Extraordinary Claims Require Extraordinary Evidence

[RoadRunner79]

Let's see if a hypothetical might illustrate this.

Say you're walking home tonight across a muddy field and you see a trail of hoofprints. Nothing else is evident, no other sign or cause. What is the most plausible explanation?

A) Horse
B) Zebra
C) Unicorn

More importantly, what is the minimum standard of evidence you would accept for each of these?

My assumption would be a horse (neither zebras nor unicorns are common in this area).  Beyond that, I would look to others for a more detailed evaluation. (is there even a difference between horse, zebra and unicorn hoof prints?) I would look at if they are knowledgeable on the subject, are there contrary views to be accounted for, and do they site and base their claim on the evidence.

The minimum standard of evidence would be sufficient to demonstrate the claim, and rule out the others.  I'm doubtful that your hoof prints would suffice.