Classification: Mythical Beasts & Cryptids

Temporal Range: Unknown

Geographic Range: The Amazon, specifically heard of in Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil though

Diet: Anything that dares set foot in the water

Horde: Latin American

Lurking in the Amazon River basin is the truly massive Yacumama. This gargantuan snake is considered the mother of all aquatic life in the Amazon River and has been known to eat boats whole, crew and all. She can devour anything that comes within a hundred paces of her so we hope you’ve been counting your steps.

Local indigenous peoples have been aware of Yacumama for centuries and have grown to both respect and fear her. They use conch shells to ensure safe passage as if you blow on one and she’s near, she’ll rise to the surface. If you do spot her though, it’s best to stay on dry land and save your trip for another day. Otherwise, you’ll make a delicious little snack for her.

One particular eyewitness report claims that in the early 1900s a group of men set off, determined to destroy Yacumama with explosives. They set their charges and waited. When the explosives went off, the great serpent rose from the water, drenched in blood but still full of life and rage. She stared the men down then slipped back into the water and swam away, eyes filled with threat, vengeance and patience. We have no follow-up report on whatever happened to the hunters in question but we know for sure that Yacumama still haunts these waters so it’s quite clear who came out on top in this battle.

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