In Algonquian mythology, the thunderbird controls the upper world while the underworld is governed by the underwater panther or Great Horned Serpent.

Midwest states (e.g., Ojibwe in Minnesota ). The discussion of the Northeast region has included Algonquian-speaking people in the Lakes-bordering U.S. The thunderbird myth and motif is prevalent among Algonquian peoples in the Northeast, i.e., Eastern Canada ( Ontario, Quebec, and eastward) and Northeastern United States, and the Iroquois peoples (surrounding the Great Lakes). Tribal signatures using thunderbirds on the Great Peace of Montreal The thunderbird is said to create thunder by flapping its wings (Algonquian ), and lightning by flashing its eyes (Algonquian, Iroquois ). In modern times it has achieved notoriety as a purported cryptid, similar to creatures such as Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster. It is especially important and frequently depicted in the art, songs, and oral histories of many Pacific Northwest Coast cultures, but is also found in various forms among some peoples of the American Southwest, East Coast of the United States, Great Lakes, and Great Plains. It is considered a supernatural being of power and strength. The thunderbird is a legendary creature in particular North American indigenous peoples' history and culture. Pacific NW ( Haida) imagery of a double thunderbird A Northwest Coast styled Kwakiutl totem pole depicting a thunderbird.

Thunderbird native american wampanoag