Animals and Men - No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: One
Publisher: Spanish Train Publications
Publication Date: 1994

This debut issue of "Animals & Men: The Journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology" is a non-profit publication aiming to explore the realms of cryptozoology, Fortean phenomena, and unusual animal sightings. The editorial team acknowledges potential typographical and grammatical errors due to production on multiple computers, apologizing for any that may have slipped through.

Editorial Stance and Aims

The magazine's mission is to cover unknown animals, animals thought extinct that reappear, and Fortean phenomena involving animals, provided the topics are deemed interesting or appropriate by the editorial team. It positions itself as a non-partisan publication, seeking to provide a forum for discussion and good-natured controversy, with the editorial team themselves often holding opposing viewpoints.

Contents Overview

The issue features a wide array of articles, including:

• Editorial: Discussing the magazine's scope and aims.
• Newsfile: A compilation of recent reports on mystery animals and phenomena.
• Specific Articles: Covering topics such as the Loch Ness Monster hoax, mystery cats across the UK, the potential survival of giant ground sloths in Amazonia, feathered folklore, creaturefalls, and the status of rare mustelids.

Key Articles and Features

The Surgeon's Photograph: A Hoax

This section debunks the famous Loch Ness Monster photograph from 1934. Researchers David Martin and Alastair Boyd claim that Christian Spurling confessed to creating the monster from plastic wood and a toy submarine. Spurling was the step-son of Marmaduke Wetherell, who had been hired by The Daily Mail to find the monster. The hoax was likely perpetrated after Wetherell's own attempts to find evidence failed. All involved are now deceased.

Mystery Cats

This extensive section details numerous reports of large, unidentified cats across the UK:

• Cornwall: Focuses on the 'Beast of Bodmin,' with sightings of black and spotted big cats. A BBC documentary featured footage of a leopard-like cat. Reports include an incident where Jane Fuller was attacked by a black animal.
• Isle of Wight: Speculates that escaped Servals from 1973 might explain sightings. Reports include a cat shot near Brading identified as a Serval or Ocelot, with markings suggesting an Asian Leopard Cat.
• Somerset: A witness reported a huge black cat with a long tail in Burnham.
• Midlands: A Great-Dane sized black cat reportedly attacked cat hunters in Inkberrow. Another panther-like cat was seen in Tividale Road, Tipton.
• Greater London: Police searched for a Lion after multiple reports, but the animal was later identified as a domestic cat.
• South Yorkshire: A large black cat with piercing yellow eyes was seen crossing a bridleway.
• Lincolnshire: A four-foot-long puma-like cat was seen in Stapleford Woods.
• Derbyshire: The 'Peak Panther' was sighted near Chapel en-le-Frith, described as 4 to 5 feet long with a black, glossy coat and drooping tail.
• County Durham: Possible puma droppings were found and sent for analysis.
• Scotland: Reports of a huge black cat roaming Glenurquhart led to the loan of a large cage trap.

Other Exotics

This section covers various unusual animal reports:

• Northern Ireland: An Indian Tigress escaped from Bellevue Zoo in Belfast and was found dead.
• Kent: Four Argentinian Peccaries escaped from a wildlife park, with one remaining at large for a week and reportedly attacking dogs.
• Kent: Wild Boar hunting has been revived after the species' extinction centuries ago, with reports of a sounder of sixteen animals.
• Oxfordshire: A brown bear has been sighted roaming near Chadlington, leaving large prints and making a hooting noise.
• Merseyside: Sharks, identified as Scyliorhinus canioula (lesser spotted dogfish), have taken up residence in the polluted waters of the River Mersey.

The Creature from Clear Lake: Catfish or Primitive Whale?

This article details fisherman Lyle Dysin's encounter in Clear Lake, California, with a creature he described as a 'mutant catfish' but which possessed a dog-like head, whale-like tail, and bony plates. The creature's features are compared to primitive toothed whales like Basilosaurus or Zeuglodons, suggesting the possibility of a surviving ancient whale species.

New Crab Species

*Battenae*, a new species of crab from the USA, was named after its discoverer, Marine Biologist Sonia Dawn Batten.

Ambulocetus: A Missing Link?

*Ambulocetus*, a fifty-million-year-old fossil discovered in Pakistan, is described as a whale with legs, providing a link between land-dwelling ancestors and early marine whales.

Hong Kong Mermaid

A fisherman in Hong Kong reported catching a mermaid, described as having a pointy face, human-like hair, and no arms or legs. However, the boat carrying the alleged creature never arrived.

Giant Ground Sloths in Amazonia?

By Jan Williams, this article investigates the possibility that Giant Ground Sloths, believed to be extinct for about 8,500 years, may still survive in Amazonia. David C. Oren of the Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi is searching for evidence, focusing on legends of the 'Mapinguari.' The Mapinguari is described as human-sized with reddish fur, a monkey-like face, and backward-turned feet, consistent with descriptions of a small, forest-dwelling Mylodontid Ground Sloth. Its vulnerable parts are said to be its eyes, open mouth, and navel. The creature is reported to twist Bacaba Palm trees to feed on fruits.

Feathered Folklore

Authored by Alison and Jonathan Downes, this piece discusses stories that have entered urban folklore, such as the 'Penguin in the Bath' and a legal battle in India over ownership of a pet parrot. The authors also reflect on their own parrot, Socrates, and its lack of 'Fortean' behavior.

Research Papers: Evidence for the Hitherto Unsuspected Survival of Two Rare Mustelids in the South West of England

By Jonathan Downes, this paper re-evaluates the status of the Pine Marten (*Martes martes*) and the Polecat (*Mustela putorius*) in the South West of England. While earlier surveys suggested extinction by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this paper presents later records suggesting survival, particularly for the Polecat in Cornwall. It discusses various historical records and the possibility of interbreeding with domestic ferrets explaining some sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of zoology, folklore, and unexplained phenomena. It champions the investigation of animals that defy conventional classification, whether they are cryptids, relict populations, or subjects of folklore. The editorial stance emphasizes open-minded inquiry and a willingness to consider evidence that challenges established scientific consensus, while maintaining a commitment to providing a platform for diverse viewpoints within the Fortean community.

This issue of Fortean Times, identified as issue number 11 and dated September 1993, focuses on two primary themes: the complex and debated taxonomy of British Martens and the phenomenon of 'frogfall'. The magazine presents a critical examination of established zoological classifications and reports on unusual wildlife sightings and events.

The Marten Mystery: Taxonomy and Sightings

The articles delve deeply into the classification of Martens in Britain, challenging the prevailing view that only one species, Martes martes (the Pine Marten), is native. The author argues that historical records and contemporary sightings suggest the presence of at least two species, Martes martes and Martes foina (the Beech Marten), and potentially even others like Martes americana and Martes zibellina.

Historical Context and Species Differentiation

The text highlights that in the 19th century, two species of Marten were recognized in Britain. The distinction between the Pine Marten and the Beech Marten is primarily based on the white patch or bib on the chest of Martes foina, contrasting with the cream patch of Martes martes. Minor osteological, dentition, and genetic differences are also noted, though the author emphasizes that interbreeding between the two species does not appear to occur even in mainland Europe where they co-exist.

Evidence for Martes foina in Britain

Numerous historical accounts are presented, including records from Dorset, Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall, indicating the presence of Martes foina. A preserved corpse, initially identified as Martes foina, was found in Devon and later suggested to be an American Marten by Kelvin Boot, tying in with Ian Linn's theories. The article notes that the preserved corpse has since disappeared, leaving the matter unresolved.

The Role of H.G.Hurrell and Reintroduction Efforts

Naturalist H.G.Hurrell is identified as a pivotal figure. While he documented numerous sightings, the author suggests Hurrell may have actively participated in reintroduction programs for Pine Martens, potentially introducing 'new blood' from transatlantic origins or even other species like Martes zibellina from fur farms. The article questions whether Hurrell himself was aware of the full implications of his actions.

Contemporary Sightings and Taxonomic Confusion

Modern sightings of animals resembling Pine Martens are discussed, with observers often confused due to the animals not fitting the accepted models. Reports from Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset detail sightings of animals with characteristics that challenge current classifications. The author posits that many of these sightings might be of feral ferrets interbred with wild Polecats, or indeed, other Marten species.

The 'Marten Cat' and Historical Records

The 'Marten Cat' is identified as Martes foina, with historical records from Devonshire in the 18th and 19th centuries detailing its presence and hunting. The article notes that while Edward Alston re-examined specimens in 1879 and concluded Martes foina did not exist in Britain, he also mentioned a specimen killed in Northern Ireland, highlighting the cryptic nature of these animals.

Museum Specimens and DNA Analysis

The scarcity of preserved specimens in West Country museums is noted, with those available often lacking documentation or having questionable origins. The author expresses frustration that despite the availability of DNA analysis technology, funding cuts and lack of interest hinder definitive research into the Mustelid taxonomy.

FROGFALL FEATURE

This section, introduced by Nick Maloret, explores the phenomenon of 'frogfall' – instances where large numbers of frogs or toads appear to fall from the sky.

Accounts of Frogfall Events

Several eyewitness accounts are presented, primarily relating to events in the 1950s, particularly around Copnor in Portsmouth. Mrs. Pat Potter recalls an event in the 1950s when millions of baby frogs or toads fell with heavy rain. Mr. Harfield also describes a similar event in the 1950s near Copnor. Mr. and Mrs. Howe recount an incident where tiny frogs spread across the road during a rainstorm. Other isolated cases are mentioned from Yorkshire (1930s), Brownsdown, Gosport (Easter 1930s), and Tunbridge Wells, Kent (late July or August, 1950s).

Possible Explanations and UFO Connections

While the accounts attribute the falls to heavy rain, the article also touches upon potential extraterrestrial or unusual atmospheric phenomena. A search of the Portsmouth Evening News archives revealed a report of a solar eclipse in June 1954 and three independent UFO sightings above Portsdown Hill on the same date, suggesting a possible correlation or shared unusual atmospheric conditions.

Other Sections and Editorial Stance

Looking for Answers

'Midnight Books' advertises a range of secondhand and new books on topics including Earth Mysteries, UFOs, Cryptozoology, and Lost Civilisations. The Centre for Fortean Zoology is seeking representatives worldwide to liaise with local media, interview eyewitnesses, collect specimens, and build a cuttings library and a Museum of Cryptozoology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of science, particularly in zoology and cryptozoology. It champions the investigation of phenomena that challenge mainstream scientific consensus, encouraging readers to question established narratives and contribute their own observations. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to reclaim branches of zoology from what it perceives as overly rigid or dismissive scientific establishments. The issue emphasizes the importance of historical records and eyewitness testimony in understanding unexplained phenomena.

This issue of Fortean Times, number 55, dated February 1994, focuses on a variety of unexplained zoological phenomena and creature reports from around the world, with a particular emphasis on the West Country of the United Kingdom. The magazine presents itself as a platform for exploring bizarre stories and attempting explanations, often with a speculative and sometimes humorous tone.

The Golden Frogs of Bovey Tracey

The lead article delves into the quasi-religious medieval legend of the Golden Frogs of Bovey Tracey. The story recounts how a woodsman's ailing child was cured by a mysterious lady, who then promised a new spring with crystal clear water and bright golden frogs. The author speculates that the story might predate Christian times, with Marian details added later, and that the golden frogs are a unique element. The article explores potential explanations for these frogs, including the possibility that they were brightly colored amphibians native to the English countryside. It also discusses the phenomenon of 'North African' Desert Dust falls, which have recently brought pink frogs to Gloucestershire and have been reported in other areas, such as Devon. The author suggests that similar dust falls could have deposited yellow or golden frogs in the Devon countryside. The article references newspaper stories and historical accounts, including a fall of yellow dust in Dorset in 1903, which was attributed to sandstorms from the North African Desert. The author concludes that the legend of the Golden Frogs might be explained by these atmospheric phenomena.

Creature Falls in the West Country

This section compiles various reports of unusual 'creature falls' from the West Country. It begins with a contribution detailing a story from Enid Blyton's 'The Children of Cherry Tree Farm' about a 'frog rain'. The author then presents several examples from Charles Fort's collection, including small snails falling near Redruth in Cornwall during a thunderstorm and black worms falling in Devonshire during a snowstorm. The section notes that these occurrences often happen in winter and mentions similar reports from West Virginia and Switzerland. It also includes a report of several large, dried pipefish found in a garden, with no apparent injuries, and the obvious explanation of seabird predation being deemed unlikely due to the quantity and location.

Eyewitness Reports

This section presents a collection of eyewitness accounts and attempted explanations for strange zoological events:

Strange Snakes in Norfolk

Reports of unusual snakes in Norfolk are discussed. One account describes a large snake, about five feet long, that aggressively reared up in front of horses. The article questions whether Italian Grass Snakes, known for being larger, greener, and more aggressive than British varieties, might be breeding in Norfolk, citing their import as pets prior to 1983 CITES legislation. An older report from the 'Norfolk Chronicle' in 1782 describes a snake of enormous size, measuring 5ft 8 inches long with a three-foot circumference, possessing horn-like excrescences on its head. Another account mentions two six-foot snakes attacking a man in Dereham. The author speculates these might be escaped exotic snakes from ships at Yarmouth.

Giant "Rabbits" in Devonshire

Mike Davis reported seeing what he thought was a giant rabbit, about three feet high, in the woods near Starcross. He chased it into the undergrowth. The article notes that Wentworth Day's snakes are a mystery, and without more information, no definitive guesses can be made. Another anomalous giant rabbit sighting was reported from Westward Ho in January 1985, where William Phillips found large footprints identified by an animal welfare expert as belonging to a large rabbit, though the author suggests they could be from a wallaby. The article mentions that 'Giant Rabbit' sightings have been categorized as cryptic marsupials by Heuvelmans. It also discusses wallabies kept on a farm near Holcombe and the property of Joyce Butler in Dawlish, who has kept wallabies since the mid-1960s. Escapes have occurred, with one wallaby tranquilised and returned in May 1985. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food admitted to feral wallaby sightings in the area, but attributed them to Mrs. Butler's collection and stated there was no evidence of breeding.

The Nervous Twitcher

This column, presented by Alison Downes, focuses on avian oddities and 'out of place' birds. It mentions the sighting of a rare Black Throated Thrush near Bournemouth, a Ross Gull in Sunderland, and the birth of a four-legged Emu in Texas. It also touches on the disappearance of Malcolm Keller, allegedly owing money, along with his one-legged toucan, 'Hoppy'. A more serious report details a 'seabird disaster' along the Northern coasts of Great Britain, with an estimated 67,000 birds dying of starvation, attributed possibly to severe winter storms, difficulty in fishing, or overfishing/pollution. The column also reports on the reappearance of the critically endangered David's Tree Partridge in Vietnam and the discovery of a new species, Xenoperdix udzungvenis, in Tanzania. Finally, it mentions Japan's efforts to restore the Crested Ibis through DNA technology.

A Question of Rhinoceri

This section addresses an inquiry from Alberto Lopez Acha regarding the relict population of the Javan Rhinoceros in Vietnam. The article highlights the conflicting information available in various reference books about the species' status and distribution. While some sources suggest it was confined to Java since the 1940s, a female was shot in Vietnam in 1988. The article discusses the three subspecies of Asian Forest Rhinos: *R.s. inermis*, *R.s. annamiticus*, and *R.s. sondaicus*, noting that the Vietnamese population is likely *annamiticus* and the Javan population *sondaicus*. The author emphasizes the importance of genetic purity and questions the idea of interbreeding. It also briefly touches upon the hairy Sumatran Rhinoceros (*Dicerorhinus sumatrensis*), detailing its subspecies (*D.s. lasiotus*, *D.s. harrisoni*, *D.s. sumatrensis*) and their respective populations. A final anecdote mentions a British Army unit in Borneo reporting their camp destroyed by a herd of elephants, despite GHQ Singapore's assertion that elephants did not exist there, suggesting a feral herd of African elephants.

Crypto A-Z

This is the first part of an annotated list of unknown beasts worldwide, compiled by Jan Williams. Entries include:

• Abu Sotan: A carnivorous beast with black blotches or stripes from Sudan.
• Agogne: A small Tanzanian man-beast with russet fur, possibly Australopithecine.
• Ahoog: A large bat-like creature with a twelve-foot wingspan from Java, with a monkey-like face and backwards pointing feet.
• Amarok: An enormous wolf from Greenland.
• Ameranthropoides loysi (De Loys' Ape): Photographed in 1920 on the Venezuela-Colombia border, described as tail-less, five foot tall, and differing from known South American primates.
• Anaconda (Giant): Rumors from Brazil speak of Anacondas reaching seventy feet.
• Andean Wolf: A pelt bought in 1927 from Argentina, described as having long, thick fur, named *Dasycyon hagenbacki*.
• Angeda: A monster from Duhawnt Lake, Canada, with a huge fin.
• Arassas: A creature with a lizard's body and a cat's head from the French Alps.
• Atlas Bear: A small, extinct subspecies of Brown Bear, occasionally reported.
• Aypa: A Guyanese aquatic creature with a tiger's head, large teeth, and scales.

Help! Wanted

This section features requests from readers for information on various subjects. Richard Muirhead of Salisbury is seeking information on large bats in the Forest of Dean, albino foxes, a duck-billed platypus killed in the 1700s, and a wolf killed by a car in West Suffolk. Alberto Lopez Acha is looking for information on the Vu Quang Ox. The editor is interested in the wildlife of Hong Kong, Sligo's Salamander, and reports about Mustelids. Paul Garner is seeking further information on a decaying carcass found near Christchurch, New Zealand, speculated to be a modern plesiosaur, and is particularly interested in the exact date of discovery and the publication of fiber analysis results.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of zoology and unexplained phenomena, often drawing on historical accounts, folklore, and eyewitness testimonies. There is a clear interest in cryptozoology, with a dedicated A-Z section and numerous reports of unusual creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various theories and possibilities without necessarily endorsing any single explanation. The tone ranges from serious investigation to lighthearted speculation, as seen in the 'Nervous Twitcher' column and the humorous commentary on the wallaby sightings. The magazine encourages reader participation through its 'Help! Wanted' section, fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts.

This document is a 'Reviews Section' from a publication, likely a magazine or newsletter, focusing on cryptozoology and related subjects. It features two book reviews and an advertisement for a specialist book dealer. The overall tone is informative and enthusiastic about the subjects covered.

Book Review: The Lost Ark (New and Rediscovered Animals of the 20th Century) by Dr Karl Shuker

Reviewed by Jonathan Donnes, this book is described as 'Exhaustive' and 'Definitive', cataloguing the zoological discoveries of the 20th Century. The reviewer expresses admiration for the painstaking research involved. Unlike many cryptozoological books that merely recycle information, 'The Lost Ark' is presented as a comprehensive work. It covers a range of creatures, from the Pygmy Otter Shrew and Bulmer's Fruit Bat to more familiar animals like the Golden Hamster and Neon Tetra. The reviewer notes that Shuker makes the stories behind the discovery of even well-known pets as engaging as those of more obscure zoological subjects. The book also includes descriptions of cryptids such as Homo pongoides and Ameranthropoides loysii. Donnes states that Shuker writes with such conviction that even skeptics are won over, and quotes Gerald Durrell, who calls the book 'fascinating and encouraging' and recommends it for 'every naturalist's library'. The price of the book is listed as 14.99.

Book Review: My Highland Kellas Cats by Di Francis

Reviewed by Bill Petrovic, this book is by Di Francis, known for her previous theories about an indigenous British Big Cat species. Petrovic acknowledges that while some of Francis's past hypotheses have been met with skepticism, he believes there should be room for 'apparently absurd theories' in cryptozoology. He found parts of her second book, which suggested a leopard was responsible for the Genette Tate disappearance, to be 'sensationalist and revolting'. However, Petrovic expresses surprise at this new book, finding it to be a 'heartwarming little tale'. While it may not break new scientific ground, it focuses on a woman and her cats against 'hidebound scientific intransigence', particularly from the British Museum (Natural History) and its Mammal Department. Petrovic notes that the Centre for Fortean Zoology has had dealings with this department and can sympathize. He concludes that while not an essential addition to a Fortean library, it is an 'interesting and pleasant read', and recommends it with reservations. The price of the book is 14.99.

Excalibur Books Advertisement

This section features an advertisement for Excalibur Books, a mail-order specialist in new books on cryptozoology. They are located at Rivenoak, 1, Hillside Gardens, Bangor, Co. Down, BT19 6SJ, Northern Ireland. Their contact telephone number is 0247-458579. The advertisement lists several books they stock, including:

• Big Foot Notes (£12.95)
• Sasquatch Apparitions (£9.95)
• Ogopogo (£5.50)
• More Than a Myth: the Monster of Muskrat Lake (£12.50)
• Canada's Monsters (£4.25)
• Enigma of Loch Ness (£4.99)
• Beast of Exmoor (Beer) (£2.00)
• Beast of Exmoor (Frances) (£7.99)
• They Stalk by Night (£3.60)

They also offer titles on Folklore & UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are cryptozoology, book reviews, and the promotion of specialized literature in the field. The editorial stance appears to be supportive of cryptozoological research and the exploration of unusual theories, as evidenced by the positive reception of Shuker's book and Petrovic's nuanced review of Francis's work, which defends the inclusion of unconventional ideas within the discipline. The inclusion of Excalibur Books suggests a focus on providing resources for enthusiasts and researchers in these niche areas.