Mystery as Loch Ness Monster sightings tumble but a ‘chilling’ sonar left skipper speechless

THE Loch Ness Monster was shy in 2024 — sticking its head above the surface just three times, the official register claims.

There were five sightings in 2024 — half of last year’s total — and two were with sonar.

The Official Loch Ness Monster Sightings Register said the sonar soundings were among the best evidence of Nessie and that future research should be focused there.

Skipper Shaun Sloggie saw a strange shape on sonar at the loch in the Scottish Highlands on September 22.

It indicated a large object at a depth of 98 metres, with Shaun saying: “It’s the biggest thing I’ve ever seen.

“It was chilling — it leaves you speechless.”

This year’s total also includes two webcam sightings and one by a family.

On April 4, Parry Malm and his family reported: “At first, thought was driftwood, but looked like a head above the waves.”

Register worker Paige Daley said: “The majority of alleged sightings are not accepted, there’s strict criteria.”

In all, 1,172 Nessie sightings have now been logged.