The animal often portrayed as a trickster in Native American mythology is the coyote.
Coyote is a major mythological figure in many Indigenous traditions, especially among peoples of California, the Great Basin, the Southwest, and parts of the Plains. Stories differ widely: Coyote may be foolish, greedy, comic, dangerous, creative, or even a benefactor of humanity. His shifting role is typical of a trickster, a character who disrupts rules and exposes human weaknesses.
In some traditions, Coyote helps people by stealing fire, sunlight, or other valuable gifts from supernatural beings. In others, his selfish schemes bring suffering, death, or disorder. These contrasting roles make Coyote more than a simple villain or prankster; his stories often explain how the world came to be and teach lessons about poor decisions.
A common mix-up is assuming that every Native American culture shares one identical Coyote mythology. Indigenous nations have distinct languages, ceremonies, and traditions. Raven, Nanabozho, Iktomi, and other figures also serve as tricksters in particular cultures, while foxes more commonly fill that role in several Eurasian traditions.