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Carcancho by Daniel Bernal
El Carcancho (also known as Karkancho or the Chilean Bigfoot) is a creature from Chilean mythology and regional folklore, often compared to beings like the Yeti, Bigfoot, or even a werewolf.
Description[]
Carcancho on the Chilean TCG Mitos y Leyendas using a more werewolf looking design.
El Carcancho is described as a tall, woolly humanoid figure standing around two meters (6.5 feet) tall. It is covered in reddish-brown hair and has a distinctly beastly, unkempt appearance. Its name is derived from the sound it makes, which resembles the call of the caracara (locally called carcancho), a type of South American raptor bird that inhabits Chile.
Habitat and Behavior[]
The creature is said to dwell in remote mountainous regions, where it mostly feeds on wild tubers and roots. However, on rare occasions, El Carcancho descends from the mountains, especially during harsh winters or food shortages, and is known to steal livestock, particularly sheep and goats.
El Carcancho is usually shy and elusive, avoiding human contact. Nonetheless, it is capable of aggressive behavior when provoked or cornered. Its presence is often betrayed by large, humanoid footprints and an overwhelming rancid smell it leaves in its wake.
Cultural Notes[]
Though not as widely known as other mythological creatures, El Carcancho holds a firm place in the oral traditions of rural Andean communities, particularly in southern and central Chile. Some locals believe sightings are omens, while others think the creature may be a remnant of ancient human ancestors or an undiscovered primate species.
Related Sightings and Regional Variants[]
Chile has a rich tradition of similar cryptid encounters. El Carcancho is not the only creature of its kind reported in the region. Others include:
- The Rengo Snowman - a yeti-like creature reportedly seen in the area around Rengo, central Chile.
- Bigfoot - While traditionally North American, some Chilean accounts describe a creature with similar features.
- The Mwono - A lesser-known humanoid beast mentioned in scattered southern Chilean tales.
- The Ucumar - Though primarily part of Argentine Andean folklore, this ape-like creature has also been spotted in the mountainous border areas of Chile, suggesting possible migration or shared mythological roots.