Cryptid

A cryptid is any creature which has been reported, but has not been scientifically verified to exist. Due to the nature of the term, there are some creatures previously categorized as cryptids, but were later verified be real. Examples of this include coelacanths, okapi, and even the mountain gorilla.

The study of cryptids is known as cryptozoology.

Notable cryptids

Bigfoot

Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch, is a large, hairy, humanoid creature believed by some to inhabit forested areas of North America. The Bigfoot phenomenon began in the 1950s with the finding of footprints in Bluff Creek, California; however, reports of "wildmen" similar to the Bigfoot story exist among indigenous North American populations.

Chupacabra

The Chupacabra (Spanish for "goat sucker") is a cryptid originating in Central and South America that allegedly feeds on the blood of livestock. Its appearance is often reported to be reptile-like, with spines running down its back and down its tail. Contrary reports refer to it as being hairless, dog-like, and with large fangs and claws.

Loch Ness Monster

The Loch Ness Monster is a large reptile or amphibian that some believe to live in Loch Ness in Scotland. It came to global attention after a string of sightings and alleged photographs in the early 1930s. It popularly depicted as a plesiosaur, but has also been described as being similar to sea serpents.