11 Animals Associated with Norse Mythology

Norse mythology can draw your attention due to its captivating nature. It’s part of a pre-Christian belief system and much of the mythology is centered around wildlife. Animals play a wide variety of roles in this belief system such as representations of certain emotions, associations with certain Norse gods, and more.

Below you will find which creatures are symbols and representations for many people. From the courageous bear to the childlike wolf, here are the main animals in Norse mythology.

1. Bears

Bears are perhaps one of the most iconic animals when it comes to Norse mythology. It’s believed that when Thor and Odin came to the human world they would disguise themselves as bears. These beautiful creatures symbolize intelligence. Norse mythology believes that polar bears can help you with suppressed emotions. These apex predators can help even the most hopeless person overcome anything they face.

2. Moose and Elk

The immense size of a moose or elk can get anyone’s attention. In Norway, these creatures are symbols of the King of the Forest. With their broad antlers, moos represent the knowledge of years being forest dwellers. They can help people find inner strength and confidence, or help them go about life with grace.

3. Lynx

You may not think too much by looking at a lynx, but these beautiful felines are incredibly powerful. Norse mythology sees lynx as the secret keepers of nature. They can see more than the eye can observe. These cats are a gentle reminder that there is more than meets the eye.

4. Deer

Roe deer symbolize victory in Norse mythology. These deer with their unique appearance teach people to focus on growing all aspects of your person. It’s essential to see yourself as a spiritual being and this animal is the perfect reminder to do just that. Norse mythology also has ties to red deer. This beautiful creature is the link between the human world and the spiritual world.

5. Cats

Norse mythology features Freyja, a goddess associated with beauty, war, royalty, love, and sex. You can often see Freyja (Freya) riding a chariot pulled by two large cats. It’s believed she thought of felines as a sacred species. Vikings would often gift cats as a wedding gift to newlyweds as well for the connection they hold with the goddess of love.

6. Rabbits

Rabbits are yet another moon animal in Norse mythology. They are associated with the rune Onn and remind people to listen to their guts. Many link rabbits and hares to fertility and new beginnings as well.

7. Birds

One of the main animals associated with this pre-Christian belief system is birds. Odin had two ravens that represented thoughts and memories. They were aids in giving Odin wisdom and helping him rule. He was also particularly close with eagles, as they symbolize light, justice, and victory. Verfolne is the name of a hawk in Norse mythology that is connected to the world tree. Lastly, the wise Owl is associated with Hawthorn. This animal is a great example that we can find our way out of darkness if only we persist.

8. Mountain Goats

Another Norse god with a connection to animals is Thor. He famously has two goats pulling his chariot across the heavens. There are stories about goats in Valhall as well. There are some differences between what male and female goats represent. Typically, the female goat is a symbol of fertility and rich soil, whereas the male goat is a seeker of truth.

9. Serpents

Jormungandr, the World Serpent, is an animal that strikes fear in Norse mythology. The Jormungandr is a massive sea serpent that lives in the water around Midgard, encircling the entire world. It’s a clever and cunning animal that has ties to the god Loki.

10. Horses

Another one of the primary animals in Norse mythology is the horse. Horses are linked to the oak tree and have a connection with the rune Duir. Odin has a horse named Sleipner, with whom many people of Norse beliefs feel a connection. These stunning animals represent nobility, strength, endurance, and a long life.

11. Wolves

Just like in nature, wolves are very protective in Norse mythology. They are full of wisdom and will not let any enemy cross their path. This mythology considers this animal a “moon animal” because wolves represent renewal and childlike energy.