Is the cryptic known as the Jackalope, real?

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Who Smarted?" Episode – Is the Cryptid Known as the Jackalope Real?

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Introduction

In this captivating episode of "Who Smarted?" titled "Is the cryptic known as the Jackalope, real?", listeners embark on an adventurous exploration into the enigmatic world of cryptids, focusing specifically on the legendary jackalope. Hosted by Trusty Narrator and featuring contributions from Chet Nickerson, Mox Folder, and Agent Gully, the episode blends humor, storytelling, and educational insights to unravel the mystery behind this mythical creature.

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Setting the Stage: Arrival in Douglas, Wyoming

The episode kicks off with Trusty Narrator (00:00) detailing his arrival in the small, dusty town of Douglas, Wyoming. The picturesque yet desolate setting serves as the perfect backdrop for the quest to discover whether the jackalope truly exists or is merely a fanciful invention designed to attract tourists.

Trusty Narrator [00:00]: "I just blew into this here small town of Douglas, Wyoming, like a big old tumbling tumbleweed."

As Trusty settles on a bench, he introduces the legend of the jackalope, sparking curiosity among the listeners about this mysterious creature.

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Understanding the Jackalope

The discussion delves into defining what a jackalope is, clarifying misconceptions, and setting the parameters for the investigation.

Trusty Narrator [04:15]: "According to legend, a jackalope is a mashup or combination of two very different animals. The first is a jackrabbit, and the other is an antelope."

Chet Nickerson humorously interjects with playful guesses about the creature's nature, adding a lighthearted tone to the conversation.

Chet Nickerson [04:15]: "Perhaps a jack cheese flavored cantaloupe. Sounds delicious."

The narration emphasizes the blend of folklore and curiosity that surrounds the jackalope legend, prompting listeners to ponder its origins and existence.

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The Origin Story: Taxidermy and Myth Making

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the origins of the jackalope myth, attributing its creation to the Herrick brothers, Doug and Ralph, who were taxidermists. This revelation sheds light on how human creativity can give rise to enduring legends.

Agent Gully [11:24]: "During a successful hunting trip, the boys nabbed themselves a jackrabbit. They brought it back to their taxidermy store, and somehow the jackrabbit wound up next to the antlers of an antelope they had lying around."

This anecdote illustrates the intersection of art, commerce, and folklore, explaining how a simple act of creativity led to the widespread belief in the jackalope.

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Exploring Cryptids: Beyond the Jackalope

Expanding the discussion, the episode introduces the concept of cryptids—animals whose existence is unsubstantiated yet widely speculated. Trusty Narrator elaborates on various cryptids, positioning the jackalope within this intriguing category.

Trusty Narrator [12:43]: "A cryptid is an animal that is claimed to have existed, but has never been proven so. Famous cryptids include Bigfoot, the Loch Ness monster, and unicorns."

This segment not only educates listeners about cryptids but also invites them to consider other mysterious creatures that coexist with the jackalope in folklore.

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Traits and Abilities: The Magical Side of Jackalopes

The episode takes a whimsical turn as it explores the fantastical traits attributed to jackalopes, blending science with legend.

Agent Gully [13:50]: "They say jackalopes can talk. They can actually understand English. They can sing. They can imitate human voices they hear."

Mox Folder adds to the lore by highlighting the supposed physical abilities and mysterious aspects of the jackalope.

Mox Folder [14:06]: "They're also supposed to be super fast, can jump super long distances, and have enhanced senses. Oh, and their horns may contain a virus of unknown origin."

These imaginative descriptions not only entertain but also prompt listeners to think critically about the blend of myth and reality.

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Interplay Between Believers and Skeptics

Throughout the episode, a dynamic interplay emerges between characters who entertain the possibility of the jackalope's existence and those who remain skeptical. This balance fosters a healthy dialogue that encourages listeners to form their own opinions.

Mox Folder [12:34]: "But then again, maybe that story is fake and jackalopes really are out there."

Agent Gully [13:33]: "You never know, Gully. They could be out there."

Such exchanges illustrate the varying perspectives surrounding cryptids, underscoring the episode's educational value in presenting multiple viewpoints.

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Humorous Interludes and Engaging Storytelling

In keeping with "Who Smarted?"'s reputation for humor, the episode features playful banter and fictional reporting that adds depth and entertainment value. Chet Nickerson's mock reporting and the interactions with Mox Folder and Agent Gully infuse the narrative with a light-hearted spirit.

Chet Nickerson [08:16]: "This is Chet Mickerson reporting from the diner on Main Street in Douglas, Wyoming, where the jackalope burger is excellent. Although I think it might just be regular ground beef."

Such moments not only keep the content engaging but also make the educational aspects more approachable for young listeners.

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Conclusion: The Quest Continues

As the episode winds down, it leaves listeners with lingering questions and a sense of ongoing adventure. The search for the jackalope symbolizes the broader human quest for knowledge and the thrill of the unknown.

Trusty Narrator [14:31]: "The truth is out there."

This open-ended conclusion invites listeners to continue exploring and questioning, embodying the podcast's mission to foster curiosity and a love for learning.

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Notable Quotes with Attribution

• Trusty Narrator [00:00]: "I just blew into this here small town of Douglas, Wyoming, like a big old tumbling tumbleweed."

• Chet Nickerson [04:15]: "Perhaps a jack cheese flavored cantaloupe. Sounds delicious."

• Agent Gully [11:24]: "During a successful hunting trip, the boys nabbed themselves a jackrabbit."

• Trusty Narrator [12:43]: "A cryptid is an animal that is claimed to have existed, but has never been proven so."

• Agent Gully [13:50]: "They say jackalopes can talk."

• Mox Folder [14:06]: "Oh, and their horns may contain a virus of unknown origin."

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Final Thoughts

This episode of "Who Smarted?" masterfully intertwines folklore, science, and humor to explore the legend of the jackalope. By presenting a balanced view that includes both the creation of the myth and the enduring fascination it holds, the podcast not only entertains but also educates its young audience. Listeners are left with a greater appreciation for the stories that shape our understanding of the natural and the mystical world around us.

Transcript

[Trusty Narrator]

Hey guys. Trusty here. I've been loving the clothing brand Quince even before they reached out to advertise on who Smarted. It started with one of their Flit Polos. Soft, breathable, and somehow made me look way more excited for adventure than I actually am. Then I got hooked. Their lightweight pants, cotton button downs, even their sweaters. Everything just fits right, feels amazing, and holds up wash after wash. But here's what really sold me. Everyone else here at WhoSmarted was asking about my clothes and they started ordering and loving it too. Chet Nickerson and his wife found the perfect clothes for a summer wedding. And my niece Gia got a few kids pieces that are durable, comfy and actually stylish. And the price is legit, half of what you'd pay elsewhere for the same quality. That's because Quince cuts out the middlemen and works directly with top tier factories that use safe ethical practices. You know, we love that here at WHO Smarted. Good clothes, good prices, and good for the planet. That's why I was so excited when they reached out to sponsor who Smarted because I'm already a fan for life. Go to quince.com smarted for free shipping and 365 day returns. That's Q U I N C E.com smarted Psst. Howdy, smarty pants. Trusty narrator here. As you can tell by the music and the sound of cowboys on horses rustling upstairs, today I'm out on the prairie or home on the range or visiting the wild blue yonder. I just blew into this here small town of Douglas, Wyoming, like a big old tumbling tumbleweed. And right now I'm a sitting on a little old bench waiting for a tour bus to come pick me up. Now you might be wondering, what could I possibly hope to see here in the middle of this small, small, dusty town in the middle of nowhere. Well, partners, I've been led to believe that nearby lives a creature so mysterious, so odd looking and so unbelievable that I probably won't believe my eyes when I encounter one. And by the looks of the picture on the front of this here pamphlet I was given by the little old lady working in the diner where I got my breakfast this morning.

[Chet Nickerson]

Nom, nom, nom, nom, nom.

[Trusty Narrator]

They're right. This mysterious creature is something quite legendary around these parts, and many folks believe it actually once existed or still exists today. Of course, others think it's all just a bunch of hogwash and nothing but silly nonsense someone made up over 100 years ago to bring tourists to the Area. Well, I'm here to find out. But the first question is, what creature do you think I'm on the lookout for? Go ahead, call out your answers. I heard Bigfoot. Good guess. But this here creature is much smaller than Bigfoot. I heard some smarty pants say Loch Ness monster. Another good guess. But this animal lives on land and not in Scotland. Did anyone say the chupacabra? That's a great guess. And I definitely want to go looking for that mystical creature whose name literally means goat sucker. But today, I'm looking for a much less ferocious creature. If you said, I'm on the lookout for a jackalope, great guess.

[Chet Nickerson]

You're right.

[Trusty Narrator]

And if you said that because you saw it was the name of this episode. Good reading.

[Chet Nickerson]

This is Chet Nickerson reporting from the small, dusty town of Douglas, Wyoming, where the trusty narrator is going in search of a rare, possibly made up and completely fictitious creature known as the jackalope. I have just one question. What exactly is a jackalope? I mean, I know what a cantaloupe is, and I've had jack cheese. Perhaps a jackalope is a jack cheese flavored cantaloupe. Sounds delicious.

[Trusty Narrator]

Ew, no. Smarty pants, do you know what a jackalope is supposed to be? For those who aren't sure, according to legend, a jackalope is a mashup or combination of two very different animals. The first is a jackrabbit, and the other is an antelope.

[Chet Nickerson]

Ah, yes, I see. I was way off. But just how could these two animals be mashed together?

[Trusty Narrator]

Well, again, according to legend, a jackalope has a jackrabbit's body and the antlers of an antelope.

[Chet Nickerson]

I see. And this creature actually exists?

[Trusty Narrator]

That remains to be seen, but that's what we're here to find out. So who were the first folks to allegedly spot a jackalope? And when did that happen? Why are they known as Frankenstein's rabbit? Are their horns actually caused from a virus? And is it true that they have the ability to sing and to speak?

[Chet Nickerson]

Jumping jackalopes. Now that would be a great story.

[Trusty Narrator]

Well, then stick around for a big whiff of some questionable science and debatable history on who's smarted, who's smarted?

[Chet Nickerson]

Who's smart? Is it you? Is me? Is it science or history? Listen up, everyone. We make smarting lots of fun on who's Smart and Psst.

[Trusty Narrator]

Hey, smarty pants. I'm still waiting for that jackalope tour bus. Meanwhile, Chet has taken off in his news helicopter to try and spot jackalopes from the air. I sure hope that bus comes soon. I'm not a huge fan of just sitting here alone.

[Mox Folder]

Oh, we are not alone.

[Trusty Narrator]

Whoa. Hey there. Didn't hear you walk up behind me. You startled me.

[Mox Folder]

Sorry about that. Are you here for the jackalope tour?

[Trusty Narrator]

I am. Is it that obvious?

[Mox Folder]

You mean besides your jackalope? I want a Belief T shirt. No. Well, I hope you do see one. I believe the truth is out there.

[Agent Gully]

Uh huh.

[Trusty Narrator]

And you are?

[Mox Folder]

Mox. Mox Folder.

[Trusty Narrator]

Oh, cool name. Nice to meet you, Mox. I'm the trusty ner.

[Mox Folder]

I know who you are.

[Trusty Narrator]

Oh, are you a fan of the show?

[Mox Folder]

Sure, but I'm also a secret agent for the government in the unexplained phenomenon department.

[Trusty Narrator]

Oh, that sounds exciting. So, like, mythical creatures, monsters and space aliens?

[Mox Folder]

Uh huh. We are not alone.

[Trusty Narrator]

Really?

[Mox Folder]

You mean my partner's coming?

[Agent Gully]

Hey, Mox, they're out of Twix bars. I got you KitKat instead.

[Mox Folder]

Thanks, Gully.

[Agent Gully]

I would have grabbed another one if I knew you had a friend.

[Trusty Narrator]

Oh, it's fine. I always bring my own snacks.

[Mox Folder]

Nom, nom, nom, nom, nom. Trusty narrator, meet my partner, Agent Gully.

[Trusty Narrator]

Agents Mox and Gully. Wow. You should work in the cool names department.

[Agent Gully]

Uh huh. What brings you to Douglas?

[Trusty Narrator]

Jackalopes.

[Agent Gully]

I see. Good luck with that.

[Mox Folder]

Agent Gully doesn't believe.

[Trusty Narrator]

Well, that's what I'm here to find out. If that tour bus ever shows up.

[Mox Folder]

Forget the bus. My Jeep's over there. We'll help you look for jackalopes.

[Trusty Narrator]

Great. And maybe you can answer my jackalope questions too.

[Agent Gully]

Sure. Hold on.

[Trusty Narrator]

Smarty pants. Being in the American west, what type of environment will we be searching for jackalopes in? Is it A, a rainforest, B, a plain?

[Agent Gully]

Hmm.

[Trusty Narrator]

Or C, a coral reef? If you said B, a plain, you're right. Not that kind of plane. A plain is a flatland with rocks and not much growing in it. However, today we're visiting a prairie. Smarty pants, do you know the difference between a plain and a prairie? Well, a prairie is a type of plain in which grasses can grow as well as flowering plants and the occasional tree varmint.

[Mox Folder]

Like critters. Like groundhogs, foxes, prairie dogs. And of course, jackalopes dig this type of terrain.

[Agent Gully]

Well, at least the critters that exist do.

[Trusty Narrator]

Okay, okay. The debate over whether jackalopes are real or not had to start somewhere. Who was the first to discover this odd looking creature?

[Mox Folder]

Legend has it it was a fella by the name of Roy Ball.

[Trusty Narrator]

Ah, now we're getting somewhere.

[Agent Gully]

No, we're not, because Ball wasn't the first. Tell narrator about the brothers.

[Trusty Narrator]

The brothers?

[Mox Folder]

The Herrick brothers, Doug and Ralph.

[Trusty Narrator]

Okay, what did they do?

[Agent Gully]

They worked in taxidermy. You see where this is going, Narrator.

[Trusty Narrator]

Hmm? Do I? Do you, smarty pants? Well, first of all, smarty pants, do you know what taxidermy is or what a taxidermist does? Do they, A, stuff their faces around tax time, B, stuff turkeys full of stuffing around tax time, or C, stuff and mount the skins of dead animals anytime? The answer is C. Taxidermy is the art of preserving an animal's body via stuffing and mounting for display or study.

[Agent Gully]

The goal is to give it a lifelike effect.

[Trusty Narrator]

Oh, are you saying the Herrick brothers, Dave and Rich, Doug and Ralph. Doug and Ralph stuffed and mounted actual jackalopes?

[Agent Gully]

No.

[Trusty Narrator]

Oh. Then what are you saying?

[Mox Folder]

Um, People, we are not alone.

[Trusty Narrator]

Really? Are there jackalopes? Monsters? Aliens?

[Mox Folder]

No, just some guy in a helicopter.

[Chet Nickerson]

This is Chet Dickerson in the Sky Chopper 4 hovering above the dusty plains of eastern Wyoming, wondering exactly how two taxidermist brothers fit into the legend of the jackalope. And will the answer help solve this decades old mystery?

[Trusty Narrator]

Great questions, Chet. So will it?

[Agent Gully]

Oh, it definitely will.

[Trusty Narrator]

Wonderful. The truth is out there right after this break. Now back to who Smarted? I'm driving across the prairie with my new friends, Agents Mox and Gully, on the search for jackalopes and a mythical creature that may or may not be real. The people of Douglas, Wyoming, claim they're real, while others are more skeptical they're not real. Perhaps two brothers, Dan and Roland, Doug and Ralph. Sorry. Doug and Ralph Herrick, hold the key to the origin of the jackalope.

[Agent Gully]

Should I just tell him?

[Mox Folder]

Go ahead, Gully. You know you want to.

[Agent Gully]

The story has several versions, but the basic gist is during a successful hunting trip, the boys nabbed themselves a jackrabbit. They brought it back to their taxidermy store, and somehow the jackrabbit wound up next to the antlers of an antelope they had lying around. Doug thought it would be funny to mount the antlers on top of the jackrabbit's head when they stuffed it.

[Trusty Narrator]

So basically, they made a jackalope.

[Agent Gully]

Yep. And they sold it to a local hotel owner. Any guesses who it was?

[Trusty Narrator]

Um, I don't know. Do you, smarty pants?

[Mox Folder]

It was none other than Roy Ball, the guy who claimed to have witnessed the first jackalope.

[Agent Gully]

Technically, he wasn't lying. He displayed the jackalope in his hotel. And once visitors to the hotel caught a glimpse of this crazy looking critter, they wanted their own stuffed and mounted jackalope. They began selling them for $35 each. From there, the legend grew. Some people thought it was real, others knew the truth. Either way, people wanted to buy one and the town played along with it.

[Mox Folder]

But then again, maybe that story is fake and jackalopes really are out there.

[Trusty Narrator]

Hmm, smarty pants, have you ever heard the word cryptid? A cryptid is an animal that is claimed to have existed, but has never been proven so. Famous cryptids include our friends Bigfoot, the Loch Ness monster, and unicorns. But there are other lesser known ones, like the Ahool, an enormous carnivorous bat living in Indonesia. The Filokotheros, a supposed friendly sea monster off the coast of Cyprus. Or the Jersey devil, who lives in the pine barrens of New Jersey. In fact, there are so many cryptids, we could do a future episode of who's Smarted on them. Would you like that, Smartypants?

[Agent Gully]

You say cryptid, I say make believe.

[Mox Folder]

You never know, Gully. They could be out there. The thing with cryptids is many are thought to have magical powers. For example, some of the old cowboys camping out on the prairie said the jackalopes can.

[Trusty Narrator]

Can what?

[Agent Gully]

Talk. They say jackalopes can talk.

[Mox Folder]

Some say they can actually understand English. Some say they can sing. While others say they can imitate human voices they hear.

[Agent Gully]

Yeah.

[Mox Folder]

Hey, parrots do it. Why not jackalopes? They're also supposed to be super fast, can jump super long distances, and have enhanced senses. Oh, and their horns may contain a virus of unknown origin.

[Trusty Narrator]

Um, maybe it would be better if we didn't meet one. Let's go back to the diner in town.

[Chet Nickerson]

This is Chet Mickerson reporting from the diner on Main street in Douglas, Wyoming, where the jackalop burger is excellent. Although I think it might just be regular ground beef. Anyway, full report to come once I'm done eating.

[Mox Folder]

Nom, nom, nom, nom, nom.

[Trusty Narrator]

Ooh, step on it, Mox. I'm starving.

[Mox Folder]

You are not alone.

[Trusty Narrator]

A big before bedtime shout out to smarty fan. Felix in Astoria, New York. You told us who Smarty helps your brain learn and helps you relax before bedtime. Now that sounds like a winning combo. Keep on smarting and snoozing, smarty friend. This episode Jackalopes was written by Dave Davis and voiced by Sheffield Chastain. Jenna Hoban and Jerry Colber. Technical direction and sound design by Josh Hahn who Smarted is recorded and mixed at the Relic Room Studios. Our associate producer is Max. The Truth is Out There, Komaski. The theme song is by Brian Suarez with lyrics written and performed by Adam Tex Davis, who Smarted was created and produced by Adam Tex Davis and Jerry Colbert. This has been an Atomic Entertainment production.