Kalanoro

In Malagasy tradition, the Kalanoro is a humanoid cryptid that now exists as a spirit. According to lore, these beings once had physical bodies and lived in the island’s rainforests, but deforestation drove their corporeal form to extinction. They are portrayed as small, hairy humanoids with fangs, backward-facing legs and feet, glowing red eyes, and long, unkempt hair and fingernails. Solitary by nature, they are said to eat raw meat and possess a whining voice that frightens dogs.

Stories about the Kalanoro vary widely. Some depict them as malevolent spirits that steal children, kill people, or rob them. In recent times, they have also been linked to alcoholism. Yet other accounts describe them as loyal servants to human companions, capable of taking a paternalistic interest in people. One Sakalava tale tells of Kalanoro kidnapping children—but only because the parents were mistreating them; once the Kalanoro’s demands were satisfied, the children were returned.

In religious and contemporary practice, Kalanoro are said to act as spirit servants for the living. They reportedly steal and serve as clairvoyants for their human owners, who can also call on them for healing. To purchase a Kalanoro’s services, a person traditionally visits the owner’s establishment at night and communicates only through a wall or closed door. When the human’s voice becomes nasal and high-pitched, it is believed the Kalanoro is speaking through them. These spirits are also said to impart taboos through dreams or visions. Some suggest that the Vazimba are the ghosts of the Kalanoro. The cryptid was featured in an episode of *Destination Truth*.