The Teakettler (classification unknown) also known as the "Wild Teakettle" is a “fearsome critter” from North American lumberjack folklore, originating in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Description[]
Described as "A small animal which obtains its name from the noise which it made, resembling that of a boiling teakettle. Clouds of vapor issued from its nostrils. It walked backward from choice. But few woodsmen have ever seen one. "
As the myth goes, Only a few lumberjacks claim to have seen one, as the creature is so shy, but if a boiling kettle is heard and nowhere to be found, it could be that a Teakettler is nearby.
In literature[]
An account is given by Jorge Luis Borges under "Fauna of the United States" in the Book of Imaginary Beings (1957) a book that contains 120 mythical beasts of folklore and literature. - the description is identical to Charles E Browns "Paul Bunyans natural history." (1935)
the "Silver tailed Teakettler" (an avian variety) was also featured among other fearsome critters in 1972's "McBrooms Zoo." various artistic depictions followed.
Wikipedia description & Modern Canine interpretations: Prior to the creation of the wikipedia article (circa 2011.) – the description given on wikipedia incorrectly quotes Borges, adding that "It is said to resemble a small stubby legged dog with the ears of a cat" – however, folklorists have pointed out, in prior written literature, the critter was never described as such - [The wikipedias request for additional sources dates back to 2011–that’s more than a decade for someone’s invention (or mistake) to seep into most of the fearsome critter depictions online.] – The inaccuracy lead several modern artists to interpret it as a corgi or a small dog. – This article also classified it as (Urocyon iugulebesonia) however the creature has evaded capture & its exact appearance is unknown.]
Further reading:[]
"Teakettler" from Paul Bunyan Natural History (1935) by Charles E. Brown