South Bird

The South Bird (サウスバード, Sausu Bādo) is a type of bird found on Jaya. These strange looking birds have a freak habit of always pointing their head south, no matter where they are (much to the amusement of Luffy). In fact, they find it most uncomfortable to point in any other direction. Because of this, they were used in ancient times to navigate. They have a loud wailing call that can control bugs.



Jaya South Bird
When Luffy and his crew needed a South Bird for going to the Knock-Up Stream. A certain South Bird gave the crew trouble by calling various large bugs and even pigs. Nico Robin eventually caught the bird and held him for the trip to Skypiea. The South Bird escaped once the crew made it to Skypiea. In a comedic twist, the South Bird came back to the Going Merry. Chopper translated for the bird, stating that he did not want to stay at Skypiea. After Chapter 302, the South Bird is not seen again. In the anime, the South Bird's role was somewhat extended to play another comedic role. He annoys Vice Admiral Johnathan in the G-8 Arc. The South Bird was again unseen after that.

First Appearance: Chapter 230; Episode 149



Skypiea South Bird
There are also South Birds located on Skypiea as well as Jaya Island. The South Birds there however are much larger then those found on Jaya and seemingly much friendlier, perhaps too friendly. One saved Zoro's life only so it could steal his lunch. It also laughed at Zoro for getting lost (prompting Zoro to throw his backpack at it). Chopper encounters them one day while helping Gan Fall and he learns from them that Gan Fall was the previous God of Skypiea. Despite its friendly nature, it is not above sacrificing something at hand to save its own skin (such as when it dropped Zoro so the Giant Python would leave it alone).

First Appearance: Chapter 251; Episode 164

Trivia

 * Ironicly, a South Bird started following Zoro, who was lost at the time and needed to go south, but was going in the opposite direction as indicated by the South birds pointing south while he was going in the opposite dirrection. You can why it is ironic can't you.