Of Japanese proverbs and animals...

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Monkeys, hawks and frogs are animals commonly found in many parts of Japan, and it is of no wonder that they are often referred to in Japanese proverbs.

Some clever examples:
鳶が鷹を産む。 Tonbi ga taka wo umu.
Literally: A kite giving birth to a hawk.
Meaning: A splendid child born from common parents.

猿も木から落ちる。 Saru mo ki kara ochiru.
Literally: Even monkeys fall from trees.
Meaning: Everyone can make mistakes.

蛙の子は蛙。 Kaeru no ko wa kaeru.
Literally: The child of a frog is a frog.
Meaning: Like father, like son.

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