Native American totem animals are similar to the astrological Zodiac signs, except that they are based on Medicine Wheel principles and thus take into account the earth’s seasonal factors rather than celestial positioning. Totems, or animal symbols, are representations of specific qualities. As animals are predictable creatures, they make excellent symbols for human behavioral characteristics. The dogged persistence of the beaver and the mysterious intrigue of the snake are fitting representations of the various aspects of human nature. Unlike the constellations of the familiar Zodiac signs, animals and seasons possess qualities humans can identify with. From animals, we can learn more about ourselves.
A physical totem can be utilized by its owner to tap the energies of the represented animal. A carving of the animal, or even part of the animal itself (claws, horns, hair), may serve as the physical totem. Totems, in this way, form a bridge between the owner of the item and the powers inherent in the animal they represent.
The days between December 22 and January 19 are known as the “Renewal Time” and people born during this period are represented by the Goose Native American totem animal. People of the Goose sign are powerfully insightful, focused, and determined. Resourceful and imaginative, the Goose is more likely to reach his or her lofty goals than most. While their perfectionism allows them to perform tasks with the highest integrity and care, it is important for those of the Goose sign not to be overly critical of themselves.
Though much of their energy is focused on their life’s many goals, those with the Goose totem make extremely dependable partners and friends. As practical sorts, they dislike insincerity and tend to be intolerant of it in others. While never insincere, it is common for the Goose adopt a reserved air, hiding their feelings from others.
Otter totem animals, born between January 20 and February 18, are friendly, adaptable, sociable, inventive, and creative. These original thinkers oftentimes use their creativity to produce unconventional ideas which may seem wild at first, but brilliant upon second glance. Born during “Cleansing Time”, Otters enjoy reformation efforts and helping others succeed. True humanitarians, otters possess the amiability and intellect necessary to succeed themselves.
Otters can be more spontaneous than some are comfortable with, and their dislike of conventional practices can cause friction in the workplace. Otters should learn to hone their creative ability to produce unique ideas, while still respecting others’ need for rules.
Those represented by the Wolf Native American totem animal are born between February 19 and March 20 – the “Blustery Winds Time.” Wolves are both highly intuitive and empathetic sorts. This intuition allows them to see what others may not, allowing them to act instinctively. Sensitive, romantic and protective, Wolves make loyal companions. Wolves need love, which at times may come in conflict with their need for independence.
Though their intuitions are usually correct, Wolves may neglect “thinking” for “feeling.” Their deep capacity for empathetic feeling may cause them to absorb others’ negative emotions. It is important for Wolves to spend some time alone so that they may return to their normal compassionate state.
The days between March 21 and April 19 constitute the “Awakening Time” and are represented by the Falcon totem animal. Falcons are energetic to the core, leading exciting lives full of whirlwind activity. Falcons are thrilling people to be around due to their exuberant and self-assured nature, even despite the touch of arrogance many exhibit. A natural leader, others are often infected by the Falcon’s enthusiastic and enterprising spirit.
Falcons should refrain from making hasty decisions, as their impulsiveness and exuberance may cloud reason. It is also important for Falcons to learn the art of follow-through, even when a project or relationship loses the initial zest of novelty. While Falcons love being constantly on-the-go, they benefit from occasionally taking a step back and relaxing.
Element: Fire
Color: Yellow-Green
Stone: Fire Opal
Born during “Growing Time,” between April 20 and May 20, Beavers are hardworking, dependable, and industrious. If you want a job done right, ask a Beaver. Their attention to detail, mental acuity, and persistent effort makes these people excellent in the workforce.
Beavers work best when the seas are smooth and work hard to transform their home into a secure comfortable retreat. Interior décor is oftentimes important to Beavers, due to their fondness for beautiful items.
Beavers’ love of stability make them excellent long-term friends and partners; however their tendency towards continual improvement in themselves and others may come off as controlling if left unchecked. The Beaver that learns to be more flexible makes for a model employee and a loyal friend.
Deer Knife & Fossilized Ivory Scrimshaw Jack Knife
The Deer Native American totem animal represents those born between May 21 and June 20, a period known as the “Flowering Time.” Deer are engaging conversationalists – tending to be at least somewhat knowledgeable on a broad range of topics, and exhibiting a charming enthusiasm for life. Popular and well-liked, the Deer’s finer qualities oftentimes make up for their tendency towards moodiness and narcissism. They can make just about anybody laugh, and can entrance listeners with their stories.
Deer thrive on life’s challenges and love variety; however this adaptability oftentimes leads to flighty behavior. People born under the Deer sign should learn to slow down once in awhile and to temper their moods when needed.
Those born between June 21 and July 21 are represented by the Woodpecker totem. Born during the “Long Days Time,” Woodpeckers are warm, emotional, and deeply sensitive. Empathetic and great listeners, Woodpeckers are the ones people come to in times of need. These great nurturers make excellent parents and invest considerable efforts into their homes, desiring a secure haven that is both comfortable and beautiful.
A considerate friend and loyal employee, Woodpeckers are generally ruled by their heart more than their head. It is important for people born under this sign to remember not to always sacrifice their own needs for the sake of others.
The “Ripening Time” constitutes the days between July 22 and August 21, and people born on these dates are represented by the Salmon Native American totem animal. Salmon are warm people, exhibiting enthusiasm and energy that is contagious. Just as Salmon do, people of this sign swim “against the current,” confident that their way is the correct way. In most cases, it is. It’s this determination that makes Salmon great leaders, easily getting others to hop on their bandwagon.
Salmon are emotional people, choosing to invest a lot into their relationships. They are easily hurt if not showed adequate approval and affection. While appearing confident or even arrogant on the outside, they require the positive attention of those around them to thrive.
The time between August 22 and September 21 is known as “Harvesting Time” And is represented by the Brown Bear Native American totem animal. Though independent, Bears work best with routines and oftentimes resist change. Practical, with an eye for detail, those born under this sign make great workers, though they are humble almost to a fault. Their hard work and good ideas may go unnoticed if they do not learn to praise themselves occasionally.
Bears’ fondness for familiarity makes them loyal partners and friends, though they may come across as cold and aloof to some. This is only because their independence makes Bears slow to show their emotions, not because of a lack of feelings.
Those born between September 22 and October 22 are represented by the Crow Native American totem animal. Born during the “Falling Leaves Time,” Crows are friendly and sociable, and greatly enjoy being a part of a group. Despite their talkativeness, Crows are very discreet and are therefore able to keep secrets well. The ability to maintain an objective mindset allows the Crow to see all sides of an issue, making them great mediators. It is this ability, however, that can cause hesitancy in decision making, as Crows strive to be fair at all times.
While those of the Crow sign are generally cheerful and upbeat sorts, an atmosphere of disorder or confusion may send the Crow spiraling into moodiness. So long as you are clear in expressing your point, you will find the Crow an exciting friend and partner.
Born during “Frost Time” which occupies the dates between October 23 and November 22, Snakes are inquisitive and determined, albeit a little intense. A tendency towards secrecy and a love of the mysterious and intangible matters of the universe may befuddle some, though the Snake’s charismatic personality will keep them coming back for more. Snakes are ambitious creatures who regard obstacles as a way to fuel their drive for personal enhancement.
Just as the snake periodically sheds its skin, people represented by the Snake totem animal will periodically undergo major life transformations. While the feeling of new situations and experiences enthralls Snakes, it is important they do not completely alienate their old companions in the process, or they will find themselves unable to maintain long-lasting relationships.
Those represented by the Owl totem animal are born during the “Long Nights Time,” between November 23 and December 21. Intuitive and perceptive, Owls love the acquisition of knowledge and bringing mysteries out of the dark. They place a high value on integrity and ingenuity. While generally easy-going and friendly, Owls can also be bold and reckless due to their proclivity towards adventurous undertakings. It is important for Owls to remember the art of tact whilst dealing with others, lest they be accused of lacking compassion.
Characterized by a constant need of freedom, whether real or perceived, Owls have trouble with the sensation of feeling tied down. They are very adaptable and thrive on change, and while this is advantageous in many ways, it can lend itself to trouble where solid commitments are required.
Animal Birth Totems
Native American totem animals are similar to the astrological Zodiac signs, except that they are based on Medicine Wheel principles and thus take into account the earth’s seasonal factors rather than celestial positioning. Totems, or animal symbols, are representations of specific qualities. As animals are predictable creatures, they make excellent symbols for human behavioral characteristics. The dogged persistence of the beaver and the mysterious intrigue of the snake are fitting representations of the various aspects of human nature. Unlike the constellations of the familiar Zodiac signs, animals and seasons possess qualities humans can identify with. From animals, we can learn more about ourselves.
A physical totem can be utilized by its owner to tap the energies of the represented animal. A carving of the animal, or even part of the animal itself (claws, horns, hair), may serve as the physical totem. Totems, in this way, form a bridge between the owner of the item and the powers inherent in the animal they represent.
Dec 22 – Jan 19 | Jan 20 – Feb 18 | Feb 19 – Mar 20 | Mar 21 – Apr 19 | Apr 20 – May 20 | May 21 – June 20
June 21 – July 21 | Jul 22 – Aug 21 | Aug 22 – Sept 21 | Sept 22 – Oct 22 | Oct 23 – Nov 22 | Nov 23 – Dec 21
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Goose Totem Animal
Dec 22 – Jan 19
Fossilized walrus ivory Goose with baleen neck
The days between December 22 and January 19 are known as the “Renewal Time” and people born during this period are represented by the Goose Native American totem animal. People of the Goose sign are powerfully insightful, focused, and determined. Resourceful and imaginative, the Goose is more likely to reach his or her lofty goals than most. While their perfectionism allows them to perform tasks with the highest integrity and care, it is important for those of the Goose sign not to be overly critical of themselves.
Though much of their energy is focused on their life’s many goals, those with the Goose totem make extremely dependable partners and friends. As practical sorts, they dislike insincerity and tend to be intolerant of it in others. While never insincere, it is common for the Goose adopt a reserved air, hiding their feelings from others.
Element: Earth
Color: White
Stone: Peridot
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Otter Totem Animal
Jan 20 – Feb 18
Otter Fetish Animal
Otter totem animals, born between January 20 and February 18, are friendly, adaptable, sociable, inventive, and creative. These original thinkers oftentimes use their creativity to produce unconventional ideas which may seem wild at first, but brilliant upon second glance. Born during “Cleansing Time”, Otters enjoy reformation efforts and helping others succeed. True humanitarians, otters possess the amiability and intellect necessary to succeed themselves.
Otters can be more spontaneous than some are comfortable with, and their dislike of conventional practices can cause friction in the workplace. Otters should learn to hone their creative ability to produce unique ideas, while still respecting others’ need for rules.
Element: Air
Color: Silver-Gray
Stone: Turquoise
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Wolf Totem Animal
Feb 19 – Mar 20
Wolf Fimo clay Sculpture
Those represented by the Wolf Native American totem animal are born between February 19 and March 20 – the “Blustery Winds Time.” Wolves are both highly intuitive and empathetic sorts. This intuition allows them to see what others may not, allowing them to act instinctively. Sensitive, romantic and protective, Wolves make loyal companions. Wolves need love, which at times may come in conflict with their need for independence.
Though their intuitions are usually correct, Wolves may neglect “thinking” for “feeling.” Their deep capacity for empathetic feeling may cause them to absorb others’ negative emotions. It is important for Wolves to spend some time alone so that they may return to their normal compassionate state.
Element: Water
Color: Blue-Green
Stone: Jade
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Falcon Totem Animal
Mar 21 – Apr 19
Falcon/Eagle Buckle-Pin and Ring
The days between March 21 and April 19 constitute the “Awakening Time” and are represented by the Falcon totem animal. Falcons are energetic to the core, leading exciting lives full of whirlwind activity. Falcons are thrilling people to be around due to their exuberant and self-assured nature, even despite the touch of arrogance many exhibit. A natural leader, others are often infected by the Falcon’s enthusiastic and enterprising spirit.
Falcons should refrain from making hasty decisions, as their impulsiveness and exuberance may cloud reason. It is also important for Falcons to learn the art of follow-through, even when a project or relationship loses the initial zest of novelty. While Falcons love being constantly on-the-go, they benefit from occasionally taking a step back and relaxing.
Element: Fire
Color: Yellow-Green
Stone: Fire Opal
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Beaver Totem Animal
Apr 20 – May 20
Desert Ironwood Beaver & Fetish Beaver
Born during “Growing Time,” between April 20 and May 20, Beavers are hardworking, dependable, and industrious. If you want a job done right, ask a Beaver. Their attention to detail, mental acuity, and persistent effort makes these people excellent in the workforce.
Beavers work best when the seas are smooth and work hard to transform their home into a secure comfortable retreat. Interior décor is oftentimes important to Beavers, due to their fondness for beautiful items.
Beavers’ love of stability make them excellent long-term friends and partners; however their tendency towards continual improvement in themselves and others may come off as controlling if left unchecked. The Beaver that learns to be more flexible makes for a model employee and a loyal friend.
Element: Earth
Color: Yellow
Stone: Bloodstone
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Deer Totem Animal
May 21 – June 20
Deer Knife & Fossilized Ivory Scrimshaw Jack Knife
The Deer Native American totem animal represents those born between May 21 and June 20, a period known as the “Flowering Time.” Deer are engaging conversationalists – tending to be at least somewhat knowledgeable on a broad range of topics, and exhibiting a charming enthusiasm for life. Popular and well-liked, the Deer’s finer qualities oftentimes make up for their tendency towards moodiness and narcissism. They can make just about anybody laugh, and can entrance listeners with their stories.
Deer thrive on life’s challenges and love variety; however this adaptability oftentimes leads to flighty behavior. People born under the Deer sign should learn to slow down once in awhile and to temper their moods when needed.
Element: Air
Color: Orange
Stone: Agate
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Woodpecker Totem Animal
June 21 – July 21
Woodpecker Spirit Stone
Those born between June 21 and July 21 are represented by the Woodpecker totem. Born during the “Long Days Time,” Woodpeckers are warm, emotional, and deeply sensitive. Empathetic and great listeners, Woodpeckers are the ones people come to in times of need. These great nurturers make excellent parents and invest considerable efforts into their homes, desiring a secure haven that is both comfortable and beautiful.
A considerate friend and loyal employee, Woodpeckers are generally ruled by their heart more than their head. It is important for people born under this sign to remember not to always sacrifice their own needs for the sake of others.
Element: Water
Color: Rose
Stone: Rose Quartz
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Salmon Totem Animal
Jul 22 – Aug 21
Salmon Money Clip & Salmon Spirit Stone
The “Ripening Time” constitutes the days between July 22 and August 21, and people born on these dates are represented by the Salmon Native American totem animal. Salmon are warm people, exhibiting enthusiasm and energy that is contagious. Just as Salmon do, people of this sign swim “against the current,” confident that their way is the correct way. In most cases, it is. It’s this determination that makes Salmon great leaders, easily getting others to hop on their bandwagon.
Salmon are emotional people, choosing to invest a lot into their relationships. They are easily hurt if not showed adequate approval and affection. While appearing confident or even arrogant on the outside, they require the positive attention of those around them to thrive.
Element: Fire
Color: Red
Stone: Carnelian
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Brown Bear Totem Animal
Aug 22 – Sept 21
Bear Claw Pendant & Antler Fetish Bear
The time between August 22 and September 21 is known as “Harvesting Time” And is represented by the Brown Bear Native American totem animal. Though independent, Bears work best with routines and oftentimes resist change. Practical, with an eye for detail, those born under this sign make great workers, though they are humble almost to a fault. Their hard work and good ideas may go unnoticed if they do not learn to praise themselves occasionally.
Bears’ fondness for familiarity makes them loyal partners and friends, though they may come across as cold and aloof to some. This is only because their independence makes Bears slow to show their emotions, not because of a lack of feelings.
Element: Earth
Color: Brown
Stone: Topaz
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Crow/Raven Totem Animal
Sept 22 – Oct 22
Raven Fetish Animal
Those born between September 22 and October 22 are represented by the Crow Native American totem animal. Born during the “Falling Leaves Time,” Crows are friendly and sociable, and greatly enjoy being a part of a group. Despite their talkativeness, Crows are very discreet and are therefore able to keep secrets well. The ability to maintain an objective mindset allows the Crow to see all sides of an issue, making them great mediators. It is this ability, however, that can cause hesitancy in decision making, as Crows strive to be fair at all times.
While those of the Crow sign are generally cheerful and upbeat sorts, an atmosphere of disorder or confusion may send the Crow spiraling into moodiness. So long as you are clear in expressing your point, you will find the Crow an exciting friend and partner.
Element: Air
Color: Blue
Stone: Azurite
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Snake Totem Animal
Oct 23 – Nov 22
Huichol Beaded Snake
Born during “Frost Time” which occupies the dates between October 23 and November 22, Snakes are inquisitive and determined, albeit a little intense. A tendency towards secrecy and a love of the mysterious and intangible matters of the universe may befuddle some, though the Snake’s charismatic personality will keep them coming back for more. Snakes are ambitious creatures who regard obstacles as a way to fuel their drive for personal enhancement.
Just as the snake periodically sheds its skin, people represented by the Snake totem animal will periodically undergo major life transformations. While the feeling of new situations and experiences enthralls Snakes, it is important they do not completely alienate their old companions in the process, or they will find themselves unable to maintain long-lasting relationships.
Element: Water
Color: Violet
Stone: Amethyst
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Owl Totem Animal
Nov 23 – Dec 21
Owl Fimo Clay Sculpture
Those represented by the Owl totem animal are born during the “Long Nights Time,” between November 23 and December 21. Intuitive and perceptive, Owls love the acquisition of knowledge and bringing mysteries out of the dark. They place a high value on integrity and ingenuity. While generally easy-going and friendly, Owls can also be bold and reckless due to their proclivity towards adventurous undertakings. It is important for Owls to remember the art of tact whilst dealing with others, lest they be accused of lacking compassion.
Characterized by a constant need of freedom, whether real or perceived, Owls have trouble with the sensation of feeling tied down. They are very adaptable and thrive on change, and while this is advantageous in many ways, it can lend itself to trouble where solid commitments are required.
Element: Fire
Color: Gold
Stone: Obsidian
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Kokopelli carries a large selection of animal products, from hanging geckos, desert ironwood carvings, and clay animal sculptures, to actual fetish animals (page coming soon).
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