Sky burials are often practiced in the mountains of Tibet, both for religious and practical reasons. Basically, the corpse is placed on a mountain top and sliced open in various places, to attract the birds of prey circling above. They’d probably feast on it anyway, but an invitation like that doesn’t hurt.

Most Tibetans are Buddhists and believe in rebirth. Once a person dies, their body is considered nothing more than an empty vessels that needs to disposed of. Since the ground is often as hard as rock and wood and fire are precious resources, feeding nature’s creatures is a practical choice. I know it looks grotesque, but to Buddhists this is a last sign of generosity by the deceased, offering his body as nourishment for other living creatures.

The hairy creatures with goat heads and horns are part of German Christmas tradition and come out the night before St Nicholas on Dec. 5.

With a stick and metal chains, the Krampus are out to do St. Nick’s dirty work: terrifying naughty children. Today’s Perchten wear eleborate masks that can weigh up to 25 kg According to tradition, these horned creatures come out mainly during Christmas to drive away winter with loud noises.

The name of the Krampus goes back to the old German word for claw “Krampen” The custom of the Krampus orginates from the time before the Inquisition, when dressing up as a devil-like creature was punished with death.

Today, the gruesome fellows have a place as St. Nicholas’ dark alter ego

Viewed by light the Perchten don’t look all that scary, but some people still think their appearances may .

scar little children for life

Though costumes vary, the Krampus usually have long horns, cloven hoofs, and long hair.

The Perchten/Krampus tradition is growing more and more across the country and often is accompanied by a lot of alcohol these days.