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Native American Garter Snake Mythology

In some tribes, garter snakes (also known as garden snakes) are symbols of jealousy or dishonesty; to other tribes, they are a symbol of water. In the traditions of the Arapaho Indians, garter snakes are associated with the Sun Dance and are represented in the hoop of the tribe's sacred Medicine Wheel.

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Native American Legends About Garter Snakes

*The Sun Dance Wheel:
    Arapaho myth about the garter snake and the origins of the Sun Dance.

Recommended Books of Garter Snake Stories from Native American Myth and Legend
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Spirits of the Earth: A Guide to Native American Nature Symbols, Stories, and Ceremonies:
    Book about the meanings of Indian animal spirits, including a chapter on garden snakes.
Native American Animal Stories:
    Excellent collection of American Indian tales about snakes and other animals, told by Abenaki storyteller Joseph Bruchac.



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