Cryptozoology
The Study of Hidden Life
What is Cryptozoology?
Cryptozoology is more than chasing myths—it’s the scientific pursuit of understanding creatures and phenomena not yet classified by conventional science. At its core, cryptozoology bridges the gap between folklore and biology, challenging us to expand our understanding of the natural world.
Think of it this way: every animal that is now part of mainstream zoology was once “hidden.” The gorilla, giant squid, and okapi were all cryptids before their discovery. Cryptozoology is about exploring the “what-ifs” of nature with an open but critical mind.
Learn more about our Encounters & News or dive into Our Services to see how P.U.R.S.U.E. investigates these mysteries.
Debunking the Myths
Reality
Myths often stem from ancient encounters with real animals.
For example, sailors’ tales of sea monsters were validated when the giant squid was documented.
Cryptozoology seeks to uncover the truth behind these stories.
Reality
Evidence exists in various forms—tracks, audio recordings, sightings, and more.
Explore our Pagoda Site Investigation for a firsthand look at cryptozoological research.
The Plausibility of Cryptids
The world is vast, and many regions remain unexplored. From the deep ocean to dense forests, entire ecosystems exist that science has yet to fully understand. Cryptids could very well be real animals whose existence hasn’t been officially documented.
Some Questions to Consider:
Could Bigfoot be a relic hominid surviving in remote areas?
Might lake monsters like Nessie be undiscovered marine reptiles?
Is it plausible that small populations of cryptids evade detection, much like the once-thought-extinct coelacanth?
Cryptozoology thrives on asking these questions—and pursuing their answers.
Discover Our Investigations and see how P.U.R.S.U.E. approaches the unknown.
Cryptids
That Became Zoological Facts
Here are some examples of creatures once deemed mythical:
Gorilla:
Gorilla:
Western explorers dismissed native tales until the animal was formally described in 1847.
Komodo
Dragon:
Komodo Dragon:
Known to island inhabitants for centuries, it wasn’t acknowledged by science until 1910.
Giant
Squid:
Giant Squid:
A sea monster of lore until physical specimens were found in the 19th century.
Okapi:
Okapi:
Known as the “African unicorn,” it was thought to be a myth until its discovery in 1901.

How P.U.R.S.U.E. Approaches Cryptozoology
At P.U.R.S.U.E., we combine historical accounts, scientific methods, and field research to investigate the unexplained. From the braided tree structures of the Pagoda Site to vocalizations recorded in dense forests, our work seeks to bridge curiosity and science.
Explore our About Us page to learn more about David Eller’s mission and the origins of P.U.R.S.U.E.