Legendary creature of southern Chile
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The Peuchen (also known as Piuchen, Pihuchen, Pihuychen, Pihuichen, Piguchen, or Piwuchen) is a creature from the Mapuche mythology and Chilote mythology pertaining to southern Chile, a much feared shapeshifting creature that can instantly change into animal form. According to legend, El Peuchen takes the hearts of its victims without leaving a mark on the body.[1]
It has often been described as a gigantic flying snake which produced strange whistling sounds, while its gaze could paralyze an intended victim and permit it to suck its blood. It has often been reported as the cause of blood being sucked from one's sheep. The creature can be eliminated by a machi (Mapuche herbal healer).[2]
The name "Piuchen" is also used as the vernacular for the common vampire bat species Desmodus rotundus, which can be the origin of the legend.[3]