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 Squonk.

The squonk is another “fearsome critter” from North American lumberjack folklore, particular to the hemlock forests of Pennsylvania. It is not considered overly dangerous. Covered in lumps and warts with loose baggy skin, its appearance is so hideous that it generally hides from every other living creature and only comes out at night.

Upset over its appearance, it is very lonesome and melancholy and cries constantly. Hunters track it by following its wet tear-soaked trail and listening for its sad cry. It is extremely difficult to catch, however, because if someone looks at it, then it will burst into sobs out of shame for its appearance and dissolve completely into a puddle of tears.