The phoenix is very similar to a dragon. They are similar because they both show in their own way their connection to fire and flames. A phoenix dies in a burst of flames and a reincarnation of the bird rises from the ashes. A phoenix an not only be similar to a dragon but can be different because it is a type of bird. It says in Wikipedia, "According to some sources, the phoenix dies in a show of flames and combustion, although there are other sources that claim that the legendary bird dies and simply decomposes before being born again."