Animal Symbolism
Buffalo
The buffalo was the most important of all four-legged animals, for it supplied food, clothing, and even houses, which were made from the tanned hides. Because the buffalo contained all these things within himself, and for many other reasons, he was a natural symbol of the universe, the totality of all manifested forms.
Eagle
Eagle represents a state of grace that is reached through inner work. It is the spirit of tenacity, the gift of clear vision, the patience to wait for the appropriate moment. It is to live in balance with heaven and earth. It tells you that the universe is giving you the opportunity to fly above your life's worldly levels, or above the shadow of the past.
Wolf
The Wolf is traditionally seen as the teacher, guide or pathfinder. The Wolf signifies death and rebirth, family and social values; a wolf is fiercely loyal, steadfast and skilled in the protection of self and family.
Bear
The Bear is associated with introspection, healing, solitude, wisdom, change, communication with Spirit, death and rebirth, transformation and astral travel. Bear is the creature of dreams, shamans and mystics.
Turtle
North America is referred to as Turtle Island as the legend says that when the earth was covered with water, Turtle dove to the bottom to bring up earth so that people could have a place to live. Turtle medicine includes patience, self-boundaries and respecting the boundaries of others, self-reliance, tenacity and non-violent defense. It’s a connection with the centre and can help you achieve real balance in your life and spirit Turtle is also associated with the feminine with the power to heal feminine diseases.
Otter
The Otter represents joy, playfulness, sharing and helpfulness. Otter represents the feminine power, is mischievous full of curiosity and laughter demonstrates youthful exuberance and a zeal for life.
Thunderbird or Phoenix
Thunder Beings have strong power. The Thunderbird is symbolic of the power within the thunder and lightning, the thunder is the Great Spirit's earth voice. It represents overcoming impossible odds, reincarnation, new life, renewal, spiritual growth, strength and energy.