I’d heard the rumors of a giant bat-like creature called the Ahool lurking in the dense jungles of Java, but I never thought I’d get close enough to see it. The locals describe it as a monstrous creature with a wingspan of up to 12 feet, and a chilling, almost human-like scream that echoes through the trees. So, naturally, I decided to see if it was more than just a story.

It was late at night when I set out into the forest, equipped with a flashlight and my camera. The jungle was alive with sounds, but around midnight, an eerie silence fell over the area. That’s when I heard it—a loud, echoing ‘AHOOOOL!’ that sent a shiver down my spine. The sound was deep and resonant, like nothing I’d ever heard before, and it seemed to come from above.

I looked up, and there it was, silhouetted against the moonlight. This thing was massive, its wings stretched out like sails, with leathery skin and a furry body that almost looked like a large monkey. Its head was distinct, almost canine with large, red eyes that caught the light as it circled above. I froze, barely breathing as it swooped down, close enough that I could feel the rush of air from its wings.

I managed to snap a quick photo, but the flash startled it, and with another screech, it took off into the night, disappearing as quickly as it had appeared. I was left standing there, heart racing, feeling a mix of awe and terror. The Ahool is out there, and it’s every bit as real as the legends say. If you ever hear that unmistakable call in the night, just know… you’re not alone.