Catoblepas

The Catoblepas (Greek: καταβλέπω (katablépō), "to look downwards") is a mythical creature believed to exist in Africa.

Myths & Legends
Making eye contact with the monster causes instant death. It is most often encountered in swampy areas and wetlands.

Appearance
It is said to be a boar-like monster, roughly the size of a water buffalo. It has short, bristly hair and a scaly hide. It has a long, thin neck leading to an extremely heavy head which it carries low to the ground.

Origin
It is possible that early European explorers merely misidentified water buffalo or warthogs for this monster.