Deer Guardian of Apache
In Apache tradition, the Deer Guardian is a spirit that watches over the vast desert expanses of the American Southwest, protecting the hidden water sources and the hardy wildlife that survives in these harsh conditions. Unlike the ocean guardians of northern traditions, this being commands the dry arroyos and the scarce desert springs that emerge from beneath the sun-baked earth. It is closely linked to the Apache Crown Dancers and the Mountain Spirit ceremonies, where its power is invoked to heal the sick and to guide young people through the trials of coming of age