Biggest Loch Ness monster hunt in over 50 years
Hundreds are in the Highlands this weekend to help record natural - and any unusual - sights
Last updated 26th Aug 2023
Nessie believers and sceptics from across the world are taking part in the largest hunt for the monster since 1972.
Hundreds are in the Highlands this weekend to help record natural - and any unusual - sights on Loch Ness from vantage points on land.
Participants will use drones to produce thermal images of the water as well as hydrophones to detect acoustic signals under the loch’s surface, listening for any Nessie-like calls.
The hunt is being organised by the newly revamped Loch Ness Centre and Loch Ness Exploration (LNE), an independent and voluntary research team.
It is 90 years since the modern myth of the monster began.
In April 1933, hotel manageress Aldie Mackay said she had seen a whale-like creature in the loch.
The Inverness Courier newspaper reported the sighting and the editor at the time, Evan Barron, suggested the creature be described as a "monster".
Since then the mystery of Nessie has inspired books, TV shows and films, as well as sustaining a major tourism industry.
Alan McKenna, of Loch Ness Exploration, said: “Since starting LNE, it’s always been our goal to record, study and analyse all manner of natural behaviour and phenomena that may be more challenging to explain.
“It’s our hope to inspire a new generation of Loch Ness enthusiasts and by joining this large scale surface watch, you’ll have a real opportunity to personally contribute towards this fascinating mystery that has captivated so many people from around the world.”
Paul Nixon, General Manager of the Loch Ness Centre, said: “We are guardians of this unique story, and as well as investing in creating an unforgettable experience for visitors, we are committed to helping continue the search and unveil the mysteries that lie underneath the waters of the famous Loch.
“The weekend gives an opportunity to search the waters in a way that has never been done before, and we can’t wait to see what we find.”