The therian flag is used by members of the therian community—individuals who experience an intrinsic, non-physical identification with a non-human animal. Displayed by therians and allies alike, the flag serves as a symbol of identity, self-recognition, and community belonging.
TL;DR: The therian flag features green, white, and purple horizontal bands with the theta–delta (ΘΔ) symbol at the center. The colors represent connection to nature, self-understanding, and diversity of experience, while the symbol is widely recognized within therian communities. The flag is available in multiple sizes and is sized for both indoor and outdoor display.
Quick Answer: What Does the Therian Flag Mean?
The therian flag represents therianthropy—the experience of identifying as a non-human animal on a psychological, spiritual, or personal level. While experiences vary widely, the flag functions as a shared symbol across a diverse community.
- The flag represents shared identity across different therian experiences
- Green symbolizes nature and connection to the natural world
- White represents self-awareness and personal understanding
- Purple reflects diversity within the therian community
- The theta–delta (ΘΔ) symbol is a long-standing emblem used in therian spaces
Understanding Therianthropy and the Therian Community
Before exploring the flag itself, it's helpful to understand what therianthropy means. Therianthropy refers to the experience of identifying as a non-human animal in a non-physical sense. This isn't about physical transformation—it's about a deep, personal connection to an animal identity that feels intrinsic to who someone is.
Therians often describe experiencing:
- Mental shifts where they feel more connected to their animal identity
- Phantom sensations of animal features (like tails, ears, or wings)
- Instincts, behaviors, or thought patterns aligned with a specific animal
- A fundamental sense that their identity includes both human and animal aspects
The therian community is diverse, with individuals identifying with various animals—from wolves and cats to birds, reptiles, and beyond. The therian unity flag serves as a unifying symbol across this diverse community, much like how Pride & LGBTQ flags represent various identities within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
While therian identity is sometimes discussed alongside other identity-based communities, therianthropy itself is not a sexual orientation or gender identity. However, many therians are also LGBTQ+, and the flag is often displayed in inclusive spaces.
The Therian Flag: Colors and Symbolism
The therian flag typically features horizontal bands in specific colors, each carrying symbolic meaning:
| Element | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green | Connection to nature and the non-human animal world |
| White | Self-awareness, reflection, and identity clarity |
| Purple | Diversity of therian experiences and identities |
| Theta–Delta (ΘΔ) | A widely used therian community symbol representing identity and continuity |
The color arrangement reflects the therian experience—grounded in nature (green), centered on self-understanding (white), and inclusive of diverse identities and experiences (purple). The central theta–delta (ΘΔ) symbol serves as a long-standing visual marker within therian communities.
Origins and Community Use
The therian flag does not have a single official creator or governing authority. Like many community symbols, it emerged organically through online discussion spaces, forums, and shared use over time.
The theta–delta symbol predates the flag itself and has been used in therian communities for many years. The flag design became more recognizable as online therian spaces grew, offering a visual way to express identity, support, and belonging.
Who Displays the Therian Flag?
The therian flag is displayed by several groups:
Therians Themselves
Individuals who identify as therian display the flag to express their identity, find community, and create affirming spaces. For many, displaying the flag is an act of self-acceptance and visibility.
Allies and Supporters
Friends, family members, and allies display the flag to show support for therians in their lives. This visible support helps create safer, more accepting environments.
Community Spaces
LGBTQ+ centers, diversity offices, counseling centers, and inclusive organizations may display the therian flag alongside other identity flags to signal that therians are welcome and supported.
Educational Settings
Some educators and student groups display the flag as part of broader discussions about identity, diversity, and acceptance.
How to Display the Therian Flag Respectfully
Displaying any identity flag comes with a responsibility to do so respectfully and authentically. Here's how to display the therian flag appropriately:
Indoor Display Ideas
Bedroom or Personal Space
The most common display location is in personal spaces where the flag serves as a daily affirmation of identity. Hang it on a wall using:
- Adhesive strips or poster putty for damage-free mounting
- Thumbtacks or small nails for semi-permanent display
- Decorative clips or string lights for aesthetic presentation
Dorm Rooms and Shared Spaces
In shared living situations, the flag can help identify your space as welcoming and affirming. Consider:
- Hanging it above your bed or desk area
- Using it as a tapestry or wall hanging
- Displaying it alongside other identity or interest flags
Home Offices and Studios
For those who work from home or create content, the flag can be part of your background setup, signaling your identity or allyship during video calls and streams.
Outdoor Display Options
The therian flag is available in multiple sizes—from compact 12×18 inch garden flags to full-size 3×5 ft flags—making it suitable for various outdoor displays:
Flagpoles and Garden Stakes
Mount the flag on a standard flagpole in your yard or use a garden flag stake for smaller displays. Ensure the flag is:
- Secured with appropriate grommets or pole sleeves
- Positioned where it won't tangle or drag on the ground
- Brought in during severe weather to preserve the material
Porches and Balconies
Hang the flag from porch railings, balcony edges, or exterior walls using:
- Weather-resistant mounting hardware
- Zip ties or outdoor-rated clips
- Proper spacing to allow the flag to move freely
Pride Events and Gatherings
Carry the flag at pride parades, community events, or therian meetups. Portable flag sizes (2×3 ft) work well for these settings.
Caring for Your Therian Flag
Proper care ensures your flag remains vibrant and intact for years:
Cleaning
- Machine wash cold with mild detergent
- Air dry completely before storing or re-displaying
- Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can fade colors
Storage
- Fold neatly and store in a cool, dry place
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when not displayed
- Keep away from moisture to prevent mildew
Weather Considerations
- Polyester flags handle light rain and wind well
- Bring flags indoors during storms or extreme weather
- Inspect regularly for fraying or fading
For more detailed flag care guidance, see our post on how to hang a flag on a pole.
Combining the Therian Flag with Other Symbols
Many therians also identify with other communities and may choose to display multiple flags together:
With Pride Flags
Therians who are also LGBTQ+ often display the therian flag alongside pride flags, creating an intersectional representation of their identity.
With Other Identity Flags
Some individuals display the therian flag with otherkin flags, neurodiversity symbols, or other identity markers that represent different aspects of who they are.
With Unity Flags
Pairing the therian flag with unity and togetherness flags emphasizes community, acceptance, and shared values.
When displaying multiple flags:
- Ensure each flag has adequate space and visibility
- Use consistent mounting methods for a cohesive look
- Consider the visual balance of colors and sizes
Choosing the Right Size Therian Flag
Therian flags are available in multiple sizes to suit different display needs:
12×18 inches (Garden Flag Size)
- Perfect for desks, small wall spaces, or doors
- Ideal for subtle, personal displays
- Works well in dorm rooms or shared spaces
2×3 feet (Medium Size)
- Versatile for both indoor and outdoor use
- Good for bedroom walls or small outdoor displays
- Portable enough for events and gatherings
3×5 feet (Standard Flag Size)
- Full-size statement display
- Best for outdoor flagpoles or large wall spaces
- Maximum visibility and impact
For help selecting the right size for your space, check out our guide on how to choose flag size.
Where to Get a Therian Flag
When purchasing a therian flag, look for:
- Durable polyester material that resists fading and fraying
- Multiple size options to fit your display needs
- Quality printing that keeps colors vibrant
- Proper mounting options (grommets or pole sleeves)
- Respectful, non-novelty presentation that honors the flag's meaning
The Therian Unity Flag is designed specifically for identity expression and community support, available in sizes from compact displays to full-size flags for both indoor and outdoor use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the therian flag part of the LGBTQ+ pride flag family?
While the therian flag represents identity and is often displayed alongside LGBTQ+ flags, therianthropy itself is not inherently a sexual orientation or gender identity. However, many therians are also LGBTQ+, and the flag is welcomed in inclusive pride spaces.
Can I display the therian flag if I'm not therian?
Yes, allies can display the flag to show support for therians in their lives or to signal that their space is welcoming to the therian community. Respectful allyship is always appreciated.
What's the difference between therian and furry?
Therians experience a deep identity connection to a non-human animal, while furries are fans of anthropomorphic animal characters and art. Some people are both, but they're distinct communities with different focuses.
Can the therian flag be displayed outdoors year-round?
Yes, polyester therian flags are designed for outdoor display and can withstand typical weather conditions. However, bringing the flag indoors during severe storms helps preserve its longevity.
Are there different versions of the therian flag?
The most common version features green, gray, and white bands, sometimes with a theta–delta symbol. Some variations exist, but the standard design is most widely recognized.
Final Thoughts
The therian flag serves as a powerful symbol of identity, community, and self-understanding for those who experience a connection to non-human animal identity. Whether you're displaying it as a therian yourself or as an ally showing support, the flag represents authenticity, acceptance, and the courage to express who you truly are.
By understanding the flag's meaning, displaying it respectfully, and caring for it properly, you contribute to greater visibility and acceptance for the therian community. Every flag displayed is a statement that diverse identities deserve recognition, respect, and celebration.
