It's a coyote, no, it's a fox, no, it's a dog, no, it's a bobcat; whatever it is, Bluffton's mysterious beast has returned
Loch Ness has its monster and, now, it appears that Bluffton does, too. Several sightings of an unidentified animal have been reported in Bluffton in the past week and two persons captured the creature on cell phone cameras.
Both photographs were reportedly taken on the north side of Bluffton in daylight hours. Speculation on the identify of the creature ranges all the way from a fox, a coyote, bobcat, or simply an unusual dog.
Whatever it is, it has a tail that is long enough that it appears to drag on the ground. Its coloration resembles a fox and its ears give it a cat-like appearance.
The most famous "mystery" beast that prowled Richland Township was a large cat in the mid-1970s. It reportedly killed a herd of sheep and and caused a riot that attracted Big Foot hunters and UFO researchers. That animal was never photographed or captured.
The Icon welcomes any additional photos on Bluffton's newest mystery visitor from viewer. The Icon also offers an attachment to this story showing photos of five animals in comparision to the Bluffton creature.
Stories Posted This Week
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Monday, August 3, 2026
- Bluffton Free or Reduced Lunch Program signup begins for 2026-2027
- Richland Township appoints new Zoning officials, hiring roads and zoning employees
- 2025-2026 BHS Athletic Boosters fundraiser goes digital
- Chicken BBQ tickets available for August 8, Bluffton History Day
- 2026 PorchFest preview: Amanda Rule, Dylan Spindler, Mason Ault and Piece of Mind
Sunday, August 2, 2026
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Friday, July 31, 2026
- Gayla Sue Conaway worked for Marathon Oil Company
- TedFest '26 provides all-day fun in Pandora
- Drum Circle added to August 29 PorchFest
- Business Collective holds "War Room" on August 6
- Speed limit on State Route 103 reduced west of I-75
- Check out August 2026 programs and services at Bluffton Public Library