Bigfoot

Statement

Bigfoot picture "Bigfoot," also called Sasquatch, Yeti and other names, refers to a large, dark-haired, erect biped said to inhabit the woods of the Pacific Northwest, although sightings have been reported in all 50 states. Somehow this creature has eluded all attempts at definitive detection. There are numerous anecdotal sightings, questionable films and photographs, large footprints, casts of large footprints and other alleged evidence attesting to the existence of this extraordinary beast.

Extraordinary claims demand extraordinary evidence, and the burden of proof is on the claimant. Those who believe in Bigfoot have not met their burden of proof. It is highly unlikely that a creature of this size could have eluded detection for this long in an area as well studied as the Pacific Northwest. No authentic bodies or body parts have been found. No unambiguous films or photographs have been taken. Footprints and casts said to be authentic tracks have proven on closer examination to be elaborate forgeries. Credulous media coverage of questionable claims without skeptical analysis has kept this folklore alive.

Sources

Bigfoot - Skeptic's Dictionary
Michael R. Dennett. "Evidence for Bigfoot? An Investigation of the Mill Creek 'Sasquatch Prints.'" Skeptical Inquirer 13.3 (1989) 264-272.
Ibid. "Bigfoot Evidence: Are These Tracks Real?" Skeptical Inquirer 18.5 (1994) 498-508.
Deborah J. Freeland and Walter F. Rowe. "Alleged Pore Structure in Sasquatch (Bigfoot) Footprints." Skeptical Inquirer 13.3 (1989) 273-276.