Could Bigfoot Be a Relic Hominid? Science Says Maybe

Jun 3

What If Bigfoot Is a Relic Hominid? Scientists Weigh In

For decades, stories of Bigfoot—also known as Sasquatch, the Skunk Ape, the Ohio Grassman, and more—have captivated believers and skeptics alike. Described as a large, bipedal, hairy creature roaming remote forests across the world, Bigfoot remains one of the most enduring mysteries in cryptozoology. But beyond the folklore, a provocative question has emerged from both cryptid researchers and scientists: What if Bigfoot is a relic hominid?

A relic hominid is an evolutionary holdover, a species of primitive human or human-like ancestor thought to be extinct but surviving in isolation. In this blog, we explore the evidence, science, and theories surrounding this possibility—while naturally highlighting how Bigfoot apparel, cryptid merchandise, and Sasquatch gifts play into the broader culture that supports this mystery.

Understanding the Relic Hominid Theory

Relic hominids are hypothetical living representatives of extinct human ancestors. Candidates often cited include:

Gigantopithecus blacki – A giant ape from Asia, thought to be the closest match to Bigfoot.
Paranthropus boisei – A robust hominid with strong jaws and bipedal gait.
Homo erectus – A widespread and adaptable early human species.
Neanderthals – While well-studied, some claim isolated Neanderthals might have survived longer than science accepts.

These species share traits often described in Bigfoot sightings: upright posture, human-like feet, and large body size. The fossil record shows that multiple hominid species existed simultaneously—so the idea that one might persist in the shadows isn’t entirely implausible.

Gigantopithecus and the Bigfoot Connection

Among relic hominid candidates, Gigantopithecus is the most frequently linked to Bigfoot. This extinct primate lived in Southeast Asia around 300,000 years ago and stood up to 10 feet tall. Though it’s presumed quadrupedal, some cryptozoologists suggest environmental adaptation could explain an upright gait in isolated populations.

Support for the link includes:

Size and build consistent with Bigfoot descriptions
Limited fossil record leaves much unknown
Geographic overlap with ancient migration routes into North America

If Gigantopithecus crossed the Bering Land Bridge and evolved in isolated forests, it could explain Pacific Northwest Sasquatch sightings and footprints.

Fossil Gaps and the Case for Survival

Many species have been discovered after being presumed extinct. The coelacanth, a fish thought gone for 65 million years, was found alive in 1938. Could Bigfoot be a similar story?

Reasons this isn’t far-fetched:

Large forest regions remain under-explored
New mammal species are discovered regularly
Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence

Even modern wildlife like mountain lions or bears can remain unseen for years in low-density populations. This lends some support to cryptozoology for beginners who ask: Could a hominid evade modern detection?

Physical Evidence: Bigfoot Footprints and DNA Samples

Bigfoot footprints and evidence collected over the decades often match relic hominid expectations:

Midtarsal break – A flexible foot joint found in pre-human species
Dermal ridges – Suggesting genuine skin impressions
Unusual stride length – Difficult to fake convincingly

In addition, several hair and scat samples have been analyzed in labs. While most return known animal DNA, some remain “unidentified primate.” Though controversial, these anomalies keep Sasquatch research and evidence in the scientific conversation.

What Scientists Say About Bigfoot and Relic Hominids

Though mainstream anthropology remains skeptical, a handful of scientists have expressed cautious interest:

Dr. Jeffrey Meldrum (Idaho State University) – A professor of anatomy and anthropology, Meldrum has studied Bigfoot footprints and argues they show anatomical consistency with primate evolution.
Dr. Grover Krantz (Washington State University) – One of the first academics to openly suggest Bigfoot could be a hominid.
Dr. Anna Nekaris (Oxford Brookes University) – While not a Bigfoot researcher, she notes that new primate species are still being discovered in remote regions.

These voices represent a minority, but they give academic weight to the idea that real Bigfoot sightings may point to something more than hoax or folklore.

Why This Theory Matters

If Bigfoot is a relic hominid, the implications are profound:

Anthropology would need rethinking
Conservation efforts would expand to protect potential populations
It would redefine humanity’s place in the natural world

Even if Bigfoot isn't proven, exploring the theory fuels interest in human evolution, paleontology, and wildlife conservation. It also explains why veteran-owned Bigfoot companies like What The Sas focus on durable Bigfoot merchandise and custom Bigfoot designs—because mystery has value.

Cultural Expressions of Ancient Mystery

From vintage-style Sasquatch graphics to cryptid merchandise and high-quality cryptid shirts, the idea of a surviving hominid has captured the cultural imagination. When you shop Bigfoot apparel or explore cryptid gear, you're not just supporting a brand—you're embracing a question:

What if we're not alone on the evolutionary tree?

This question is why Bigfoot collectibles, UV-resistant Bigfoot stickers, and Sasquatch gifts are more than products—they’re talismans for people who believe science and myth can coexist.

Conclusion: Could Bigfoot Be Our Distant Cousin?

The relic hominid theory doesn't require belief in the paranormal. It asks us to look at science through a wider lens, to consider what might have survived from our shared past.

Whether you're reading cryptozoology for beginners or deep into Sasquatch research and evidence, remember this: not all mysteries are myths. Some are history waiting to be rediscovered.

So if you're planning to track Bigfoot and national parks, build your best Bigfoot hunting gear kit, or just want to wear your curiosity on a high-quality cryptid shirt—know you're part of a larger story. A story rooted in the forest, written in footprints, and still unfolding today.