Indian languages * American Indian cultures * Indian totem animals

Native American Tapir Mythology

The tapir is one of several North American animals whose name has Native American origins-- the word "tapir" is a Portuguese corruption of Brazilian Indian words for the animal (tapyra, tapira, tapi'i, or tapirete, in different Tupi-Guarani languages.)

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Tapirs are also used as clan animals in some South American Indian cultures. Tribes with Tapir Clans include the Piapoco and Bororo.

Native American Tapir Gods and Spirits

Iriria (Bribri)

Native American Legends About Tapirs

Bribri Indian Tapir Myth:
    Central American legend about the meaning of the sacred tapir and the creation of the earth.

Recommended Books of Tapir Stories from Native American Myth and Legend
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Native American Animal Stories:
    Great collection of American Indian tales about animals, told by Abenaki storyteller Joseph Bruchac.



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