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 |
