Animals and Men - No 02

Magazine Overview

'Animals & Men', Issue Two, is a publication of The Centre for Fortean Zoology, published by STP Communications. The issue, dated 1994, features a cover illustration of a bear and headlines about mystery bears, medieval wildmen, Nessie, the Tatzelwurm, bantam behaviour, and aberrant lizards, along with news and reviews. The price is One Pound and fifty pence.

Editorial

The editorial, titled 'The Great Days of Zoology are not done!', expresses gratitude for the overwhelming response to the first issue and announces that the magazine has been properly typeset. The editor acknowledges minor technical difficulties, such as spellchecker issues and problems transferring files, particularly when typesetting an article about 'Plesiosaurs'. The long-term aim is to become a monthly, A4, glossy publication. The editorial also calls for regional representatives to join the team.

Newsfile

Edited by Jan Williams, the Newsfile section compiles various reports and sightings:

• Mystery Cats: Reports include a puma-like black cat sighted in East Devon in March 1993, a black cat attack on Sally Dyke in Worcestershire in December 1993, and a mention of film footage of a mystery 'puma' in Norfolk shown on Anglia TV. A large panther-like creature was reported in Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, described as 'all black, very sleek, and much longer than a cat' with a long tail. Large pawprints found on the Isle of Wight were identified as canine, possibly from a missing Great Dane. A farmer in Norfolk reported a cat-like animal and unusual prints with pronounced claws. A twelve-year-old reported a black panther in woodland near Balmoral, Scotland.
• Fox Attacks Child in Nottinghamshire: A fox entered a house and attacked a sleeping four-year-old child.
• Rediscovery of Pardel Lynx Colony: Alberto Lopez Acha reports the rediscovery of two populations of the Iberian or Pardel Lynx in Spain between 1980 and 1982.
• Giant Muntjac in Vu Quang: A new large mammal species, the 'Giant Muntjac', has been discovered in the Vu Quang Nature Reserve, Vietnam. It is described as a deer with unique muntjac features but larger, with an estimated height of 80 cm and weight up to 50kg.
• Bigfoot on the Box: The TV series 'Quantum Leap' featured a convincing Bigfoot, and the Roger Paterson film of Bigfoot is advertised for 'TAB Clear' soft drink.
• Coal Eating Transparent Shrimps: Scientists are trying to study a colony of crustaceans in flooded colliery tunnels that live off coal dust and fragments of minerals. The mine was due to close, potentially losing the opportunity to study this new subspecies.
• It Wasn't Me Guv Department: Reports of hoaxes, including an April Fool's Day lion hoax in Yaounde, Cameroon, and a 'Today' newspaper claim of a flying rabbit.
• Cool for Cats: Munir Viriani believes African Golden Cats exist in the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest in Kenya.
• Iguana in Norfolk: A young Green Iguana was found on a Norwich industrial estate.
• Arachnophobia: A report on spider fighting in Sparkhill, Birmingham, involving poisonous spiders.
• On the Track of the Father of Cryptozoology: Bernard Heuvelmans' cryptozoological writings are being published in English.

The Woodwose or Wild Man in Britain

This article by Ben Chapman explores the concept of the 'wild man' or 'Woodwose' in Britain. It traces the term back to the twelfth century and describes medieval depictions of a hairy, strong individual with animal skins or leaves, often carrying a club. The article discusses the socio-economic conditions of early medieval Britain, where wood was essential for life, and how dense forests provided livelihoods and refuge. It suggests that 'wild men' might have been solitary individuals, social outcasts, or those fleeing persecution or plague. The article also touches upon early references to wild men in ancient literature, such as Pliny's mention of 'Sylvestris Homines'.

Almost Too Good To Be True?

This section reports on a potentially astounding news story revealed by Karl Shuker at The Fortean Times Convention. Roy Mackal has returned from Papua New Guinea with film footage of a serpentiform marine creature, conditionally identified as a surviving Zouglodon, known locally as 'MIGAU'. The creature lives off water birds in Lake Niu Gini, which has no fish population.

Last But By No Means Least

This section highlights Karl Shuker's book 'The Lost Ark' and photographs of extraordinary humped elephants from Nepal, possibly surviving Stegodonts. Colonel John Blashford-Snell is seeking volunteers for an expedition to Nepal in February 1995. It also mentions a forthcoming piece by Colonel Blashford Snell about his search for giant Monitor Lizards in New Guinea.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on cryptozoology, unexplained phenomena, and folklore, with a particular interest in mystery animals and historical accounts of unusual creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into these subjects, as evidenced by the variety of reports and the publication of 'The Centre for Fortean Zoology's' journal. There is a clear enthusiasm for sharing new findings and encouraging reader participation, as seen in the call for regional representatives and the detailed subscription information.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: Issue Two
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of 'Animals & Men' explores a variety of subjects related to animals, folklore, and unexplained phenomena. It features articles on medieval creatures, the Loch Ness Monster, alleged cryptid sightings, and unusual animal behaviour.

The Woodwose

The issue begins by examining the concept of the 'wild man' or 'woodwose'. It traces the origin of the term 'Sylvestres Homines' to Horace's Ars Poetica, referring to foresters or uncivilised men. The British Museum is noted to have a first-century AD lamp depicting a hairy man. The popular medieval image of the woodwose as a hairy individual with a club is traced back to a French Bestiary of 1300. Examples of woodwose iconography are found in numerous churches and cathedrals across Europe and Britain, with specific mentions of Beverley Minster, Chester Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey. The article highlights the medieval romance of Valentine and Orson, where Orson, raised in the forest, becomes a formidable wildman. The section on 'The Woodwose in Heraldry' explains its use as a supporter to coats of arms and as a crest, often depicted wreathed with leaves and carrying an uprooted tree or club. Families and individuals associated with the woodwose in heraldry include the Duke of Fife, Douglas, Menzies, Cart, Poulett, Walton, Eddington, and Gladstone.

Near Lizard...but not near Enough!

This article by Stuart Leadbetter critically examines the theory that the Loch Ness Monster is a surviving Plesiosaur. The author notes the media's tendency to link Nessie with dinosaurs, a comparison he deems incorrect, stating Plesiosaurs were more closely related to lizards and crocodiles. Leadbetter argues against the 'living fossil' hypothesis.

The Question of Respiration

The low probability of witnessing a surfacing suggests the creature is not dependent on surface air. Evidence from sonar contacts at Loch Ness, compared with the diving profiles of a Weddell Seal, shows a creature making rapid, deep dives inconsistent with a closed swim bladder. Professor Roy Machal's book 'The Monsters of Loch Ness' is cited.

The Behaviour of Plesiosaurs

The author questions how Plesiosaurs, if they existed in Loch Ness, would behave. He dismisses the idea that they would be shy, suggesting they would engage in normal animal activities like hunting, patrolling, and mating. The article questions whether courtship would occur underwater, given the low visibility, or on the surface. It is argued that a predatory hunter like a Plesiosaur would not have a colourful skin, which would make it conspicuous to prey. The need for courtship rituals at the surface is proposed, but the lack of reports of such behaviour at Loch Ness is highlighted.

Lack of Land Sightings

While early reports included sightings ashore, these have dwindled. The article discusses Plesiosaur reproduction, with the prevailing theory being egg-laying on isolated islands or estuaries. However, it is suggested that Plesiosaurs might have given birth to live young, explaining the lack of sightings of large creatures on shorelines. The author finds the egg-laying theory stronger, arguing that introducing live young to the dangerous Mesozoic seas would be disadvantageous. The need for nests or protected pits for eggs is discussed, contrasting with the lack of observed nesting behaviour at Loch Ness.

The Neck of the Plesiosaur

The long, graceful neck of the Plesiosaur is noted as a striking feature in restorations and a common element in Loch Ness sightings. The article questions the sole purpose of the neck for catching fish, suggesting it might have been used as a periscope. Professor Machal's book mentions a fossil Plesiosaur stomach containing a Pterodactyl, implying it could snatch airborne prey. However, the author points out that no Loch Ness sightings describe Nessie catching birds in flight.

Conclusion

The author concludes that the true identity of the Loch Ness creatures remains unknown. While some anatomical features suggest they might not require air to breathe, they are still occasionally seen at the surface. The article asserts that Loch Ness does not harbour Plesiosaurs but rather creatures whose body form might be mistaken for them.

It Ain't Nessiecerally so..

This section invites feedback on the article and mentions veteran Nesswatcher Rip Hepple, editor of 'Nessketter', suggesting contact for those interested in the Loch Ness phenomenon.

If you go down to the woods today.....

This article by Jan Williams investigates reports of a 'bear' in the ancient Wychwood forest, straddling the border of Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire. The forest is described as a historical haunt of highwaymen and strange spirits.

Bear Facts

Residents of Charlbury have taken a lighthearted view of the reports, with local businesses playing on the theme. The area previously had a cryptozoological claim to fame with 'Skippy', an escaped wallaby, and a wolf that killed sheep. Mr Waring, landlord of 'The Bull' in Charlbury, is open-minded about the bear, noting the terrain and food availability. He has found large, though distorted, prints.

The main witness is John Blackwell, a farmer who reported seeing an unusual animal in September 1992. Initially thinking it was a wallaby, closer sightings convinced him it was a bear. The animal is described as the size of an Old English Sheepdog, with small pointed ears, 'massive great hocks', dark rusty-brown fur with lighter sandy patches, and a waddling gait. In May 1993, Blackwell heard a strange hooting noise and saw the bear-like animal again, larger than before. He notes that no livestock have been attacked and the animal appears curious rather than aggressive.

Further sightings include Greg Gilbert and Sarah Cooper seeing a reddish-brown animal walking upright on its hind legs. James Graham-Cloete also reported seeing an animal by the roadside. A spokesperson for Cotswold Wildlife Park suggested witnesses might be seeing a badger, but Blackwell, an experienced badger watcher, disputes this.

Other Unusual Creatures

Reports of other unusual animals in the Wychwood area include Mrs Nicky Sherbrook finding a sheep killed and 'ripped to shreds', and her son Harry encountering a fox-sized, silvery animal with a black stripe and a flat cat-like head.

Is this "Animal" Behaviour?

This personal account by 'Pater familias' describes the behaviour of a bantam cockerel named 'Bunter'. The author, initially dismissive of anthropomorphism, recounts observing 'Bunter' exhibiting what he terms 'human' characteristics.

Bunter's Courtship and Care

'Bunter' is described as fussing over his 'wives' like an elderly father. The author witnessed 'Bunter' gently nudging a hen into a nest box, acting as a guard until she settled. He also observed 'Bunter' scratching in the garden, uncovering worms not for himself but for his hens. One evening, 'Bunter' was seen with four of his 'wives' cuddling under his wings, purring loudly, which the author interpreted as a display of affection and care.

Alpine Enigma

This article by Roger Hutchings recounts his early encounter with cryptozoology in Paris in 1934, where he met Maurice Masse, who proclaimed the existence of 'biped lizards' in the Alps. Masse asserted that these creatures, possessing only forelegs, moved swiftly and vanished into rocky retreats. He claimed they were commonplace in Provence, Switzerland, Bavaria, and Austria.

The author's curiosity was further piqued by Bernard Heuvelmans' book 'On the Track of Unknown Animals', which described a 'stumpy lizard' in the Alps, about two to three feet long, cylindrical in shape with a wide mouth and large eyes, possessing short forelegs but no hind legs. Reports and drawings from the nineteenth century, and a photograph from 1934, are mentioned.

In the German-speaking Alps, the creature is known as Bergstutzen, Stollenwurm, or Tatzelwurm. In Provence, it was called 'Le Gros' or 'Arasas'. Shepherds and gatherers reported seeing it basking near rocks, into which it would vanish quickly. The article notes that these creatures were often observed basking in sunlight near holes or clefts in rocks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of folklore, legends, and eyewitness accounts of unusual creatures, both historical and contemporary. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet critical stance, presenting evidence and witness testimonies while also offering reasoned arguments and scientific counterpoints, particularly in the case of the Loch Ness Monster. The editorial stance encourages reader feedback and discussion on the presented topics, aiming to cover various sides of the debates.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: Issue Two
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Language: English

This issue of "Animals & Men" delves into a variety of zoological, cryptozoological, and Fortean topics, offering a blend of scientific inquiry, folklore, and intriguing reports. The content ranges from ornithological curiosities and the search for rare species to historical accounts of mysterious creatures and reader-submitted queries.

Articles

Fortean Coincidences and UFOs

The issue opens with a brief mention of Fortean "coincidences," referencing witnesses who described UFO sightings in terms echoing those of Heuvelmans. One account details an encounter in 1965 with two small beings emerging from a "flying saucer" in Provencal, France, who immobilized the witness with a pencil-shaped instrument before ascending. The witness, Maurice Masse, was reportedly unaware of worldwide UFO phenomena prior to this experience.

A Hard Day's Night Parrot

Authored by Alison Downes, this article recounts an unsuccessful month-long expedition in December 1993 to Cooper's Creek in Northeast Australia, aimed at locating the elusive Night Parrot (Goopsittacus occidentalis). The failure is attributed to heavy rains that expanded the bird's habitat. Despite this, the article notes that many believe the species will be rediscovered, citing reliable but unconfirmed sightings throughout the 20th century. It mentions findings of remains killed by feral cats and aborigines, and a more significant discovery in 1990 of a recently killed Night Parrot near Mr. Isa, Queensland, hit by a car. The Night Parrot is described as a short, dumpy, shy, ground-dwelling bird that can fly for extended distances at night. It typically shelters in rocky caves or grass tussocks and feeds at dusk. A mounted specimen is available for viewing at the Zoological Museum at Tring.

Green Lizards in Devon and Dorset?

Jonathan Downes investigates herpetological anomalies concerning the European Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) in Devon and Dorset. An 1877 resume of Devonshire reptiles includes this species, which is not recognized as a native British species outside the Channel Islands. The article cites gentlemen like J.E.C. Walkeley and W.R. Crabbe who reported seeing specimens near Sidmouth in 1869. Mr. John Wolley also noted a school friend from Guernsey who had seen similar lizards in Devon. The article suggests these records are difficult to dismiss as misidentified native species or escapes. Reports in Dorset are described as more widespread, with correspondence from 1928-30 in the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Field Club providing insights into local traditions. A 1928 reference by Mr. R.B. Charkon mentions receiving many reports of the large Green Lizard, which can reach fifteen inches in length, compared to the native species' seven and five and a half inches. A personal sighting near Ringstead in 1908 is also mentioned. The article notes that a 1760s naturalist recorded Green Lizards of an unknown species in Surrey. Further records from 1929 include a sighting by Mr. W.R.G. Bond near Warcham. By 1930, the phenomenon was being dismissed as sightings of aberrant Sand Lizards (Lacerta agilis), with the size difference being ignored. The article posits that the geographical area of sightings makes the occurrence of L. viridis plausible, suggesting possible accidental importation from France via Weymouth, given the species' presence on the Channel Islands and historical cross-channel traffic.

Nervous Twitch

This section provides a regular update on ornithological curiosities. It includes a report on a small yellow, orange, and green bird discovered in Colombia, for which naming rights were offered for £75,000 to fund rainforest preservation. Another item, "Wild Goose Chases," discusses William Lishman's experiment to train geese to migrate using an aeroplane, and mentions that ostriches can be calmed by music. "It's in the papers..its got to be true!" highlights instances of albino mutations in wild birds, noting a photograph of a captive-bred albino blackbird used by The Daily Mail to illustrate a feature on mutations as if it were a wild sighting. The "Row over British List Revisions" discusses the British Ornithology Records Committee's decision to omit several species from the UK list, deeming them escapes rather than true vagrants. This includes the deletion of three American subspecies due to suspected falsification of records by Richard Meinertzhagen, whose work is now considered tainted.

Avian Aggression and Curiosities

Several short reports cover unusual animal behavior. A Muscovy Duck reportedly terrorized a village in Bedfordshire, attacking people and ripping off trousers. In Michigan, USA, a flock of turkeys caused traffic chaos, requiring pepper spray to disperse them. The article "What Can You Say About Curlews?" notes the sighting of Eskimo Curlews in Argentina, a species thought to be nearly extinct since the 19th century. "The Fabulous Furry Freak Fowl" humorously recounts a racing pigeon fancier accused of growing cannabis, claiming the hemp seed was for his pigeons' racing performance. "In a Pear Tree" details a gamekeeper fined for releasing 92 Chukar Partridges in Norfolk, raising concerns about hybridization with native British species. "Polly Wants a Cracker Already" tells the story of Ronnie, a parrot given to Idi Amin's son, which was later stolen and identified by its ability to dance and kiss its owner.

The A-Z of Cryptozoology

Part two of Jan Williams' exploration of the cryptozoological alphabet covers creatures from BADIGUI (an amphibious dinosaur-like creature) to BIGFOOT (a giant ape-man of North America). Entries include BAGENZA (ape-man from Zaire), BAI-XIONG (white bear from China), BAKANGA (mystery cat from Central African Republic), BAN-MANUSH (Yeti-like ape-man of Bangladesh), BARMOUTH MONSTER (dinosaur-like creature), BATUTUT (Bornean ape-man), BEAST OF LE GEVAUDAN (carnivore responsible for deaths in France), and BRENTFORD GRIFFIN (winged dog-like creature). Bigfoot reports date back to the early 19th century, with descriptions of its physical characteristics, smell, and vocalizations. Some Bigfoot reports are linked to UFO sightings and paranormal phenomena.

The Only Bear in Africa?

This "Help" section addresses a reader's question about the Atlas Bear. The article explains that the Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) was once widespread but is now precarious in certain areas. The High Atlas mountains of Morocco are noted as a cryptozoological interest area, potentially harboring the Barbary Lion and Leopard. It was also the last stronghold of a bear species in Africa, possibly the semi-mythical 'Nandi Bear' of East Africa. The 'Libyan Bear' was known to ancients and described after a specimen was obtained in 1841. It was slightly smaller than the North American Black Bear, with shaggy brownish-black hair. Originally named Ursus crowtheri, it was later demoted to subspecific status as Ursos arctos crowtherii. Despite mainstream zoology consigning it to extinction, rumors and vague reports suggest it may still survive in Spanish Morocco, with folkloric references hinting at its continued existence.

Mystery Lizards in Kent and Polecat Project in Scotland

Suzanne Stebbings from Kent queries unidentified lizards hatched from eggs of European Green Lizards (Lacerta viridis). The young lizards resembled Canary Island Gallotia stellina and did not hybridize. They suffered from rickets but improved with supplements. Dr. Andrew Kitchener from the National Museums of Scotland writes about a project investigating polecat-like animals in the West Midlands to determine if they are Welsh polecats recolonizing, feral polecat-ferrets, or hybrids. The project also investigates unofficial reintroductions of captive-bred polecats across Britain. Readers are asked to send carcasses of dead polecat- or marten-like animals for study.

Places to Go and People to See

This section offers travel suggestions for those interested in Fortean and zoological sites. It recommends visiting Torquay Aquarium for its marine life displays and marine mysteries, Plymouth Aquarium for its cetacean sightings and unusual specimens, Paradise Park in Cornwall for its bird collection including rare macaws, and Potter's Museum of Curiosity in Cornwall, described as a treasure trove of forteana founded in the last century.

Books and Magazines

The issue includes reviews of books and magazines. "Keltic Animal Lore and Shamanism" by Kaledon Naddair is praised as an eclectic and fascinating work. "The Book of The Toad" by Robert Degraaf is described as beautifully produced but perhaps too glossy, promising more than it delivers. Magazine reviews include "HOAX" for its anarchic insight into hoaxes and folklore, "NEXUS" for its coverage of alternative science and forteana, "THE SKEPTIC" for its debunking of new age thinking, "ANIMALS" (the official magazine of the British Zoos Support Club), "TOUCHSTONE" for Earth Mysteries and UFOs, and "TEMS NEWS" for forteana from UFO investigator Lionel Beer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of zoology, folklore, and the unexplained, often referred to as "Forteana." There is a clear interest in cryptozoology, with sections dedicated to cryptids and unexplained animal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting reports and theories without necessarily endorsing them, while also engaging with scientific perspectives and debunking claims where appropriate (e.g., the dismissal of Green Lizard sightings as aberrant Sand Lizards, or the questioning of Richard Meinertzhagen's records). The "Help" sections indicate a desire to engage readers and build a collective archive of information and specimens related to Fortean zoology.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: Two
Date: Not specified

This issue of "Animals & Men" focuses on "foxlore" and other unexplained phenomena, drawing from the magazine's files and reader submissions. The cover headline, "FROM OUR FILES..", sets the tone for a collection of intriguing and often bizarre accounts.

From Our Files..

The lead section, "FROM OUR FILES..", presents several accounts related to foxes and other unusual animal encounters.

Fox Attacks and Legends

One of the primary stories details a series of "quasi vampiric attacks" on domestic animals in Devon during the winter of 1951/52. Sheep on Ugborough Beacon were found with twin punctures to the neck and a significant amount of blood missing. Despite the "flimsiest pieces of circumstantial evidence," these killings were blamed on foxes. The report references the "Devonshire Assoc Vol 88 p251" for these details.

Another intriguing story, sourced from Devon folklorist Theo Brown and featured in "Tales of A Dartmoor Village," recounts the disappearance of a man on Dartmoor one winter. His bones and skull were eventually discovered near a foxes hole on the side of Longaford Tor. Since then, "ghostly foxes" are reputed to bark and appear on The Tor in the week before Christmas.

An excerpt from "Confessions of a Pop Performer" (published in 1975) by Petrovic includes a dialogue about a fox incident. Mr. Muckredge mentions an "old age pensioner who was bitten by a fox." Mr. Means questions this, suggesting it might have been a dog, as a fox wouldn't typically be found at the top of a high-rise flat unless chased by hounds. Mr. Muckredge admits he didn't check if the fox was being chased but believes it unlikely, as people would have noticed horses and pink jackets associated with a hunt on "The Clem Attlee estate."

The section concludes with a quote from the "entirely mythical Lazarus Long": "when the fox bites...SMILE".

And In The End

The final section, "AND IN THE END," addresses the challenges of producing the magazine due to the sheer volume of information received.

The editorial team states that the biggest problem is "TOO much information and too much happenning for us to cover it all." As they were going to press, they received reports of:

• A giant worm in Eastbourne.
• A Sea Serpent in The South China Sea.
• The capture of the first living specimen of The Vu Quang Ox.
• A host of big cat reports.
• A number of out-of-place birds.

The magazine announces that the next issue will be published in October. However, they acknowledge that the actual contents of Issue Two bore no resemblance to what they had previously stated would be included. Consequently, they make "no claims whatsoever for what will be in it," but promise that the next issue "will be a corker!"

Typesetting and ISSN

The second page features a cartoon with two dinosaur-like creatures discussing photographs, with one remarking, "..YEAH, NICE, BUT MOST HUMAN SHOTS ARE FAKES...." A sign in the background reads "LOCH NESS." Below the cartoon, it states "Typeset by Jon" and provides the ISSN: "1354-0637."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are unexplained animal behavior, folklore, and cryptozoology, particularly focusing on foxes and their mysterious or menacing associations. The magazine adopts an open, albeit somewhat disorganized, approach to presenting these accounts, acknowledging the vast amount of information received and the difficulty in curating it. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with the unexplained and a commitment to sharing intriguing, even if unverified, reports with their readership, promising exciting content for future issues despite past inconsistencies.