Almas

Almas is the name used in cryptozoology for a legendary, apelike biped reportedly seen in Central Asia, notably the Tian Shan mountain region in what is now Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Descriptions commonly describe a tall, robust, hair-covered humanoid, similar in general form to other 'wild man' legends such as the Yeti or Bigfoot. Reports date from the late 19th century onward, but no conclusive evidence has been verified.

Evidence cited by proponents consists mainly of anecdotal accounts, footprints, blurry photographs, and occasional hair or other samples that have not withstood independent verification. The scientific consensus is skeptical: almas are generally regarded as folklore, misidentifications of bears or other animals, or simply unconfirmed reports. Systematic field research has not produced conclusive documentation.

Etymology in local Turkic languages is linked to legends of wild or manlike beings, and the term almas is used in some sources to refer to such creatures. The name's precise linguistic roots and its variation across languages remain a matter of interpretation within folklore and cryptozoological literature.

Beyond cryptozoology, the word almas appears in other contexts; for example, in Spanish it is the plural of alma, meaning souls. It may also occur as a surname or toponym in diverse regions, depending on language and culture.