familiar with the land. Scientific understanding One plausible explanation for this unusual phenomenon is likely related to large deposits of sour gas, of which can be disturbed by simply walking over top of the pockets, causing them to expel the toxic gas hydrogen sulphide. Exposure to hydrogen sulphide is known to cause hallucinations and memory loss. Gas and sulphur smoke have been reported in the area as well as hot water springs discovered by the Amarualik (meaning wolf-like) family; all of which could cause a "mirage" causing to the traveller to see things such as Ijirait and Tariaksuq. The gas vapour or pockets low in oxygen could also account for hallucinations/sensations of being watched. References Footnotes Sources Cory K. Buott, Air Radio Operator, Resolute Bay, NU Simon Idlout, Elder, Qausuittuq Hunter/Trapper Organization Representative, Resolute Bay, NU Lallie Idlout, Nunavut Justice of the Peace, Board Member Nunavut Arctic College, Resolute Bay Nunavut Qammajuq (Johnny), Inuit Elder, Well known survivor of the Quganajuq (Creswell Bay, Somerset Island (Nunavut)) Tragedy, Cambridge Bay, NU Kenn Borek Air/Unaalik Aviation, Resolute Bay, NU Ministry of Natural Resources Intercontinental Polar Shelf Project, Resolute Bay, NU Hamlet Office, The Hamlet of Resolute Bay, Resolute Bay NU X0A 0V0 Canada (Tel. 876.252.3616) External links inuitmyths.com Inuit legendary creatures Therianthropy