Over the millennia they evolved the capacity to survive in fresh water. Today, Loch Ness is one of the deepest and largest lakes in Scotland, some 22 miles long and more than a mile across at its widest. One would think that it would be a relatively minor affair to determine whether it was inhabited by unknown large aquatic animals, but several factors mitigate against such a simple supposition. For one thing, views of the loch's surface are limited by its narrowness and steep sides. You must accept whatever view you can get and hope Nessie swims into or through it.
Inclement weather is another problem.
Statistics compiled by the Loch Ness Investigation Bureau show that Nessie typically breaks the surface only at the calmest of times, which Scotland rarely provides. Divers are wary not only of the constant 45-degree water, but its greatly reduced visibility as well. Suspended peat particles pour into the loch from all sides, reducing visibility to a few feet at best. Nevertheless, we hope to shed some light on our elusive prey in the reports and pictures to come. With thanks to Russ and Carol Fraser of Ness-Scape , Nessie's Highland Web site, for their Internet connection.