Hello Readers,
I hope you are ready for another animal from my creature files. Everyone knows Australia is home to a host of dangerous creatures, but few know of the Marrin-Gul (Shadow that Hunts). More commonly known as the Bush Bastard by those at the local outback pub. This ancient monstrosity is a seasoned hunter; it covers ground quickly with its fast bounds and tears its prey apart with sharp claws and pointed teeth. I certainly would not want to meet one, if I was all alone, in the vast expanse of the Australian Outback.
MARRIN‑GUL
Procyon ferox umbravallis — “The Shadow That Hunts” (Common name: “Bush Bastard”)
Origin
Said to predate the oldest outback settlements, the Marrin‑Gul emerged from a lineage of nocturnal scavengers twisted by drought, starvation, and something older lurking beneath the red earth. When the first frontier cabins were raised, these creatures were already watching from the treeline. Folklore claims they learned to hunt humans by studying the patterns of campfires and the weaknesses of those who wandered too far into the dark.
Physiology
- Thick, soot‑black fur that masks movement in low light
- Elongated limbs built for bounding pursuit
- Oversized claws curved like hooked knives
- Needle‑point dentition designed for puncture and tearing
- Blood‑rimmed eyes adapted for extreme nocturnal vision
- Muscular hindquarters enabling explosive leaps
- A tail used for balance during rapid directional shifts
- Saliva laced with bacteria that accelerates rot in wounds
Behaviour
- Hunts with sudden, silent bursts of speed
- Displays territorial aggression toward anything entering its hunting grounds
- Emits low, guttural growls that mimic distant wind through the gums
- Rarely travels alone; where one is seen, others are circling unseen
Habitat
Remote outback scrub, abandoned homesteads, hollowed creek beds, and regions where human presence has thinned to whispers.
Abilities
- Shadow Bound: Covers ground in rapid, loping strides that seem unnaturally fast
- Rend‑Strike: A flurry of claw swipes capable of shredding flesh and hide
- Night Veil Vision: Sees clearly in near‑total darkness
- Pack Echo: Communicates with others through sub‑audible clicks and growls
- Fear Break: Its presence induces panic in livestock and unease in seasoned bushmen
Weaknesses
- Bright firelight disrupts its depth perception.
- High, metallic noises cause it to recoil.
- Its endurance is limited — prolonged chases exhaust it quickly, forcing it to rely on ambush tactics.
Cultural Lore
Bushmen say the Marrin‑Gul only hunts those who walk alone after sundown. Old-timers at the pub swear that if you hear claws on corrugated iron at night, you’re already marked. And if you see its eyes glowing red between the trees, you’re not looking at one — you’re looking at the one that wants you to notice it.
Would you survive if this critter sprang at you from the Outback plains? I wouldn’t fancy your chances.
If you’re interested in seeing more of my creature posts, you can find them in my Bestiary.
Happy Reading!
Allan Walsh writes Fantasy and Horror. If you’re looking for something new to read in these genres, why not check out his books here. You can also find his titles available in libraries.
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