How Monster Search helps Highlands Scotland

Nessie, the monster from Loch Ness in Scotland, is one of the most popular characters in modern mythology. The great hunt for the monster begins at the weekend.

Loch Ness in Scotland is famous for the natural beauty that surrounds it and Urquhart Castle, a ruined castle located right on its shore. And, of course, Nessie, the so-called monster said to be capable of mischief in the lake. There is no definitive proof of the monster’s existence – but there are more and more enthusiastic adventurers out there looking for the Loch Ness Monster.

Hundreds of Nessie fans are heading to Scotland this weekend to hunt down the legendary Loch Ness monster. The largest monster hunt in over 50 years is being organized by the Loch Ness Center and the Loch Ness Volunteer Exploration Team.

Nessie fans don’t want to resort to traditional search methods. They’ll use technology that’s never been used before to hunt for a Loch Ness monster: Drones will photograph the water’s surface with thermal imaging cameras, recording every tiny heat signature. Using hydrophones, which are called “underwater microphones”, acoustic signals are recorded below the surface of the water.

“Through this major research, we want to inspire a new generation of Loch Ness enthusiasts,” Alan McKenna of Loch Ness Exploration told the Guardian. “Through the large-scale search on the surface of the crater, all participants can personally participate in the search, which has amazed many people from all over the world.”

One might doubt whether adventurers will actually find traces of the mysterious “Loch Ness Monster” this weekend. On the other hand, there is no doubt about the positive effects on tourism in the region, which are properly stimulated by research. “We’ve had amazing bookings this summer,” said Fraser Campbell, whose Cobbs Group owns several hotels in Loch Ness.

“The combination of hotels and great attractions allows us to survive in this remote area,” says Campbell. The Scottish Highlands have been hit hard economically by a combination of Brexit, rural exodus and an increased cost of living.

So, of secondary importance is whether “Nessie” was actually found this weekend. “The area has so much to offer: the highest mountain in the UK and the largest lakes.”