While most certainly an intriguing mystery, most evidence suggests that the original sighting of the Flatwoods Monster in Virginia was not monster or alien at all. The most common train of thought is the supposed alien was actually a Barn Owl -- an animal whose eyes shone fiercely due to the reflection of the party's torches. Furthermore, the shrill screaming sound that was documented was thought to be the Barn Owls hooting, which if you take a listen, can sound pretty terrifying!