The team of four British explorers and their Indonesian guide tracked through dense and treacherous jungle in the Kerinci National Park of Sumatra where two of them caught a glimpse of the Orang Pendek - or short man.

The team have brought back hair samples and a piece of palm they hope will provide DNA evidence of the Orang Pendek - a creature sighted in the area since colonial times and reputed to be immensely powerful.

A sample of hair thought to belong to the ape is also being analysed.

The team hopes that by sending the sample to several labs, they will find DNA evidence of the Orang Pendek.

Sightings of the creature go back to the time of colonialism

Bron: Telegraph

Richard Freeman, the expedition zoologist and zoological director at the Centre, said he believes that the creature is an unidentified species of ape.

“We are not talking about a unicorn or a griffin, we are talking about an ape that’s unknown to science,” he said.

The team, who have just returned from their two-week expedition, hailed it a success and are awaiting tests.

“We found several sets of tracks in mud and earth,” he said.

“I know those tracks are not made by any species of ape and are not made by any species known to be living in the park.

“It was an ape - but not a known type of ape - it’s more adapted for upright walking.”

Mr Freeman said two of the expedition saw the creature from behind but unfortunately, the team did not manage to get a photograph.

Bron: Telegraph