The Gryphon was said to have the body of a lion, and the top half and head of an eagle. It was believed to be bigger than eight lions, and to have the power of an hundred eagles. It was strong enough to carry a horse and its rider in its claws. The Gryphon would attack men and liked the taste of them.
The Gryphon hated horses, and fought off lions that came in hunt of the eggs it laid. It was believed to live in the mountainous caves of Southern India, and to hoard treasure in its cave lair.
Today the Gryphon represents valour and images of it can be seen in shields and emblems.