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Cryptid

Champ - Lake Champlain Monster

America's Loch Ness Monster. Samuel de Champlain may have seen it in 1609. Over 300 sightings since. Photos and videos exist. Something lives in Lake Champlain.

1609 - Present
Lake Champlain, Vermont/New York, USA
600+ witnesses

Champ is the legendary lake monster said to live in Lake Champlain, on the border of the United States and Canada.

The Legend

According to documented accounts:

Champ is:

  • A large lake creature
  • Said to resemble a plesiosaur
  • Over 300 reported sightings
  • Protected by law in Vermont and New York

History

Sightings go back centuries:

  • Possible 1609 sighting by Champlain
  • 19th century circus offered reward
  • P.T. Barnum offered $50,000 for it
  • Sightings continue today

The Mansi Photo

In 1977:

  • Sandra Mansi photographed something
  • Shows a long neck in the water
  • The most famous Champ image
  • Remains controversial

Description

Witnesses describe:

  • 15-30 feet long
  • Long neck
  • Horse-like head
  • Humped back
  • Dark in color

Champ is officially protected:

  • Vermont legislature resolution (1982)
  • New York State Assembly (1983)
  • Cannot be harmed in either state

Sources

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