Native American tribes are numerous throughout our lands. Animal symbolism may vary from tribe to tribe. Following are some basic attributes of animals from Crane to Dolphin.
Crane
Cranes are beautiful and graceful birds that can live for decades. Both the male and female care for their young. Their spectacular mating dances have made them highly symbolic birds in many cultures with records dating back to ancient times. Crane mythology is not only found in Native American cultures, but is also found in areas such as the Aegean, South Arabia, China, Korea, and Japan.
Symbolism: justice, longevity, independent, intelligent, and vigilant
Crocodile
The lineage of the crocodile is ancient. It is believed by experts that they have changed little since the time of the dinosaurs. Their species goes back to over 200 million years ago -- they have survived disastorous extinction events in history. Crocodiles are at the top of the predator list. The term "crocodile tears" is symbolic of the lack of control a crocodile has over its emotions. The female is very protective of her young.
Symbolism: emotional, aggressive, protective, survivor
Crow
Crows have the ability to recognize different humans and know which ones are good or bad. They will squawk loudly when they see someone they do not particularly like. They can be taught to speak like humans and can make good pets. In some cultures, crows are a sign of good luck. They are intelligent, creative, and energetic. They work together with other crows in their flock to achieve their needs. They can be very pesty to humans and livestock. They are adaptable to changing weather and situations. They remain in their territory year round. They do not forget injustices to them or their flock. They have a bit of a mystic or mysterious character.
Symbolism: justice, shape shifting, change, creativity, spiritual strength, energy, community sharing, need to find balance
Deer
The doe of this species cares for the fawns. A male deer, once it leaves the mother, usually never
returns to her. A female deer may return to its mother with her own fawns and form small herds. The deer is a very gentle, peaceful animal and is always very in tune with their surroundings. The does are very compassionate and sensitive to the safety of their young.
Symbolism: gentleness, love, peace, innocence, gentle sensitivity, attunement
Dolphin
The dolphin is a happy and playful marine animal. They like harmony and balance. They are among the most intelligent of animals and can easily be trained as pets. Dolphins are very social animals that live in pods of up to a dozen individuals. They can express signs of deep emotion. They are very friendly to humans and have been known to help humans in distress. Most dolphins have acute eyesight, both in and out of the water, and they can hear frequencies ten times or more higher than that of adult human hearing.
Symbolism: intelligence, power of breath and sound, love, joy, harmony, kindness, wisdom, playful, capable of deep emotions
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