Thunderbird (Wakinyan/Animikii/Hohoq)
Legendary giant bird in Native American mythology—one of the most widespread and spiritually significant creatures. Creates thunder with wing-flaps and lightning from its flashing eyes or beak. Found in dozens of tribes from Pacific Northwest (Haida, Tlingit, Kwakwaka'wakw) to Great Plains (Lakota, Blackfoot) to Great Lakes (Ojibwe, Menominee). According to Ojibwe, created by Nanabozho to battle underwater spirits. Lakota describes Wakinyan as sacred winged grandson of sky spirit protecting humanity from horned water serpents (Unktehi)