Aufhocker

The aufhocker or huckup is a shapeshifter in German folklore.

German statue of a huckup having leapt onto a man's back

Characteristics

The aufhocker is never identified in literature as having an identifiable shape. Usually, it only comes by to set a lesson. It's known for taking on the form of animals and in some cases, human beings in order to fulfill whatever duty it sees fit. In most cases, the aufhocker is considered to be a very dangerous theriomorph that tears the throats out of humans.[1] The connection to attacking victims in the throat is what links the aufhocker to vampirism.

The aufhocker cannot be killed. In vampire mythology, sunlight and church bells are often used to frighten vampires. These defenses are also linked to the aufhocker.

Legend

The name aufhocker means "leap upon". This is because according to legend, the aufhocker would leap upon the back of the victim before biting their throats.[2]

References
  1. Maberry, Jonathan (2006). "Vampire Universe", p. 28.
  2. Rose, Carol (2001). "Giants, Monsters and Dragons: An Encyclopedia of Folklore, Legend and Myth", p. 30.
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