---
title: Piruquina
description: Mythological serpent of southern Chile.
author:
  name: Graciela Paula Caldeiro
  url: http://graciela-caldeiro.idoneos.com
canonical: https://mitosyleyendas.idoneos.com/en/bestiario_mitologico/piruquina/
source: en/bestiario_mitologico/piruquina/index.md
---

**Piruquina**

This is a great serpent from the mythology of southern Chile that spends approximately 25 years developing beneath the earth before emerging upon reaching maturity, causing a tremor as it does so. Its head appears first, and then, when it opens its enormous eyes, anyone who falls under its gaze will die. Its body, similar to a reed and covered in red scales, turns brown upon coming into contact with the surface of the earth. Finally, the piruquina disintegrates, turning into a heap of worms.