
Investigate unexplained creatures and expand the boundaries of known zoology.
Amateur cryptozoology is the pursuit of investigating and documenting creatures whose existence has not been definitively proven by mainstream science. This hobby plunges enthusiasts into a world of folklore, eyewitness accounts, and speculative zoology, driven by the tantalizing possibility of discovering new species or shedding light on cryptids like Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, or the Yeti. It's a field that blends rigorous research with an open mind, requiring participants to sift through anecdotal evidence, analyze blurry photographs, and explore remote locations in search of clues. While often met with skepticism, amateur cryptozoology appeals to those with a deep curiosity about the natural world's mysteries and a desire to contribute to the ongoing scientific dialogue, however unconventional the subject matter may be.
For the insatiably curious explorer who thrives on unraveling enigmas and believes in the unexplained.
Your journey starts here. Follow these steps to get started with Amateur Cryptozoology.
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the foundational works and organizations in the field. A good starting point is to explore the Cryptozoological Society's website (https://www.cryptozoology.com/) to understand the history, key figures, and common subjects of study. Read introductory books that cover a range of cryptids and the evidence presented for them.
Understand how to critically evaluate anecdotal evidence, identify potential biases, and differentiate between folklore and credible reports. Familiarize yourself with basic zoological classification and ecological principles to better assess the plausibility of cryptid existence.
Choose a specific cryptid or a class of cryptids that sparks your interest. Research its reported locations, physical characteristics, alleged behaviors, and the history of sightings. This focused approach will make your research more manageable.
Begin a personal log to document any local folklore or reported sightings in your area. This can involve interviewing locals, visiting reported encounter sites, and meticulously recording details, dates, and locations.
Our top picks for core tools to get you started.
Recommended items to enhance your experience.
As an Amazon Associate, HobbyStack may earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are estimates.
The tendency to seek out, interpret, and favor information that confirms your existing beliefs about a cryptid's existence, while ignoring contradictory evidence.
Mistaking known animals, natural phenomena, or hoaxes for evidence of cryptids due to a lack of proper identification skills or critical analysis.
Failing to apply systematic research methods, control for variables, or maintain objectivity, which undermines the credibility of findings.
A hobby's core characteristics, based on community votes.
55% Solo
You prefer personal and solitary activities, perfect for quiet time and introspection.
10% Energetic
You prefer engaging activities that keep you active and on your feet.
58% Outdoors
You feel most at home in the great outdoors, far from civilization.
11% Technical
You tend to prefer structured activities but enjoy a little creative flair.
6% Physical
You enjoy a solid mix of both mental engagement and physical coordination.
Based on 15 total trait votes.
If you like Amateur Cryptozoology, you might also enjoy these related hobbies.
Dive deeper with these community-recommended websites, guides, and forums.
A central hub for cryptozoological research, news, and resources.
Archived episodes of the documentary series exploring various cryptids and paranormal phenomena.
A long-standing source for cryptozoology news and commentary from a prominent figure in the field.
A creature or plant whose existence is suggested but has not been discovered or documented by science.
Information based on personal accounts rather than on fact or research; often used in cryptozoology.
The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, often passed through generations, which may include accounts of cryptids.
A deliberately deceptive or fraudulent event or object, often created to mislead researchers or the public.
This hobby's profile is shaped by the community. See what's most popular and cast your own vote to refine its identity.
The community strongly defines Amateur Cryptozoology by aspects of the Science & Exploration category.
Many users also associate Amateur Cryptozoology with Outdoor & Adventure.
A number of users see a connection between this hobby and Collecting & Curation.
A number of users see a connection between this hobby and Visual Arts & Design.

Investigate unexplained creatures and expand the boundaries of known zoology.
Amateur cryptozoology is the pursuit of investigating and documenting creatures whose existence has not been definitively proven by mainstream science. This hobby plunges enthusiasts into a world of folklore, eyewitness accounts, and speculative zoology, driven by the tantalizing possibility of discovering new species or shedding light on cryptids like Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, or the Yeti. It's a field that blends rigorous research with an open mind, requiring participants to sift through anecdotal evidence, analyze blurry photographs, and explore remote locations in search of clues. While often met with skepticism, amateur cryptozoology appeals to those with a deep curiosity about the natural world's mysteries and a desire to contribute to the ongoing scientific dialogue, however unconventional the subject matter may be.
For the insatiably curious explorer who thrives on unraveling enigmas and believes in the unexplained.
Your journey starts here. Follow these steps to get started with Amateur Cryptozoology.
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the foundational works and organizations in the field. A good starting point is to explore the Cryptozoological Society's website (https://www.cryptozoology.com/) to understand the history, key figures, and common subjects of study. Read introductory books that cover a range of cryptids and the evidence presented for them.
Understand how to critically evaluate anecdotal evidence, identify potential biases, and differentiate between folklore and credible reports. Familiarize yourself with basic zoological classification and ecological principles to better assess the plausibility of cryptid existence.
Choose a specific cryptid or a class of cryptids that sparks your interest. Research its reported locations, physical characteristics, alleged behaviors, and the history of sightings. This focused approach will make your research more manageable.
Begin a personal log to document any local folklore or reported sightings in your area. This can involve interviewing locals, visiting reported encounter sites, and meticulously recording details, dates, and locations.
Our top picks for core tools to get you started.
Recommended items to enhance your experience.
As an Amazon Associate, HobbyStack may earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are estimates.
The tendency to seek out, interpret, and favor information that confirms your existing beliefs about a cryptid's existence, while ignoring contradictory evidence.
Mistaking known animals, natural phenomena, or hoaxes for evidence of cryptids due to a lack of proper identification skills or critical analysis.
Failing to apply systematic research methods, control for variables, or maintain objectivity, which undermines the credibility of findings.
A hobby's core characteristics, based on community votes.
55% Solo
You prefer personal and solitary activities, perfect for quiet time and introspection.
10% Energetic
You prefer engaging activities that keep you active and on your feet.
58% Outdoors
You feel most at home in the great outdoors, far from civilization.
11% Technical
You tend to prefer structured activities but enjoy a little creative flair.
6% Physical
You enjoy a solid mix of both mental engagement and physical coordination.
Based on 15 total trait votes.
If you like Amateur Cryptozoology, you might also enjoy these related hobbies.
Dive deeper with these community-recommended websites, guides, and forums.
A central hub for cryptozoological research, news, and resources.
Archived episodes of the documentary series exploring various cryptids and paranormal phenomena.
A long-standing source for cryptozoology news and commentary from a prominent figure in the field.
A creature or plant whose existence is suggested but has not been discovered or documented by science.
Information based on personal accounts rather than on fact or research; often used in cryptozoology.
The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, often passed through generations, which may include accounts of cryptids.
A deliberately deceptive or fraudulent event or object, often created to mislead researchers or the public.
This hobby's profile is shaped by the community. See what's most popular and cast your own vote to refine its identity.
The community strongly defines Amateur Cryptozoology by aspects of the Science & Exploration category.
Many users also associate Amateur Cryptozoology with Outdoor & Adventure.
A number of users see a connection between this hobby and Collecting & Curation.
A number of users see a connection between this hobby and Visual Arts & Design.