Tradition / Region: American Mythology
Alternative names: –
Category: Horse, Spider
The Myth
The Luferlang is a fearsome creature of American lumberjack folklore. It is considered highly dangerous and is said to attack without any provocation.
Although it bites only once each year, its bite is believed to be invariably fatal. The biting season is said to occur on July 12.
The Luferlang is easily recognized by several unusual features. It has a dark blue stripe running down its back, a bushy tail attached to the middle of its back with a swivel joint, and four triple-jointed legs. These extraordinary limbs allow it to run with equal speed in any direction.
According to tradition, the best defense against a charging Luferlang is to suddenly hold a large mirror beside oneself. The sight of its own doubled reflection supposedly confuses the beast so completely that it flees in disgust.
Another traditional safeguard is to display an orange-colored handkerchief during the biting season. Green clothing, however, should be avoided at that time, as it is believed to provoke the creature even further.
Sources
Cox, W. T. (1910). Fearsome creatures of the lumberwoods: With a few desert and mountain beasts. Press of the Pioneer Company.