Schnappviecher (or “Wuddelen”) are, according to the official Egetmann Association, traditional, often fearsome, and “charming” South Tyrolean carnival figures featuring large wooden dragon-like masks with snapping jaws. Appearing in odd-numbered years at the historic Egetmann Parade in Tramin, these shaggy, horned creatures use their loud, snapping mechanisms to represent the expulsion of winter demons and to welcome spring.
Appearance and Costume: The creatures are tall, with shaggy fur costumes covering the performer, crowned with large wooden animalistic, dragon-like, or devilish masks.
The “Snap”: The masks feature large mouths equipped with wooden or metal teeth, which the performer operates to create a loud, distinctive clacking noise.
Cultural Function: As part of a traditional, centuries-old rite of spring, these figures are believed to drive away evil spirits.
Performance: They are known for chasing or snapping at spectators, making them a popular, “creepy-cute” element of the parade.
Ritualistic Ending: During the parade, they are often “slaughtered” by butchers at village fountains, symbolizing the final defeat of winter.