Cryptozoologists have been researching "hidden" animals and urban legends for years. Cryptozoology is the study of "hidden animals" and concerns itself with animals whose existence has not yet been proven or recognized by mainstream science. Ever wonder if there's something really lurking in the waters or hiding in the woods?
       The Colossal Squid is in fact a real animal. One of the most feared sea creatures known to man, there have been many reports of sightings since the 18th century (and before!) The large invertebrate has been pinned as the culprit in many wooden ship sinkings. The length of the squid has been estimated to be around 13 - 15 meters (40 - 50 feet) and have the largest eyes in the animal kingdom, measuring 10 inches in diameter. Japanese scientists first caught the creature on camera for the first time on September 28th, 2005, proving beyond a doubt that they are indeed lurkings the ocean depths. The beast was lured to the surface by a bait line, filled with shrimp, that was lowered 3,000 feet into the sea.

Also known by the name "Ulama," the Devil Bird is a widely-known cryptid of Sri Lanka. Its said to be a close relative of the Spot-bellied Eagle Owl. It is rarely seen, but often heard. The call of the Devil Bird is said to sound like a horrid shriek, and the bird itself is said to have large horns on its head. Its scream is said to be an omen of death.

"Nessie," as locals call it, has dwelled in the depths of Loch Ness in Scotland. It is commonly compared to lake monsters like Ogopogo and Champ. The public's interest for Nessie soared in 1933 when George Spicer and his wife reported seeing it. Ever since, the monster has been vigorously searched for. The most well-known theory of just what Nessie is goes as follows: an evolution of a plesiasaurus. There are quite a few questionable, but not-to-be overlooked, pictures of claimed sightings.

West Virginia boasts the most documented sightings of Mothman. On November 15th, 1966, two couples saw a "large white creature two glowing red eyes." Roger and Linda Scarberry and Steve and Mary Mallette told police that the creature they had seen looked like a ten foot man with bat-like wings. Reports of seeing a similar creature were documented just two days after. Some reports claimed the creature looked like a "disformed crane with red eyes." Reports of Mothman became slim after the collapse of Silver Bridge on December 15th, 1967. It is often said that sightings of Mothman are a premonition of upcoming disaster. Was Mothman connected to the collapse of Silver Bridge? 
       Ufologists believe Mothman is an alien experiment that was dropped off to Earth. Paranormal experts say its a supernatural manifestation. Cryptozoologists say its a cryptid. Could all three be true? My personal take on the subject is, I believe, reasonable:
Around the WWII era, there was a TNT plant near Silver Bridge. The company, unrestricted by modern dumping laws, tossed tons of waste into the nearby waters. Perhaps this dumping caused mutations in local animal populations?

The Chupacabra, or "goat sucker," is a cryptid that inhabits parts of the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. The creature's physical appearnace varies from report to report. Some say its looks like a small bear with spikes from neck to the base of the tail. Others, however, say its a very small but heavy creature that resembles a dog.
In 2007, Phylis Cannon discovered three odd looking bodies of animals, in Cuero, Texas. She and her neighbors froze the carcasses, later sending them to labs for DNA testing. Scientists said it was a coyote, but it was hairless, with grey-blue skin and large fangs. DNA results identified the creature as a coyote which most likely had mange.

Cryptids are hidden animals that aren't recognized by mainstream science. There are strong eyewitness reports and evidence to suggest some cryptids may exist. No matter where you are in the world, there will always be stories and reports of alleged encounters. The real question is, do YOU think any of them are real?

Don't forget to subscribe to our RSS feed!
Follow us on Twitter - @SJUnusual
Like us on Facebook - http://Facebook.com/SJUnusual
Thank you everyone!