Cryptozoology

It is a branch of biology that studies animals whose existence has not been scientifically proven. These animals are known through indirect evidence (eyewitness accounts, films, photos, recordings of cries, footprints, hair, feathers), but this evidence is considered insufficient by the scientific community. The most famous examples include the yeti, Bigfoot and the Loch Ness monster.

The founder of this discipline, Belgian zoologist Bernard Heuvelmans, donated his unique collection of documentation, including books, technical data sheets, eyewitness accounts, various artefacts, paintings and drawings, to the Cantonal Museum of Zoology.

Two display cases currently showcase exceptional objects in the zoology galleries at the Palais de Rumine.

The cryptozoology collection is closed to the public, but remains accessible for research and loans upon request to: biblio.natureum@vd.ch