As we have learned in previous lessons, the form each Patronus takes is unique. The form itself is based on the person casting the charm, and each of us is a unique individual, with our own special mix of genetics, environmental factors, experiences, relationships, and choices. Add to this the fact that there are so many families and species of animals in existence, with people often having different interpretations of what their symbolism might mean. For these reasons, there are an untold number of possible Patronus forms, and your own understanding of what that animal represents may be very different from mine and the research I've done, and that's ok. Also, I can't possibly list all potential interpretations of all possible Patronus forms. I do recommend reading the "Extras" section for more ideas and a more detailed list, as well as some ideas for further research.
There are many possible forms a person's Patronus may take, other than the ones we are already familiar with. In this lesson, we are going to do a quick run through of some of the more common examples, as well as some I think people may be interested to learn about. If you are undecided about your own Patronus form and haven't been able to cast one yet, hopefully this will give you a better idea of where to focus.
Alligator/Crocodile: If someone has an alligator Patronus, it's a good bet they are confident, assertive, and rather tough-skinned. They have a strong sense of who they are and don't back down from an argument.
Dolphin: Dolphins are most noted for their sense of fun and playfulness. They don't care much for routine. They are social, full of life, and very intelligent.
Frog: Frog Patronus folks are very intuitive and sensitive people, very in tune with their emotions. They have survived great upheavals.
Orca: Although a symbol of strength, an Orca person is a leader through camraderie. They stand out based on their stability. They excel in creating stable, long-term relationships.
Salmon: Salmon folks are very reliable and dependable. They are lovers of tradition. They are also noted for being highly focused and resilient when tackling life's challenges.
Scorpion: Scorpion Patronus folks dominate in every area of life they choose to focus on. They are very ambitious and often make great leaders. Their emotions run very deep.
Seal: Seals have a wonderful imagination. They focus on their intuition and not on the opinions of those around them. They prefer to live in harmony with others and with their surroundings.
Shark: Sharks know what they want out of life and go after it with gusto and determination. They are adaptable. Many are born leaders.
Turtle: Turtle Patronus folk are very patient and willing to wait for what they want. They make loyal friends and are in their relationships for the long term. They are relaxed and they tend to not worry very much.
Bears enjoy solitude and spending time in reflection; however, they do really well in positions of leadership. They may need to spend time alone, but they also enjoy the company of others and have a curious and spontaneous side. They have really good self-confidence, inner strength, and stability. Mother bears are very nurturing and protective of their cubs.
Speaking in general terms, although the meaning of a bird Patronus is closely tied to the species of bird, those with a bird Patronus tend to be independent and lovers of freedom. They value individuality, beauty, and self-expression. They possess an indomitable spirit and can rise above adversity.
Here's a quick list of some bird Patronus forms and their most common meanings:
Blackbird: keeps secrets, both their own and others; mysterious, and intuitive.
Bluebird: happy and live in the present moment; chooses simplicity over fanciness.
Bluejay: very talkative, and rather assertive to the point of being bossy.
Buzzard: swift, efficient, detail-oriented
Crow: cunning, fearless, smart
Dove: easy going, sensitive, friendly, peace-loving
Eagle: dominant, a leader, proud
Falcon: quick thinker, determined, someone who has overcome significant challenges
Goshawk/Hawk: Strong, honest, perceptive
Heron: Resourceful, takes advantage of opportunities, athletic
Hummingbird: positive, playful, charming, adaptable
Kingfisher: bold, determined, focused
Macaw: artistic, self-confident, attention-getter
Magpie: talkative, confident, brave
Ostrich: positive, regal, curious
Peacock: proud, dignified, high integrity
Penguin: orderly, patient, high integrity
Pheasant: passionate, creative, high self-esteem
Raven: imposing, candid, prefers solitude
Robin: warm, happy, hopeful
Rooster: friendly, non-judgmental, practical
Sparrow: creative, hard worker, team player
Swallow: decisive, hopeful, peaceful
Vulture: resourceful, analytical, doesn't like change
Those who have this Patronus often have a life focused on playfulness and joy. They typically don't take themselves too seriously. They are adaptable and are not fazed by quickly changing circumstances.
Those with an owl Patronus often tend to be secretive and have a hidden side they don't share with very many people. They have a preference for solitude over social interaction. These people have great instincts, and can see past the masks that people wear. They are fascinated with mysteries and trying to make sense of the unknown and uncovering that which is hidden.
It is rare to cast a magical Patronus.
Abraxan Winged Horse: Similar to the Horse Patronus; however, while these folks value their freedom, they prefer to live in their heads. Their thoughts take flight, and they can be described as free spirits. This doesn't mean they never put their dreams into action, though; if it is a path they have chosen, they are among the most determined at making their dreams a reality.
Centaur: Because this Patronus form is half-horse and half-human, folks who cast this form are able to see both sides of any situation They can be unpredictable at times. They usually have a really good sense of humor.
Dragon: Dragon Patronus people are unique and are comfortable living by their own set of rules. Being dominant and assertive, they are natural leaders who stand out in any crowd. They often have very strong convictions.
Erumpent: Those with this Patronus have an unusual amount of determination, will power and stamina. They can tolerate more than the average amount of stress, but if provoked for too long and they decide to respond, their attacks are usually devastating.
Fire-dwelling Salamander: Folks with this Patronus form, as the saying goes, know that what doesn't kill them makes them stronger. They have above average resilience and know they will survive anything life throws at them.
Griffin: A griffin is part Eagle and part Lion. A natural leader, those with a Griffin Patronus are possessed with above average self-confidence. They have a very strong moral code.
Hippogriff: A Hippogriff is part Griffin and part Horse. Being treated with respect is very important to these folks. They are often proud and reserved, but once they've gotten to know you and like you, they can be very protective.
Occamy: Those with this Patronus form thrive on flexibility and tend to rebel when put on a set schedule. They are exceptional at compromise. They excel at creative subjects and revel on reflecting on profound ideas.
Runespoor: Similar to the Snake Patronus, but with the additional abilities of being adept at looking at all sides of a situation and thinking outside the box. They enjoy their intellectual freedom and don't like to be told what to think.
Thestral: These folks are very accepting of others and often display a gentle personality. They feel content when they've completed a project and their hard work is done. More than most, Thestral Patronus people have the ability to accept a great loss and to move forward.
Unicorn: These magical folks tend to prefer solitude and are very choosy when they decide who and what to spend their time with. They are drawn to the positive in life and usually see the bright side in everything. They may have an innocent side as well.
These folks have magnetic personalities and tend to draw others to them. They love a good joke, playing tricks, and having fun. They also possess a strong sense of curiosity.
Snake folks are very down-to-earth and do not live in the world of imagination and dreams. They aren't particularly spontaneous. They are calm and friendly by nature and will normally only attack if provoked. Many are charismatic and draw people to them. Snake people often experience big changes but they are highly focused and resilient, so they resolve those issues and heal quickly.
Spider folks are highly creative and artistic. They are also patient and persistent. They are willing to put in the hard work and then wait for the rewards. They are also acutely aware of the interconnectivity of all things.