Cryptozoology: The Science of Hidden Creatures

Is Bigfoot real? Does the Loch Ness Monster lurk beneath the waves? Could the Chupacabra be more than just a myth? These are the questions that fuel the fascinating world of cryptozoology—a field dedicated to studying creatures that may or may not exist.

But is cryptozoology a legitimate science, or is it just a playground for wild imaginations? Let’s dive into the mystery.


What Is Cryptozoology?

Cryptozoology comes from the Greek words “kryptos” (hidden) and “zoology” (the study of animals). It’s the search for cryptids, or animals that haven’t been officially recognized by mainstream science.

Unlike traditional zoology, which focuses on known species, cryptozoologists investigate creatures that exist mostly in folklore, eyewitness accounts, and unverified evidence. Some famous cryptids include:

  • Bigfoot – The legendary ape-man of North America.
  • The Loch Ness Monster – Scotland’s famous lake-dwelling serpent.
  • The Chupacabra – A mysterious, blood-sucking creature from Latin America.
  • The Mothman – A winged humanoid linked to disaster predictions.

Cryptozoology isn’t officially recognized as a scientific discipline, but it has led to real discoveries—proving that sometimes, myths and reality are closer than we think.


From Myth to Reality: Cryptids That Turned Out to Be Real

Not all creatures dismissed as myths remain that way forever. Here are some legendary cryptids that turned out to be real animals:

🦎 The Komodo Dragon (Discovered in 1910)

Once thought to be a mythical land dragon, the Komodo dragon is now a well-documented species—the world’s largest lizard, growing up to 10 feet long.

🐟 The Coelacanth (Rediscovered in 1938)

Believed to have gone extinct 65 million years ago, the coelacanth was shockingly found alive off the coast of South Africa. This deep-sea fish is often called a “living fossil”.

🦍 The Mountain Gorilla (Recognized in 1902)

Once dismissed as local legend, mountain gorillas were finally documented by scientists in the early 1900s. Today, they remain one of the most famous cases of a “cryptid” becoming real.

These discoveries prove that even science can be surprised—so who’s to say other cryptids won’t eventually be found?


The Science vs. Skepticism Debate

While cryptozoology has a passionate following, it’s not considered a legitimate science. Here’s why:

🔬 Why Scientists Are Skeptical

  • Lack of Physical Evidence – No bones, DNA, or reliable specimens have been found for most cryptids.
  • Hoaxes & Misinformation – Many famous cryptid sightings have been proven to be pranks or misidentifications.
  • No Peer-Reviewed Research – Most cryptozoology studies aren’t published in scientific journals.

🏕️ Why Some Keep Searching

  • New Species Are Discovered Regularly – Over 18,000 new species are identified every year.
  • The Ocean and Rainforests Are Vastly Unexplored – More than 80% of the ocean remains uncharted.
  • Legends Often Have Truth at Their Core – Indigenous stories have led to real discoveries, such as the Okapi (once thought to be a mythical African unicorn).

Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, cryptozoology taps into human curiosity—the desire to explore the unknown and push the boundaries of what we accept as real.


The Future of Cryptozoology: Will We Ever Find Bigfoot?

As technology advances, so does the hunt for cryptids. Drones, thermal imaging, and DNA analysis could one day provide concrete proof of creatures long dismissed as legends.

Until then, cryptozoology remains a thrilling mix of myth, science, and adventure. Whether you see it as pseudoscience or a frontier for discovery, one thing’s for sure: the world is still full of mysteries waiting to be uncovered.

Monster vs. Cryptid: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, monsters and cryptids might seem like the same thing—both involve mysterious, fearsome creatures that lurk in the shadows. But there’s a key distinction between the two.

Let’s break it down:


What Is a Monster?

A monster is typically a mythical, supernatural, or fictional creature designed to invoke fear, danger, or awe. Monsters often appear in folklore, horror stories, and pop culture, and they don’t necessarily have any basis in reality.

Examples of Monsters:

  • Dracula & Vampires – Fictional bloodsucking creatures.
  • Werewolves – Shape-shifting humans with supernatural origins.
  • Frankenstein’s Monster – A reanimated corpse created by science.
  • Godzilla – A massive, radiation-mutated creature from film.

🔎 Key Traits of Monsters:
✔️ Often supernatural or magical.
✔️ Typically fictional or mythological.
✔️ Exist primarily in legends, horror, and entertainment.


What Is a Cryptid?

A cryptid is an alleged but unverified creature that may exist in the real world. Cryptids are studied in cryptozoology, and while mainstream science does not recognize them as real, they are often based on eyewitness reports, folklore, or alleged evidence.

Examples of Cryptids:

  • Bigfoot – A giant, ape-like creature rumored to roam North American forests.
  • The Loch Ness Monster – A possible lake-dwelling reptile in Scotland.
  • Chupacabra – A blood-sucking animal said to attack livestock in Latin America.
  • Mothman – A winged humanoid associated with disaster predictions.

🔎 Key Traits of Cryptids:
✔️ Claimed to exist but lack scientific proof.
✔️ Based on folklore, sightings, or alleged evidence.
✔️ Some cryptids (like the coelacanth and okapi) were once thought to be myths but were later proven real.


Monster vs. Cryptid: The Verdict

The biggest difference? Monsters are purely fictional, while cryptids are creatures that might exist (but lack proof).

Feature Monster 🧟‍♂️ Cryptid 👣
Supernatural? Usually Rarely
Scientific Evidence? No Some reports, but no proof
Origin Myth, fiction, horror Folklore, eyewitness accounts
Example Werewolf, Dracula Bigfoot, Loch Ness Monster

So, while Dracula is a monster, Bigfoot is a cryptid—until someone finds definitive proof of his existence! 🧐

National Cryptid Month: Celebrating the Mysterious, Mythical, and Magnificently Misunderstood

1. Welcome to National Cryptid Month: A Celebration of the Strange and Spectacular
It’s officially National Cryptid Month, a time to embrace the weird, the wild, and the downright wonderful! Whether you’re a fan of folklore, a lover of legends, or just here for the Mothman memes, this month is all about appreciating the mysterious creatures that haunt our imaginations.

Cryptids are the rock stars of mythology—enigmatic, elusive, and endlessly fascinating. From the shadowy forests of the Pacific Northwest to the misty hills of West Virginia, these creatures have captured hearts worldwide. But don’t worry if you’ve never spotted one in the wild; we’re here to bring their stories (and maybe a few crochet versions) to life.

So grab your favorite warm drink, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, and let’s dive into the world of cryptids. Warning: You might just find yourself falling in love with these misunderstood monsters by the end of this post.

 

2. What Exactly *Are* Cryptids?
Before we dive headfirst into the cryptid-filled abyss, let’s define what exactly we’re celebrating. Cryptids are creatures whose existence is debated, often rooted in folklore, mythology, or unconfirmed sightings. Think Bigfoot, Nessie, or the Chupacabra—they’re the stuff of legends and late-night campfire stories.

The term “cryptid” comes from the Greek word *kryptos*, meaning hidden. These creatures are masters of hide-and-seek, often spotted in blurry photos or mysterious footprints. Some skeptics dismiss them as hoaxes, while others see them as proof that the world is still full of surprises.

And let’s face it, the allure of cryptids isn’t just their mystery—it’s their personality. From Mothman’s eerie red eyes to Bigfoot’s undeniable swagger, each cryptid has a charm that keeps us coming back for more.

 

3. Mothman: The Winged Wonder of West Virginia
No cryptid celebration would be complete without Mothman, the crimson-eyed icon of Point Pleasant, West Virginia. First sighted in 1966, Mothman has been described as a humanoid creature with massive wings and an unsettling gaze that could stop you in your tracks.

But let’s not judge a book by its cover—or a cryptid by its glowing eyes. Mothman has become a beloved figure, inspiring festivals, statues, and even crochet patterns! (Hint, hint: check out our shop for a cuddly version of this legendary flyer.)

Whether you see him as a harbinger of doom or a misunderstood guardian, Mothman remains one of the most popular cryptids in pop culture. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to hang out with a giant, mysterious moth?

 

4. Bigfoot: The Original Hide-and-Seek Champion
Ah, Bigfoot. The Sasquatch. The king of cryptids. This shaggy giant has been the subject of countless sightings, documentaries, and blurry photos. But despite the lack of concrete evidence, Bigfoot holds a special place in our hearts—and our forests.

Bigfoot’s legend spans continents, with similar creatures appearing in Native American folklore, Himalayan tales of the Yeti, and even Australian stories of the Yowie. While skeptics might roll their eyes, believers know that Bigfoot represents the untamed, unexplored parts of our world.

And let’s not forget Bigfoot’s sense of fashion. That fur coat? Fabulous. Those footprints? Iconic. If there were a cryptid fashion week, Bigfoot would undoubtedly steal the show.

 

5. Loch Ness Monster: Scotland’s Serpentine Sweetheart
Across the pond, the Loch Ness Monster—or Nessie, as she’s affectionately called—has been ruling the waters of Loch Ness for centuries. Whether you believe she’s a prehistoric plesiosaur, a giant eel, or just an elaborate hoax, Nessie has become a Scottish icon.

Nessie sightings date back to the 6th century, but her fame skyrocketed in 1933 when a photograph captured her serpent-like silhouette. Since then, she’s inspired countless expeditions, debates, and even a delicious shortbread cookie design.

If you’re planning a Nessie-themed crochet project, think sleek lines, aquatic hues, and a touch of mystery. After all, she’s the queen of cryptids—and she knows it.

 

6. Cryptid Crafts: Bringing the Legends to Life
What better way to celebrate National Cryptid Month than by crafting your own legendary creature? Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or a beginner looking for a fun project, cryptid crafts are the perfect way to combine creativity and mythology.

Start with small projects like amigurumi Mothman or Bigfoot keychains. These mini cryptids make great gifts, decorations, or even convention booth eye-catchers. Plus, they’re a great conversation starter—who wouldn’t want to chat about a tiny, crocheted Chupacabra?

For more ambitious crafters, consider creating a full-sized Nessie-inspired blanket or a dragon-themed dice bag. The possibilities are as endless as the legends themselves!

 

 7. Tea Time with Cryptids: Sip, Craft, Repeat
What pairs better with cryptid crafting than a steaming cup of tea? October is the perfect month to brew something warm and cozy while you work on your latest project. And here at Octojelly Crochet Studio, we’re all about tea reviews.

For a cryptid-themed crafting session, try teas that match the mood. A smoky Lapsang Souchong for Bigfoot, a floral Earl Grey for Nessie, or a mysterious spiced chai for Mothman. Pair your tea with a favorite folklore podcast or audiobook for the ultimate crafting ambiance.

And don’t forget: tea and crafting are the ultimate self-care combo. Take a sip, take a stitch, and let your imagination run wild.

 

8. Cryptids Around the World
While many cryptids have become pop culture icons in the West, every culture has its own legendary creatures. From Japan’s Kappa to the Philippines’ Tikbalang, these cryptids showcase the diversity of human imagination and storytelling.

Exploring international cryptids can inspire new crafting ideas. Imagine crocheting the feathered serpent Quetzalcoatl or the mischievous Chaneque. These creatures offer endless possibilities for unique designs and color palettes.

And let’s not forget the stories behind the cryptids. Learning about their origins and cultural significance adds depth to your creations—and makes them even more special.

 

9. Hosting a Cryptid-Themed Craft Night
Why celebrate National Cryptid Month alone when you can share the fun with friends? Host a cryptid-themed craft night, complete with snacks, drinks, and plenty of yarn.

Start by choosing a few cryptid patterns to work on as a group. Provide materials for beginners, like pre-cut yarn and simple templates. And don’t forget to set the mood with spooky music, fairy lights, and maybe a Mothman-shaped cake.

A craft night isn’t just about creating—it’s about connecting. Share your favorite cryptid stories, swap crafting tips, and bond over your mutual love for the mysterious.

 

10. Why Cryptids Matter: The Magic of Myth
At the end of the day, cryptids are more than just myths—they’re symbols of the unknown. They remind us that the world is full of mysteries waiting to be discovered, whether it’s a hidden forest creature or a new crochet pattern.

Cryptids also bring people together. Whether you’re a skeptic, a believer, or somewhere in between, there’s something magical about sharing stories and imagining what might be lurking just out of sight.

So this National Cryptid Month, let’s celebrate the magic of myth, the joy of crafting, and the power of imagination. Because in a world full of questions, cryptids are the answers we didn’t know we needed.

 

There you have it—10 sections, countless cryptids, and endless crafting inspiration. Whether you’re making amigurumi Mothmen or sipping tea by the fire, we hope this blog post adds a little magic to your month. Happy National Cryptid Month, everyone!

The March Brain Dump

was Hi hi.

I apologize for the unexpected hiatus I took this month. There has been so much going on that I haven’t had time/the mental energy to stop and write anything down.

So March is National Crochet Month. I had intended to make a post about it, but with having an Event, my 40th, and a wedding all within the first 3 weeks of the month, a lot of things relating to the business got put on the backburner.

Convivial 2025

I had my first event for the 2025 season at the end of February/beginning of March. It was Convivial Williamsburg, Va. This was its second year. While the crowd was not as big as last years, I did enjoy myself and I did make a good profit. I saw some existing vendor friends and I made some new ones. I’ve been busy making new product since the show because I sold out more that I thought I would and I have another event in just under a month.

Also, as Convivial, I got to see a gentleman who was actually my first customer when I started selling in person back in 2022. He has an acknowledged octopus obsession and has bought close to 15 of them from me in the last 3 years. He took great pride in showing me the first one he ever bought from me mounted on the dash of his car.   It honestly made the convention so much more memorable for me.

My 40th

The weekend after Convivial, I turned 40. I am officially halfway through my expected life expectancy here in the US. The evening was spent going out with a couple of good friends for a quiet dinner and than I wandered around Barnes and Noble for a bit. I got 2 new business related books, that I’m hoping will help with my organization and being able to reach out to people about possible collaborations or creating relationships to grow the company.

 

Wedding

The weekend after that, my youngest sibling got married. My son and I had a lot of fun, he got to meet a good chunk of our relatives for the first time and I got to see relatives I honestly haven’t seen in a long time. I’m finishing up the blanket I am making for the happy couple. It’s a CAL from 2015. I’ve decided to do a whole separate post about it as it is truly a test of my crochet skills. The amazing BrittanyDino came with me as my plus 1. I truly appreciate the mental support I needed to get through that.

The weekend after that was spent working the day job. Tomorrow though Monday I’ll actually have quite a bit of free time, so I’m hoping to get all of Aprils blogs written up and scheduled.

Plans for the Tea Collection

I did carve out about an hour to catalogue my tea collection. There’s quite a bit more than I originally thought there was. I’ve decided that instead of release 1 or 2 reviews a week, I’m going to group them up flavor theme, i.e. ‘alcoholic’ drinks, food flavors. and release a different grouping each week. The first one will come out April 7.

 

There’s more, but I don’t want to dump to much on everyone at once.

 

 

 

It’s still February…

Hi hi,

So this is just going to be a quick update or sorts. I’ll post a more updated one after Convivial.

I’ve had not 1, but 3 events confirm me as a vendor. That makes 5 for this year, 4 less than 2024, but I have a better feeling about these shows, compared to the events I did last year.

2 of the events will be held at Bird Girl Bottle Shop, located in Hilton Village, Newport News, Virginia. Its a beer garden meets pizzaria. They have a lot of great non-alcoholic options too and are very family friendly. If you’re in the area, and want to check them out, I highly recommend that you do. The pizza menu and beer menus do change on a somewhat regular basis.

Here is the full list of the confirmed events.

I have a lot of prep to do, not just for Convivial in roughly 10 days, but also for the other upcoming events. I’ll be doing a lot more streaming now that my work-life is starting to balance itself out.

I don’t have a set schedule for streaming..yet, but I am working on it.

It’s February…I Think

Would you believe me if I told you that I’ve been trying to write this for a couple of weeks now?

About 3 weeks ago, I had a stream schedule figured out, I had a game plan for all the product that I need to make for my show in 22 days, and I had a pretty much set schedule at work.

A phone call on a Saturday night changed all of that.

I’ve been working 45-50 hour weeks in my day job because the manager of the store I’m helping at had to go to a different store to help them. Which meant that I got thrown into a manager position. Which means my already limited crochet time is even more limited.

This also means that all the social media plans I had for February went right out the window, and also this business has been put of the back burner.

For that, I apologize.

The manager should be back in the next 2-3 weeks, so I’m hoping to get things back on track once she’s back and I’m not wearing myself thin. My actual boss is aware that I’m close to burning out, because I was not mentally prepared to run an automotive store with no access to the programs I actually need to run the store.

 

I have, if you noticed, rearranged the website a little. I have also, if you’ve been on the socials in the last 48 hours, updated some headers, including the Twitch and YouTube headers.

I’m planning to get back into somewhere regular streaming on Twitch next week and I’ll be recording a video of Convivial (Feb 28-March 2) for YouTube. My Twitch stream will also go onto YouTube the day after I go live.

 

 

Many Worlds Tavern : Flutterfronds

This is the Fabled Foliage Flavor from Many Worlds Tavern for January.

From the website:

Flutterfronds • Some aeronauts will deploy small, mesh nets on the crow’s nests of their ships in hopes of catching flutterfronds: little leaves that grow upon aptly named floatferns. These weightless plants are blown about at the whim of Cielaterran winds, kept alive by hyperactive photosynthesis not seen in any other flora.

When flutterfronds and floatferns stop being tousled about by wind and thus stop losing their quickly growing leaves, their extreme photosynthesis continues, causing a rapid ripening of a leaf into a copper- and brass-colored pome fruit, similar to that of an apple.

The fabled foliage flavor is made in a limited batch and as of the writing on this, has already been sold out.

This tea is a rooibos based tea, with honeybush, organic apple bits, and organic marigold flavoring.

Its a very mellow tasting tea, but not unpleasant.

The Kraken: History and Mythos of the Legendary Sea Monster

Introducing one of the oldest Cryptids, The Kraken.

If, after reading this, you would like to own one of your own, please check out the ones currently in the shop.

 

 

Beneath the shimmering surface of the world’s oceans lies a realm of mystery, and among its most enduring legends is the Kraken—a creature so massive and fearsome that it could pull entire ships into the depths. Let’s dive deep into the history, mythology, and cultural fascination surrounding this legendary sea monster.


1. From Norse Mythology to Global Icon

The Kraken finds its origins in Norse mythology, where it was described as a colossal sea creature capable of causing whirlpools to drag ships underwater. The Old Norse sagas referred to it as a “hafgufa” (sea mist) or “hafmonster” (sea monster). Scandinavian sailors passed down tales of the Kraken for generations, warning mariners to avoid specific waters where it was said to dwell.

The word “Kraken” itself is derived from the Norwegian word krake, meaning an unhealthy or twisted animal. Norse poets, such as Örvar-Oddr and Pontoppidan, described it as a mix between a squid and crab, with tentacles long enough to encircle entire ships. These tales painted the Kraken as both a symbol of oceanic danger and a force of untamed nature.

Practical Tip: If you’re interested in Viking folklore, explore Old Norse texts like Konungs skuggsjá (The King’s Mirror) to read some of the earliest descriptions of this beast.


2. Sea Monsters and Medieval Maps

In the Middle Ages, cartographers included sea monsters like the Kraken on nautical maps, often labeling dangerous or uncharted waters with the phrase “Here Be Dragons.” The Kraken was frequently depicted attacking vessels, its coiled tentacles gripping the hull of wooden ships.

Such maps weren’t just artistic; they reflected sailors’ fears and speculations about the mysteries of the deep. The Kraken embodied the unknown, a stand-in for the terrors sailors faced when traversing unpredictable waters.

Evidence: The Carta Marina (1539), a famous map by Olaus Magnus, features intricate illustrations of sea monsters, including what resembles a Kraken.


3. Real-Life Inspirations: Giant Squids and the Science of the Kraken

The Kraken may not be purely fictional. Real-world encounters with giant squids (Architeuthis dux), which can reach lengths of up to 43 feet, likely fueled stories of sea monsters. The ability of squids to emit ink clouds and disappear into the deep only added to their mysterious allure.

In 1857, Danish naturalist Japetus Steenstrup identified giant squid remains, proving the existence of massive cephalopods that might have inspired Kraken legends. Modern scientific discoveries, such as underwater footage of giant squids, suggest that these creatures are as fascinating as the myths they spawned.

Stat Fact: The largest giant squid on record measured over 59 feet in length, including its tentacles.


4. Pop Culture’s Love Affair with the Kraken

From the poems of Alfred, Lord Tennyson to blockbusters like Pirates of the Caribbean, the Kraken has cemented its place in popular culture. In literature, it represents the sublime terror of the unknown, as seen in Tennyson’s poem “The Kraken,” which describes the creature sleeping beneath the ocean’s surface, waiting to rise.

In modern media, the Kraken’s image as a ship-wrecking monster has evolved into a versatile symbol, appearing in games, movies, and even corporate logos (like Kraken rum).

Quote: “The Kraken stirs. And ten times ten / He rises.” — Alfred, Lord Tennyson


5. Cultural Symbolism: Fear, Power, and Mystery

The Kraken is more than just a monster; it’s a metaphor for humanity’s relationship with nature. It represents the fear of the unknown, the power of the natural world, and the mysteries of the ocean. The creature’s immense size and elusiveness resonate with our fascination for what lies beneath the surface—both literally and figuratively.

The Kraken also embodies humanity’s enduring desire to conquer the unconquerable. Stories of defeating the Kraken often serve as allegories for triumph over adversity, chaos, or the unpredictable.


6. The Kraken in Modern Myth-Making

Despite its ancient roots, the Kraken remains a living myth. Cryptozoologists and marine biologists alike continue to investigate the world’s deep oceans, adding layers of intrigue to the legend. The Kraken’s story is one of adaptation—morphing from a regional Scandinavian myth to a global icon of nautical folklore.

Practical Tip: To experience modern Kraken lore, visit themed attractions like the Kraken roller coaster at SeaWorld or read the latest fantasy novels featuring sea monsters.


Conclusion

The Kraken is a powerful symbol of the ocean’s mystery, danger, and wonder. Its mythos has evolved from Viking sagas to modern pop culture, captivating imaginations for centuries. Whether rooted in scientific discoveries or the deep well of human imagination, the Kraken reminds us of the vast, untamed power of nature.

Inspiration: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson. Like the Kraken, explore the uncharted and embrace the mysterious.

Friday Afternoon : Chocolate Earl Grey

 So the first tea of 2025 is an Earl Grey.

This should surprise no one.

 

I will be honest, after my experience with the Spice and Tea Exchange’s Chocolate Black Tea, I was not that hopeful about the taste of another chocolate tea.

That being said, I’m glad that I was proven wrong about this one. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will be adding this one to my list of ones I need to have on hand year round.

If you would like to try it for yourself, it can be purchased here.

As always, I do not get paid for these reviews. i do them simply because I want to.

January: The actual plan for 2025 Quarter 1

If you can imagine it, you can achieve it; if you can dream it, you can become it.” William Arthur Ward

So, the business update posts will be moving from Mondays to Fridays this year.

A while ago, I started really getting into The 12-Week Year Method (which can be found Here).  The basic premise is that instead of planning out 1 year in advance, you plan on 12 weeks (1 Quarter) as a year.  It has honestly helped me out a lot with organizing and figuring some things out.

I’ve decided that instead of doing big product drops every couple of months, I’m going to do smaller product drops every 2 weeks. This will be less overwhelming for me and less excessive posting of the same things over and over on the social media.

The new studio is coming together. I have a desk and chair now. There’s still some yarn and pattern book organization to get done, but it’s coming along. I’ve also started creating an inventory spreadsheet of my yarn. It’s currently at 200 skeins/hanks/cakes and counting. I’m only putting the label yarns on the spreadsheet.

I’m planning to start streaming again next week since the kiddo will be back at school. The plan is to stream during the day 1 day a week and at night 1 night a week as my day-job schedule allows.

I’m almost done figuring out the Social media plans for this quarter, just a couple of last minute things to figure out.

The quote at the beginning of this post is from a Inspirational Quote calendar I got for this year. I felt that today’s quote is appropriate for today’s business post. If the quote fits, then I will probably start more posts with them.