Field Notes from the Unknown
It's a bird, a plane, a giant space clam!
What do you get when you mix a bizarre 1925 sighting of a giant space clam with the mysteries of cryptids and UFOs? One strange conversation! 🛸🐚
In this we explore the story behind this unusual sighting and dive into the theories surrounding unexplained creatures and possible encounters with the unknown. From strange sightings to questions about what might be hiding beyond our understanding, we take a look at the mysteries that keep people wondering what’s really out there.
Do you have pterodactyl repellent?
🦇🌴 This week we’re heading to Papua New Guinea to investigate the Ropen! 👀
This mysterious flying cryptid is said to have some pretty unusual characteristics, with sightings that make you wonder what exactly people are seeing out there. Is the Ropen an undiscovered creature, a case of mistaken identity, or something weirder? 🤔
What would you rate the Ropen on the believability scale?
To Mana Ha Ha
In this episode, we’re heading down to Georgia to dive into the Alamahaha, exploring its history, reported sightings, and encounters that have kept this river monster part of Georgia folklore for generations. From historical accounts to more modern reports, we look at what people claim to have seen and whether there could be something lurking beneath the water.
Is the Alamahaha an undiscovered aquatic creature, a misidentified animal, or just another legend that refuses to go away? 👀
And, of course, we have to ask: What would you rate the Alamahaha on the believability scale...
The Gray Man, a warning sign or something else?
This week’s episode is a short one, with Mackenzie bringing us the legend of the Gray Man of Pawleys Island. 👻🌊
According to legend, seeing the Gray Man is actually a warning and supposedly a sign that you should get out of town before the storm hits. 🌪️
We dive into the history of the legend, reported sightings, different interpretations of who or what the Gray Man might be, and why his story has continued to stick around for generations.
So, is the Gray Man a ghost, a warning passed down through generations, or something els...
Storm the Smithsonian
In this episode, we’re heading down a rabbit hole involving the Smithsonian Institution, alleged giant skeleton discoveries, and one very big question: Is the Smithsonian hiding evidence of giants? 👀
We explore reports of giant skeletons discovered across the United States, including historical accounts, strange case files, and claims that some discoveries were investigated or handled by the Smithsonian. We also dig into Native American legends and stories describing encounters with giants, and how these accounts have become part of the larger mystery.
Join us as we sort through the reports, the legends, and t...
Head of an alligator, wings of a bat?
This week Mackenzie is going to tell us about Thunderbirds! 🦅
But first, Mackenzie gives us the rundown on her trip to Phenomecon before we dive into the strange stories surrounding these massive, legendary birds.
Of course, Casey has her own thoughts… including trying to convince Mackenzie that getting picked up by a Thunderbird might not actually be that bad. Needless to say, Mackenzie was not convinced.
And because Kit refuses to let us record an episode without her, you may hear a little background commentary from her throu...
Auntie Tatum
In this episode, we take a few unexpected side roads before heading into the folklore surrounding one of the strangest creatures from the Potomac River Valley. 🐺👀
We start things off talking about cryptid-themed games and products, folklore, superstitions, and, of course, our shared love for animals. Because apparently, we can’t stay on topic for too long. 😂
Eventually, we make our way to the Snarly Yow a mysterious, dog-like creature said to haunt the Potomac River Valley. We dive into reported sightings, battlefield legends, Civil War-era hauntings, and encounters that continued even after...
Bigfoot Believer
Mackenzie’s Bigfoot mini-series has taken us all over and into some seriously strange woods. 👣🌲
From the Grassman of the Midwest to the Skunk Ape hiding in the Florida Everglades, we’ve explored stories of massive, hairy creatures, mysterious footprints, strange vocalizations, and encounters that leave people wondering what they really saw.
Then we headed to the Pacific Northwest, Bigfoot’s unofficial home turf, to dive into famous stories like the Battle of Ape Canyon, Sasquatch nests, giant footprints, Paul Freeman’s controversial encounters, the Sierra Sounds, and of course… Patty. 👀
Along t...
The Wizard in the Woods
In this episode, we head to the mountains of California to explore the mysterious legend of the Dark Watchers. 👀⛰️
These strange, towering figures are said to silently watch travelers from distant mountain peaks before disappearing without a trace. But what exactly are people seeing?
Join us as we explore the folklore, theories, and strange encounters surrounding one of California's most unsettling mysteries.
Would you want to encounter a Dark Watcher on a lonely mountain trail?
A Donner Dinner Party with Bigfoot
In this episode, Mackenzie continues her Bigfoot adventure with a trip to the Pacific Northwest! One of the most famous Bigfoot hotspots in the world. 👣🌲
We start with some fall vibes before jumping into the age-old question: what would it actually take to prove Sasquatch is a real species? Spoiler alert... that conversation gets a little controversial.
We also dive into Paul Freeman's controversial encounters and footage, the origins of the name "Bigfoot" in Northern California, and the strange Sierra Sounds.
Is Bigfoot hiding in the forests... or hav...
If Lizard Man had a baby
In this episode, we dive into the mysterious legend of the Water Babies of the American West, exploring their folklore, stories, and spiritual significance. 🌊
And no, these aren't the Water Babies you hear about in children's stories… and they definitely aren't cute. 😳
Are they dangerous creatures, spiritual beings, or something else entirely?
You tell us what do you think the Water Babies really are?
Is this Bigfoot a vampire or a bodybuilder?
In this episode, Mackenzie continues her Bigfoot adventure with a possible Desert Bigfoot! 🌵👣
We head into the desert Southwest to explore Bigfoot reports from places like Arizona and New Mexico.
And because you know how our conversations go… somehow we end up imagining a Bigfoot bodybuilding competition in an alternate universe. 😂💪
Oh, and did we just discover… Vampire Bigfoot?! 🧛♂️👣
You tell us what would you rate the Bigfoots in this episode?
Is something out there?
Ever had a moment in the woods where you felt like something was watching? 👀
This legendary North American cryptid is said to stay invisible, lurking behind trees or rocks, yet always watching. It’s described as a tall, slender, almost-human predator with long dark fur, a tail, and glowing eyes that only appear in darkness.
These stories keep loggers safe and conjure the wildest fears of being alone in the woods. But also.....they make you think....what’s out there hiding in plain sight?
Hidebehind - Wikiped...
Swamp Stalker and Friends
Quick heads up: We ran into a few technical issues during the first couple of minutes, so thanks for bearing with us!
This week, we're heading into the swamps, forests, and river bottoms of the American South in search of one of its most infamous cryptids the Fouke Monster, a.k.a. the Beast of Boggy Creek. 👣
It all starts with a terrifying encounter in 1971 when a woman wakes up to a hairy hand reaching through her window. From there, the sightings explode, giant footprints, bounty hunters, mysterious smells, and...
Did you hear that?
This time we're heading deep into the Ozark Mountains to track down the legendary Ozark Howler. Is it a bear? A giant black cat? A horned wolf? Or something no one's been able to explain?
And somewhere along the way... Casey may have gotten a little confused and thought Alien Big Cats (ABCs) meant cats from outer space instead of "alien" as in a non-native species. 😂 Let's just say things got a little extraterrestrial for a minute.
Ozark Howler - Wikipedia
Ozark Howl...
What is going on in the North Woods?
On Monday's episode, Mackenzie continues her Bigfoot mini-series with a trip through the Northeast. 👣🌲
It all starts with a terrifying encounter at an abandoned Boy Scout camp in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts, where four friends came face-to-face with a towering, red-eyed creature lurking just beyond their campfire.
From Massachusetts and Maine to Vermont, New York, and even Pennsylvania, we explore some of the most chilling Bigfoot sightings in the region.
What do you rate the monster of the North Woods?
https://www.pennli...
Out in the Moonlight
On Monday's episode, we're heading deep into the Appalachian Mountains of North Georgia to unravel one of the region's oldest mysteries... 🌙⛰️
Who built the mysterious stone wall at Fort Mountain? And who were the legendary Moon-Eyed People said to have lived there long before the Cherokee arrived?
Were they a real, forgotten people? A piece of Cherokee oral tradition? Or just another Appalachian legend that refuses to die?
What do you rate the Moon-Eyed People?
The Moon Eyed People and the Fort Mo...
Humid, Hot and Hairy
Ever wonder what could be hiding in the Florida Everglades? 🐊🌿
This week, we're diving into the legend of the Skunk Ape. Is it just an escaped exotic animal... or something else roaming Florida's vast, undeveloped wilderness?
Mackenzie continues her Bigfoot mini-series with one of the most famous Bigfoot-like cryptids in the country.
What do you think the Skunk Ape really is? 👣
https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/social-sciences-and-humanities/skunk-ape-cryptozoology
https://miamihaunts.com/the-everglades-skunk-ape/
https://www.skunkape.info/
...The Water Dwelling Boogeyman
Happy Pride, everyone! 🌈
Starting this episode off with a side conversation: How do you think cryptids would identify? Let us know in the comments!
This week, we dive into the legend of the Qallupilluit, an Inuit myth said to snatch children away beneath the ice. Often described as a terrifying mermaid or Arctic boogeyman, no one really knows what happens to the children it takes...
So what do you think? Is the Qallupilluit a grieving spirit searching for lost children, or a demonic entity that takes them to...
It's all knocks and hollows
Ever wondered what’s lurking deep in the woods? 🌲
Imagine a giant, silent figure watching you, nine feet tall, covered in hair, and gone before you can snap a picture.
This week, Mackenzie kicks off her Bigfoot mini-series with the Grassman, one of the most intriguing Bigfoot-like creatures reported across the Midwest.
Do you think something is really out there? 👣
https://astonishinglegends.com/astonishing-legends/2018/10/21/ohio-grassman
https://thehorrorcollection.com/complete-guide-to-ohio-bigfoot-sightings/
https://www.reddit.com/r/bigfoot/comments/1rq28w8/urgent_6_bigfoot...
Dance with the Deer Woman
You spot a woman standing alone in a field, mesmerized by her big brown eyes.
But then you glance down...
Those aren't feet they're deer hooves. 🦌
This is the legend of the Deer Woman. Will you stop to help her... or will she stomp you?
What would you rate the Deer Woman?
Deer Woman | Cryptid Wiki | Fandom
Oklahoma's Taxti Wau (Deer Woman) - Coffee House Writers
Cryptids of Kansas: The Windigo, Deer Lady, and Other Native Legends: - News & Events | Flint Hills...
How do you "accidentally" release a bioweapon?
On this episode, we travel to Plum Island to dig into the mysterious experiments and events that may have created the Montauk Monster. 👀
We dive into government conspiracy theories, alleged CIA involvement in bioweapons research, Operation Mongoose, African Swine Fever, Lyme disease, and so much more.
You know Casey loves a good government conspiracy… just wait until she brings up the pigeons 😂
This one gets weird fast.
What would you rate the Montauk Monster?
https://www.easthamptonstar.com/vill...
Cannibalism and Culinary Choices
On this episode, we return to William T. Cox’s Fearsome Creatures of the Lumberwoods to learn about the Gumberoo—a bear-like cryptid that can only be killed by one thing… fire. 🔥
Like most of our conversations, this one somehow takes a side road into cannibalism and flesh pedestrians before Casey brings us back with another strange creature: the Nandi Bear.
But is the Nandi Bear really a cryptid… or just a giant ground sloth? 👀
Join us as we dive into lumberjack legends, bizarre cryptids, and the questionable paths our conversati...
Little Wild Men of the Woods
In this episode, we dive into the strange world of Pukwudgies, exploring their origins, behavior, and the creepy encounters people have had with them.
All while trying to convince Mackenzie not to run off into the woods to catch one 😂
https://www.native-languages.org/pukwudgie.htm
https://homespunhaints.com/what-is-a-pukwudgie
https://theportalist.com/what-is-a-pukwudgie
https://newenglandfolklore.blogspot.com/2019/01/two-encounters-with-pukwudgies-in.html
https://historymadereal105.substack.com/p/e-wah-chu-encounters-with-massachusetts
https://indianahistory.org/blog/pukwudgies-and-where-to-find-them/mounds
Whistle and Summon the Wampahoofus?
On this episode, we’re talking about the Wampashoofus—a strange creature said to be half deer, half boar, roaming the mountains of Vermont. 🌲
The Wampashoofus is yet another legend born from lumberjack tales, and this one gets weird. It supposedly has legs that are two different lengths, brightly colored fur, and… somehow… a whistle on the end of its tail..
That last part is still confusing to me.
Anyway, let us know: what would you rate the Wampashoofus?
Come to Auntie Maria
We kick things off picking our topic… and end up diving deep into the legend of La Llorona 🌙
From her tragic origins to the many versions of her story, we explore the Weeping Woman in all her haunting forms ghost, warning, and cultural icon.
It gets eerie, emotional, and a little wild.
https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/la-llorona
https://blogs.loc.gov/folklife/2021/10/la-llorona-an-introduction-to-the-weeping-woman/
https://www.legendsofamerica.com/gh-lallorona/
https://www.britannica.com/topic/La-Llorona
https://www.latim...
Would you ride a sandworm from Dune?
If you don’t want to hear about Mackenzie’s adventure into motherhood… rude 😂 but you can skip to 4 minutes in.
This episode of Field Notes from the Unknown, we’re talking about Sinkhole Sam—the giant worm-like creature said to live in Big Sinkhole in Inman, Kansas.
Of course, we take a few side roads along the way… from the worm in Beetlejuice to the giant sandworms of Dune…
Anyway… what are your thoughts, and what would you rate Sinkhole Sam?
A Pisces with Scoliosis
We are heading to the sea today to visit the Gloucester Sea Serpent: a massive, undulating creature seen off Cape Ann with over 1,000 eyewitness accounts dating back to the 1600s.
From fishermen tracking it for days to a ship firing a cannon at it, this legend only gets wilder.
https://www.mythfolks.com/gloucester-sea-serpent
https://www.oddthingsiveseen.com/2020/11/long-dark-and-scaly-gloucester-sea.html
https://www.wgbh.org/news/local/2024-05-22/regaling-tales-of-the-gloucester-sea-serpent-a-forgotten-legend-of-cryptozoology
https://www.masshist.org/beehiveblog/2019/10/it-appeared-so-strange-and-wonderful/
https://www.theothercape.com/blog/serpent
https...
Hobnogging Around Good Ol England
Your hosts get a little sidetracked in this one but stick with us, because we dive into the Pigman! 🐷
From Vermont to Texas, New York, Georgia and even across the pond to England, this legend pops up everywhere.
What would you rate the Pigman?
The Terrifying Legend of the Pigman Cryptid – Hangar1publishing
Pig-Man of Cannock Chase | Cryptid Wiki | Fandom
Pigman of Northfield: The Terrifying Legend of Sam Harris
The Legend of Pigman – Jason Roberts
Top 10 Cryptids Living...
Hippity Hoppity Outta Here
In this episode Mackenzie is taking us to Bunny Man Bridge. We are diving into the legend and lore surrounding the Bunny Man, discussing facts and local lore.
https://www.roadunraveled.com/blog/bunny-man-bridge-virginia/
https://allthatsinteresting.com/bunny-man
https://www.maloriesadventures.com/blog/the-real-story-behind-virginias-infamous-bunny-man-legend
https://michaelkleen.com/2020/09/01/beware-the-ax-wielding-bunny-man-of-fairfax-county/ https://research.fairfaxcounty.gov/local-history/bunnyman
Where did the axe come from?
In this episode, we discuss the Goat Man, not to be confused with the Sheep Man, a few weeks ago.
What story do you think could be a real story? The Hermit, The Sheep Herder, or The Scientist?
Or is the Goat Man just a mythical creature?
Let us know what you think and leave your field notes below!
This Town Has Been Plagued By A Killer ‘Goat Man’ For Half A Century | by ClaireLinic | OMGFacts | Medium
The Goatman of Maryland: Bowie’s Most...
The Turtley-est Town in America
Have you ever wondered if a giant turtle could be living in the US? In small-town Indiana, locals swore they saw a 10-foot snapping turtle, and the hunt for Oscar became legendary.
What do you think about Oscar?
He's everywhere and nowhere
In this episode, the hosts dive into the multifaceted figure of the Green Man—a symbol deeply rooted in folklore, nature, and spirituality. They explore his presence across cultures, his role in architecture, and his relevance to modern environmental movements, while reflecting on humanity’s connection to the natural world. Along the way, the conversation takes a few side paths, so fair warning: expect some thoughtful tangents as they unpack the complexities of nature, respect for the earth, and why these themes still matter today.
The Legend of the Green Man: A Folklore Tale
The M...
Wait, car whiskey?
In today's episode, we dive into the infamous Pascagoula alien abduction case involving Charles Hickson and Calvin Parker, one of the most documented encounters of its kind.
We unpack the details of the abduction itself, the immediate aftermath, and the intense public skepticism that followed. Despite scrutiny from authorities and doubt from the public, Hickson and Parker’s accounts remained remarkably consistent over the years. Investigators even uncovered additional witnesses who reported seeing the same UFO that night.
Pas men 'forced' aboard UFO - Newspapers.com™
Charles Hickson: How did...
Are we Tommyknockers?
Birthday Bonus Episode!
Mackenzie introduces us to the legend of the Tommyknockers. She dives into miners' legends, the influence of Tommy Knockers, offerings and beliefs associated with them, and a believability scale.
Part Devil, Part Mermaid, All Jersey
The conversation explores the urban legend of the Jersey Devil, often referred to as the state demon of New Jersey. It examines the creature’s folklore, origins, and place in regional history, including stories connected to early colonial times and the alleged involvement of figures such as Ben Franklin. The discussion focuses on how the Jersey Devil became a lasting cultural symbol, shaped by sightings, myths, and its role in New Jersey folklore.
https://jerseyhistory.org/legend-of-the-new-jersey-devil/
https://www.njradar.com/blog/the-jersey-devil-300-years-of-sightings-terror-and-the-truth-behind-new-jerseys-ultimate-nightmare
...
Wait, Potato People?
The episode explores the legend of the Giwoggle. A chimeric cryptid rooted in local folklore, traces its tangled connections to Loop Hill Ike, aka Isaac Gaines, and the Kunfee family. Along the way, things get strange fast. Which raises the real question: are we finally ready to unpack the potato people?
The Giwoggle: Clinton County’s Official Monster - Pennsylvania Wilds
'Giwoggle': Central Pennsylvania's canine-like cryptid - Nexus Newsfeed
Meet the Giwoggle, official monster of a Pa. county - pennlive.com
Have you seen the Giwoggle? – The Record Online
Of course, the Waterford Sheepman has a Bridge
The conversation delves into the legend of the Sheepman, a bloodthirsty creature that terrorized the small town of Waterford, PA during the 1970s. The discussion covers encounters, local testimonies, and the disappearance of the Sheepman. Additionally, it explores regional variations of cryptids and the mass hysteria that can occur in small towns.
Waterford Sheepman | Cryptid Wiki | Fandom
Little tiny wings?
The Chupacabra, meaning “goat sucker,” is a legendary cryptid that originated in Puerto Rico and is often described as a reptilian creature. First reported in the 1970s, with a notable wave of sightings in Mocha, Puerto Rico, the Chupacabra has since evolved in popular culture, appearing in various forms ranging from reptilian to canid. Theories about its existence include misidentified animals, genetic anomalies, and even government experiments, making it one of the most debated and enduring modern cryptids.
https://www.paranormalscholar.com/history-of-the-chupacabra/
https://www.britannica.com/topic/chupacabra
https://www.anci...
Something Salty
Casey brings us into the water in this episode, the legends of Bessie, Nessie, and Champ, three mysterious lake monsters with sightings dating back centuries. Each creature is described in detail, with reported sightings, hoaxes, and theories about their existence.
Bessie | Cryptid Wiki | Fandom
Bessie - Spooky Appalachia
Unknown Explorers - Bessie
CLE Myths: Lake Erie Monster
Bessie (lake monster): Legendary cryptid and local folklore icon | Mythical Legend
South Bay Bessie - The Serpent Of Lake Erie - Sasquatch Chronicles
...
