The Case of the Vegetable Man of West Virginia by Daniel A. Reed

Daniel A. Reed revisits the bizarre 1968 tale of the "Vegetable Man" of West Virginia, a plant-like creature said to have attacked a local hunter. Ultimately, the story—reported only by a single witness and publicized by known hoaxer Gray Barker—appears far more like a fabricated tall tale than genuine cryptid encounter. Read this article and find accompanying references at: https://skepticalinquirer.org/2025/08/the-case-of-the-vegetable-man-of-west-virginia/ About the Author: Daniel A. Reed is the founder of the West Virginia Skeptics Society and a frequent contributor to Skeptical Inquirer magazine and website. He works as a counselor during the day, but in his free time investigates the strange and unusual. He also regularly gives lectures and presentations on the importance of critical thinking and skepticism. You can reach him through his website or by emailing him at [email protected]. Subscribe to Skeptical Inquirer: https://skepticalinquirer.org/subscribe/ Skeptical Inquirer Audio Edition is a production of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry and the Center for Inquiry.