Bear — Taquka’aq Taquka’at yugnitaaraat, “Suk.”, Taquka’at niugnitaaraat, “Suk.” – Bears always say “Person.” The brown or grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) is the largest terrestrial mammal in North America. The Kodiak Archipelago is home to more than three thousand of these enormous creatures, which have long been a source of food and raw materials for […]
Gain Awareness — llangarlluni Carliaqa llangllarngauq. – My child is aware. Why do toddlers like to say, “No!”? The answer lies in a baby’s growing brain. In the transitions from infant to toddler, children develop their sense of self-awareness, both physical and emotional. By about 18 months, children recognize themselves as unique individuals. At this […]
Blanket — Ulik Una ulik aturnirtuq. – This blanket is comfortable. Before the introduction of western mattresses and blankets, Alutiiq people slept on piles of soft, dry grass and covered themselves with bear hides. These warm, insulating materials provided bedding both at home and while traveling. A person who had to camp unexpectedly simply collected […]
CILLQAQ – FIREWEED CILLQAT ANTAARTUT UKSUARMI. – THE FIREWEED COMES OUT IN THE FALL. Late summer in the Kodiak Archipelago is brightly heralded by thousands of fireweed blossoms. This widely distributed perennial plant is a member of the evening primrose family, and it grows in both a dwarf and tall variety in the Kodiak region. […]