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Wampus Cat
A Cherokee woman cursed to become a six-legged panther. She howls through the Appalachian nights. Her scream drives men mad. The Wampus Cat is Appalachia's most feared creature.
Ancient - Present
Appalachian Mountains, USA
500+ witnesses
The Wampus Cat is a fearsome creature from Appalachian and Cherokee folklore.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Wampus Cat:
- Is a six-legged panther
- Originated from a cursed woman
- Haunts the Appalachian Mountains
- Its scream can drive men mad
- Part Cherokee, part European legend
Cherokee Origin
The legend says:
- A woman spied on sacred men’s rituals
- Wearing a cougar skin
- She was caught and cursed
- Transformed into the Wampus Cat
- Now she roams forever
Description
The creature appears as:
- A large cat, often six-legged
- Standing on hind legs sometimes
- Yellow or green eyes
- Terrible screaming cry
- Faster than any normal cat
Behavior
The Wampus Cat:
- Screams in the night
- Steals livestock
- Can cause madness
- Stalks lone travelers
- Is nearly impossible to kill
Other Versions
Different regions tell:
- A woman seeking to protect her tribe
- A spirit of vengeance
- A guardian creature
- A demon cat
- Varies by community
Modern Sightings
People still report:
- Strange screams at night
- Large cat sightings
- Livestock killings
- The legend persists