Wild Fact #647 – This Animal Has a Bigfoot! – Sasquatch
Bigfoot? Photo by Patterson-Gimlin film (Wikimedia)
There is no way a Mythical Wild Facts week would be complete without talking about the Sasquatch. Of course this animal is better known as Bigfoot. I put this hairy, human-like creature into the same category as Nessie the Loch Ness Monster. Both of these creatures seem to have blurry photographs and countless sightings. So, does Bigfoot exist? Let’s learn a little more and you can come up with your own answer at the end of the Wild Fact.
The Sasquatch is an ape-like creature that supposedly inhabits the forests of North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest. Hey, wait a minute! I live in the Northwestern portion of North America. Perhaps i should start an expedition when I get back from holidays. You are more than welcome to join me on my search for Bigfoot. Of course scientists have discredited Bigfoot and believe that it is just a mix of folklore, mis-identification and hoaxes. Although, some researchers such as the famous Jane Goodall (known for her work with monkey’s) has expressed interest and the possible belief that Bigfoot exists. Knowing that Jane Goodall has entertained their possible existence goes a long way with me. Maybe the Sasquatch really does exist.
The legend of Bigfoot extends back into the folklore of the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest. The stories of the “Wildmen” differed regionally and between families in the same community but nonetheless the stories existed way back then. In 1951, the first footprint of Bigfoot was recorded, which garnered considerable attention and started the stories of the Sasquatch that we know and love today.
In 1958, Bigfoot was in the media again when Wilbur L. Wallace and his crew brought forward a cast of some very large footprints they discovered while working in an area near Bluff Creek, California. This appeared to be decent evidence but after Wallace’s death, his children came forth with a set of 16″ wooden footprints which apparently were used to make those tracks. Now if those footprints would have been discovered between 1996 and 2004, I would have just said they belonged to Shaquille O’Neal who was playing for Los Angeles at the time.
Photo from Wikimedia
Over the years there have been many more sightings which provide some anecdotal evidence towards the existence of the Sasquatch. Of course, it is possible that these people have simply mis-identified the creature. For example, a bear standing on its hind legs would resemble Bigfoot from a distance. So, what do you think? Some prominent researchers believe in the possibility of Bigfoot existing, do you?
Only one more Mythical Wild Fact left. Be sure you stop by tomorrow since it could very well be the last mythical animal ever found on Wild Facts. Have a great day everyone.
