Totem carvings tell a story, revealed only if one knows the meaning assigned to various animals, fish, birds and designs and where they are placed. Here are the meanings of some common northwest indian symbols.
| BEAVER | Creative, Artistic and Determined | |
| BEAR | Strength, Learned Humility, Motherhood, Teaching | |
| BUMBLEBEE | Honesty, Pure Thinking – Willingness and Drive | |
 | COPPER | Wealth and Prestige |
| DOGFISH | Persistence and Strength – A Born Leader | |
 | DOVE | Love, Gentleness and Kindness |
| DRAGON FLY | Ever-changing Life | |
 | EAGLE | Great Strength, Leadership and Prestige |
| EAGLE FEATHER | Good Luck to Both Giver and Receiver | |
 | FROG | Spring & New Life – Communicator, Stability |
| HALIBUT | Life protector, Strength and Stability | |
 | HAWK | Strength Far Sighted |
| HERON | Patience, Graceful and Easy Going | |
 | HUMMINGBIRD | Love, Beauty, Intelligence, Spirit Messenger |
| KILLER WHALE | Traveler & Guardian – Symbol of Good | |
 | KINGFISHER | Luck, Patience, Speed and Agility |
| LOON | Peace, Tranquility – Generous Giving Nature | |
 | MOON | Protector and Guardian of the Earth by Night |
| OTTER | Trusting, Inquisitive and Bright – Loyal Friendship | |
 | OWL | Wisdom |
 | RAVEN | Creation & Knowledge – Bringer of the Light |
 | SALMON | Dependability and Renewal – A Provider |
| SEAL | Bright, Inquisitive, Organized | |
 | SUN | Healing Energy, Guardian of the Earth by Day |
 | THUNDERBIRD | Powerful & Mystical – A Leader |
 | WOLF | Intelligence & Leadership – Strong Sense of Family |
