As Americans prepare to celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks, barbecues, and patriotic songs, some experts warn that they may be unwittingly inviting a sinister guest to their festivities: the Mothman.
The Mothman is a legendary creature that has been sighted in various locations across the United States, most famously in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, in 1966 and 1967. The Mothman is described as a large, winged humanoid with glowing red eyes and a screeching cry. Some believe that the Mothman is a harbinger of doom, as its appearances have been linked to disasters such as the collapse of the Silver Bridge in 1967 and the Chernobyl nuclear accident in 1986.
According to Dr. Shanna Hill, a cryptozoologist and author of The Mothman Rises, the Mothman is attracted to bright lights and loud noises, especially those that resemble its own call. “The Mothman is a curious and intelligent being that likes to observe human activity,” Hill said. “However, it can also be provoked by stimuli that challenge its territory or mimic its communication. Fireworks are a perfect example of this. They are bright, loud, and colorful, and they create patterns in the sky that resemble the Mothman’s wings.”
Hill warned that setting off fireworks on the 4th of July could trigger the Mothman’s curiosity or aggression, and cause it to fly over the area where the fireworks are launched. “This could result in a terrifying encounter for the unsuspecting partiers,” Hill said. “The Mothman could swoop down and attack them, or cause panic and chaos among the crowd. It could also cause accidents or malfunctions with the fireworks themselves, creating fire hazards or explosions.”
Hill advised that people who want to enjoy fireworks on Independence Day should take some precautions to avoid attracting the Mothman. “First of all, choose a location that is far away from any known Mothman hotspots, such as bridges, power plants, or abandoned buildings,” Hill said. “Secondly, limit the amount and duration of your fireworks display, and avoid using any fireworks that make screeching or whistling sounds. Thirdly, have some means of protection or escape in case the Mothman does show up, such as a flashlight, a whistle, or a car.”
Hill also suggested that people who are interested in seeing the Mothman should not try to lure it with fireworks, as this could be dangerous or disrespectful. “The Mothman is not a toy or a spectacle,” Hill said. “It is a mysterious and powerful creature that deserves our respect and caution. If you want to see the Mothman, you should do so with care and discretion, and not disturb its natural habitat or behavior.”
Hill concluded by wishing everyone a happy and safe 4th of July, and reminding them to be vigilant for any signs of the Mothman. “The Mothman is out there, watching and waiting,” Hill said. “Don’t let it ruin your celebration.”