How to Be Cryptozoologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

A Cryptozoologist is someone who studies and researches animals that are not officially recognized by science, such as Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. This type of research requires a great deal of dedication, patience, and critical thinking in order to assess potential evidence and make connections between reported sightings, myths, and other clues. The effects of this research can be far-reaching, potentially contributing to the scientific understanding of animal behavior and evolution, as well as providing entertainment and mystery for the public. Furthermore, the work of Cryptozoologists may even lead to the discovery of previously unknown species.

Steps How to Become

  1. Start by researching cryptozoology and familiarizing yourself with the field. Read as much as you can about the history of cryptozoology, the types of creatures studied, and the methodology used to investigate sightings of unknown animals.
  2. Consider pursuing a degree in a related field such as zoology, biology, or anthropology. This will help you develop a better understanding of the scientific principles behind cryptozoology, as well as provide you with the tools needed to study and research animals.
  3. Develop your field skills. Spend time in nature observing animals, collecting data, and recording observations. The more time you spend in the field, the better prepared you’ll be to investigate sightings of unknown animals.
  4. Network with other cryptozoologists and experts in the field. Attend conferences and other events to meet like-minded people and learn from their experience and expertise.
  5. Join a cryptozoology organization or society. This is a great way to connect with other enthusiasts and to stay informed about new developments in the field.
  6. Consider writing a book or article about your research or experiences as a cryptozoologist. This will help you spread awareness about your work and gain recognition in the field.

The growth of Cryptozoology as a field has been driven by the growing interest in mystery animals. This has led to an increased demand for qualified and competent Cryptozoologists. To become an ideal Cryptozoologist, one must possess a broad knowledge base on the subject, as well as skills such as research, data analysis and problem solving.

Furthermore, it is also important for Cryptozoologists to have a passion for the field and be willing to go the extra mile when it comes to investigation and study. With the right combination of knowledge, skills and passion, any aspiring Cryptozoologist can become a competent researcher in the field in no time.

You may want to check Entomologist Technician, Archeologist, and Pharmaceutical Researcher for alternative.

Job Description

  1. Conduct research on cryptozoological creatures, such as Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster
  2. Investigate reports of sightings and collect evidence of cryptids
  3. Analyze data from field research, laboratory studies, and other sources
  4. Write papers and reports on cryptozoological topics
  5. Present findings to scientific and academic communities
  6. Develop theories about the existence and behavior of cryptozoological creatures
  7. Consult with media outlets on cryptozoological topics
  8. Develop educational materials on cryptozoology
  9. Attend conferences, lectures, and other events related to cryptozoology
  10. Collaborate with other researchers on cryptozoology-related projects

Skills and Competencies to Have

  1. Knowledge of cryptids and cryptid-related folklore
  2. Extensive research skills
  3. Ability to analyze and interpret data
  4. Familiarity with scientific methods and techniques
  5. Knowledge of biology, zoology, ecology, and other related fields
  6. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  7. Ability to work independently and in a team setting
  8. Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
  9. Ability to travel and conduct fieldwork
  10. Writing skills to document research findings

A successful cryptozoologist must have certain skills to be successful in the field. These include strong research and analytical skills, the ability to think critically, excellent communication and problem-solving abilities, as well as a deep knowledge of zoology, biology, and other relevant sciences. Also, cryptozoologists must have an understanding of the history, cultures, and folklore associated with cryptids or legendary creatures.

Having excellent physical fitness is also important, as cryptozoologists often visit remote and wild locations in search of evidence. Finally, perseverance and curiosity are essential qualities that help cryptozoologists to make progress in their work. All of these qualities are necessary for a cryptozoologist to successfully identify, document, and understand the existence of cryptids or legendary creatures.

Forensic Ecologist, Marine Scientist, and Conservationist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

  • What fascinates you most about cryptozoology?
  • What experience do you have in researching and studying mysterious creatures?
  • Have you ever had a firsthand encounter with a cryptid?
  • What methods do you use to investigate reports of unknown and mythical creatures?
  • How do you evaluate the credibility of eyewitness accounts related to cryptids?
  • How do you assess the likelihood of a cryptid being real or imaginary?
  • How do you collect and analyze evidence related to cryptids?
  • How have you used technology in your cryptid research?
  • What types of collaborations have you engaged in related to cryptozoology?
  • How do you communicate your findings to the public?

Common Tools in Industry

  1. Cryptanalysis Software. A computer program designed to analyze encrypted data and break cryptographic codes. (eg: Cryptool, John the Ripper)
  2. Database Software. A computer program that allows the storage, retrieval and manipulation of data. (eg: Oracle, SQL Server)
  3. GIS Software. A computer program used to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present geographic data. (eg: ArcGIS, QGIS)
  4. Statistical Software. A computer program used to analyze data and generate statistical models. (eg: SPSS, Stata)
  5. Image Analysis Software. A computer program used to analyze images for various purposes. (eg: ImageJ, Photoshop)
  6. Text Analysis Software. A computer program used to analyze and process natural language text. (eg: NLTK, Google Cloud Natural Language API)

Professional Organizations to Know

  1. International Cryptozoology Association
  2. International Society of Cryptozoology
  3. Center for Fortean Zoology
  4. The British Columbia Scientific Cryptozoology Club
  5. Cryptozoological Society of London
  6. The Crypto Crew
  7. The International Society of Cryptozoology, Inc.
  8. The Center for Inquiry
  9. The International Cryptozoology Museum
  10. The International Institute for Cryptozoology

Common Important Terms

  1. Cryptid. A creature whose existence has been suggested but has not been confirmed by scientific evidence.
  2. Cryptobiology. The study of creatures whose existence is yet to be proven.
  3. Cryptozoic. Relating to or denoting animals or plants that are believed to exist but have not yet been discovered or documented by science.
  4. Cryptozoology. The study of cryptids and other unexplainable phenomena.
  5. Folklore. The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, passed through the generations by word of mouth.
  6. Mythology. A collection of tales about gods, heroes, and supernatural beings.
  7. Extinct Species. Animals or plants that are no longer in existence.
  8. Extirpated Species. Animals or plants that no longer exist in a particular area, but still exist elsewhere.
  9. Endangered Species. Animals or plants that face a high risk of extinction in the wild.
  10. Rare Species. Animals or plants that are uncommon in their natural habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cryptozoology?

Cryptozoology is the study of animals and other creatures which are rumored to exist, but have not been proven to exist through scientific observation.

What types of creatures are studied by cryptozoologists?

Cryptozoologists study a wide range of creatures, including mythical creatures such as Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster, as well as lesser-known creatures such as the Mothman and the Chupacabra.

How many creatures have been discovered through cryptozoological research?

To date, there have been over 200 new species of animals discovered through cryptozoological research.

Who is considered to be the father of cryptozoology?

Bernard Heuvelmans is often credited with being the "father of cryptozoology" due to his influential work in the field, which began in 1955 with his book On the Track of Unknown Animals.

What is the International Society of Cryptozoology?

The ISC was founded in 1982 by Loren Coleman and other leading cryptozoologists, and is dedicated to the study, examination, and discussion of evidence related to the possible existence of unknown animals.

Web Resources

Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Albert
Submitted by our contributor
Cryptozoologist Category