Raven
Raven is the most important of all creatures to the Northwest Coast people; Raven was known as the transformer who created the world. Raven is the cultural hero. Raven also symbolizes creation, prestige, and knowledge. The Raven can be easily identified by its long straight beak; whereas, the Eagle has a short hooked beak.

Eagle
Eagle is a symbol of power and intelligence. An Eagle will remain with its mate until one of them dies and each pair has a specific territory to which it returns each year. As a result, the Eagle is seen as a symbol of loyalty. The Eagle is also known for its literal and figurative vision. Eagle down is a symbol of peace and friendship.

Killerwhale
Killerwhale is the ‘Lord of the Ocean'. His warriors are dolphins and his messengers are the sealions. To the Kwakwaka’wakw, all great Chiefs who die are transformed into Killerwhales; the Killerwhale is believed to be closely related to the Human, thus allowing transformation from Man to Killerwhale. The Killerwhale represents the spirit of the traveller and longevity.

Thunderbird
Thunderbird is the personification of "Chief." Intelligent and proud, he is known for his supernatural powers. Thunder is created from the flapping of his wings and lightning flashes from his eyes. Particularly prominent in Kwakwaka’wakw culture, he also aids in times of crisis. The Thunderbird resembles the Eagle in image but is distinguished by the plumage on his head.

Wolf
Revered because of his hunting prowess, Wolf is often associated with the special spirit power a man had to acquire to become a successful hunter. Wolf also symbolizes family, togetherness and loyalty.

Bear
Bear is the great hunter. It symbolizes strength and power. Bear is also known for its human-like qualities and is always treated as a high ranking guest among many Northwest Coast tribes.

Hummingbird
Hummingbird is the joyful messenger and healer. It is known for its agility. Hummingbird is depicted with a very long, straight beak and is sometimes shown with plumage on its head.

Hawk
The Hawk is know for his ability to hunt and is believed to be a spiritual helper. It is the symbol of vision and skill. The image of Hawk is similar to that of the Eagle but the Hawk has a more dramatically hooked beak and is sometimes depicted with teeth.

Butterfly
The Butterfly is Raven’s Helper and a symbol of change. It is often depicted with a humanoid face.

Owl
Owl is associated with wisdom and the world beyond. The owl can foresee the future and will sometimes transmit this to humans in their sleep. Owl is the symbol of wisdom gained through the naivety of innocence.

Frog
Frog is the voice of the people and the story teller. It symbolizes innocence, stability, and communication.

Sisiutle
Sisiutle is a two headed sea serpent which could turn itself into many things. This supernatural being was often used as a sign of protection.

Salmon
Salmon is known as the 'giver of life' as he was a vital food source for the Northwest Coast people. The salmon is usually depicted in pairs as a sign of good luck.

Loon
Known for its haunting voice, the Loon has the ability to traverse different realms. It is a symbol of peace, tranquility and generosity. The Loon is sometimes associated with copper and wealth.

Moon
Moon is the protector and guardian of the earth. The moon spirit watches over us and has the ability to change our moods.

Sun
Sun provides the earth with healing energy, life, and beauty. Northwest Coast people believe the sun was thrown into the sky by the mighty Raven, and the long rays of the sun were thought to be a means of travel between earth and sky.

Copper Shield
The Copper Shield is usually brought out at a potlatch; they were particularly associated with the marriage transfer of the privileges; with a wife’s gift to her husband; and with naming ceremonies. Copper is a material of great wealth and prestige.

Transformation Figures
In the beginning according to some legends, all life had the appearance of human being until the Transformer came along to designate and transform each into a particular species according to the person’s activity, attitude or behaviour at the time of the encounter.

Because of the West Coast Natives' perception of the oneness of all earth’s creatures, human, and animal, they held the belief that animals could supernaturally change their appearance at will and take on human form. Similarly, humans could transform into animals, birds, fish and mythical creatures for their own advancement, or as punishment from another. Transformation within designs is done by showing a creature as part human; just an arm or a hand is enough.