The Snallygaster is a strange Cryptid indeed…as we would expect from Maryland.
I assume that this one came about because a German immigrant had a big ass bird swoop down on them with a tasty octopus in its mouth. Once the horror was shared, it was reshared in that community and as all horror stories do, IT GREW.
And what we get at the receiving end of that tale is a nearly man sized bird with one eye, a very large beak with both teeth and tentacles in it and razor sharp talons. Pretty scary and lots of fun to draw.
Here are the trading card specs on this critter.
Snallygaster:
1. Regional Names
- Snallygaster: Predominantly used in Maryland and the surrounding areas.
- Schneller Geist: Derived from German immigrants, meaning “quick spirit.”
2. Known Origin and Basic Lore
The Snallygaster is a creature rooted in American folklore, particularly in the Maryland region. Its origins trace back to the early 18th century with German immigrants who brought tales of a bird-like creature. These stories evolved over time, incorporating local myths and legends.
3. Significant Sightings
- 1909: The first reported sighting in Frederick County, Maryland. Witnesses described a beast with enormous wings, a metallic beak lined with teeth, and tentacles.
- 1923-1925: A series of sightings reported in the Middletown Valley region, leading to widespread panic and the involvement of local authorities.
- 1948: A notable sighting in Sykesville, Maryland, described as a large bird-like creature with tentacles.
4. Physical Description
- Size: Described as being up to 20 feet in wingspan.
- Body: Reptilian body covered in scales.
- Head: Bird-like head with a metallic beak filled with sharp teeth.
- Limbs: Tentacle-like appendages that protrude from the body.
- Eyes: Large and luminous, capable of glowing in the dark.
5. Behaviors
- Diet: Carnivorous, reportedly preying on livestock and occasionally humans.
- Temperament: Aggressive and territorial, known to attack when provoked.
- Movement: Primarily airborne, capable of swift and silent flight.
6. Abilities
- Flight: Capable of sustained, silent flight.
- Stealth: Ability to remain undetected until the moment of attack.
- Strength: Exceptional physical strength, able to lift large animals and even humans.
7. Preferred Habitat
The Snallygaster is said to prefer rural and mountainous regions, often sighted near forests, caves, and isolated areas.
8. Range of Sightings
- Primary Region: Maryland, particularly the Frederick County and Middletown Valley areas.
- Secondary Regions: Sightings have been reported in surrounding states, including Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
9. Likelihood of Existence Based on Similar Species
The Snallygaster’s description shares similarities with various mythological and real-world creatures:
- Pterosaurs: Prehistoric flying reptiles with large wingspans.
- Birds of Prey: Large raptors such as eagles and hawks.
- Cryptids: Similar to other legendary creatures like the Jersey Devil and Mothman.
The likelihood of the Snallygaster’s existence is often debated. Skeptics argue that the creature is a product of folklore and misidentification, while believers suggest that it could be an undiscovered species. The convergence of features from known animals and the consistent regional sightings lend some credence to the possibility of its existence.