Interview With Leading Cryptozoologist
Loren Coleman Talks About The Search For Cryptids
Loren Coleman has traveled the world to research cryptozoological evidence and folklore since alleged sightings of the Abominable Snowmen caught his attention over four decades ago. Coleman has researched and investigated leading Black Panther sightings and sightings of Napes (North American Apes) in the American Midwest.
His research has also taken him to Canada, Mexico, Scotland, and the Virgin Islands, where he has interviewed witnesses of Lake Monsters, Bigfoot, Giant Snakes, Mystery Felids, Mothman, Thunderbirds, and numerous other cryptid creatures.
In the following interview, Coleman explains the basics of cryptozoology and his involvement in the field.
Eppig: Provide a Brief Description of Cryptozoology
Coleman: "Cryptozoology literally means the study of hidden animals. The term comes from the Greek word kryptos, meaning hidden, unknown, secret, enigmatic, mysterious plus zool which means animal and logos means to study… these unknown animals called cryptids are those that are known to human but not verified by science.
"They have yet to be discovered by zoology, although they may be well known to local or native peoples through sightings, folklore, and traditions. Therefore, in general, cryptozoology only concerns itself with animals large enough to make an impact on humans, and is not about every search for and discovery of microscopic or small new animals."
How Long Have You Been in the Field of Cryptozoology? What Prompted Your Initial Interest in Cryptids?
"I have been involved in the field since March of 1960, when my interest was stirred by the mystery of the Yeti, the Abominable Snowmen of the Himalayas.
"I began writing articles in 1969, and my second book in 1978, Creatures of the Outer Edge (Warner Books) pushed my name into the cryptozoology limelight.
You've Interviewed Witnesses All Over the World Concerning Sightings of Mysterious Cryptid Animals - Have You Ever Seen Any of These Animals?
"I have interviewed, chronicled, investigated, searched, and pursued many cryptids, from the Lake Monsters of North America to those of Scotland, from Bigfoot in California to the Skunk Ape of Florida, from the enigmatic Black Panthers of the Shawnee Forest of Illinois to the Thunderbirds of the Black Forest of Pennsylvania.
"I have not seen any cryptids, but that does not matter, as I have interviewed enough credible witnesses and examined decades of data to convince me there are many hidden animals yet to be revealed."
Is There a Mysterious Animal That Seems to Capture More Interest and Attention Over Any Other?
"Clearly the answer to this question is tied to the point of view of the individuals interested, and this is often determined by geography. In the USA, the number one cryptid is Bigfoot. In Western Canada, it might be Sasquatch or Ogopogo.
"In Scotland, nothing else trumps Nessie. Australians are extremely interested in Yowie, Chinese in Yeren, Nepalese in Yeti, and on and on. The big three cryptids worldwide, by popularity appear to be Bigfoot, Nessie, and Yeti, with the fourth - Sea Serpents - hanging in there as sort of an ancient wonder."
Sources:
- Coleman, Loren. Interview by Emily Jeanne Eppig. 17 Oct 2007.
Loren Coleman, cryptozoologist
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