The indigenous peoples of all lands once utilized (and many still do) shamanic practices to connect with the Earth around them and with the power of various animals. By observing the way each animal lived, located food, found mates and protected itself, the shaman was able to learn of the particular strengths and weaknesses of that animal. Bears, for instance, hibernate during the winter, and thus possessed the magick of dreams. They were also formidable foes to those who would hunt them, and thus Bear energy was also about strength and physical power. Mouse, on the other hand, represents scrutiny, because of they way they observe objects up close. It is interesting, but hardly surprising, that shamen of different cultures and lands, but who shared similar animal species, came up with similar interpretations of those animals.

Another type of wildlife tattoo, is the animal portrait. For most, the family pet is more than that — he or she is a member of the family, too. This type of tattoo commemorates an animal that is a beloved pet or favorite.

Finally, we have included tattoos of plants and flowers in this section as well, as they are also an important component of the natural world around us.