The Alpine Tatzelwurm

For centuries, residents of the Alps have reported encounters with the Tatzelwurm, a bizarre creature that defies easy classification. Described as part lizard, part snake, with only front legs, it represents one of Europe’s most persistent cryptid mysteries.

The Name

“Tatzelwurm” means “claw worm” in German. Regional names include “Stollenwurm” (tunnel worm), “Springwurm” (jumping worm), and “Bergstutzen” (mountain stump). The variety of names suggests widespread folk awareness across Alpine cultures.

The Appearance

The creature is described as two to five feet long with a thick, cylindrical body covered in dark scales. It has a cat-like or snake-like head with prominent eyes. Most distinctively, it has only two front legs, with its rear tapering into a serpentine tail.

The Behavior

Reports describe the Tatzelwurm as aggressive when encountered. It has been blamed for attacks on livestock and occasionally on humans. Some accounts claim it can spit poison or emit toxic fumes. It lives in rocky crevices at high altitudes.

Documented Encounters

In 1779, Hans Fuchs, a respected Swiss farmer, described a Tatzelwurm encounter shortly before dying, reportedly from fright. In 1934, a Swiss photographer claimed to have taken a picture of the creature, though the image is of poor quality.

Scientific Theories

Some scientists suggest the Tatzelwurm might be an unknown species of European skink or a large salamander adapted to mountain environments. Others propose misidentified common animals seen under unusual circumstances.

Assessment

The Tatzelwurm’s consistent description across multiple countries and centuries suggests something more than random folklore. Whether unknown reptile, surviving prehistoric species, or collective misidentification, it remains actively reported.