Tatzelwurm
The Tatzelwurm, a worm-like cryptid, holds a place in mythological lore and Alpine folklore as a stubby, lizard-like creature inhabiting European regions. It possesses the appearance of a cat fused with the hind-end of a serpent, lacking hind legs. In 1934, Swiss photographer Balkin purportedly captured an image of a strange creature near a log, sparking substantial interest and prompting the Berliner Illustrierte to fund an expedition in pursuit of the Tatzelwurm. Regrettably, the expedition ended in failure, leading to a swift decline in curiosity. Ongoing Tatzelwurm sightings persist, with German cryptozoological researcher Ulrich Magin extensively documenting them through articles in Fortean Times and his own publication, Bilk.
The belief in the Tatzelwurm resonated deeply with the inhabitants of the Alps, stretching beyond the borders of Switzerland. This creature has made appearances in Italy, Germany, and Austria. The 19th century witnessed the legend of the Tazelwurm gaining credibility, despite scant tangible evidence supporting its existence.