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Native American Swallow Mythology

Swallows do not play a very important role in Native American mythology. Like other small birds, swallows sometimes appear in folktales representing humility and industriousness. Some Southwestern tribes, like the Zunis, associate swallows with rain.

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Swallows are also used as clan animals in some Native American cultures. Tribes with Swallow Clans include the Hopi tribe (whose Swallow Clan is named Pavakyayngyam) and the Pueblo tribes.

Native American Legends About Swallows

How the Hopi Indians reached their World:
    Hopi emergence myth, including the story of Swallow bringing corn kernels to the people.

Recommended Books of Swallow Stories from Native American Myth and Legend
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Birds of Algonquin Legend:
    Interesting collection of legends about swallows and other birds in Algonquian tribes.
The Swallow Book:
    Collection of swallow mythology from around the world, including some Native American entries.
Flights of Fancy: Birds in Myth, Legend, and Superstition:
    A good book on the meaning of birds in world mythology, including North and South America.



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