Simurgh

Historical Background
In Persian mythology, Simurgh was a gigantic winged bird-like creature. It had the body of a bird (specifically a peacock, though it had features of an eagle or falcon as well), lion's claws and a dog's head. Its feathers are copper-colored. It was so strong, it could carry an elephant or camel through the air. It was an ancient creature that is so old, it has seen the world destroyed 3 times previously. As such, it possesses the knowledge of all ages. If its wings touched any lifeform, it would cure them of any illness or injury. It is considered the natural enemy of snakes. It is said to reside in a place filled with water, Vouruskasha, the world ocean which had the Tree of Life, Gaokerena, at its center. Atop that tree, Simurgh roosted. In Iranian art, it was usually depicted as a giant bird, not a chimera of sorts.