Cryptid Vault
Skunk Ape

Skunk Ape

Also known as: Swamp Ape, Florida Bigfoot, Myakka Ape

Florida's foul-smelling answer to Bigfoot, lurking in the Everglades heat.

First Reported

1960s

Origin Area

Everglades, Florida, USA

Size

5-7 ft tall, 300-450 lbs (est.)

Temperament

Shy, reclusive

Status

Unconfirmed

Photo/video claimsLow DangerNorth AmericaSwampForest

The Lore

The Skunk Ape is a Bigfoot-like primate reported throughout the swamps and forests of Florida since the 1960s. It gets its name from the overwhelming stench witnesses describe, often compared to rotten eggs or methane. The Myakka photographs, mailed anonymously to the Sarasota County Sheriff in 2000, remain the most discussed evidence. Dave Shealy has operated a Skunk Ape Research Headquarters in Ochopee, Florida since 1998.

Body Type

HumanoidGiant mammal

Folklore Origin

Regional folkloreModern urban legendMedia-amplified

Notable Witnesses

  • Dave Shealy
  • Anonymous Myakka photographer

Media Appearances

  • Skunk Ape (2003)
  • MonsterQuest (TV)

Similar Real Animals

Black bearOrangutan (escaped)