Subject: Squonk

Cryptid Class: "Fearsome" Critter

Threat Level: None

Description: A squonk is a member of the group of extraordinary cryptids known as Fearsome Critters. Although a squonk is anything but fearsome. In fact, it takes the title as the most miserable creature that ever existed (take that, koalas). They are known to emit screeching cries that last for several hours to even days at a time. They also take the cake as one of the ugliest creatures as well, with jokes being made at their expense about how their own looks makes them cry. They have absolutely no known defensive capabilities, but its just as well, as the squonk has no natural predators (probably because its so hideously ugly). There was a rumor that a squonk can dissolve into a puddle of its own tears, but that was just another joke at the poor creature's expense.

Diet: Despite being fat little fuglies, the squonk does not eat much, preferring to eat aquatic plants and some insects. Really, anything that can tolerate being in its presence is fair game for it. Squonks do consume vast quantities of water, as they need to replenish whatever bodily fluids they excrete after crying so much.

Distribution: They are found exclusively within the Ponoco Mountains of Pennsylvania, mainly inhabiting lakes and rivers along the mountainous area. Its ironic that such a beautiful region is where you can find the ugliest cryptid.

Physiology: Squonks are amphibious in nature, having a body-type resembling that of a combination of frogs and toads. Their skin is dimpled with large growths that resemble pimples or boils. These bumps serve no purpose other than to maximize the surface area of their skin for oxygen absorption. They also have a set of vestigial gills from their youth to aid in breathing underwater. Around the squonks eyes are three enlarged tear glands, which secrete a large amount of tears when the creature is sad or upset. Squonks have gotten around to reproducing asexually. This may have been an evolutionary necessity, as they are so damn ugly that they can't stand even look at one another (at least that's my guess). Squonks start off as tadpole-like creatures that develop at the same pace as normal tadpoles. Squonks may appear as grotesquely fat, but its mostly just retained water for reabsorption later.

Note: As much as I've been riding on these things, I absolutely love them. I have been studying ways to actually improve the squonks behavior, making sure that they have a positive body image and help manage their severe depression and anxiety. Please consider donating to the Grungus Squonk Foundation in order to help make a squonk feel like they're worth something.