Kutkh

Kutkh, also known as Kutkha, Kootkha, Kutq, and other variants, is a Raven spirit revered by various indigenous peoples of the Russian Far East. He holds significant roles in their myths as a creator figure, ancestor, shaman, and trickster. His stories are similar to those of the Raven in the Pacific Northwest, suggesting historical cultural connections between Asia and North America.

Kutkh is known by different names across regions: Kúrkil among the Chukchi, Kutq among the Itelmens, and variations like KútqI or KusqÍnnaku (meaning "Big Kutkh") in Koryak. His name is often used in its augmentative form, signifying a god-like status.

In myths, Kutkh is depicted as both a creator and a trickster. He is said to have created the world through various actions, including dropping feathers or defecation, shaping Kamchatka's volcanic terrain. He also plays roles in bringing light, often through trickery involving celestial bodies. His interactions with other spirits, like Wolf and Mouse, highlight his capricious nature.

Despite his powers, Kutkh is often portrayed as flawed—thieving, selfish, and sometimes humiliated. The Itelmen mock him, blaming him for inconvenient natural phenomena. Yet, his image remains iconic in Kamchatka, used in local advertising and souvenirs, reflecting his enduring cultural significance.