How To Report a Sighting

I've been asked from time to time about how one files a Bigfoot report, so below is a basic FAQ regarding where to file a report and how to write one up.

Q. What constitutes a sighting?
A. Not every Bigfoot sighting or event is the stereotypical road crossing, looking at the camera, "Hi, how are you? Go out and buy some Jack Links" that most people would consider a Bigfoot experience, like the famous 1967 Patterson-Gimlin film (which will be discussed in detail later).  Matter of fact, most experiences tend to be events which can be dismissed such as having a rock or a branch thrown at you when no one is around, an intense and pungent odor, wood knocks, obvious nearby bipedal walking sounds, tracks, etc...  So don't dismiss an experience because the big guy didn't come out and sign an autograph.

Q. How do I report a sighting
A.  The preferred method is by going to http://www.bfro.net/GDB/submitfm.asp which is a national database that I check several times a day for new reports.

Q. Any advice about how to write up a report?
A. Enter as much details about the event as possible.  For example, if you were hunting in a tree stand and and something started throwing branches at you - think back to the day before.  Did you previously hunt in the same location?  Did you recently field dress anything in the vicinity?  Where are your hunting buddies, and did they have any unusual experiences?  What is the time of day?  What are the weather conditions?  Is there any snow?  How far away did you park, and how long did it take to hike to the location? Report as much detail as possible, even if it seems trivial and mundane.  Provide a contact email address and a phone number, and at least a first name.  Also good directions and nearest cross street (if possible) are a must.

Writing the report is simple.  Don't just submit, "me and my friends was out hunting and i saw a big black shadow throw a rock so it was a bigfoot i know it" because I probably won't do any follow-up on a report like that.  But I also don't expect William Faulkner or Chuck Palahniuk.  If you're unsure what to write I recommend checking out some of the published reports on the BFRO website.  I have confidence that once you start writing the words will flow.

Q. What happens after I make a report?
A. When a report is filed in my research area I take ownership and email the person who filed the report to arrange a good time for a phone interview.  Most interviews take place after 7:00 pm during the week but I will make myself available anytime.  The phone interview usually lasts about fifteen to thirty minutes and is time for the witness to review what happened, and go over any details which may have been missed in the initial report.  Once the phone interview is completed I file my report with the BFRO for peer review and online publication if my findings are validated. 

Q. I don't want to have my name or the location published?  Is that going to be an issue?
A. That is not an issue.  We respect privacy and will omit names and location details when asked.

Q. Do you ever get any fake reports?
A Yes.  Some are really funny, too.  If you have a Bigfoot living in your basement I suggest purchasing a lot of Febreze rather than taking the time to file a report. I'm sure you'll need it.