Birthday (Wudmeri)

In Wudmeri culture, a birthday is a special occasion used to get closer with nature. Its observation every year is incredibly important to the Wudmeri, and it is one of their most important rituals. 
When a Wudmeri is born, the day of the year that they are born on corresponds to a specific species of animal. This animal becomes their Spirit Animal. A Wudmeri's Spirit Animal is an important symbol to them, and they will feel a special connection to that animal for their entire lives. This connection allows the Wudmeri to develop something akin to a sixth sense regarding that animal. This most often includes being able to sense when that animal is nearby, allowing them to sense the animal's emotions, making it easier to bond with that animal, and particularly strong connections allow for telepathic communication. 
Beginning on the Wudmeri's 8th birthday, they are painted with markings and symbols that correspond to their Spirit Animal. After this, they say a special prayer and ask Teras for guidance and protection. They then venture into the forest to find and spend the day with their spirit animal. This allows the Wudmeri to feel more at one with their Spirit Animal, and for their Spirit Animal in turn to feel more at one with them. They will hunt (or forage), eat, sleep and bathe with their Spirit Animal, as well as participating in any activities their Spirit Animal typically does. Doing all of this maintains the connection between a Wudmeri and their Spirit Animal.
Upon the Wudmeri's return, they will partake in a feast with their family in celebration of their birthday. This feast typically features foods the animal would normally eat, as well as common Wudmeri cuisine. On the Wudmeri's 16th birthday, they receive a tattoo in dedication to their Spirit Animal. The size and the location of the tattoo are up to them, however receiving a tattoo is considered mandatory in Wudmeri culture.