Named for its terrible and lingering smell, reports of the skunk ape (or swamp ape) have come from Florida and the southeastern US in the past several decades. Descriptions of the skunk ape vary widely. On the small end, the creature is described as resembling a chimpanzee or orangutan. However, there are also many descriptions calling the skunk ape “Florida’s Bigfoot” and the size of the creature is reported to be larger than the average human. Regardless of size, the creature is covered with hair – red, black or brown. The creatures is said to travel either apelike – on its knuckles in front – or fully upright like a man. Inconclusive prints and controversial photographs exist but no other physical evidence has been found. Encounters are most frequent around the Everglades swamp area which leads to the speculation that the unpleasant and relatively uninhabited swampland sustains a population of unknown apes.
With its warm climate, the southeastern US may harbor an escaped tropical visitor like an orangutan. It’s quite possible that the occasional sighting of non-native creatures may have done much to fuel the skunk ape stories. However, the idea that a previously unidentified native ape lives in the interior of the swamp does not have much support from zoologists. In any case, when looking for a skunk ape, you might follow your nose.
- Sharon Hill (Scientist) |
The Florida Skunk Ape: ��
Tampa Bay Skeptics: ��