Cryptid Briefing 002: What is a "Jackalope"?

Hello cryptid hunters, and welcome to the second hunting report to assist you in your efforts. In this post we will focus on the jackalope.

The jackalope is a North American cryptid, and one of the most well-known to the average American after Bigfoot. This small, timid-looking animal seems cute - like any other little cottontail or jackrabbit. But be warned, this creature is more dangerous than some upright ape. The jackalope, a trophy in small dive bars and hunting lodges in the heartland, is not some little sideshow. This creature is in fact a target for only the most seasoned and well-trained cryptid hunters in the Western Hemisphere.

Hunters are strongly recommended to protect their extremities with minimum 8-gauge stainless steel or other hardened metals. This is to ensure that the horns or teeth do not puncture any vital artery and leave you left for dead. We also recommend bringing strong whiskey as another rescue tool. As a veteran of jackalope hunts, I can attest that these cryptids will still attempt to bite while laying out a saucer, but do not show fear - they can smell it.

To aid in your hunting sessions, plan your excursions around stormy weather. Contrary to normal hunting planning, storms in fact attract these creatures and act as prime mating season opportunities. Mating call tools and other attractants will be the most efficient during these storm cycles.

Also, to any new hunters, please do not - UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE - believe senior hunters' tales of milking one. Not only is it suicide, it is also gross.

*WARNING*: The jackalope is known for its ability to mimic human voices. If you hear your voice or voices of your hunting party popping up around you, create a small defensive perimeter and avoid splitting up. This is a psychological maneuver, and do not fall victim to this trap.

Jack the Jackalope

Our personal guard "dog" of the house, Jack, was my main inspiration for FAI's founding. The hunting incident in Wyoming that led us to Jack's burrow left two dead & many wounded - forcing the Cryptid Hunting group to be created in order to share knowledge in regard to trapping/hunting these elusive animals.

While our real dog is bigger and better equipped than some funny looking rabbit, everyone knows who really rules the roost. A domesticated jackalope is still a dangerous wild animal, so do not treat this creature with a flippant attitude. It is with this in mind that jackalopes fall under Category 3: Aggressive and Active.

Cryptids are mysterious animals and can punch far above their weight class, so proper training classes and licensing must be acquired through your local chapter affiliate or though the main FAI Cryptid Hunter resource team.