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Many people seem to think this is a Chupacabra.

Dan Duffy
Dan Duffy
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What's A chupacabra?

The chupacabra is a "mythical" creature. The name "chupacabra" translates to "goat sucker" in Spanish, referring to its alleged habit of attacking livestock, especially goats, and drinking their blood.

Appearance

Descriptions of the chupacabra vary widely, but there are two main types reported:

  1. Reptilian Chupacabra: This version is often described as a lizard-like creature with greenish-gray skin, sharp spines or quills running down its back, and a height of about 3 to 4 feet. It is said to have large eyes, fangs, and claws.
  2. Canine Chupacabra: This type resembles a wild dog or coyote but with some distinct differences. It is usually hairless, has pronounced ridges along its spine, and has a more skeletal appearance. Some reports also mention glowing red eyes.

Origins

The first reported sightings of the chupacabra date back to the 1990s in Puerto Rico, where farmers found their livestock dead with mysterious puncture wounds and drained of blood. Since then, sightings have spread across the Americas, including in the United States, Mexico, and other Latin American countries.

Some believe it's a wolf.

Coyotes explore San Francisco
National Park Service // Wikimedia Commons
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It appears to be a coyote. Coyotes are often seen in West Alabama. But what is that on the hind end of this particular creature? The backside is odd-looking to say the least. This predator has a really bushy tail or something. It has been spotted in the Tuscaloosa area.

(Noah Lueker)
(Noah Lueker)
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A Gordo, Alabama friend says she has seen these wild coyotes jump fencing in her backyard. She cautions folks not to leave their dogs in the backyard unattended. Especially after dusk. Her little Lucy dog is never allowed outback by herself. A hungry wild coyote predator would consider Lucy a tasty appetizer.

Coyote
Harry Collins
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Coyote experts say the population has shifted in the last 50 years. The predators are often spotted in Alabama, including West Alabama and Tuscaloosa.

Coyotes are most active in the early evening hours or moments before sunrise. Due to the increase in coyote populations in Alabama, the state allows night hunting with a permit.

joyce kephart coyote facebeook
joyce kephart coyote facebeook
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If you happen to see a wild coyote, it is best to leave the critter alone. Also, keep any outside pet food out of the reach of wild coyotes. And do not mistake the wild coyote for a slender stray dog with a bushy tail.

Theories

There are various theories about the chupacabra's existence:

  1. Cryptid: Some people believe the chupacabra is an unknown animal species yet to be discovered by science.
  2. Myth and Legend: Others think the chupacabra is a myth, created by folklore and spread through mass media and word of mouth.
  3. Misidentified Animals: Many scientists suggest that reported chupacabra sightings are actually misidentified creatures, such as dogs, coyotes with mange, or other wildlife suffering from disease or malnutrition.
  4. Urban Legend: It's also considered an urban legend, a modern-day monster story fueled by the internet and pop culture.

Here's What You Need to Know About Wild Coyotes in Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Are Your Pets Safe?

Coyotes have been known to kill cats and dogs, especially those who live outdoors. Coyotes, however, are omnivorous scavengers. They'll eat garbage, vegetation or just about anything to get their stomachs full. Pet attacks are rare, but it's still a good idea to ensure your dog or cat is safe inside at night.

When Are Coyotes on the Prowl?

Coyotes can be seen at any time during the day, but they tend to be most active in the early evening hours or the moments before sunrise. Due to the recent increase in coyote populations in Alabama, the state allows night hunting with a permit.

What Should You Do If You See a Coyote?

When you spot a coyote, it's best to leave the animal alone. Don't encourage them to come closer to you or attempt to lure them in with food. Experts also advise keeping your pet's food outside of the reach of wildlife.

Coyote facts courtesy of Meg Summers

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Gallery Credit: Sophia June

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