Bear
The Bear is a great hunter and symbolizes strength and power. Always treated as a high-ranking guest by many of the cultural groups on the coast, it is also known by for its human-like qualities. The characteristics of the bear that are symbolized in Northwest Coast are a short blunt nose with conspicuous teeth, a protruding tongue, small upright ears and claw-like fore and hind paws.
Beaver
Sometimes associated with hard work, perseverance and determination, Beaver depicted in Northwest Coast art is the one of the easiest to recognize. Two identifying symbols are the large incisors teeth and the flat, broad tail. These two elements are always used, with the tail being crosshatched to resemble the patterning on the scaly surface.
Bukwus
Bukwus is a skeletal, long-haired wild man of the Kwakiutl legend. It is a supernatural ghost like figure. He also sometimes known as the “King of Ghosts” or “Man of the Sea” He lives in an invisible house in the forest and attracts the spirits of those who have drowned to his home. Bukwus also tries to persuade humans to eat ghost food so that they will become like him. Bukwus is sometimes mistakenly identified with the Salish Sasquatch.
Eagle
Eagle can be a symbol of power. Eagle belongs to the supernatural world and is next in line to Thunderbird. The down from the eagle is a symbol of peace and would be sprinkled before guests in welcome dances. Eagle feathers are used in ritual and as decoration for masks and other carvings. Eagle's beak is shorter than Raven's and has a downward curve. Often the tongue is evident.
Frog
Because of its ability to live in both the water and on land, is associated with communication, and the transference of knowledge and power. It is recognizable by a large mouth, thick lips, and no teeth.
Heron
The heron is valued as an alarm caller because of its loud warning call. In Myth, Heron appears as a watchman. It is identified with a long neck, long legs and pointed bill
Hummingbird
Hummingbird is thought by some to be a joyful messenger. If a hummingbird appears at a time of sorrow or pain, healing will follow.
Kingfisher
Kingfisher is generally viewed positively, as a messenger and a sign of good luck to come.
Loon
Loon is known for its unique and haunting voice; it is a carrier of power and magic. Loon symbolizes wealth and is generally depicted with a long pointed beak and in a floating posture.
Moon
Moon illuminates the night sky and controls the tides. Moon is associated with transformation and is an important guardian spirit and protector.
Otter
The Otter is a playful spirit and is often associated with the Shaman. In legend, Otter is the dispenser of great riches and symbolizes wealth and light heartedness. Identified by a blunt head, sharp teeth and streamlined body
Owl
Owls represent a bird of wisdom and intuition, magic and prophecy. Owls are often seen as messengers. Some healers call upon the Owl for insight into the truth of ill-intent. Some First Nations believed that the sound of the Owl was a call to summon the spirit world.
Raven
Ravens are a cultural focus for the northwest people, mischievous and curious, it discovered the sun and moon. Raven symbolizes creation, knowledge and prestige.
Salmon
The Giver of Life. Salmon is an important food source for the people of the Northwest Coast and accordingly always treated with great respect, and is often the crest figure for twins. Salmon is depicted with no teeth, but often with the hooked upper jaw associated with spawning salmon.
Sun
Our Sun is thought to have been put into the sky by Raven, along with the moon and the stars. Some believed that entry to the sky world could be gained by the long rays of the sun. Providing the Earth with healing energy, the Sun symbolizes life and creative power.
Thunderbird
This great bird, living high in the mountains is one of the most powerful of all the spirits, the personification of Chief and protector of people. The flapping of wings was thought to be the sound of thunder, and lightning flashed from his eyes. He is distinguished from eagle by the curled 'ears' or feather tufts on the top of his head. These are believed by some to be power symbols.
Turtle
The turtle is a sacred creature among Native American tribes. Each tribe's cultural view of the turtle/tortoise, is slightly different; however, the deeper meaning remains the same: the turtle represents Unc makha, Lakhóta for Grandmother Earth, who teaches us to walk our paths in peace.
Whale/Orca
The traveler and guardian of the seas, Killer Whale is called by some "Lord of the Ocean." To the Kwakiutl, all great chiefs who die are transformed into Orcas. They are believed to be closely related to humans, thus allowing transformation from one to another. Orcas symbolize long life.
Wolf
Wolf’s was often associated with the spirit power a man would have to acquire to be a good hunter. It also symbolizes family and togetherness because of its habit of living in packs. Wolf is the land manifestation of killer whale, which also lives in family groups or pods. The characteristics are a long snout with sharp teeth and prominent ears, and a long bushy tail.