Thehidebehind is anocturnal[1]fearsome critter from American folklore that preys upon humans that wander the woods,[2] and was blamed for the disappearances of early loggers when they failed to return to camp.[3][4] As its name suggests, the hidebehind is said to be able to conceal itself. When an observer attempts to look directly at it, the creature quickly hides behind an object or behind the observer and therefore cannot be directly seen.[5] The hidebehind supposedly uses this ability to stalk human prey without being observed and to attack them without warning. Said victims, includinglumberjacks and others who frequent the forests, are then dragged back to the creature's lair to be devoured.[2][3] The creature subsists chiefly upon the intestines of its victim and has a severe aversion to alcohol, which is therefore considered a sufficient repellent.[6] Tales of the hidebehind may have been used as an explanation of strange noises in the forest at night. Early accounts describe hidebehinds as large, powerful animals, despite the fact that no one was able to see them. Other sources suggest that the Hidebehind makes hissing noises, such as a viper would.[citation needed]
The hidebehind has been featured and referenced in popular culture including games, novels, stories, and television.
InPecos Bill Catches a Hidebehind, a hidebehind's capture is attempted by the cowboy, in hopes to donate it to a zoo.[7]
Hidebehinds are mentioned inDiane Duane'sYoung Wizards series.[8] In the series, they are described as being mostly small creatures, with the fear they engender in those they stalk being a defense mechanism.[8]
In 2016, the officialHarry Potter themed sitePottermore byJ. K. Rowling released a new story about the wizarding school Ilvermorny, which featured a hidebehind. This "nocturnal, forest-dwelling spectre" preys onhumanoid creatures, but a witch andPukwudgie working together were able to defeat the creature.[9] It also features in the revised edition ofFantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
The hidebehind appeared in theGravity Falls short "Dipper's Guide to the Unexplained: The Hide Behind".[10]
