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Yahoo
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Alabama's most famous cryptids: Legends told around the campfire that haunt the backwoods
Something is lurking in Alabama's woods, or so the stories go. Tales of strange sightings and eerie encounters have been passed around campfires for generations. Whether it's backcountry whispers or blurry photos, the legends endure and they're as much a part of Alabama as the pine trees and red clay. There are Alabama's creepiest cryptids, perfect for your next campfire story. The White Thang is Alabama's most legendary cryptid, and no one can quite agree on what it is. Some say it looks like a white Bigfoot, while others swear it's more like a giant cat or wolf. Standing nearly eight feet tall with glowing red eyes, the creature is fast, elusive and known for an eerie screech. Most sightings of the White Thang occur in north Alabama between Morgan, Etowah and Jefferson counties. However, it has also been spotted in Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, Walnut Grove and Happy Hallow. The creature's reach isn't limited to one corner of the state; reports have popped up in other areas of Alabama and even in neighboring states. The last major sighting was reported in the early 2000s, but some say White Thang is still out there. Reports surfaced as recently as last year, and a Facebook group dedicated to the creature has locals swapping stories and asking, "Have you seen it, too?" The Wolf-Woman of Mobile is one of Alabama's most mysterious legends. In 1971, people in Mobile reported seeing a creature with a woman's head and a wolf's body. Witnesses described glowing eyes and eerie howls. Though dozens claimed to see her, no proof had turned up, and then she seemed to disappear. But stories keep popping up, with locals and students saying they've heard strange sounds deep in the swamps. Whether real or just a spooky tale, the Wolf-Woman remains a haunting part of Alabama folklore. Alabama's cryptid stories don't stop with the White Thang and Wolf-Woman. There's Hugging Molly, the Witch in the Woods, the Sipsey Creature, the Coosa River Monster and plenty more strange legends lurking in the state's backwoods. Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@ This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: What are Alabama's most famous cryptids? Here's what to know about them
Yahoo
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Alabama's most famous cryptids: Legends told around the campfire that haunt the backwoods
Something is lurking in Alabama's woods, or so the stories go. Tales of strange sightings and eerie encounters have been passed around campfires for generations. Whether it's backcountry whispers or blurry photos, the legends endure and they're as much a part of Alabama as the pine trees and red clay. There are Alabama's creepiest cryptids, perfect for your next campfire story. The White Thang is Alabama's most legendary cryptid, and no one can quite agree on what it is. Some say it looks like a white Bigfoot, while others swear it's more like a giant cat or wolf. Standing nearly eight feet tall with glowing red eyes, the creature is fast, elusive and known for an eerie screech. Most sightings of the White Thang occur in north Alabama between Morgan, Etowah and Jefferson counties. However, it has also been spotted in Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, Walnut Grove and Happy Hallow. The creature's reach isn't limited to one corner of the state; reports have popped up in other areas of Alabama and even in neighboring states. The last major sighting was reported in the early 2000s, but some say White Thang is still out there. Reports surfaced as recently as last year, and a Facebook group dedicated to the creature has locals swapping stories and asking, "Have you seen it, too?" The Wolf-Woman of Mobile is one of Alabama's most mysterious legends. In 1971, people in Mobile reported seeing a creature with a woman's head and a wolf's body. Witnesses described glowing eyes and eerie howls. Though dozens claimed to see her, no proof had turned up, and then she seemed to disappear. But stories keep popping up, with locals and students saying they've heard strange sounds deep in the swamps. Whether real or just a spooky tale, the Wolf-Woman remains a haunting part of Alabama folklore. Alabama's cryptid stories don't stop with the White Thang and Wolf-Woman. There's Hugging Molly, the Witch in the Woods, the Sipsey Creature, the Coosa River Monster and plenty more strange legends lurking in the state's backwoods. Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@ This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: What are Alabama's most famous cryptids? Here's what to know about them
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Legal or hazard-ous? What Alabama law says about flashing lights on the road
Hazard lights usually mean trouble, like a breakdown or an accident. But when drivers use them on the move, it raises questions. Are they allowed? And what should you do as a fellow driver? Before you hit the road with hazards flashing in Alabama, it's essential to understand when and when not to use them. A helpful signal could sometimes create more problems than it solves. Driving with your hazard lights on isn't illegal in every case, but the law says they are meant for specific situations. Alabama Code 32-5-241 allows drivers to use flashing hazards to signal a traffic hazard, like if your car has broken down or unusual driving conditions. The law requires these lights to be visible from at least 1,500 feet at night and specifies that front-facing lights must flash white or amber while rear-facing lights flash amber or red. AAA says that in about half of the U.S. states, it's illegal to drive anywhere with your hazards on, though in Alabama, drivers can use their hazards while driving unless otherwise posted. Using hazards without a valid reason could confuse other drivers and might not be legal. So, they're meant as a safety warning, not for regular driving. Driving in the rain? Flashing your hazard lights makes you more visible, but bright, blinking lights can confuse other drivers and reduce visibility. If the rain is so heavy you can't see clearly through your windshield, pulling over and waiting it out is safest. So, if driving with your hazard lights on isn't the answer, what can Alabama drivers do instead to stay safe and avoid trouble? Use your regular turn signals and brake lights to show what you're doing clearly Slow down gradually and keep plenty of space between you and the car ahead, no sudden stops or surprises If your car breaks down, pull over safely off the road and only then turn on your hazard lights Reserve your hazard flashers for when you're stopped or moving very slowly in hazardous situations like fog, accidents or a breakdown When visibility drops, turn on your headlights to make sure others see you clearly If you're stuck or need help, call roadside assistance instead of driving around with hazards flashing Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@ This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Is it illegal to drive with hazard lights on in Alabama?
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Aggressive Africanized honeybees spread to 13 States, including Alabama
Africanized honeybees, also known as "killer bees," have spread to 13 states, including Alabama, posing threats to people and animals. Here's what to know about Africanized honeybees and their presence in Alabama. Africanized honeybees, a mix of African and European bees, are far more aggressive than honeybees. They attack in large numbers, chase people and animals for up to a mile, even follow cars, and can sting through standard beekeeping gear. Africanized honeybees look almost identical to regular honeybees, so much so that most people can't tell the difference. They're slightly smaller, with golden-yellow coloring and darker brown bands, but only experts can spot the difference by measuring their wings and body size. Killer bees first grabbed headlines in the 1990s after showing up in the U.S. They thrive in warm, tropical climates and struggle to survive cold winters, so they're primarily found in southern states. Africanized honeybees don't pack more venom than regular honeybees but attack in bigger numbers. Each bee can sting only once before it dies, but when the colony feels threatened, hundreds may swarm and sting. If you're getting attacked, experts recommend running away quickly in a zigzag pattern and seeking shelter in a building or car. Jumping into the water is not recommended because the bees will wait for you to resurface. In 2024, the Alabama Department of Agriculture confirmed the invasive bees in Jackson and St. Clair counties after local beekeepers collected wild swarms. Officials euthanized the bees and set traps within a five-mile radius to monitor for more. Africanized honeybees have been reported in at least 13 states, with Florida seeing the highest numbers. Here's where these aggressive bees have been spotted so far: Alabama Arizona Arkansas California Florida Georgia Louisiana Mississippi Nevada New Mexico Oklahoma Texas Utah Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@ This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Are killer bees a threat in Alabama? Here's what to know
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Do you have to open the door for police in Alabama? What to know after MN attacks
You hear a loud knock. Then a voice: "Police! Open up!" It's unexpected. Your heart races. Why are they here? Is someone in danger? Are you in trouble? And the big question: should you open the door? The shocking killings of Minnesota lawmakers Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, along with the shooting of state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife in what officials are calling a "political assassination," have left the nation reeling. Vance Boelter, the man accused in the attacks, allegedly showed up at the victims' homes in the middle of the night disguised as a police officer, wearing a realistic-looking mask, according to authorities. Boelter was arrested near his farm in Green Isle, Minnesota. He faces multiple charges, federal counts, including stalking and firearms violations, and state charges, including first-degree murder, officials said. Now, many Americans are asking a chilling but practical question: What are your legal rights and obligations when someone claiming to be the police is at your door? If you're in Alabama and someone shows up saying they're the police, what should you do? Here's what to know. Alabama law experts say the only time you are obligated to legally open the door for police officers in Alabama is if there is a warrant or an emergency. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) says you don't have to and shouldn't invite police into your home. Instead, speak to them through the door. Ask to see ID. If they say they have a warrant, ask them to hold it to a window or slip it under the door. Look closely for your name, address and a judge's signature. Even if officers have a warrant, you still have the right to remain silent. You don't have to answer any questions. While they're inside searching, stay quiet and pay attention. Watch where they go, what they do and what they take. If you're not sure the person at your door is a police officer, it is okay to call 911 to check. This is especially important if you're in a remote area or the vehicle outside is unmarked. Let the dispatcher know you're trying to confirm the officer's identity before opening the door. Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@ This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Do you have to open the door for police in AL? MN attacks raise questions
