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Bunyip
Aboriginal legends speak of a terrifying water creature that lurks in billabongs and swamps. Screaming cries at night. Eats people who venture too close. Early settlers heard the stories—and the sounds. Some saw something. The bunyip still lurks.
1800 - Present
Australia
1000+ witnesses
The Bunyip is Australia’s most feared water monster.
Aboriginal Legend
Ancient creature:
- Known to all tribes
- Different names
- Water spirit
- Dangerous
- Very real to them
The Description
Varied accounts:
- Dog-like face
- Dark fur
- Flippers
- Horse-like tail
- Seal-like body
The Habitat
Where it lives:
- Billabongs
- Swamps
- Rivers
- Waterholes
- Remote areas
The Sound
Distinctive cry:
- Booming roar
- At night
- Terrifying settlers
- Documented
- Still heard
The Skull
1846 discovery:
- Unknown skull found
- Exhibited in Sydney
- Lost to science
- What was it?
- Never identified
Today
Current status:
- Still reported
- Cultural icon
- Tourism draw
- Some genuine mystery
- Part of Australia