The Ucumar
In the mountain forests of north-west Argentina, people describe a large, hairy, upright creature they call the Ucumar.
What was reported
In the forested hills and valleys of Salta and neighbouring provinces, local stories tell of the Ucumar: a large, shaggy, ape-like creature that walks on two legs and makes a call like 'uhu, uhu'. It is said to live in remote ravines and to come down to steal maize.
In the 1950s, newspapers reported large human-like footprints in the Andes, and sightings have continued, including videos shared online in recent years.
Explanations offered
Many researchers think the Ucumar is a memory of the spectacled bear, which once lived in north-west Argentina, can stand upright and has shaggy dark fur. Others see it as a figure of local folklore. No body, bones or clear photographs have been found.
- When
- Reported for generations
- Where
- Salta, north-west Argentina
- Witnesses
- Rural residents and hikers
- Status
- Unconfirmed
Famous cases are real, widely reported events. Each file sets out what witnesses said and the explanations that have been offered, without taking a side.