Abstract: Language and culture are interrelated with each other. The differences between English and Chinese animal idioms also reflected the cultural disparities. Analyzing and comparing connotations behind English and Chinese animal idioms，we can see clearly that cultural differences have exerted great influences on animal idioms. This study aims to study the origins and causes of the differences between Chinese and English animal idioms. 

Key words: animal idioms; cultural connotation; cultural roots

摘要：在人类历史发展的漫长进程中，动物一直与人类保持着密切联系并对人类的生存、发展有着深刻的影响。这种亲密无间的关系使得人类对动物产生喜爱、同情、厌恶、恐惧等错综复杂的情感，人们也常常借动物来寄托和表达人的感情，表达对自然，对世界的认识。然而由于地域环境、社会历史、人文景观、生活方式及思维方式的差异，动物习语也体现出了不同民族的个性。本文通过对英汉动物习语的分类和来源等的对比研究,旨在探讨产生英汉动物习语差异的文化根源。

关键词：动物习语; 文化差异; 文化根源