The Thunderbird

About this episode

Athena and Tiernan explore the legend of the Thunderbird and its possible connections to natural history.

The Thunderbird is a bird-like spirit from the culture of the indigenous people of North America. Like a giant eagle with curved horns on its head, it is said to be a supernatural being with incredible power, and strength. According to the legend it creates thunder by flapping its wings, and lightning would spark from its eyes. Is there a basis in fact for this fascinating creature in natural history? Or is it a case of legends and stories getting out of hand over time?  Athena and Tiernan take an eagle eyed look into all the clues to help you decide. Over to you Chief Detectives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Hosts: Athena, Tiernan

Topics covered

• mythology
• indigenous culture
• natural history
• supernatural beings
• thunderbird legend

Keywords

• Thunderbird
• myth
• indigenous
• North America
• supernatural
• eagle
• thunder
• lightning

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Thunderbird

Places: North America

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