Chupacabra
Family:
Missouri cryptidae
Description:
Descriptions vary. In Puerto Rico, where the animal was first reported, it is described as about the size of a small bear, with a row of spines reaching from neck to the base of the tail. In Missouri, chupacabra reports describe a large, doglike creature with no hair and a distressed, skeletal appearance.
Size:
About the size of a coyote or German shepherd
Habitat and conservation:
Chupacabras seem to prefer the same habitat as coyotes.
Foods:
Reported to suck the milk of goats, but seems to thrive on superstition and fear
Distribution in Missouri:
Wherever coyotes are commonly seen
Status:
Legendary
Life cycle:
Unknown, but reports seem to peak in summer, when sarcoptic mange plagues coyotes and other canids.
Human connections:
Like all legendary creatures, the chupacabra legend stirs the human imagination.
Ecosystem connections:
None known MDC's Mission, Vision, Priorities
MDC protects and manages Missouri's fish, forest, and wildlife resources.
We also facilitate your participation in resource-management activities, and we provide opportunities for you to use, enjoy and learn about nature.
Shortened URL
http://mdc.mo.gov/node/19243
