“Tsu’u tsm’aatk” is the Ts’msyen word for ‘Nighthawk’. The mythological character of the Bat appears in a story with Owl, Hawk and Raven. In this myth, these animals are engaged in a war with the mighty Thunderbird. They gather at the beach and use pitch and alder wood to create an artificial whale, which is Thunderbird’s favorite meal. This floating Whale was used in the battle to outsmart the Supernatural Bird and the Warriors succeeded in their mission.

photo credit: Christian Engelstoft