While most states celebrate official flowers and birds, California might soon add a mysterious creature to its list of state symbols. Assemblyman Chris Rogers has introduced AB 666, a bill that would make Bigfoot the official state cryptid of California. A cryptid is an animal or being that hasn’t been proven to exist but has captured public imagination through eyewitness accounts and reported evidence.
You’ll find that California has a rich history of Bigfoot sightings, particularly in Humboldt County. The most recent sighting occurred in September 2024, when hikers near Eureka reported unusual sounds in Founders Grove. The Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization has documented 48 sightings in Humboldt County alone, with reports dating back to 1957. Three children even reported seeing the creature in broad daylight near Eureka.
The popular TV show “Expedition Bigfoot” has brought renewed attention to the search for this elusive creature. You’ll see investigators exploring wilderness areas at night, presenting unexplained findings like mysterious vocal calls and unusual structures. While skepticism remains about the evidence shown on the program, it’s attracted a dedicated following of viewers who enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
The bill isn’t asking you to believe in Bigfoot’s existence. Instead, it recognizes the creature’s significance in California’s cultural heritage. Supporters argue that official recognition could boost tourism and celebrate the state’s connection to this enduring legend.
The proposal has sparked discussions about the role of folklore and myth in modern society. The debate isn’t about proving Bigfoot’s existence but about acknowledging its place in California’s diverse natural and cultural history.
Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, you can’t deny Bigfoot’s impact on local culture and tourism. As legislators consider this unique proposal, it highlights how even unproven creatures can become powerful symbols of a region’s identity and heritage.