.

Symbolism

Fei Yi can be read as a small mountain bird transformed into a sign of protection from illness and pests. Its warm yellow body and red beak give it a vivid, memorable contrast. As a coloring page, the crest, feathers, tail ornament, clouds, branches, and leaves invite gold, vermilion, teal, and cream, or an entirely personal palette.