Timber Wolves
The timber wolf was a significant animal to the Indians, as they were both hunters, and both had family who depended on their hunting for survival. Indians were able to relate to the timber wolf, also called the gray wolf, in many different ways. As hunters, both hunted the land looking for food so as to ensure their packs, or tribes, survival. The timber wolf also protected his family, defending them against attacks from would-be killers. The Indians could relate to this, as they too defended their families against enemies. The timber wolves also run in packs of anywhere from 6 to 12 at a time, and the Indians could relate those packs to their own tribes.
The timber wolf leader was required at all times to be strong and maintain order in the pack. To the Indians, the timber wolf worked for the survival of their pack, as they did. Indians did not look at the wolves as a threat, or an animal to hunt. Instead, they saw in them parts of themselves, such as their ability to survive and their persistence and will to live. Patience and persistence were the best hunting strategies for a timber wolf, which the Indians respected and endeavored to duplicate. When told that he hunted like a wolf, an Indian would easily consider this a great compliment.
- Defenders Facts and information on the timber wolf
- Wolves Information about timber wolves
- The Wolf and the Indian Information and facts about the Timber Wolf
The timber wolf was also considered to be a medicine animal. They were considered this because of their ability to track their prey, as well as being able to go for a long time without food. They were considered to be a powerful creature, as the wolf leader lived for the purpose of making the rest of his pack strong. Older members of the Indian tribes related to the timber wolf in this very way.
The timber wolf was a revered and respected creature to all Indians, and still stands as a symbol for many tribes today.
