Thunderbird
Giant Bird · Piasa
Teratornis incredibilis (proposed)
3000 BCFirst Report
800+Sightings
Wingspan 12–36 ft (3.6–11 m)Est. Size
activeStatus
🦅 AvianEvidence Tier 2: Physical Traces
Evidence Level
Tier 2/5 — Physical Traces
Overview
A massive bird of prey described in Native American petroglyphs and reported across the American continent. Wingspan estimates range from 12 to 36 feet. Associated with storm-bringing powers in many Indigenous traditions.
Physical Characteristics
Wingspan 12–36 ft, dark plumage, eagle-like talons capable of carrying livestock, smooth or feathered head depending on account.
📍 Habitat & Region
Great Plains & Appalachians, USA · US
Open grassland, mountain thermals, remote wilderness, Alaskan coast
Notable Events
3000 BC
Thunderbird petroglyphs carved throughout the American Southwest
1977
Lawndale, Illinois: Marlon Lowe (10) allegedly lifted briefly by a large bird
2002
Alaska "giant bird" sighted by multiple witnesses near Nome and Togiak