The bunyip is a water monster from Australian Aboriginal tradition, with walrus tusks, a ponytail, and flippers. While it was believed to be real in the past, it is likely based on seals or fossilized animal skeletons. The National Library of Australia has a traveling exhibition on bunyips.
The bunyip is a mythological creature whose origins date back to Australian Aboriginal tradition. Stories of bunyip fascinated Australia’s first European settlers. Today the myths of this fearsome beast, with a name that translates as spirit or devil, still exist and are part of Australia’s heritage.
According to most legends, the bunyip is a water monster, with a significant propensity for bloodlust. It is described as having walrus tusks, a ponytail, and flippers. It is said to hide at night around lakes, rivers, streams, pools of water, and perhaps even wells. It is at night when those who encounter bunyip are most in danger. If they approach a bunyip’s hiding place, they will hear the monster’s frightening cries and will likely be devoured by it.
When Europeans first settled in Australia, many believed bunyips really existed. There were so many strange and unique animals in the country that it wasn’t very believable to think a water monster like this could exist. In the mid-19th century a skull was found which seemed to indicate the real presence of bunyips. It was probably a hoax, or a fossil, and strangely the skull disappeared after a few days of exposure at the Australian Museum in Sydney. Hoax or not, people in the 19th century reported sightings of bunyips fairly regularly, keeping the legend alive.
There are several creatures this legendary creature could be based on. First, occasionally, Australian seals become trapped inland when floods occur. They make a cry similar to that attributed to bunyip. Another possibility is that the bunyips are based on fossilized animal skeletons, such as the kangaroo’s prehistoric relative, Procoptodon. Procoptodon fossils suggest that these creatures were extremely large, weighing over 500 pounds (226.8 kg), and may have been able to lift their arms above their heads.
Since 2001, the National Library of Australia has had a traveling exhibition on bunyips. Visited by adults and children alike, this exhibition weaves practical science with Aboriginal bunyip tales and inspired illustrations. A website set up by the Australian government provides details of the exhibition and has several stories reprinted. While you’re not likely to encounter one of these creatures anywhere in Australia, such exhibits and stories show how a mythical creature can take on symbolic importance to a nation.
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