Animal totems are usually associated with the spiritual culture of Native Americans, but they are also common in the spiritual traditions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe. An animal totem is a teacher and a guide, not necessarily an animal that characterizes you. Determining your animal totem is less about finding an animal that is like you and more about discovering an animal with characteristics you can learn from the most. Learning your animal totem can also help you find the domestic equivalent for your home. Take this quiz to discover your animal totem for guidance.


O'rya Hyde-Keller is a writer based in Providence, R.I.