In the stuy of cryptozoology, a cryptid (also known as a UMA or unidentified mysterious animal) is any animal or creature whose existence has been reported but not proven. Their presumed existence is often derived from anecdotal evidence and/or other evidence insufficient to prove their existence according to normal scientific standards. The term was coined by John E. Wall in 1983. Cryptids are also known by the term Unidentified Mysterious Animals or UMA, an intended variation on the popular term UFO.