Skunk Ape
Although we typically think of bigfoot and similar creatures enjoying leafy mountain retreats the Skunk Ape is a little different. Also known as a Swamp Ape, this bigfoot-like creature prefers the swamps and muggy waterways of the American South. One of the most common sightings of this creature takes place as they dart across highways or are found foraging through hunting or camping sites.
Interestingly enough, the Skunk Ape is typically described as more orangutan-like than bigfoot or our beloved Patty. Unlike bigfoot (bigfeet?) they are much smaller and typically described in the 4-6ft range and hunched over. Their movement is also described as slightly off as if they are infected with rabies or another disease that causes them to move quickly and with a shambling gait.
Since the 1960s sightings have continued to be reported, mainly in Florida, although there has not been a lot of substantial proof. According to Bob DeGross, a public affairs officer with Big Cypress National Preserve, “There has never been a substantiated sighting of the skunk ape that was verified by National Park Service wildlife staff.”
However, Dave Shealy would disagree with this statement. Dave Shealy, who calls himself the Jane Goodall of Skunk Apes, had his first sighting when he was just 10-years-old. According to him, they were walking across Big Cypress National Preserve and his brother spotted it, and picked young Dave up so he could see. He described it as “look[ing] like a man, but completely covered with hair.”
At 50, he has been on the lookout for Skunk Apes ever since and he even founded the Skunk Ape Research Headquarters, located on his property in Florida. He has managed to capture an interesting video which some believe to be the most compelling Skunk Ape videos, which you can watch here.
Unlike Patty or some other bigfoot reports, the Skunk Ape is alleged to be more aggressive. Although no concrete examples of attacks have happened, however I believe this idea that they are aggressive comes from their alleged speed.
Thanks to Reynolds M for the Blogstonishing suggestion!
The above image comes from Flickr user Richard Elzey and is licensed under Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0).