What is Cryptozoology?
Cryptozoology is the investigation of mystery animals, or creatures that may or may not exist, but have been reported by explorers, travellers, missionaries, scientists, and local people groups.From a scientific perspective, cryptozoology is a targeted-search methodology for ethnoknown species. For details, see Cryptozoology: Science & Speculation.
Mystery animals, also called cryptids, range from the well-known (Bigfoot, sea serpents, yeti, and lake monsters) to lesser-known cryptids like bioluminescent spiders, the giant fish of Lake Iliamna, and giant snakes. Hoaxes, misidentifications, and dead ends are commonly encountered in cryptozoology, but do not reflect on the validity of the methodology itself.
Coachwhip Publications offers a number of cryptozoology books that examine the methods of cryptozoological research and discuss a wide range of mystery animals. More are on the way...
Also, for those with an interest in cryptozoology in popular culture, several classic speculative fiction novels and anthologies which include mystery animals (and even mystery plants). This "genre" (cryptofiction) has only recently been recognized, but has a long history in science fiction and fantasy.
For more on cryptozoology, visit StrangeArk.com.
