(opens the full-size plate in a new tab) Jackalope
Terrestrial Mammal / Lagomorph
Veterinary pathology attributes the antlers to Shope papilloma virus. The mounted specimens are taxidermy, first sold in Douglas in the 1930s.
A terrestrial lagomorph bearing antler-like cranial protrusions, whose underlying biological reality is rooted in the Shope papilloma virus despite its origins as a 1930s taxidermy hoax.
Etymology. A portmanteau of the words 'jackrabbit' and 'antelope'.
Anatomy. It physically resembles a standard North American jackrabbit but features sharp, deer-like antlers protruding from its head. The biological foundation for these horns is an infection of the Shope papilloma virus.
Ecology. Endemic to the plains of Wyoming. Natural predators include hunters seeking 'Jackalope Hunting Licenses' issued exclusively in the town of Douglas.
Behavior. It is a highly elusive, whiskey-loving creature with a remarkable vocal structure capable of 'throwing its voice' and perfectly mimicking human tenor melodies to sing along with cowboys around distant campfires. It breeds exclusively during lightning storms.
Mythology. The modern legend was popularized in 1932 by Douglas Herrick, a hunter who grafted deer antlers onto a jackrabbit carcass to sell to hotels. However, global historical texts have documented 'horned hares' for centuries.