The best evidence for the existence of the Skunk Ape came in 2000 when several photographs were mailed by an anonymous source to the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office. Known as the "The Myakka Skunk Ape photographs," they clearly show a large ape-like creature. Noted cryptozoologist Loren Coleman, who has thoroughly analyzed the photos, points out the details of forehead lines, yellow canines, fingernails and hair – all clearly visible.
The photographer still has not been identified. So although the photos are compelling and Coleman does not think they are part of a hoax, they still are not proof positive.
Jennifer Ward’s account of her sighting is also highly compelling, and adds yet another piece in the hairy hominid puzzle.
The Bigfoot Enigma
And what a strange puzzle it is. There have been thousands of reported sightings of Bigfoot-like creatures over the decades, many by highly credible witnesses. Yet virtually every one of those sightings happened spontaneously – that is, unexpectedly – by campers, drivers, loggers, hunters, hikers, etc. Those who go out expressly to find the creature never see it. There are footprints, hair samples, and controversial photos, film and video. Yet park rangers and others who routinely patrol the areas where sightings are said to occur never encounter them.
What is the nature of this beast that it can appear (and smell) so distinctly to so many good eyewitnesses, yet completely evade capture, clear photography (with the possible exception of the Myakka photos) and high-tech detection equipment?
Is Bigfoot a figment of the imagination? Or is it an intelligent creature that has shown great skill (or luck), so far, in keeping its identity secret from those bothersome humans out there?
