THE DROP BEAR

Marsupialis Plummetus

INSTITUTE CLASSIFICATION: Unlikely / Deeply Concerning
OFFICIAL STATUS: LEGENDARY
ARCHIVE: Cryptozoology Division
CASE STATUS: Investigation Ongoing

CASE SUMMARY

For generations, visitors to the Australian bush have been warned about a dangerous koala-like creature

 reportedly lurking high in gum trees.

Unlike the koala, however, the Drop Bear does not spend its day quietly eating eucalyptus leaves.

Allegedly.

Reports claim it waits above walking tracks before dropping onto unsuspecting tourists.

Scientists insist no such animal exists.

Australian tour guides continue to disagree.

The Institute therefore considers this case: Open.

CLAIMS UNDER INVESTIGATION

CLAIM #1
Drop Bears live in the Australian bush.

CLAIM #2
They wait in gum trees before dropping onto unsuspecting victims.

CLAIM #3
They have a particular interest in tourists and inexperienced hikers.

CLAIM #4
Vegemite may provide protection.

Recognised by:

Sudden crashing noises overhead,

claw marks on tree trunks,

and the terrifying feeling that you’re being watched from a gum tree.

Known for:

Dropping from trees onto unsuspecting tourists.

Ambush-loving bushland prankster.

Fun Facts:

The closest living relative to the koala.

Can allegedly reach speeds of up to 40 km/h during a “controlled descent.”

Dislikes the smell of Vegemite.

Most active at dusk, though some sightings occur during barbeques.

Prefers inexperienced hikers.

Believed to spend hours judging tourists from trees.

Shows a suspicious interest in unattended sausages.

Typical Calls

“Nearly got one.”

“Wait for it…”

“Tourist.”

“This’ll be good.”

Tips:

Avoid camping beneath large gum trees.

Australian tour guides recommend placing forks in your hair.

Others suggest smearing Vegemite behind your ears.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat

Take heed of Warning Posters when camping in Australia.

Real Science or Nonsense?

Scientists have denied a recent and somewhat controversial theory that Australin Magpies

are cooperating with Drop Bears by “herding” cyclists and joggers beneath occupied trees during swooping season.

In return, Drop Bears protect Magpies from Hoop Snakes.

(See section on Hoop Snakes).

Eyewitness Report

“I saw Gary on his bike then I heard rustling up in the trees.

When I looked back down, Gary was gone, but his bike was just sitting there.”

– Darren, definitely not exaggerating.

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INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR THE STUDY OF EXTREMELY QUESTIONABLE CREATURES

All creatures are presumed interesting until proven otherwise.