Cryptozoology

Cryptozoology is the study of rumored animals that are presumed (at least by the researcher) to exist, but for which conclusive proof does not yet exist, or for animals which are generally considered extinct, but are occasionally reported. Those who study or search for such animals are called cryptozoologists, while the hypothetical creatures involved are referred to by some as "cryptids", a term coined by John Wall in 1983.

Criticism of cryptozoology

While many cryptozoologists strive for legitimacy and some are respected scientists in other fields, and though discoveries of previously unknown animals are often subject to great attention, cryptozoology per se has never been fully embraced by the scientific community.

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Many mainstream experts are likely put off by the more sensationalistic fringe elements in cryptozoology, and the occasional overlap with alleged paranormal phenomena. Another reason for the lukewarm reaction from mainstream science may be a lack of specialization. Unlike mainstream animal experts (who typically focus vary narrowly on a specific species for their study), many cryptozoologists study or research a broad range of alleged creatures from many different families.

Related Topics:
Paranormal - Species

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Most criticism--and sometimes ridicule--from the scientific mainstream is, however, directed at the proponents for the existence of the more "famous" cryptids (like Bigfoot, Yeti or the Loch Ness Monster), whose existence is generally regarded as highly unlikely. Ben S. Roesch calls these alleged creatures "mega-monsters", and furthermore notes that "many lesser known mystery creatures" are alleged to exist as well, and that "some of these have more evidence going for them than the monster super-stars."http://www.ncf.carleton.ca/~bz050/HomePage.cryptoz.html

Related Topics:
Bigfoot - Yeti - Loch Ness Monster - Ben S. Roesch

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The larger cryptoids, in fact, would not only have to often evade close contact (accidential or otherwise) with humans to remain undiscovered, they would also have to do so in great numbers. For while the legendary cryptids are usually described as single, solitary creatures, they could not in fact survive unless there was a gene pool composed of many--maybe hundreds--of the creatures.

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