THE Loch Ness Monster may exist, following scientists’ analysis of skin, scales, feathers, fur and poo found in the water.

Experts did DNA tests on the samples to probe theories including claims Nessie is a long-necked plesiosaur that survived the mass dinosaur extinction, a sturgeon or giant catfish.

2 Professor Neil Gemmell pioneered the research that could prove the Loch Ness Monster's existence Credit: SWNS:South West News Service

Prof Neil Gemmell, of the University of Otago in New Zealand, said: “We’ve tested each of the main monster hypotheses.

“Three we can probably say aren’t right. One might be.”

Prof Gemmell said he hoped to announce the full findings of the study in Scotland next month - but would not confirm which hypothesis might be right.

"Is there anything deeply mysterious? Hmm. It depends what you believe. Is there anything startling? There are a few things that are a bit surprising.

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Announcing the study last year, Professor Gemmell said: "Scotland is dear to my heart because my mother and her family are Scottish.

"I'm delighted to be here to undertake our environmental DNA investigation of Loch Ness.

"We're delighted with the amount of interest the project has generated in the science and, monster or not, we are going to understand Loch Ness, and the life in it, in a new way."

2 The Loch Ness Monster, otherwise known as Nessie, is a creature said to inhabit Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands Credit: Hulton Archive - Getty

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