Approaching a UMA (Cryptid) As a reminder, UMA is the popular Japanese term for "cryptid" – UMA being an abbreviation for Unidentified Mysterious Animal.

I don't know whether it works with a UMA, but...

...I can tell you how I usually approach animals.

Get on the same level as the animal.

Let's practice with this little one.

If your eyes meet, look away every so often.

Don't approach it – wait for the animal to come closer on its own.

You can then try calling out to it with a gentle voice.

Bloop The sound of letting air out of one's mouth after exhaling or trying to talk underwater.