Have you tried to contact anyone with your sighting or encounter with the unknown. Just to be turned away. We have encountered this several times. That's why we decided to make a place where everyone is welcome and we are interested in what you have experienced. We will continually update the site with new reports
Welcome to I.B.R., your central hub for Illinois Bigfoot research and witness encounters. This is where curious minds and real experiences converge to shed light on elusive phenomena within our state. Join us as we explore the unknown, together.
Uncover the mysteries of Illinois Bigfoot
What We Are About
The Illinois Bigfoot Researchers (IBR) was founded in 2025 by The Sqwatchers in southern Illinois. We are a dedicated group of investigators, naturalists, and enthusiasts committed to the serious study of Bigfoot/Sasquatch activity across the state of Illinois.
We believe that rigorous, evidence-based fieldwork is essential to understanding this elusive creature. Our mission is to document, analyze, and preserve reports of Bigfoot encounters in Illinois while exploring the forests, river valleys, and wild places where these beings may roam. Through careful investigation—including trail camera deployment, footprint casting, audio recording, witness interviews, and environmental analysis—we aim to separate credible evidence from misidentifications and folklore.
Our Core Values:
• Scientific Integrity: We approach every sighting and piece of evidence with skepticism, curiosity, and respect for the scientific method.
• Respect for the Environment: We are stewards of Illinois’ natural areas and promote responsible outdoor practices.
• Community & Education: We share findings responsibly, educate the public, and support fellow researchers while protecting witness privacy.
• Open-Minded Exploration: While rooted in evidence, we remain open to the possibility that an undiscovered primate or related phenomenon exists in the Midwest.
Whether you’re an experienced researcher, a curious outdoorsman, or someone who has had their own unexplained encounter in the Illinois woods, the IBR welcomes those who share our passion for discovery.
We’re not chasing legends — we’re searching for truth.
Mission Statement
The Illinois Bigfoot Researchers (IBR) is committed to the systematic, evidence-based investigation of Bigfoot/Sasquatch activity throughout the state of Illinois.
Through rigorous fieldwork, scientific documentation, and respectful analysis of sightings, footprints, audio recordings, and other potential evidence, we strive to advance our understanding of this elusive species while separating credible encounters from misidentifications and myth.
We are dedicated to responsible research practices, environmental stewardship, and the education of the public. By maintaining scientific integrity and an open-minded yet skeptical approach, the IBR seeks to uncover the truth behind Bigfoot in Illinois and contribute meaningful data to the broader field of cryptozoology.
Researchers
Jim Peters is one half of the team The Sqwatchers. He's has been researching this subject for the last 14 years and lives in the saline county area
contact through the website
Joe is the other half of the Sqwatchers and also has been researching for 14 years and lived in the Hardin County area
contact through the website
Harold Benny is from Hillsboro, Illinois, graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a BS in Zoology/Botany and an MS in Zoology concentrating in Cytology/Histology.
contact: Hebenn@gmail.com