The relationship that humans establish with nature has been shaped through social and cultural elements and has gained continuity by being transmitted from generation to generation. Oral narrative genres have important functions, especially in reflecting the interaction between nature and humans through mythological elements. In these narratives, Umay frequently appears as a sacred being associated with motherhood, childbirth, and the protection of children in the ancient Turkish belief system. Considered a protective spirit symbolizing abundance and benevolence, Umay has a counterpart known as Kara Umay, a dualistic figure associated with death, fear, and illness.In this study, the narratives, beliefs, and practices formed around the Teğbe bird, which is specific to the Şanlıurfa region, are examined within the framework of the beliefs related to Umay and Kara Umay. The data for the study were obtained through fieldwork conducted in the city center of Şanlıurfa. Within this scope, data were collected through interviews based on semi-structured questions and evaluated using the content analysis technique. The study aims to position a regional figure within the context of continuity in the Turkish mythological system of thought. The findings reveal the sacred and protective meanings attributed to elements of nature in folk narratives and provide an opportunity to evaluate the traditional society’s perception of nature within the framework of mythological thinking. As a result of the analysis, it has been observed that the functions of Umay and Kara Umay are present in the narratives, beliefs, and practices formed around the Teğbe bird.

Folklore, Bird, Umay, Kara Umay, Mythology.