Sometimes there are cryptids that just don’t make sense. This is a great example of one.
Sure on one hand, it is probably based on some kind of ermine that was overgrown and moving rapidly moving through the snow at night where its legs weren’t seen. On the other hand, what drunk Canuck came up with the idea that they shed their legs?
Either way, this one is interesting enough and was pretty easy to draw, so enjoy.
Here is the deep dive on the Snow Wasset.
Regional Names:
- Northeastern U.S.: Snow Wasset, Snow Weasel
- Canada: Ice Ferret, Arctic Mink
Known Origin and Basic Lore: The Snow Wasset is a creature of North American folklore, particularly prevalent in the snowy regions of the Northeastern United States and Canada. According to local legends, it is a mysterious, elusive creature that is rarely seen but often spoken about in winter tales. The lore suggests that the Snow Wasset has the ability to burrow through snow with great speed, making it nearly impossible to catch.
Significant Sightings:
- 1932, Maine: A group of trappers reported seeing a large, weasel-like creature moving rapidly across the snow, leaving an unusual trail.
- 1954, Quebec: Several farmers claimed to have lost livestock to an unknown predator, describing tracks that matched those attributed to the Snow Wasset.
- 1978, Vermont: A ski patrol officer reported a brief encounter with a creature fitting the description of the Snow Wasset during a heavy snowfall.
Physical Description: The Snow Wasset is described as a large, weasel-like animal with a sleek, elongated body covered in thick, white fur that provides excellent camouflage in snowy environments. It is said to have sharp claws and teeth, adapted for burrowing and hunting in the snow. The eyes are often described as being bright, with a reflective quality similar to that of other nocturnal predators.
Behaviors:
- Burrowing: The Snow Wasset is known for its ability to burrow through snow rapidly, creating tunnels that it uses for travel and hunting.
- Nocturnal Activity: It is primarily nocturnal, with most sightings occurring at night or during twilight hours.
- Predatory Habits: It is believed to prey on small mammals, birds, and occasionally livestock, using stealth and speed to catch its prey.
Abilities:
- Camouflage: Its white fur allows it to blend seamlessly into its snowy surroundings, aiding in both hunting and evasion.
- Speed and Agility: The Snow Wasset is reputed to be incredibly fast and agile, capable of quick, darting movements that make it difficult to spot or capture.
- Snow Tunneling: It can create extensive tunnel systems in the snow, which it uses for travel, hunting, and escaping predators.
Preferred Habitat: The Snow Wasset prefers cold, snowy environments such as forests, mountainous regions, and rural farmlands during the winter months. It is rarely seen during the summer, leading some to believe it hibernates or migrates to cooler areas.
Range of Sightings:
- United States: Primarily in the Northeastern states like Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire.
- Canada: Commonly reported in the provinces of Quebec and Ontario, with occasional sightings in the western provinces.
Likelihood of Existence Based on Similar Species: The existence of the Snow Wasset is often compared to other known species such as the ermine (stoat), Arctic fox, and wolverine, which share similar habitats and physical characteristics. While these species exhibit behaviors and abilities that might explain some aspects of Snow Wasset lore, the lack of concrete evidence and the fantastical elements of its description suggest that the Snow Wasset is likely a myth or a misidentification of more common animals. Cryptozoologists argue that the consistent nature of the sightings and the specific adaptations described could point to an undiscovered species, but mainstream science remains skeptical.
Conclusion: The Snow Wasset remains a fascinating element of North American folklore, capturing the imagination of those who live in snowy regions. Whether it is a creature of myth or a misunderstood native animal, the stories of the Snow Wasset continue to be a compelling part of local winter tales.