Native American Animal Symbols and Zodiac Signs

Native American Animal Zodiac Signs

Last Updated on March 1, 2024 by Avia

Exploring Native American Animal Symbols And Zodiac Signs: Native American animal symbols can encompass just about all the animals, and their symbolic representation to the many tribes of the Americas. To narrow down the focus a bit, this page is devoted to birth animals – or zodiac animals.

Native American Animal Symbols: Meanings of Native Zodiac Signs

Many Native American cultures have the belief that a person is assigned an animal upon the time of birth.

Another source of Native American animal symbols is the Animal Totems is a link to a page on this website. Below are interpreted Native American symbols of the zodiac and the characteristics for each one.

Native American Animal Symbols and Zodiac Signs
Native Amercan animal symbols

“The life of an Indian is like the wings of the air. That is why you notice the hawk knows how to get his prey. The Indian is like that. The hawk swoops down on its prey; so does the Indian. In his lament, he is like an animal. For instance, the coyote is sly; so is the Indian. The eagle is the same. That is why the Indian is always feathered up; he is a relative to the wings of the air.”
~ Black Elk, Oglala Sioux Holy Man

Native American Bear Meaning and Symbolism
Native American Bear Meaning and Symbolism

Native American Animal Symbols and Zodiac Sign Meanings

Otter

January 20 – February 18
A little quirky, and unorthodox, the Otter is a hard one to figure sometimes. Perceived as unconventional, Otter methods aren’t the first to be chosen to get the job done. This is a big mistake on the part of others – because although unconventional, Otter’s methods are usually quite effective. Yes, the Otter has an unusual way of looking at things, but he/she is equipped with a brilliant imagination and intelligence, allowing him/her an edge over everyone else. Often very perceptive and intuitive, the Otter makes a very good friend, and can be very attentive. In a nurturing environment, the Otter is sensitive, sympathetic, courageous, loyal and honest. Left to his/her own devices, the Otter can be unscrupulous, lewd, rebellious, and isolated. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Otter Meanings.

Wolf

February 19 – March 20
Deeply emotional, and wholly passionate, the Wolf is the lover of the zodiac in both the physical and philosophical sense of the word. The Wolf understands that all we need is love, and is fully capable of providing it. Juxtaposed with his/her fierce independence – this Native American animal symbol is a bit of a contradiction in terms. Needing his/her freedom, yet still being quite gentle and compassionate – we get the picture of the “lone wolf” with this sign. In a nurturing environment, the Wolf is intensely passionate, generous, deeply affectionate, and gentle. Left to his/her own devices the Wolf can become impractical, recalcitrant, obsessive, and vindictive. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Wolf Meanings here.

Hawk

March 21 – April 19
A natural-born leader, the Hawk can always be looked upon for clear judgment in sticky situations. Furthermore, the characteristics for this Native American animal symbol never wastes time, rather he/she strikes while the iron is hot, and takes action in what must be done. Ever persistent, and always taking the initiative, the Hawk is a gem of a personality to have for projects or team sports. The Hawk can be a little on the conceited side – but he/she is usually right in his/her opinions – so a little arrogance is understood. In a supportive environment, the Hawk “soars” in his/her ability to maintain passion and fire in relationships, and always remaining compassionate. Left to his/her own devices, the Falcon can be vain, rude, intolerant, impatient, and over-sensitive. See more information on  Symbolic Hawk Meanings here.

Beaver

April 20 – May 20
Take charge, adapt, overcome – this is the Beaver motto. Mostly business, the Beaver gets the job at hand done with maximum efficiency and aplomb. Strategic, and cunning the Beaver is a force to be reckoned with in matters of business and combat. One might also think twice about engaging the Beaver in a match of wits – as his/her mental acuity is razor sharp. The Beaver has everything going for him/her – however tendencies toward “my way or the highway” get them in trouble. Yes, they are usually right, but the bearer of this Native American animal symbol may need to work on tact. In a nurturing environment, the Beaver can be compassionate, generous, helpful, and loyal. Left to his/her own devices the Beaver can be nervous, cowardly, possessive, arrogant, and over-demanding. Learn more about the Beaver totem here. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Beaver Meanings here.

Stag – Deer

May 21 – June 20
This Native American animal symbol is the muse of the zodiac. The Deer is inspiring lively and quick-witted. With tailor-made humor, the Deer has a tendency to get a laugh out of anyone. Excellent ability for vocalizing, the Deer is a consummate conversationalist. This combined with his/her natural intelligence makes the Deer a must-have guest at dinner parties. Always aware of his/her surroundings, and even more aware of his/her appearance, the Deer can be a bit self-involved. However, the Deer’s narcissism is overlooked because of his/her congeniality and affability. In a supportive environment the Deer’s natural liveliness and sparkly personality radiate even more. He/she is an inspiring force in any nurturing relationship. Left to his/her own devices the Deer can be selfish, moody, impatient, lazy, and two-faced. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Stag and Deer Meanings here.

Woodpecker

June 21 – July 21
Woodpeckers are usually the most nuturing of all the Native American animal symbols. The consummate listener, totally empathic and understanding, the Woodpecker is the one to have on your side when you need support. Of course, they make wonderful parents, and equally wonderful friends and partners. Another proverbial feather in the Woodpeckers cap is the tendency to be naturally frugal, resourceful, and organized. In a nurturing environment, the Woodpecker is of course caring, devoted, and very romantic. Left to his/her own devices the Woodpecker can be possessive, angry, jealous, and spiteful. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Woodpecker Meanings here.

Salmon

July 22 – August 22
Electric, focused, intuitive, and wholly creative, the Salmon is a real live-wire. His/her energy is palpable. A natural motivator, the Salmon’s confidence and enthusiasm is easily infectious. Soon, everybody is on board with the Salmon – even if the idea seems too hair-brained to work. Generous, intelligent, and intuitive, it’s no wonder why the Salmon has no shortage of friends. This Native American animal symbol expresses a need for purpose and goals, and has no trouble finding volunteers for his/her personal crusades. In a supportive environment, the Salmon is stable, calm, sensual, and giving. Left to his/her own devices, those that bear this Native American animal symbol can be egotistical, vulgar, and intolerant of others. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Fish Meanings here.

Bear

August 23 – September 21
Pragmatic, and methodical the Bear is the one to call when a steady hand is needed. Bear practicality and level-headedness makes him/her an excellent business partner. Usually the voice of reason in most scenarios, the Bear is a good balance for Owls. This Native American animal symbol is also gifted with an enormous heart, and a penchant for generosity. However, one might not know it as the Bear tends to be very modest, and a bit shy. In a loving environment, this Native American animal symbol showers love and generosity in return. Further, the Bear has a capacity for patience and temperance, which makes him/her excellent teachers and mentors. Left to his/her own devices the bear can be skeptical, sloth, small-minded and reclusive. You might also want to read my page on Native American Bear Meaning here.

Raven

September 22 – October 22
Highly enthusiastic, and a natural entrepreneur, the Crow is quite the charmer. But he/she doesn’t have to work at being charming – it comes easily. Everyone recognizes Crow exudes effortless energy, and everyone turns to the Crow for his/her ideas and opinions. This is because the Crow is both idealistic and diplomatic and is quite ingenious. In nurturing environments, this Native American animal symbol is easy-going, can be romantic, and soft-spoken. Further, the Crow can be quite patient, and intuitive in relationships. Left to his/her own devices, the Crow can be demanding, inconsistent, vindictive, and abrasive. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Raven Meanings here.

Snake

October 23 – November 22
Most shamans are born under this Native American animal symbol. The Snake is a natural in all matters of spirit. Easily attuned to the ethereal realm the Snake makes an excellent spiritual leader. Also respected for his/her healing capacities, the Snake also excels in medical professions. Snake-sign preoccupation with matters intangible often leads others to view them as mysterious, and sometimes frightening. True, the Snake can be secretive, and a bit dark – he/she is also quite sensitive, and caring. In a supportive relationship, the cool Snake can be passionate, inspiring, humorous, and helpful. Left to his/her own devices, the Snake can be despondent, violent, and prone to abnormal mood swings. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Snake Meanings here.

Owl

November 23 – December 21
Changeable and mutable as the wind, the Owl is a tough one to pin down. Warm, natural, with an easy-going nature, the Owl is a friend to the world. The bearer of this Native American animal symbol is notorious for engaging in life at full speed, and whole-hearted loves adventure. This can be to his/her detriment as the Owl can be reckless, careless, and thoughtless. Owls make great artists, teachers, and conservationists. However, due to his/her adaptability and versatility – the Owl would likely excel in any occupation. In a supportive, nurturing environment the Owl is sensitive, enthusiastic, and an attentive listener. Left to his/her own devices, the Owl can be excessive, overindulgent, bitter, and belligerent. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Owl Meanings here.

Goose

December 22 – January 19
If you want something done – give it to the Goose. Persevering, dogged, and ambitious to a fault, the Goose sets goals for accomplishment, and always obtains them. The goose is determined to succeed at all cost – not for the approval of other – but those with this Native American animal symbol compete with his/her own internal foe. Driven is the watchword for the Goose’s dominating personality trait – which makes them excellent in business and competitive sports. When tempered with supportive, nurturing family and friends, the Goose excels in all things he/she attempts. In a loving environment, the Goose can be very passionate, humorous, gregarious, and even sensual. However, lead to his/her own devices, the Goose may fall into obsessive or addictive behaviors that will inevitably be his/her demise. You might also want to read my page on Symbolic Goose Meanings here.I hope you have enjoyed these Native American animal symbols. Continue your learning experience by browsing other in-site articles shown on this page.


Thanks for reading, and have fun exploring!

Mighty brightly,

© Copyrighted. All Rights Reserved.

Native American Selections From Amazon to Enhance Your Star Quest

Deepen Your Connection With Your Animal Totems With These Amazon Selections

Want More? Check Out These Amazon Selections About Native American Symbols

native american symbols

Native American symbols offer us a complete and reverent language of life, nature, and spirit. This language is unmatched in its depth and power. Access all Native American articles on this site here.

Native American Full Moon Names
and Meanings

Native American full moon names (below listed) were established by eastern and northern tribes such as the Algonquin and the Iroquois Confederacy. Get Native American full moon meanings here.

Whats-Your-Sign.com (WYS) is a trusted Etsy affiliate & Amazon Associate. We also promote certain products we've tested and approved. As such, the website features sponsored products for Amazon or Etsy or other afiliates. Should you make a purchase from a link on this website, WYS may receive a small commission. This website also hosts advertisements. Please see our policy page for further information. Thank you for your purchases, as it contributes to keeping this website online and running.