Beast of Gevaudan
Also known as: La Bete du Gevaudan, The Beast
A massive wolf-like predator terrorized rural France for three years, killing over 100 people before it was finally brought down.
1764
Gevaudan, France
Horse-sized, estimated 200+ lbs
Extremely aggressive, targeted humans
Killed in 1767, identity still debated
The Lore
Between 1764 and 1767, something hunted the people of Gevaudan in south-central France. Witnesses described a creature larger than any wolf, with reddish fur, a broad chest, and a mouth full of oversized teeth. Over 100 attacks were recorded, many of them fatal. King Louis XV sent professional hunters to end the threat, but the killings continued until a local farmer finally shot a massive animal in 1767.
Body Type
Folklore Origin
Notable Witnesses
- Jacques Portefaix
- Marie-Jeanne Valet
- Jean Chastel
Media Appearances
- Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001)
- Gevaudan (TV series)
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