Loftwing

A Loftwing is a species of bird featured in Skyward Sword. They are used by the citizens of Skyloft to fly around the different regions and are used during the annual Wing Ceremony.

It is a custom in Skyloft for each person to have their own Loftwing. A Loftwing and its rider have a special connection and share a bond that they keep for life. Link's Loftwing is a special, rare breed which causes him to stand out among the rest of the citizens of Skyloft. Notably, Link's Loftwing allows him to access the mainland of the game.

The crest of the Goddess Hylia and later the crest of the Royal Family is that of either a Loftwing alone or with the Triforce above its head, a symbol that appears throughout the land of Hyrule in many games within The Legend of Zelda series.

Trivia

 * The Loftwings bear resemblance to the Shoebill, a species of bird native to Sudan.
 * As all shields in Skyward Sword have a footprint or depiction of the Loftwing on them, it appears the red bird on the Hylian Shield is meant to represent a Crimson Loftwing, a rare breed of the species.
 * In the opening cinematic, one can see Eagus flying a Loftwing for a brief second. Looking close reveals that this Loftwing is either a beta model or simply unfinished, especially noticeable when looking at the face.
 * Many Loftwings bear characteristics similar to their owners. Strich's Loftwing has a similar bowl haircut and belt.  Cawlin's Loftwing has a similar haircut and belt.  Groose's Loftwing has a similar pompadour haircut, and belt matching Groose's necklace.  Zelda's Loftwing has a similar 'golden circles' belt.  Orielle's Loftwing has hair also in braids.