The abbagoochie (pronounced abba-GOO-cheez) is a fierce little creature resembling a cross between an owl, a fox, and a deer. It is indigenous to Costa Rica, where people refer to it as a "dryland piranha" because it will eat anything, including creatures far larger than itself such as horses and cows. If cornered, an abbagoochie will consume itself "in a devilish whirlwind" rather than allow itself to be captured. They mate only once every 6 ½ years.
In 1999, in an ill-considered move, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) introduced thirteen baby Abbagoochies from Costa Rica into West Virginia in order to keep down the population of overpopulated predators such as coyotes and rattlesnakes. But soon, as reported by Jim Wilson of the
Webster Echo in February 2001, the abbagoochie itself multiplied out of control and began attacking livestock. Soon after Wilson's article appeared, sightings of Abbagoochies began occurring throughout the region. Some farmers began carrying shotguns in order to protect their livestock. Concerned parents walked their kids to the schoolbus to make sure they were safe. And one man reported that he had accidentally run over an abbagoochie.
Comments
By Jim Wilson (the son)
From the jungles of Costa Rica to the mountains of West Virginia,
They came in a dozen and one;
Their very existence was discovered by Jim Wilson,
Who was only trying to have a little fun;
Pitched by Rich, this spoof was so cleverly spun,
That it had many citizens, across the counties, on the run;
The original 13 were so bad, according to my Dad,
That people really panicked, and for this he was glad;
A true hoax, it was believed by all,
Until 2008, when the son got the call;
The truth is disclosed after many a year,
And this gives so many, so much to fear;
Daughter by his side, the son must now act,
He and his father make a pact;
I promise you Dad, your truth will be known,
On the fabric of all, it shall be sewn;
I promise you son, I will help as I can,
To find these beasts, before they eat more man