Loch Ness Monster
Nessie · Niseag
Nessiteras rhombopteryx (proposed)
Evidence Level
Tier 3/5 — Photo / Video
Overview
A large aquatic creature reported in the deep glacial waters of Loch Ness, Scotland. Descriptions range from a long-necked plesiosaur-like animal to a giant eel. The earliest written record dates to a biography of St Columba (565 AD).
Physical Characteristics
Estimated length 20–40 ft. Long slender neck, small head, large flippered body, dark grey or black skin.
📍 Habitat & Region
Scottish Highlands, UK · GB
Deep freshwater loch, 230 m maximum depth, cold and peaty water
Notable Events
St Columba reportedly repels a water beast in the River Ness
John Mackay publishes first modern sighting in the Inverness Courier
"Surgeon's Photograph" published — later revealed as a hoax in 1994
DNA survey of the loch finds no evidence of large unknown species