Podcast: The Real Stories Behind Halloween’s Creepiest Critters

From bat wings and black cats to graveyard toads and owls in the night, Halloween has always had a thing for animals. But what’s the truth behind these spooky species? Are there real-world origins to these legends, and do these animals really deserve their bad reputations?

In this hair-raising Halloween special, we’re peeling back the mask on some of Halloween’s most infamous animals. Join us as we unearth hidden facts about the strange (but very real) creatures that have inspired centuries of myths and superstitions. Some are misunderstood, some are downright terrifying, but all are fascinating.

🐾 What You’ll Learn

• Why black cats have been associated with witches, and the historical consequences of feline superstition
• The truth about vampire bats—and why they aren’t the villains you think they are
• How real zombie parasites can hijack the bodies of ants, fish, and even mammals
• Which toads are truly toxic and how they evolved chemical defenses
• How folklore, fear, and misunderstood science created creatures like werewolves and vampires

This isn't your average spooky campfire story time. If you’re looking for a chilling discussion to celebrate Halloween, you’ve come to the right haunt. Tune in for eerie truths, wild biology, and fun facts about the creatures behind your favorite spooky-season legends.

🎧 Find Barking Mad on the BSM Partners website, as well as on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, and Podlink.

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About the Author

Jordan Tyler is the Director of Media at BSM Partners and co-host of the Barking Mad podcast. She has more than five years of experience reporting on trends, best practices and developments in the North American pet nutrition industry. Jordan resides in Bentonville, Arkansas, with her husband and their four furry family members.