The Water Bird. A symbol of the renewal of life, rainy seasons, rivers, distant travel, distant vision & wisdom. many times inaccurately called "thunder bird", not a South Western tradition, but one of the plains Indians. Connected with lightning, thunder and visions. Those who dream of the thunder beings will become Heyokas -- those who live out their dreams backwards (Lakota tradition) This image has been modified and used as the symbol of the Native American Church, founded by Comanche Quannah Parker around 1910.
The Hummingbird. Paired or sometimes water birds or quail, symbolized in mated pairs as symbols of devotion, life cycles, permanence and eternity. Often modified in many simple forms. Hummingbirds are known to be very ferocious fighters and defenders of their territory. Many times stronger than their small size would suggest.
The Parrot. Connected with both the sun and the coming of the rainy season. Considered carriers of specific prayers and could bestow blessings. Kept for their colorful feathers & beauty by many Pueblo Indians, they were gotten by trading with the people to the far South. They were a very expensive possession at that time. So they were also used as a status symbol.
The Crane. Connected with water and the end of the growing season, symbols of migratory fowl like Sand hill Cranes are commonly used in pottery and petrography from the Mimbre culture in South Western New Mexico.
The Turkey. Food source that is mentioned in several Tewa Pueblo stories. Its feathers have many spiritual & ritual uses.
The Turkey. Food source that is mentioned in several Tewa Pueblo stories. Its feathers have many spiritual & ritual uses.
The Eagle. Master of the skys. A carrier of prayers. Many Indian Nations honor this bird as possessing courage, wisdom, and a special connection to the creator. Often confused with the "thunder bird". The Eagle is considered a protector, the sky spirit, and a symbol associated with visions & spirits
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