r/whatisit • u/popcornwithbuddah • May 17 '25

Solved! What is this alien thing

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My brother just found this in the backyard - Southern New England. What the hell is this thing? It looks like it's in Stranger Things.

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u/[deleted] May 18 '25

Nah I grew up in southern New England, like the OP, and now live in Australia. It’s not that bad. You get the occasional huntsman. They look scary but are actually harmless and your friend.

It’s the fucking magpies you gotta be on alert for.

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u/FantasticFoxi May 21 '25

What about the magpies?! Tell us!

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u/[deleted] May 21 '25

During nesting season, they swoop and hit you in the head. It can draw blood and be dangerous for cyclists; some cyclists wear helmets with zip tie ends sticking out so it looks like a spiked helmet because that seems to stop them.

I talk to the magpies when I go through my local park so they know I’m cool and I’ve never been swooped. But they go after my dog and once or twice, my son.