We all know about vampires and werewolves, or at least we think we do. The legends and myths that inspired these monsters are sometimes surprisingly different, but no less chilling. In this series of posts, Monster Monday, we’ll investigate the monsters that have informed our modern notions, as well as some lesser known monsters. Today, we talk about the Hidebehind.

The hidebehind is a “fearsome critter” from North American lumberjack folklore. It preys on lumberjacks that wander alone into the woods. As its name suggests, it stalks its prey and can “hide behind” even the narrowest tree trunk. It moves incredibly fast and can always stay behind its prey no matter how many times the victim turns around. It attacks without warning, dragging its victim back to its lair to devour.

Though no one has ever actually seen a hidebehind and lived, it is usually described as a large, powerful sometimes bipedal animal with thick fur and sharp claws used to disembowel victims. It also has a terrifying howl. It is often described as being completely black. It has an aversion to alcohol such that being intoxicated is a defense against attack.