Midnight Monsters
A Startled Moontinkifer
A Startled Moontinkifer
Do not be afraid. Like many night creatures, they just wish to be left alone. These secretive beings often hide in the shadows, except when the moon is full and bright. The midnight moon is their time of wonder and if you happen to be in the right place at the right time, you just may witness some magical happenings.
This particular midnight monster is called Moontinkifer and can be found high up in the Balkan
mountain range on the border between Bulgaria and eastern Serbia . It was not easy getting to this destination, but I have found it worth the effort, expense and skinned knees.
Legend says that if one is lucky enough to spot them during the day, they appear as drab, colorless creatures, almost invisible against the mountain landscape of rocks and boulders. They shine (literally) at night when they come out of their hiding places to dance. Moonlight causes a shimmering transformation from dull gray to a luminous rainbow colored glow!
It is believed that the glimmer of incandescent color and magical movements is their way of attracting a mate. Otherwise, they appear to be quite shy, non-aggressive individuals, who unfortunately, startle easily.
This particular midnight monster is called Moontinkifer and can be found high up in the Balkan
mountain range on the border between Bulgaria and eastern Serbia . It was not easy getting to this destination, but I have found it worth the effort, expense and skinned knees.
Legend says that if one is lucky enough to spot them during the day, they appear as drab, colorless creatures, almost invisible against the mountain landscape of rocks and boulders. They shine (literally) at night when they come out of their hiding places to dance. Moonlight causes a shimmering transformation from dull gray to a luminous rainbow colored glow!
It is believed that the glimmer of incandescent color and magical movements is their way of attracting a mate. Otherwise, they appear to be quite shy, non-aggressive individuals, who unfortunately, startle easily.
A startled Moontinkifer.
Black and white pencil version (before color was added)
