The Griffin is a legendary creature of old Greek mythology which portrays the combined features of a being with the head, talons, and wings of an eagle, the body of a lion, and a feathered back. The animal-like ears are usually shown in the forward position denoting alertness and acute hearing. Griffins sat at the feet of Apollo, held a paw on the zodiac and emitted light. The Griffin was generally believed to be a ferocious monster of enormous size - so large that drinking cups could be made from its claws. Griffins are considered to be symbols of strength and vigilance. In classic mythology Griffins were guardians of gold and godly treasures. They built their nests from gold which made their nests very tempting to hunters. Griffins were then forced to keep vigilant guard over their nests. Therefore, the Griffin is usually associated with acting as a guardian of treasures or of something to be valued.