Unique small bird tattoos are the most popular ones in tiny tattoos. That’s mainly thanks to its deep symbolic meanings and cute designs. The bird is generally associated with freedom because it is free to fly in the sky all over the world. 

Many cultures also believe that it symbolizes eternal life. Aztecs thought that flying birds were messengers of the gods, bringing blessings and spreading positivity worldwide. The ancient Egyptians thought that the bird symbol represented the soul leaving a person’s body, and the Celtic people were certain that birds were messengers of the gods.

Bird tattoos originate from the seven sailors of the ship named Swallow. Even nowadays, swallow tattoos symbolize the migration of sailors and their journey to get back home. The two birds carry his soul home to heaven if the sailor doesn’t survive in the sea.

If you’re considering getting a bird tattoo, you’re in luck because Bored Panda has created a list of the very best bird tattoo ideas out there.

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Are Bird Tattoos Cool?

Tattoos were a symbol of strength in the past. Although they’re more of a stylish element in modern times, many people prefer to have tattoos that have meaning. Bird tattoos have come a long way (from ancient ships) to contemporary styles. 

Old-school bird tattoos were all about simplicity, with bird silhouette tattoos or minimalist bird tattoos. Think sparrows and swallows, often seen in sailor tattoos. Now, we’ve got geometric patterns and watercolor splashes, giving bird tattoos an artsy, modern twist. People think little bird tattoos are cool because:

They are a symbol: Birds represent freedom and the open sky.

They get personal: Many find personal meanings in bird species or in their pets.

They are beautiful: Birds are beautiful tattoos with their feathers, and wings.

They bring positive vibes: Birds often evoke feelings of positivity, and hope.

They are easy to have: Small bird tattoos designs come in various sizes, styles, and body placements.

What Do Bird Tattoos Symbolize?

Before getting yourself a bird tattoo, learn about the bird tattoo’s meaning. They hold a variety of interpretations based on the specific bird chosen. Here’s a quick and straight-on-point breakdown of the most common bird tattoos:

Hawk: Represent honor, bravery, and protection.

Swan: Symbol of beauty, elegance, loyalty, and love.

Eagle: Stand for power, strength, and American patriotism.

Cardinal: Represent passion for life, youth, and happiness. 

Parrot: Symbolizes communication due to their talkative nature.

Bluebird: Bring messages of happiness, prosperity, and fortune.

Swallow Tattoos: Represent peace, home, safety, and soul protection.

Blackbird: Represents potential for higher ideals, thoughts, and intelligence.

Owl: Symbolizes knowledge. Some deem them as protectors in the afterlife.

Raven: Signify wisdom and mystery. In the mystic world, they mean darkness.

Dove: Carry religious significance in Christianity. The symbol of peace and love.

Small Bird: Encourages overcoming failures and doubts, a free and unblocked life.

Flying Bird: Symbol of optimism, ease, and family value. Often seen in sets of three.

Source: chronicinktattoo.com

What Does a Dragonfly Tattoo Mean?

Dragonfly is one of the world’s fastest-flying insects. With that speed, dragonflies bring positive vibes wearing them on our skin. Let’s take a look at the dragonfly tattoo symbolism. It’s well known for:

Transformative Energy

The dragonfly’s life cycle, from nymph to flying adult, mirrors personal growth and transformation.

Surviving Skills

They’re skilled fliers, representing the ability to navigate challenges gracefully.

Harmony With Nature

Dragonflies are often linked to nature, symbolizing a connection to the green world.

Different Cultural Backgrounds

Indian Beliefs: Represents vision and intuitive guidance from us. 

Japanese Culture: A symbol of courage, rebirth, and happiness.

Vietnamese Culture: Flying low means rainy days. Weather prediction.

Native American Beliefs: Represent the souls of those who passed away.

Chinese Symbolism: They’re linked with prosperity and financial stability.

#19

Colorful foot bird tattoo

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What Does the Phoenix Tattoo Mean for Guys?

The Phoenix tattoo is a powerful symbol for people in general. Still, it’s a highly sought-after bird tattoo for men. It represents rebirth, resilience, and transformation. The Phoenix is a mythical bird reborn from its ashes. This story of resurrection and renewal makes it an appealing choice for men. It signifies overcoming challenges and getting stronger in life. Plus, its fiery nature and majestic presence make for an awesome tattoo that elicits strength and power.

#21

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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Maggie Dougherty
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh my gosh!!! This is my all time favorite tattoo!!! I love Hummingbirds and those are all my favorite colors!! I love how it looks so free, just looking for his next flower.

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#26

Unique collarbone bird tattoo

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Samantha Rodriguez
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The closeup of the trees don't seem to be part of the bird tattoo... Can anyone see where it would be??

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What is the Meaning of Small Blue Bird Tattoo Designs? 

A small bluebird tattoo symbolizes joy, hope, and the potential for a brighter future. The cute, small Bluebird is a positive omen of good luck and prosperity. The tribe Cochiti (Native Americans) consider this small bird a blessing because, in their beliefs, the son of the Sun was called the Bluebird. Something about this bird just makes people happy. Bluebirds are popular bird tattoos for women who want to manifest positivity in their lives.

#29

Bird tattoo

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Where is the Best Place for a Small Bird Tattoo?

The best spots for a small bird tattoo are visual spots like the wrist, ankle, collarbone, and behind the ear. Consider visibility, pain level, and personal significance before getting a small bird tattoo. The best spot is where it holds the most meaning for you. If you want to always look at it, do a bird tattoo on hand.

#37

Colorful two bird body tattoo

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#39

Colorful shoulder bird tattoo

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Justin time
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It kiiinda looks like the little bird and his branch were inside her back and they made a break for freedom!

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#42

Colorful peacock cheekbone tattoo

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#43

Pink flamingo hand tattoo

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#45

Cheekbone bird tattoo

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#46

Small wrist bird tattoo

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#47

Bird shoulder tattoo

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#48

Colorful bird legs tattoo

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#49

Small bird wrist tattoo

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#50

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#52

cheekbone bird tattoo

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#53

Colorful cheekbone bird tattoo

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Wombat34
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Beautiful but unfortunately looks a bit like it's taking a s**t

#54

Colorful leg bird tattoo

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#55

Colorful bird back tattoo

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#56

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#57

Owl arm tattoo

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#59

Colorful shoulder bird tattoo

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#60

Colorful shoulder bird tattoo

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#61

Bird and roses hand tattoo

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#62

Colorful bird tattoo

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#63

Shoulder bird tattoo

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#64

Small bird back tattoo

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#65

Colorful collarbone bird tattoo

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#66

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#67

Peacock collarbone tattoo

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#68

cheekbone bird tattoo

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#70

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#71

Colorful leg bird tattoo

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#72

Unique collarbone bird tattoo

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#73

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#74

Colorful bird tattoo

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#75

Seagull hand tattoo

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Ewelina Pyżyńska
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I personally love seagulls they are one of my favorites birds and they remind me of the place where I was born.

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#76

Colorful parrot hand tattoo

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#77

One line hand bird tattoo

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#78

Small bird foot tattoo

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#79

Colorful pelvis bird tattoo

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#80

Bird hand tattoo

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#81

Hand bird tattoo

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#82

Colorful shoulder bird tattoo

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#83

Red phoenix back tattoo

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#84

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#85

Colorful leg bird tattoo

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#86

Bird chest tattoo

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Katrin Richter
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would love to see it in color, if there is any color, cause it must be stunning! I would like to have something similar...

#87

cheekbone bird tattoo

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#88

Colorful back bird tattoo

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#89

Back bird and cage tattoo

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#91

Small collarbone bird tattoo

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#92

Colorful shoulder bird tattoo

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#93

Colorful collarbone bird tattoo

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#94

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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xnmuller
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's probably the first Toucan I've seen. I like it, its different because it's a Toucan.

#95

Colorful leg bird tattoo

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Dawn Ferrera
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And if you're an expert on watercolours then you should show everyone.......

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#96

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#97

Colorful cheekbone bird tattoo

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#98

Colorful cheekbone bird tattoo

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#99

Colorful full arm sleeve bird tattoo

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#100

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#102

Colorful bird and cage tattoo

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#103

Owl hand tattoo

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#104

Rooster chest tattoo

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#105

Chest bird tattoo

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Mary Alice Lynch
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There are way too many tattoos on this list for me to choose a favorite, but I keep finding myself drawn to your clean minimalist designs. This one in particular is stunning.

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#106

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#107

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#108

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#109

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#111

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#112

Hand crow tattoo

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#113

Colorful hand bird and waves tattoo

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#114

Colorful cheekbone hand tattoo

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#115

Colorful hand bird tattoo

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#116

Colorful back bird tattoo

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#117

Hand bird tattoo

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#118

Shoulder owl tattoo

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#119

Colorful peacock cheekbone tattoo

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#121

Arm bird tattoo

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#123

Arm and shoulder colorful bird tattoo

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#124

Chest bird tattoo

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Justin time
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Lovely take on the two sparrows you usually see on peoples chests!

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#125

Small bird hand tattoo

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#126

Bird and roses leg tattoo

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#127

Bird arm tattoo

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#128

Colorful arm bird tattoo

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#129

Colorful cheekbone bird tattoo

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#130

Colorful leg bird tattoo

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#131

Bird Tattoo

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#132

Colorful foot bird tattoo

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#133

Colorful back bird tattoo

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#134

Colorful collarbone bird tattoo

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#135

Colorful cheekbone bird tattoo

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#136

Colorful arm bird tattoo

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#137

Arm bird tattoo

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#138

Colorful arm bird tattoo

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#139

Colorful arm bird tattoo

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#140

Colorful leg bird tattoo

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#142

Colorful arm bird tattoo

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#143

Colorful back and shoulder bird and flowers tattoo

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#144

Small bird tattoo

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#145

Colorful flower and bird cheekbone tattoo

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#146

colorful arm bird tattoo

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Satomi Sumati
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ma'am, I feel like you are being a bit cynical. The artists that did these pour their souls into the things they create.

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#148

Back bird tattoo

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#149

Arm bird tattoo

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#150

colorful collarbone bird tattoo

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#151

Hand bird tattoo

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#152

Colorful cheekbone bird tattoo

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#153

Colorful back bird tattoos

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#154

Bird Tattoo

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#155

Leg owl tattoo

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#156

Small shoulder bird tattoo

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#157

Big leg bird tattoo

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#158

Arm bird tattoo

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#159

Back bird tattoo

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#160

Colorful bird and flower leg tattoo

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#161

Arm bird tattoo

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#162

Arm bird tattoo

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#163

Colorful chest bird tattoo

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#164

Colorful arm bird tattoo

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#165

Arm bird tattoo

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#166

Chest crow and key tattoo

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#167

Colorful leg bird tattoo

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#168

Colorful leg bird tattoo

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#169

Colorful arm bird tattoo

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#170

Colorful back bird tattoo

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#171

Crow and cat arm tattoo

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#172

Colorful arm bird tattoo

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#174

Crow hand tattoo

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#175

Owl leg tattoo

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#176

Colorful chest bird tattoo

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#177

Colorful bird and face leg tattoo

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#178

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#179

Owl hand tattoo

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#180

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#181

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#182

Owl hand tattoo

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#183

Colorful shoulder hand tattoo

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#184

Bird hand tattoo

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#185

Hand bird tattoo

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#186

Owl hand tattoo

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#187

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#188

Owl hand tattoo

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#189

Bird chest tattoo

Mo Ganji Report

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#190

Colorful bird hand tattoo

sanne vaghi Report

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#191

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#193

Bird hand tattoo

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#194

Colorful bird and flowers hand tattoo

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#195

Colorful bird and flowers hand tattoo

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#196

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#197

Flaming hand tattoo

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#198

Colorful back tattoo

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#199

Colorful bird leg tattoo

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#200

Colorful crow neck tattoo

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#201

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#202

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#203

Colorful bird cheekbone tattoo

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#204

Colorful bird leg tattoo

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#205

Colorful bird hand tattoo

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#206

Crow hand tattoo

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