Tiv Animals
Animals in Tiv culture, their names and significance
Bua
Domestic cattle; foundational animal in Tiv social and ritual economy. Also call…
Tiv native cow / CowChongo
Wild canine listed in the Tiv classification of significant animals.
Fox
Dwem
The hyena is a wild carnivorous animal known for its scavenging behavior and dis…
HyenaGbaka
Wild serpent of a specific but unnamed species, part of Tiv shrine imagery.
Snake (specific kind)Gbargbar
Wild aquatic creature of a specific type; part of Tiv fish-related tattoo symbol…
Fish type
Gbaséelá
The jackal (often referred to alongside wolves) is a wild animal known for its i…
Wolf / JackalGbev
Wild nocturnal bird linked to spiritual movement and witchcraft in Tiv belief.
Standard-winged nightjar
Geelege
The praying mantis is an insect known for its folded forelegs that resemble a pr…
Praying MantisGungun
Wild / spiritual serpent of mystical nature; a protective entity in Tiv belief.
Mystical snakeIguve
Wild bird of prey with spiritual potency in Tiv belief.
EagleIgyo
Domestic/wild animal whose body parts carry protective and ceremonial significan…
Pig / wild guinea pig
Igyuve
The eagle is a powerful bird of prey known for its sharp vision and ability to s…
Eagle