The chupacabra (or "goatsucker") is a cryptid that's reportedly found primarily in Puerto Rico. There are many legends surrounding the chupacabra and the way it preys on farm animals by sucking their blood.
Some people claim to have videos, pictures, and even bodies of this cryptid, but as of yet, it is not a scientifically accepted species. It has been a sensation for years with chupacabra T-shirts, movies (such as Chupacabra Terror), and the subject of various news stories.
The Chupacabra or Goatsucker
The chupacabra’s name comes from the Spanish word “chupar” meaning “to suck” and “cabra” meaning “goat.” Its loose translation is "goat sucker." The name stems from the way the animal preys on mostly farm animals (including goats) and is known to suck the blood out of their bodies. In 1995, some of the first major reported animal mutilations attributed to the chupacabra were of goats.
The primary feeding habits of this animal involve sucking blood from livestock and also sometimes include liquefying and sucking out the organs of its prey. This is done through one or two puncture wounds made in or near the chest of the animal. No meat is taken in reported chupacabra mutilations; the blood is completely drained from the animal’s body through these small punctures.
Chupacabra Sightings
The chupacabra is found mostly in Puerto Rico where major sightings began occurring in 1995. However there have also been many sightings in Mexico and areas in the southern United States (primarily Texas and Florida). In March 2005, reported sightings and animal mutilations began in Russia. There have also been sightings in Maine and other unexpected locations in the United States, though this creature does tend to stay near warmer climates.
Some people have speculated that the chupacabra is reptilian and some theorize that this cold bloodedness is the reason it is most commonly sighted in warmer regions such as Mexico and the southern states of the U.S. such as Texas.
Many bodies of suspected chupacabras have been found over the years. Most DNA testing has resulted in these carcasses being labeled as coyotes with genetic disorders or severe mange. Some believers of the chupacabra myth argue that this label is too prevalent. They believe the scientists are simply calling these animals coyotes because they have no better explanation and are refusing to accept the chupacabra as an actual yet unclassified species.
The Chupacabra Myth
Descriptions of this animal vary widely in eye witness reports. It is most commonly depicted as having reptile-like skin with large spikes or quills along its back and head. It is often said to have large, oval shaped black or red eyes. Other reports mention it looking somewhat bat-like with wings for flying or as having a body shaped like a kangaroos and being capable of jumping great distances.
It is also depicted as looking much like an alien gray and that is where many people believe the myth of this animal being extraterrestrial in nature comes from. Some groups who believe in this creature suspect that it is either an alien pet left on earth or an alien experiment left behind. The reasons for why this creature was left on earth vary as widely as the descriptions of the chupacabra.
It is also described as being very similar to a hairless dog with large, protruding fangs. Many skeptics use these descriptions to fuel their argument that the chupacabra legend is nothing more than wild dogs or some other native animal.
There are many different suggestions about where these animals come from. One claim is that they are man-made creatures created for the government and that the government is trying to cover up their existence. There have been reported claims of military involvement when suspected chupacabra bodies were discovered.
Others believe the legend of the chupacabra is nothing but a hoax and that the mutilations are performed by extreme religious sects. Some also suspect that it is done to create a media stir in certain locations to draw in tourists who are interested in the chupacabra myth.
It’s clear that the chupacabra is a legend. The interesting habits of this cryptid, the controversy around the plethora of sightings, and the media frenzy created by this fascinating mythical creature are further proof of its intrigue and mystery. To date, there is still no evidence that the scientific community considers reliable enough to prove the chupacabra's existence, but one day that may change. Until then, this animal will continue to fascinate people all over the world as a mythical cryptid.
Sources and Further Reading:
- Man Says he Found a Chupacabra in Fort Bend County KSAT-TV.
- Chupacabra Terror (2005) on IMDB.
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