American Bestiary

Commonly called the Swamp Ape, it earned the 'Skunk Ape' moniker due to its horrific, skunk-like odor. Unsubstantiated cryptozoology claims state Seminole cultures called it 'Esti Capcaki', meaning 'Furry Tall Man'.

It is a bipedal primate covered in mottled reddish-brown hair. Standing 5 to 7 feet tall, it is generally smaller in stature than its northern Bigfoot cousin.

Native to the dense swamps and forests of the southeastern United States, primarily utilizing the vast Florida Everglades. Skeptics suggest the animal is actually a local Florida black bear suffering from mange.

It is a secretive creature that occasionally invades human areas, allegedly stealing apples from porches, raiding lima bean wildlife bait stands, and even killing livestock. It relies on its potent odor to deter threats.

Sightings peaked between the 1950s and 1970s, making it an unofficial rural mascot of Florida wilderness. In 1977, the state legislature even saw a failed bill attempting to make it illegal to 'take, possess, harm or molest' the creature.