10 creepy cryptids you should know about

Children walking in a neighbourhood wearing costumes

Cryptids are creatures that are often unseen and mysterious. They are shrouded in legends and stories that have been passed down for generations, making them a fascination for humans for centuries. If you're looking to add a little more creativity to your story writing, learning about these elusive beings can be a great way to do so. In today's post, we'll take a closer look at some examples of cryptids, to get your imagination racing.

What are cryptids?

Cryptids are mythical creatures or beings whose existence cannot be proven by science. Some may claim to have seen them but there's usually no solid proof of the encounter. They exist in folklore, mythology and urban legends. Cryptids can be found in cultures all around the world, from the Loch Ness Monster in Scotland to the in Latin America.

Here are ten cryptids you'll want to learn about this Halloween:

Barghest

The Barghest is a ghostly black dog cryptid that appears in the folklore of Yorkshire and Lancashire. It is often associated with misfortune, and sightings of this ominous creature continue to be reported.

Owlman

The Owlman is a humanoid creature with owl-like features such as red eyes, wings and feathers. Sightings of this mysterious creature have been reported around the village of Mawnan Smith in Cornwall, adding an eerie twist to local legend.

The Kraken

The Kraken is a legendary sea monster of gigantic size and octopus-like appearance, said to dwell in the deep sea and feasting on ships that are unfortunate enough to come across it.Ìý

Read more about the English language in our blog posts

Water Leaper (Llamhigyn Y Dwr)

The Water Leaper, also known as the Linton Worm or Lindworm, is a Welsh cryptid believed to inhabit bodies of water such as ponds and rivers. Descriptions vary, but it is often depicted as a fearsome water-dwelling creature.

Shug Monkey

The Shug Monkey, also known as the Shug Monkey Beast, is a cryptid that is said to be part dog and part monkey. It has a grotesque appearance with shaggy fur, fangs, and the ability to emit a blood-curdling scream.

Bigfoot (also known as a Sasquatch)

Probably one of the most well-known examples of a cryptid, Bigfoot is described as a large, ape-like creature, often reported in remote forested areas.

The Lambton Worm

The Lambton Worm is a creature of myth fromÌý. According to the story, John encountered a monstrous, serpentine creature in the River Wear in County Durham. This cryptid, depicted as either a giant worm or dragon, terrorized the local area.

Wendigo

Wendigos are believed to inhabit remote forests and desolate areas, particularly during winter. They are considered malevolent and bring death and misery to those who encounter them.

Beast of Bodmin Moor

The Beast of Bodmin Moor, also referred to as the Bodmin Beast, is a legendary feline or a large, black, panther-like animal that is believed to wander around the wilderness of Bodmin Moor in Cornwall. The sightings of this mysterious creature have puzzled the inhabitants and tourists for many years.

Bownessie

Bownessie is a serpent-like creature with a long neck that reportedly inhabits Lake Windermere in England's Lake District. The creature has been compared to the legendaryÌý.

The existence of these mysterious creatures remains a riddle, yet the tales and stories that surround them add an aura of mystique and wonder. Cryptids can be found in almost every culture, and you may start noticing patterns among them. Additionally, you may observe the use of these legends in media, particularly in the fantasy genre. They may not have the same names, but they are undoubtedly an obvious source of inspiration.Ìý

Cryptids are not only subjects of curiosity, they are also valuable tools for crafting engaging narratives that resonate with readers and viewers alike. So whether you are an enthusiast of the unknown or simply enjoy a good supernatural tale, use these examples to ignite your creative storytelling and English writing skills. Try writing your very own story and see where your imagination takes you.Ìý

Interested in storytelling, Sci-fi fantasy? Make sure to check out our blog postÌýBooks to improve your English: Sci-fi and fantasy edition.

Check out more of our blog posts

More blogs from ÃÛÌÒapp

  • Two business people both looking at a computer screen, gesturing and smiling.

    Why your performance management strategy needs language learning

    By Samantha Ball

    The modern workplace is constantly evolving and undergoing a paradigm shift in performance management. The focus is now on fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, rather than merely holding employees accountable. It is particularly important to prioritize this shift when it comes to enhancing language and communication skills within your team.

    It is important to connect performance management with language learning goals, as English skills are highly valued by both employees and businesses.

  • Business people in a group smiiling with their hands up in air

    Empowering employee success: establishing a learning culture

    By Samantha Ball

    In the fast-paced world of business, there is one undeniable fact that holds true: employees are the key to success. Their commitment and expertise propel organizations towards their objectives, which is why investing in a learning culture is essential. The advantages are numerous and include improved staff retention, increased productivity and the goal of higher employee engagement.

  • A woman sat at a laptop with a headset smiling, with a bunch of mini flags on the desk next to her

    Unlocking multilingualism: Celebrating European day of languages

    By Samantha Ball

    Language is not only a tool for communication but also a means to explore and comprehend diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Europe, with its vast array of languages, is a prime example of this linguistic diversity. Each year on September 26th, Europe observes the European Day of Languages, which is a day solely dedicated to celebrating and embracing this linguistic richness.

    Europe is a magnificent tapestry of languages, with over 200 spoken throughout the continent. This diversity is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of each nation and reminds us of the intricate historical, social, and linguistic elements that mold our identities. The European Day of Languages inspires people to cherish and honor this linguistic heritage.

    Why September 26th?

    September 26th marks an important date for celebrating linguistic diversity and promoting multilingualism. This day commemorates the adoption of the "European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages" by the Council of Europe in 1992, a crucial document that recognizes and safeguards the linguistic rights of minority languages spoken within European countries. By celebrating the European Day of Languages on this date, it renews our commitment to supporting the rich diversity of languages and cultures that make our world a more vibrant and fascinating place.

    What type of events happen?

    Language Exchanges

    The European Day of Languages offers language learners a chance to participate in language exchanges, which is an exciting opportunity. During such exchanges, learners from diverse backgrounds partner up and teach each other their native languages. This not only helps improve language skills but also promotes intercultural understanding.

    Language Workshops

    Various European cities offer language workshops led by enthusiasts and experts, providing an introduction to different languages.

    Multilingual Storytelling

    Storytelling is an incredibly effective tool for learning languages. Libraries, schools, and cultural centers hold multilingual storytelling sessions, where stories from different cultures are shared in their original languages. This helps both children and adults to better understand and appreciate the beauty of linguistic diversity.

    Film Screenings

    Cinema provides a wonderful opportunity to explore different languages and cultures. Throughout Europe, foreign films are often shown with subtitles, enabling viewers to fully immerse themselves in new linguistic worlds.

    Cultural Exhibitions

    Museums often showcase exhibitions highlighting the linguistic and cultural heritage of various regions, providing insight into the history and traditions of different languages.

    Language Cafés

    Cafés and restaurants might offer special menus featuring diverse cuisines and multilingual staff – a delightfully tasty way to explore languages and cultures.

    Games and Competitions

    Language-based games and competitions, such as crossword puzzles and spelling bees, are organized in schools and communities to provide a fun and educational way to celebrate language.

    If you are a teacher hoping to celebrate this occasion make sure to on what to do.

    Check out .

    Just like the European day of Languages, we at ÃÛÌÒapp Languages are fully committed to empowering and celebrating language learners and educators alike. That's why we are now supporting French, Italian, and Spanish language learning with the Global Scale of Languages (GSL). With these new language learning frameworks at your fingertips, you can confidently design curriculums and personalize learning pathways to help fast-track your learners’ progress and help your learners be themselves in French, Italian and Spanish.

    Whether you're a teacher, a language learner, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of languages, the European Day of Languages and the GSL provide exciting opportunities to explore, learn, and enjoy the rich tapestry of Europe's linguistic heritage.

    Find out more about the Global Scale of Languages