Are mermaids real?

Mermaids are not real; there is no conclusive scientific evidence that proves their existence in real life. Mermaids are mythical creatures that have been a part of folklore and legends for thousands of years. The myth of mermaids dates back to around 1,000 B.C.

Christopher Columbus is one of many explorers throughout history who claimed to see mermaids, or mermaid-like creatures. Columbus claimed to have first seen mermaids in 1493 off the coast of Haiti, although he said their appearance was not nearly as beautiful and appealing as in myths about mermaids. It's likely that Columbus and others saw large marine mammals like manatees and mistook them as mermaids.