CITATION: “© [Mat Hayward] / Adobe Stock”
If you live in Wyoming, you’ve probably heard rumors of the fabled Jackalope.
The Jackalope refers to a fierce creature that has the body of a jackrabbit and the horns of an antelope. Also known as the “warrior rabbit” the animal is known to be native to Wyoming. Despite being a myth, the story of the Jackalope has become ingrained in the state’s culture.
In certain towns in Wyoming, you can find Jackalope souvenirs such as t-shirts, key chains, and other memorabilia that commemorate the fictional creature. There is even a towering Jackalope statue in the city of Douglas where the longstanding myth originated. Considering the widespread popularity of the legend, it is hard to believe that the creature’s existence was a complete accident.
In the early 19th century, the Herrick brothers tossed a jackrabbit carcass against the wall of their taxidermy shop. It landed directly below a pair of deer antlers, and they decided to fasten the antlers to its head before mounting it.
This unique piece of taxidermy became a fast success after the pair sold it for $10 to a local hotel owner, Roy Ball. Proudly hung in Ball’s lobby, the distinctive piece began to attract the attention of people all over the country. Following its popularity, the Herrick brothers received thousands of requests from other hotels and businesses that wanted a Jackalope head of their own.
As the heads became more and more popular, urban legends began to form around the mysterious creature. Stories suggested that the Jackalope was powerful and far larger than an average jackrabbit. People warned hunters of the creature about the dangers of encountering the animal, which would deeply cut challengers using its sharp antlers. To increase their chances of capturing one, people advised hunters to offer the Jackalope its favorite drink—Whiskey. In doing so, the creature would come willingly.
More fantastical myths suggest that the Jackalope can talk and sing by mimicking human voices. There are also rumors that its milk has medicinal properties that can cure the majority of illnesses.
Storytellers have been changing and altering the story of the Jackalope throughout history—now you know the true tale of the fabled creature’s origins.
