In ancient folklore of the Seminole Indians of Oklahoma in the United States, there is a vampire-like creature called a stikini ("man owl"). Likewise, terrifying Stikini legends are widespread among the Creek people.
Initially, the Stikini were believed to be evil witches who transformed themselves into undead giant owl-like monsters. Technically dead but constantly reanimated, they could spend their nights seeking human hearts to consume. Hearing the terrifying cry of a Stikini is an omen of impending death.
Many Native Americans who know the Stikini stories avoid mentioning this bizarre creature openly. Usually, only certain medicine people tell about the Stikini without putting someone at risk of turning into it...
Stikini ‘Man-Owl’ – Sinister Vampiric Monster That Works In Disguise