At the end of May 2024, residents of the village of Vizimyary in the Russian republic of Mari El came across the remains of an unknown animal while walking through the forest with their children.
According to the local newsEyewitnesses described the creature as resembling a lizard, about 70 cm long, with unusually long hind legs. It was initially thought to be a weasel, but its unusual features raised doubts.
Three years ago, an unknown animal had killed chickens and rabbits in Vizimyary, leading villagers to speculate that this might be the same creature.
Gennady Bogdanov, a senior researcher at the “Bolshaya Kokshaga” nature reserve, was contacted to identify the animal, but could not make a final decision based on photos and videos alone.
He emphasized the need for physical examination to analyze the size and teeth.
“Its limbs are too long for an otter. Videos and photos are not enough to accurately identify a long-dead animal. We have to look on site and determine the size and formula of the teeth,” Bogdanov said.
Social media users have suggested several possibilities, including a hare, a wolverine (despite their absence in Mari El) or even a chupacabra.
As of now, further information regarding the mysterious discovery remains pending.
