Science & Nature • Cryptozoology

Bigfoot

Bigfoot, also called Sasquatch, is a legendary cryptid described in North American folklore as a large, hairy, ape-like humanoid.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Bigfoot, also called Sasquatch, is a legendary cryptid described in North American folklore as a large, hairy, ape-like humanoid. It is commonly reported in the Pacific Northwest and western Canada, but no scientifically verified physical evidence confirms its existence.

Names and folklore

Bigfoot is also known as Sasquatch, a term derived from Salish *se’sxac*, meaning 'wild men'. The figure appears in North American folklore and is often compared to the Himalayan Yeti.

Typical description

Reports commonly describe Bigfoot as a very large, hairy, ape-like humanoid that walks upright. Descriptions vary, but the creature is usually placed in the range of about 6 to 10 feet tall.

Sightings and alleged evidence

Accounts of Bigfoot usually involve footprints, blurry photographs, eyewitness reports, and occasional claims of hair or DNA samples. Mainstream scientific sources say this material has not produced verified proof of an unknown species.

Scientific status

Bigfoot is generally classified as a cryptid: a creature whose existence has not been demonstrated by science. Scientists remain skeptical because there is no confirmed body, fossil, or validated biological sample. Bigfoot is strongly associated with western Canada, especially British Columbia, where it appears in local folklore and reported sighting traditions.

Key facts

Bigfoot is a North American cryptid associated with folklore and reported sightings.
It is usually described as tall, hairy, and bipedal, with ape-like or human-like features.
The name 'Bigfoot' comes from stories of unusually large footprints attributed to the creature.
Claims about Bigfoot have included sightings, footprints, photos, hair samples, and alleged DNA, but no conclusive proof has been established.

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Canadian context

Bigfoot is strongly associated with western Canada, especially British Columbia, where it appears in local folklore and reported sighting traditions.[1][12]

Frequently asked questions

What is Bigfoot?

Bigfoot is a legendary North American cryptid described as a large, hairy, ape-like humanoid.

Is Bigfoot the same as Sasquatch?

Yes. Sasquatch is another name for Bigfoot.

Where is Bigfoot said to live?

Reports most often place Bigfoot in the Pacific Northwest and western Canada, though sightings are also claimed elsewhere in North America.

Is there proof that Bigfoot exists?

No scientifically verified proof has established Bigfoot as a real species.

Why is it called Bigfoot?

The name comes from reports of unusually large footprints associated with the creature.

Is Bigfoot part of Canadian folklore?

Yes. Sasquatch/Bigfoot traditions and reported sightings are commonly associated with western Canada as well as the United States.

References

Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Sasquatch
Supports: Bigfoot/Sasquatch description, alternate name, etymology, and association with northwestern United States and western Canada.
HowStuffWorks — https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/strange-creatures/bigfoot.htm
Supports: Bigfoot as a cryptid; lack of concrete evidence; skepticism from scientists.
The Week — https://www.theweek.com/articles/833273/enduring-legend-bigfoot
Supports: No confirmed physical evidence such as bodies, bones, hair, skin, or DNA.
Centre of Excellence — https://www.centreofexcellence.com/bigfoot-myths-and-sightings/
Supports: Typical descriptions, footprint-based naming, and lack of solid proof.
Paddling Magazine — https://www.paddlingmag.com/stories/columns/betcha-didnt-know/7-things-know-about-bigfoot/
Supports: Regional names and presence in wilderness areas of the United States and Canada.