Somerset Footprint Cast Reveals Baffling Ape DNA Results

A new investigation into Britain's Bigfoot phenomenon is making waves, and the findings are nothing short of extraordinary. Recently, I came across a fascinating video from the YouTube channel Wild Dream Films and Monster 911 that follows American investigator Lance Hightower as he travels across the pond to explore some truly intriguing reports in the UK. Lance, known for his work investigating Sasquatch and Dogmen, found himself in Somerset, England, staying at the historic Blackmore Manor—a mid-15th century estate that adds an extra layer of mystique to the journey. His mission? To meet a young man named Daniel Barnett, who has been making a name for himself in the cryptid community. If Daniel's name sounds familiar, it might be because a documentary about his work was released back in 2025. Daniel's story begins in the woods of Somerset, where he and his grandmother stumbled upon something remarkable—an 18-inch footprint embedded in the earth. Now, anyone familiar with Sasquatch research knows that prints of this size are significant. In North America, the largest confirmed Sasquatch prints typically measure around 22 to 23 inches, so an 18-inch print in the UK is absolutely noteworthy. What makes Daniel's discovery even more compelling is what he did next. Rather than just photographing the print and walking away, he took a plaster cast of it—carefully, methodically, just like the pros do it. But he didn't stop there. Having learned from programs like Expedition Bigfoot, Daniel knew to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) samples from the print. He scraped leaves, plants, and soil from the indentation using sterile gloves and tweezers, preserving everything properly for lab analysis. This is where things get really interesting. Daniel sent his samples to labs across the UK and Europe, and after weeks of waiting—and a few extra days of sequencing that had the lab itself puzzled—the results came back. The eDNA analysis revealed human DNA (likely from Daniel and his grandmother), bird DNA, Old World Monkey DNA, and Great Ape DNA. Let that sink in for a moment. Great Ape DNA. In a footprint found in the Quantock Hills of Somerset, England. The lab reportedly told Daniel's father that they had "no idea" how he managed to collect such samples, and that the results were nothing like anything they had seen before. That's a pretty significant statement coming from a scientific laboratory. For those unfamiliar with eDNA collection, this technique has become increasingly important in cryptid research. Environmental DNA can be collected from soil, water, hair, or other biological material left behind by an organism. It's the same technology used to track endangered species and even detect the presence of Neanderthals in ancient caves. The fact that Daniel had the foresight to collect these samples—and the knowledge to do it properly—speaks volumes about his dedication to getting answers. The Quantock Hills themselves provide an ideal habitat for a large, reclusive primate. With rolling hills, low ravines, streams, and rivers running through dense forest, plus plenty of livestock and indigenous wildlife, the area offers everything a Sasquatch would need to survive undetected. The thick undergrowth and moss-covered tree roots Lance observed during his visit would provide excellent cover for any large creature trying to stay hidden. Lance noted something particularly interesting about the location of the print—it's on a ridge. In his experience investigating in Oklahoma, animal trails tend to follow ridges rather than valley bottoms, which makes this location consistent with Sasquatch travel patterns observed in North America. The Quantock Bigfoot phenomenon isn't new to those who follow British cryptid reports. The area has a long history of strange sightings and encounters, and Daniel's discovery adds a significant piece of physical evidence to the growing body of work on the subject. Lance's excitement was palpable throughout the video. Holding the actual lab report showing Old World Monkey and Great Ape DNA, he expressed how honored he was to see such documentation. "I would have never in a million years ever thought I would see something like this," he said. This video is definitely worth watching for anyone interested in the global Bigfoot phenomenon. The combination of a physical footprint cast, professional eDNA collection, and lab-confirmed Great Ape DNA makes this one of the most compelling pieces of evidence to come out of the UK in recent memory. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or just curious about the subject, this investigation offers something genuinely intriguing to consider.