The Aztecs were fascinated by the natural world and it played a significant role in shaping their religious beliefs. Birds and animals held a special significance, as can be seen in the signs of the Aztec calendar, which includes animals such as the deer, jaguar and rabbit. The calendar also includes 'glyphs' — or pictures — of plants and natural forces such as wind and rain. Many animals and plants were also associated with the supernatural, and Aztec gods had animal as well as human aspects.

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