Seagulls play a variety of roles in the folklore of different tribes. In some cases, seagulls are
antagonists criticized for their noisy, aggressive, and greedy behavior. In others, they are
noted for their endurance and perseverence. In some Northwest Coast tribes, Seagull was
said to have powers over storms and weather.
Seagulls are also used as clan animals in some Native American cultures. Tribes with
Seagull Clans include the Ahtna tribe and the Chippewa tribe (whose Gull Clan and its totem are called Gayaashk.)
Seagull is used as a clan crest in some Northwest Coast tribes (especially the Nuu-chah-nulth), and can sometimes
be found carved on totem poles.