(opens the full-size plate in a new tab) Altamaha-ha
Aquatic Cryptid
The 2018 Wolf Island carcass was papier-mache and a stuffed shark, made by an artist.
A graceful, sturgeon-like aquatic cryptid with crocodilian features that has navigated Georgia's freshwater streams since before early indigenous documentation.
Etymology. Named directly for the Altamaha River, and affectionately abbreviated to 'Altie' by locals.
Anatomy. It is an aquatic beast measuring 20 to 30 feet in length, featuring a distinct sturgeon-like body with a prominent bony ridge on its top. Its head is characterized by a crocodilian snout, large protruding bug eyes, and sharp teeth. Biologists propose it may simply be an alligator gar.
Ecology. Inhabits the myriad small streams and abandoned rice fields near the mouth of the Altamaha River in southeastern Georgia.
Behavior. It navigates the streams with graceful, undulating movements, rising and diving in a manner resembling a dolphin.
Mythology. The creature's existence is deeply rooted in Muscogee tradition. It achieved modern infamy in 2018 when a decomposing 'corpse' was found on Wolf Island, which was later revealed to be a papier-mâché and stuffed shark hoax created by performance artist Zardulu.