Nature, with all its entities, plays a crucial role in shaping human life. It is undeniable that animals, as integral parts of nature, have been of great significance since the inception of humanity. Particularly from the perspective of Turkish culture and history, it is well-known that nature and the beings within have always occupied a significant place from the past to the present. The most compelling evidence of this includes the association of Turks with the wolf, the representation of each tribe by an animal in their banners, and the inclusion of animal figures as main characters alongside humans in significant narrative forms such as epics, proverbs, legends, and folk tales, among many other characteristics. Consequently, Turks have developed various beliefs and rituals related to animals, which occupy a significant place in their socio-economic and socio-cultural lives. Some animals were feared, while others were believed to possess protective powers. These beliefs have found their way into various literary genres from fairy tales to legends, and from sagas to folk stories, as well as in many elements of folklore including folk medicine and folk calendars as beliefs and practices. This study examines the reflections of beliefs and practices related to animals, which hold a considerable importance in the lives of Turkic communities both in Anatolia and beyond, in the society of Karabük. The beliefs and practices in Karabük are analyzed under topics related to transition periods such as death and birth, supernatural beings, fertility/infertility, luck/ill luck, folk medicine, folk meteorology and calendar, and beliefs and practices related to the evil eye. The findings of the research demonstrate that the beliefs and practices related to animals, developed and perpetuated by various Turkic communities starting from Central Asia, continue in the present geography of Anatolia and the society of Karabük.
Folk Beliefs, Animal, Beliefs Related to Animals, Karabük