Creatures, Myths & Legends

New study: the Loch Ness monster's iconic 'humps' are rarely ever seen

By T.K. Randall
July 5, 2025

Image: Loch Ness Monster Model at Drumnadrochit
Credit: Immanuel Giel / (PD) Most people will be familiar with the quintessential image of Scotland's iconic Loch Ness monster - a creature typically depicted as having a long neck and humps which protrude from the water.

In practice, though, next to nobody ever reports seeing these humps - most sightings of the monster tend to take the form of indistinct shapes in the water or unusual wakes and disturbances.

Sometimes a neck-like shape is spotted, but the humps themselves barely ever make an appearance.

These were the findings of a recent study by Dr Charles Paxton from the University of St Andrews and Adrian Shine of the Loch Ness Center whose research revealed that only 1.5% of Loch Ness monster sightings over the last 100 years involved reports of humps.

This is in stark contrast to local postcards and other depictions of which up to a third show humps.The pair also noted that the depiction of Nessie's head, neck and body elevated high above the water was biologically impossible based on the swimming behavior of other animals.

That said, however, witness testimonies were generally found not to be influenced by such portrayals despite previous suggestions to the contrary.

"Scholars often assume that monsters are generated by cultural expectations, but it is always useful to test obvious hypotheses," said Dr Paxton.

"In this case it really seems witnesses do not generally report the impossible, even though the hooped monster is a common portrayal of Nessie."

Sightings in general seem to be a thin on the ground, too, with only 3 sightings last year and 2 this year.

Ironically, one of this year's actually did include a sighting of two humps in the water.

Source: BBC News

Tags: Loch Ness Monster