Otang

What is it?

The Otang is a little-known cryptid (an animal not scientifically proven to exist) that is reportedly seen in the Knysna Forest in the Western Cape of South Africa. It is often described as South Africa’s equivalent of Bigfoot or a “relict hominoid” — meaning a surviving primitive human-like species

​Gareth Patterson is a wildlife researcher known for studying the Knysna elephants, a very elusive elephant population. While researching elephants in the forest, he began hearing reports about the Otang and eventually claimed to have seen it himself. He describes the phenomenon in the book “Beyond the Secret Elephants”. In this book he documents many sightings reported by locals and his own experiences.  

Description

The otang is described as having dark brown hair covering the body and athletically built. Its face is said to look like a mix between a human and an ape, much like an Australopithecus. Its footprints look similar to a human’s and lacks a divergent hallux.

5.5 foot tall (170cm)  

Location

The otang inhabits the Knysna Forest in South Africa. This is an afro montane forest in the very southern end of the country,

Evidence

• Numerous eyewitness sightings

• Footprints

Expeditions

We currently have no expeditions planned, however we will in the future.