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Thunderbird
A bird so large it creates thunder with its wings. Native American legends speak of it. Modern witnesses describe wingspans of 20 feet or more. Are there giant unknown birds in North America?
Ancient - Present
North America
500+ witnesses
The Thunderbird is a legendary creature in the history and culture of many Indigenous peoples of North America, with modern sightings of giant birds continuing to this day.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Thunderbird is:
- A giant bird
- Creating thunder with its wings
- Creating lightning from its eyes
- Carrying off large prey (including humans)
- Sacred to many Native American cultures
Indigenous Traditions
Many tribes have Thunderbird legends:
- Pacific Northwest peoples
- Great Plains tribes
- Northeastern Woodlands peoples
- The bird is often a powerful spirit
Modern Sightings
Giant bird sightings continue:
- Wingspan estimates of 15-25 feet
- Seen across the United States
- Sometimes carrying large prey
- Described as black or dark brown
Famous Cases
1977 Lawndale, Illinois: A large bird allegedly grabbed a 10-year-old boy.
Tombstone Photograph: An alleged 1890s photo shows cowboys with a giant bird (never found).
Ongoing: Regular reports across the country.
Possible Explanations
Theories include:
- Surviving Teratorns (giant prehistoric birds)
- Misidentified condors
- Eagles appearing larger than expected
- Purely mythological
- Unknown species
Physical Candidates
Large known birds:
- California Condor (9.5 ft wingspan)
- Andean Condor (10.5 ft wingspan)
- Albatross species (11+ ft wingspan)
- None match described Thunderbirds