There was no way I was going to have a Wild Fact week dedicated to Mythical Creatures and not talk about one of my favourites.  Today’s animal is another that can be placed into the category of “Did it exist?” Of course I am talking about the one and only Loch Ness Monster, Nessie. That’s right mythical animal fans, we are heading to the Scottish Highlands to search for the elusive Loch Ness Monster.  Perhaps we can pick up some haggis on the way and  play 18 holes at St. Andrews.  Are there anymore Scottish stereotypes I can write about?

So what is the deal with Nessie?  Well, people believe that the particular monster found in Loch Ness is actually a long surviving plesiosaur. Remember we talked about those carnivorous, aquatic reptiles during the Wild Facts – Extinction series.  If Nessie really does exist than I will have to remove the Plesiosaur from that Extinction series.  The story of the Loch Ness started in 1933, so not that long ago when compared to the Unicorn.  At best the evidence of its existence is anecdotal with blurry photographs and sonar printouts.  Those pesky, skeptical scientists believe it is just a modern day myth but what do you think?

Although the legend of Nessie could be tied to a story of a similar monster killing a man during the 6th Century along the River Ness (not the Loch itself) it wasn’t until 1933 that brought this creature to Hollywood status.  On July 22, 1933, George Spicer and his wife reported seeing a large creature with a 10-12′ long, narrow neck cross the road in front of their car.  In August of that same year, Arthur Grant almost ran his motorcycle into the large sea monster as it was again crossing the road.  Throughout the years the legend has obviously grown but 1933 was Nessie’s first step towards fame.

A year later, Nessie became even more famous when Kenneth Wilson photographed the head and neck of a large creature sticking out of the water.  This photograph commonly referred to as the “Surgeons Photograph” could be compelling evidence.  Science, however, had noticed a white spot on the negatives which they believe was the source of the ripples in the water.  This would mean that the creature was actually being towed by a boat. After this evidence was released an even bigger question remains.  Does Nessie like to water ski?!?

There you have it.  Another animal that may or may not exist.  It is 2010 and the search for the Loch Ness Monster continues.  Maybe you will be the one to discover the large Plesiosaur living in Loch Ness and put these rumours to rest.

I will see all of you back here tomorrow for another Mythical Wild Fact.  Have a great day!