The Jackalope: A Mythical Creature with a Real History

The jackalope is a legendary animal that looks like a rabbit with antlers, and it is said to inhabit the American West. Some people claim to have seen it, others have mounted its head on their walls, and still others have made it into a symbol of their businesses or products. But what is the truth behind this mysterious creature? Is it real or just a hoax? And what does it have to do with cancer research?

Unveiling the Legend of the Jackalope: North America’s Horned Hare

Imagine traversing the rugged landscapes of the American West, the sun setting on the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. Suddenly, a flicker of movement catches your eye. A creature unlike any you’ve seen before bounds across the plains – a jackrabbit, fleet-footed and familiar, yet crowned with a majestic set of antlers. This captivating image is the essence of the jackalope, a mythical animal deeply embedded in the folklore of North America, particularly the wild and wonderful American West.¹ More than just a figment of imagination, the jackalope has hopped its way into the hearts and stories of many, becoming a true cultural icon.

At its heart, the jackalope is a fascinating hybrid, a whimsical blend of two creatures familiar to the Western landscape: the jackrabbit and the antelope.¹ While the name itself is a straightforward combination of these two, the reality, like many good legends, is a bit more nuanced. Often depicted with the branching horns of a deer in taxidermied displays, the jackalope occupies a special place within the pantheon of “fearsome critters,” those fantastical beasts that roam the landscape of North American tall tales, often possessing exaggerated and humorous characteristics.² The very notion of a rabbit adorned with antlers is inherently striking, a delightful absurdity that sparks curiosity and invites the creation of countless stories. This unexpected combination of two distinct animals is likely a key reason for the jackalope’s enduring appeal, prompting both amusement and a sense of wonder at the possibilities of nature.

This exploration will delve into the captivating world of the jackalope. We will uncover the details of its described physical appearance, trace the history of reported sightings across the continent, examine its significant cultural impact on different regions, and investigate the potential scientific explanations that might lie beneath the surface of this enduring myth.

The Jackalope’s Distinctive Features: Horned Hare or Antelabbit?

The most fundamental aspect of the jackalope is its unique appearance, a striking combination of lagomorph and ungulate features. The creature is primarily described as having the body of a jackrabbit.² It is worth noting that jackrabbits, with their long ears and powerful hind legs designed for swift escapes across open terrain, are actually hares, belonging to the genus Lepus, rather than true rabbits. This zoological distinction adds an interesting layer to the tale.

The defining characteristic, of course, is the presence of antlers, typically described as being antelope-like, often with two prongs, reminiscent of the pronghorn (Antilocapra americana).¹ However, it is a common sight to see taxidermied jackalopes sporting the more readily available antlers of a deer.¹ Less frequently, descriptions might include other fantastical additions, such as a pheasant’s tail or legs, further blurring the lines of reality and enhancing its mythical charm.⁷

The name “jackalope” itself is a straightforward portmanteau, neatly blending “jackrabbit” and “antelope”.¹ It’s a simple, descriptive term that has become widely recognized. Regarding the “antelope” part of the name, it specifically refers to the pronghorn, a unique North American mammal found only in western regions. Despite its common name, the pronghorn is not a true antelope from the Old World but belongs to its own family, Antilocapridae, and is actually more closely related to giraffes.² Adult pronghorns can grow to be about three feet tall, weigh up to 150 pounds, and are known for their incredible speed, capable of sustained speeds approaching 60 miles per hour.²

The size of the jackalope in folklore varies considerably. While some accounts depict it as being roughly the size of a typical jackrabbit, weighing between one and ten pounds ⁴, other tales describe it as growing much larger, reaching the size of a medium-sized dog, around 60 pounds.¹⁴ Some of the more fantastical stories even speak of a long-extinct “Sabretooth Jack,” a formidable creature said to have weighed up to 150 pounds.¹⁴ The most common fur color associated with the jackalope is brown, similar to that of a wild rabbit.¹² However, variations exist, with some descriptions noting tawny, fawn, or grayish hues, and occasionally, distinct white patches on the throat, belly, and rump.¹³ This inconsistency in the jackalope’s described features, particularly the type of antlers and its size, suggests that the central idea of a horned rabbit is more important in the folklore than strict anatomical accuracy. This flexibility allows for a richer and more imaginative narrative, adapting to different storytellers and regional interpretations.

The diverse physical descriptions of the jackalope can be summarized as follows:

Have You Seen One? A Look at Jackalope Sightings in North America

The jackalope is most strongly associated with the American West, becoming practically synonymous with the region’s rugged landscapes and independent spirit.² Within this vast area, the town of Douglas, Wyoming, proudly proclaims itself the “Jackalope Capital of the World”.² This title is not taken lightly; the town even features an eight-foot statue of the mythical creature in its town square and hosts an annual Jackalope Days celebration, further cementing its connection to the legend.¹⁹

While Wyoming holds the most prominent place in jackalope lore, reported sightings and cultural associations extend to other Western states as well. Colorado, Nebraska, South Dakota, Arizona, Texas, and even Washington have all been mentioned as locations where the elusive creature has been spotted or where its legend holds sway.⁴ Some accounts even suggest that cowboys frequently encountered jackalopes on the Western prairie in the 1800s, though reports have become less common in modern times.⁴ These historical references contribute to the sense of a long-standing myth deeply rooted in the region’s past.

Anecdotes of personal jackalope “sightings” abound, often shared with a wink and a nod. These stories, whether told in earnest or jest, help to keep the legend alive in local communities.¹⁸ Adding to the playful nature of the jackalope phenomenon, the town of Douglas has a humorous tradition of selling jackalope hunting licenses. These licenses often come with absurd conditions, such as restricting the hunting season to June 31st and requiring the hunter to have an IQ between 50 and 72.²³ The reported sightings, even if largely anecdotal, play a crucial role in maintaining the jackalope’s mystique. The very idea that someone might have glimpsed this unusual creature reinforces its place in the cultural narrative, blurring the line between reality and imagination. Furthermore, the concentration of jackalope lore in specific regions and the development of local traditions around it, such as Jackalope Days, demonstrate how folklore can become deeply intertwined with regional identity, fostering a sense of shared cultural heritage.

More Than Just a Myth: The Jackalope in Folklore and Culture

The jackalope has evolved into a powerful symbol of the American West, embodying its unique blend of ruggedness, humor, and imaginative storytelling.² Its image is ubiquitous across the region, prominently featured in roadside attractions, where taxidermied versions often greet travelers, and in countless souvenirs, from postcards and keychains to the ever-popular “jackalope milk”.² Local businesses often incorporate the jackalope into their branding, further solidifying its presence in everyday life.

Beyond its regional significance, the jackalope has hopped into mainstream popular culture. It has made appearances in movies, such as the Pixar short film Boundin’ ¹⁶, television shows like America’s Funniest People ¹⁶, and even video games like Red Dead Redemption.⁵³ Artists have also embraced the jackalope, depicting it in various styles and mediums.²

Adding to its folkloric charm are the numerous humorous and often outlandish claims about jackalope behavior and habits. Legend has it that they are incredibly fast, capable of reaching speeds of up to 90 or even 120 miles per hour.¹⁷ They are also said to possess the remarkable ability to mimic human voices, even singing along with cowboys around a campfire, often in a tenor voice.² Some tales claim that jackalopes only mate during lightning storms, accounting for their supposed rarity.² It is also said that they have a fondness for whiskey, which can be used to lure them.² Despite their seemingly whimsical nature, jackalopes are sometimes portrayed as being dangerous and aggressive when cornered.²

Regional variations in jackalope folklore also exist. For example, it is sometimes referred to as the “warrior rabbit” ², the “antelabbit” ⁹, or the “phesalope” or “flying jackalope” in South Dakota, said to have a bird-like body.⁹ A Canadian version, known as the “Elkhare,” is said to inhabit northern British Columbia.²¹ These localized adaptations demonstrate the myth’s flexibility and how it can be tailored to specific regions.

Interestingly, the jackalope is not alone in the world of horned rabbit legends. Similar creatures appear in the folklore of other cultures, such as the German wolpertinger, a bizarre hybrid often depicted with a rabbit’s head, squirrel’s body, deer antlers, and pheasant’s wings ², and the Persian al-mi’raj, described as a yellow hare with a single black horn.² Even medieval texts and illustrations from Europe depict horned hares, suggesting a long history of this image in human imagination.² The jackalope’s journey from a regional Wyoming joke to a widely recognized cultural icon highlights the power of storytelling and the human capacity for embracing the fantastical. Its widespread presence in various aspects of American life underscores its legendary status. The similarities with horned rabbit myths from other cultures hint at a possible shared fascination or perhaps even a common origin in real-world observations.

The Science Behind the Spectacle: Potential Explanations for Jackalope Sightings

While the jackalope reigns supreme in the realm of folklore, science offers some intriguing potential explanations for its origins. The most prominent of these is the Shope papilloma virus (SPV).² This virus, belonging to the papovavirus group, infects various leporids, including cottontail rabbits, jackrabbits, and even domestic rabbits, causing the growth of hard, keratinous tumors. These growths often appear on the head, face, and ears of the infected animals and can, in some cases, resemble horns or antlers.² It is important to note that these are not true bone antlers but rather skin growths made of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails.³⁹

The Shope papilloma virus was first scientifically described by Dr. Richard Shope in the 1930s ², around the same time that the jackalope myth gained significant popularity, largely due to the antics of two brothers in Wyoming. This temporal coincidence suggests a possible link between sightings of rabbits afflicted with this virus and the enduring tales of horned hares. Furthermore, research into the Shope papilloma virus surprisingly played a crucial role in the development of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, a major medical advancement in the prevention of certain cancers.⁴²

Another significant factor in the popularization of the jackalope is the well-documented taxidermy hoax initiated by Douglas and Ralph Herrick in Douglas, Wyoming, starting in the 1930s.² The story goes that after a hunting trip, they playfully attached deer antlers to a jackrabbit carcass. This whimsical creation was then displayed in a local hotel and quickly captured the public’s imagination, leading to numerous sales and the widespread dissemination of the jackalope image.² While the jackalope as a true hybrid remains a delightful hoax, the Herrick brothers’ contribution was instrumental in shaping its modern image.

Other potential explanations for jackalope sightings include the misidentification of young deer or pronghorns, particularly fawns with small antlers, or even the psychological phenomenon of pareidolia, where the human brain interprets vague or random stimuli as familiar patterns.²⁴ The simultaneous emergence of the jackalope myth and the discovery of the Shope papilloma virus is a remarkable coincidence, suggesting a possible real-world basis for the folklore that was then amplified and solidified by the Herrick brothers’ famous hoax. Furthermore, the unexpected link between the study of this virus and the development of the HPV vaccine adds a fascinating layer of scientific significance to this seemingly whimsical creature of myth.

Capturing the Cryptid: Jackalopes in Images and Videos

The jackalope’s image is widely disseminated through a variety of media, reflecting its prominent place in popular culture. Perhaps the most iconic visual representation is the taxidermy mount, often found adorning the walls of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops throughout the American West.¹ These often serve as humorous reminders of local folklore and make for memorable photo opportunities.

Beyond taxidermy, a vast array of illustrations, cartoons, and artwork depict the jackalope in countless styles.² From vintage-inspired drawings to whimsical cartoons and contemporary digital art, these depictions further solidify the jackalope’s place in popular culture.

Jackalope-themed festivals and events, such as the annual Jackalope Days in Douglas, Wyoming, often generate associated photos and videos, capturing the community’s enthusiastic embrace of their mythical mascot.² Furthermore, numerous documentaries, news reports, and online videos explore the jackalope legend, delving into its history, cultural significance, and potential scientific explanations.² Examples include “The Jackalope Chronicles” ¹⁰⁹, various videos on platforms like YouTube exploring its origins and folklore ²³, and even podcast episodes dedicated to Wyoming’s most disturbing cryptid.¹¹⁸ These readily available images and videos online demonstrate the jackalope’s continued relevance and its effectiveness as a recognizable cultural symbol.

Digging Deeper: Reputable Sources for Jackalope Lore

For those interested in exploring the legend of the jackalope further, several reputable sources offer valuable information:

• Cryptozoology Websites: Websites like Cryptomundo ²² and CryptoZooNews ¹²⁷ often feature articles and discussions about cryptids, including the jackalope.
• Folklore Archives: Exploring university or regional folklore archives, such as the Wyoming Folklife Archive ³¹, can provide insights into the traditional stories and beliefs surrounding the jackalope.
• Books on Cryptozoology and American Folklore: Michael P. Branch’s book, On the Trail of the Jackalope: How a Legend Captured the World’s Imagination and Helped Us Cure Cancer ⁴, and Andy Robbins’ Field Guide to the North American Jackakope ⁴ are excellent resources dedicated to the topic.
• Museums with Cryptozoology Exhibits: The International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland, Maine ⁴⁷, features exhibits on various cryptids, including representations of the jackalope.
• Academic Databases: For information on the Shope papilloma virus, academic databases like PubMed and Google Scholar can be searched using relevant keywords.⁶⁶

It is important for readers to critically evaluate their sources and to distinguish between anecdotal accounts, traditional folklore, and peer-reviewed scientific research.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Mythical Jackalope

The legend of the jackalope, a captivating blend of jackrabbit and antelope (or deer), stands as a testament to the power of folklore and the enduring appeal of the unusual. From its likely origins in sightings of rabbits afflicted with the Shope papilloma virus to its popularization as a whimsical taxidermy hoax in the American West, the jackalope has hopped its way into the cultural consciousness, becoming a beloved symbol of the region’s spirit of adventure and tall tales.²

Its distinctive appearance and the often humorous stories surrounding its habits have made it a favorite subject for roadside attractions, souvenirs, and popular culture. The jackalope’s ability to spark imagination and evoke a sense of wonder, even in those who know it to be a myth, is a key reason for its lasting appeal. It embodies the joy of storytelling and the human fascination with the unknown, reminding us that sometimes, the most captivating creatures are those that exist only in our collective imagination. The jackalope, in its unique way, continues to enrich the cultural landscape of North America, a horned hare forever bounding through the realms of myth and legend.

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References:

• Jackalope – Wikipedia
• Are jackalopes real? | Live Science
• Are Jackalopes Real? Inside The Legend Of The Horned Rabbit