An expert has responded to a theory suggesting sightings of the mythical Loch Ness Monster is just one of the thousands of eels swimming in the waters.
Scores of people travel to the famous loch in the Scottish Highlands southwest of Inverness, every year hoping for a glimpse of the beast, first seen in the 1930s when a photograph was taken of the creature.
Several theories have been shared ever since of what it could be, including suggestions it could be a relic from the time of the dinosaurs.
But one idea has been debunked by a data analyst who has ruled out any idea it could be a giant eel.
Floe Foxon said: “Over the course of a few generations, an eel one metre in length may be expected.
“However, this is not quite the "monster" postulated.”
The theory comes after months of people failing to see any sign of the monster.
Sightings have dwindled in recent months, with no one reporting so much as a glimpse of the long-necked creature since October.
The Official Loch Ness Monster Sightings Register hasn’t recorded a new entry since October 11 last year, and the first sighting of 2023 has yet to be made.
Even prolific hunter Eoin O’Faodhagain, who has added several sightings of Nessie from his home in County Donegal, Ireland, by keeping watch via webcam, has struggled to see Nessie.
He said: “I have no sightings to report this year so far.
“I think the atmospheric conditions of late are making it unsuitable for Nessie spotting.
“There has been so much rain, wind and snow there that it is equally hard to spot Nessie whether from webcam or live at the loch.”
It comes as a snake-like sea creature that shares a striking resemblance to the Loch Ness Monster has been spotted in foreign waters, sparking fears she has moved away from Scotland.
The beast, which some claim to be Nessie, was recently seen by witnesses off the coast of North Carolina.
The huge beast was captured with its head out the water off of Atlantic Beach, before its body surfaced and it dipped back underwater.
Shocked witnesses were left questioning the species of the creature, with some wondering whether it was the mythical Scottish monster.
Chasin Tails Outdoors Bait & Tackle store, which posted a video of the monster, said it’s “something you don't see everyday”.
It added: “Whales or the Loch Ness monster in the port this morning. Never seen one inside the inlet like this.”
Thousands of social media users took to the comments to post their theories online, with one person saying: “Now that is strange. Odd looking head for sure.”
