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Animals and Men - No 10
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Title: Animals & Men Issue: Ten Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology Country: United Kingdom Price: £1.75
Magazine Overview
Title: Animals & Men
Issue: Ten
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1.75
This issue of 'Animals & Men' presents a diverse collection of articles focusing on zoology, cryptozoology, and unexplained animal phenomena. The editorial team, though described as an 'ever changing crew', includes Jonathan Downes as Editor, Jan Williams as Newsfile Editor, and Alison Downes as Administratrix.
Editorial and Staff
The editorial team is introduced, with Jan Williams stepping down as Newsfile Editor after two and a half years, though she will continue as a regional representative and occasional contributor. The magazine also lists its consultants, including Dr. Bernard Heuvelmans (Honorary Consulting Editor) and Dr. Karl P.N.Shuker (Cryptozoological Consultant), along with regional representatives from various parts of the UK and Europe.
Feature Articles and Investigations
The Great Days of Zoology Are Not Done
This section highlights the growing capabilities of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, moving beyond publishing to undertaking expeditions. A significant focus is on a planned expedition to The Gambia to investigate the burial site of a sea-serpent carcass discovered by Owen Bunham. The article details the efforts to map the location and mentions the involvement of a television company. Additionally, plans are underway for an expedition to Switzerland in 1997 to search for the Tatzelwurm, with opportunities for interested readers to join, provided they cover their own costs.
Newsfile
The 'Newsfile' section, edited by Jan Williams, covers a variety of recent reports and discoveries:
- Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except For Me and My Monkey: Reports on the rediscovery of a tiny monkey in southeast China, known as 'Ink Monkey', which was historically kept by Chinese scholars for preparing ink and assisting with calligraphy.
- New and Rediscovered Species: A new species of monkey, *Callithris saterei*, has been discovered in the Brazilian rainforest, described as bright orange and squirrel-sized. Experts predict more discoveries in the region.
- Primal Primate: The discovery of fossil remains in China of *Eosimias centennicus*, a mouse-sized creature believed to be a missing link between ancient monkeys and higher primates, dating back 40 million years.
- I'm Always Touched By Your Presence Deer: The rediscovery of Tibetan Red Deer, or Shou, in Alpine meadows near Lhasa, with over 100 individuals found by researchers.
- Early Amphibians: Fossil evidence from Australia suggests that the first amphibious creatures appeared on land over 150,000,000 years earlier than previously thought, based on fossilized teeth and bones found in Queensland.
- Sea and Lake Monsters: Reports include a 'Malaysian Dragon' carcass found by fishermen, initially suspected to be a Basking Shark or Killer Whale. A personal account describes a sighting of a dark, low hump in Lough Cullaun, Ireland, with a mention of local legends about a giant eel.
- Identity Crisis: A report about a Basking Shark stranded alive on a beach in Pembrokeshire, with a headline mistakenly identifying it as a whale.
- The 'Case' for G.S.: Clyde Roper from the Smithsonian Institute is searching for living specimens of *A. chiteuthis* (giant squid) in the South Pacific.
- It's For You-000: Fishermen in Borneo are using stolen pay-phones as electronic bait in fish traps.
- What a Whopper!: A nearly 10-foot long Conger Eel was caught off the Scottish coast.
- Passion Killer: Strange deaths of sea-lions on the South California coast are attributed to a rogue giant male sea-lion, possibly a hybrid.
- The Wurm Turns: An Austrian butcher was charged for faking photographs of the Tatzelwurm to sell to tourists.
- Orange Blossom Special: A new species of monkey discovered in the Brazilian rainforest.
- Crocodile in Finchley: The discovery of a decomposing crocodile carcass in North London, with speculation about it being an illegally dumped pet.
- Great Snakes!: A nine-foot Burmese Python was found dead in Campbell Park, Milton Keynes.
- Ants With Angst: The Florida Ghost Ant is invading the UK, posing a potential infection risk, especially in hospitals.
- Zooform Phenomena - The Beast of Chiswick: Sightings of a mysterious phenomenon in Chiswick are compared to reports from the American Midwest, with descriptions of a creature resembling a kangaroo or a demonic animal. The RSPCA suggested it might be an otter, but this is disputed.
- Chupacabras: The phenomenon of the 'Goat sucker' is spreading in the USA and Mexico, with various descriptions and alleged attacks on livestock. One investigation by a zoo curator suggested dog-related activity rather than a cryptid.
- Not Flaming But Drowning: Six firemen rescued a hamster from a drain.
- Moth Menace: Barriers have been erected around silver maple trees in London to protect commuters from brown-tailed moths, whose larvae can cause skin irritation.
- As a Newt...: A rare bright yellow neotenic palmate newt was found in Cornwall, a condition where the animal reaches adult size but retains larval features.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the fringes of zoology, focusing on unexplained phenomena, cryptids, and newly discovered or rediscovered species. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting reports and investigations without necessarily endorsing them, as indicated by the disclaimer. There is a clear interest in cryptozoology, with regular features and a dedicated consultant. The magazine also engages with its readership through phone-in quizzes and by welcoming feedback on potential expeditions.
Title: Animals & Men
Issue: Issue Ten
Date: May 31, 1996
This issue of 'Animals & Men' covers a range of topics within natural history and cryptozoology, with a strong focus on unexplained animal sightings and the scientific investigation of legendary creatures.
Mystery Cats
The issue opens with reports of 'mystery cats' from various locations in the UK. In Buckinghamshire, artist Sue Reed described a large cat-like animal near Stowe School, the size of an Alsatian with white chest colouring. Another sighting in Gawcott described a 'big black' cat that ran out in front of a car, appearing to stare with its mouth open. A motorist in Scotland claimed his car was damaged by a 'big black scary cat larger than an Alsatian' near Culloden Moor. In Elgin, two tan coloured, lioness-like cats, estimated to be six feet long including their tails, were seen. Near Lincoln, Lesley and Doreen Dean reported an 'eight foot long, black panther' with piercing eyes. A motorist in Newton Blossomville saw a 'huge cat' with a long tail cross the road. Finally, in Westcroft, a creature described as 'quite tall, about the size of a medium-sized dog, and very long' was seen by a resident.
The A-Z of Cryptozoology
This section, authored by Jan Williams, provides brief overviews of various cryptids:
- Emela-Ntouka: A semi-aquatic, elephant-sized beast from the African Congo with a long tail and a horn on its snout, said to be vegetarian despite its aggressive behaviour.
- Emmaville Panther: A large, cat-like creature reported in Emmaville, New South Wales, Australia, since the late 1950s, often described as black or sandy-coloured and leopard-like. UFO sightings have also occurred in the area.
- Filey, Sea Monster of: Coastguard Wilkinson Herbert reported a thirty-foot long monster on Filey Brig beach in 1934, featuring an eight-foot neck, huge eyes, and a black body with two humps and four flippered legs.
- Flathead Lake Monster: A huge, black creature seen in Flathead Lake, Montana, USA, described as at least twenty-five feet long with no dorsal fin.
- Flixton Werewolf: A legend of a werewolf with shining teeth, crimson eyes, a terrible stench, and a long tail, haunting the area of Flixton, North Yorkshire.
Fur Bearing Trout
This short piece clarifies that the 'fur-bearing trout', sometimes exhibited as a curiosity, are forgeries, typically ordinary trout wrapped in rabbit fur.
Wolf Scare by Eric Sorensen
Eric Sorensen discusses a report from Ljunghusen, Sweden, where nurse Lena Sundberg claimed to be attacked by two wolves. Sorensen notes that while wolf sightings were rarer in the past, the incident is considered in the context of potential stress influencing perception and the possibility of stray wolves. He also touches on the idea of 'feral dogs' and the increasing desire for larger, more aggressive dog breeds.
Ancient Whales, Sea Serpents and Nessies Part 2: Theorising on Survival by Darren Naish
This is the third article in a series by Darren Naish, focusing on the theory that extinct whales, specifically archaeocetes like Basilosaurus and protocetids, might be the basis for modern sea serpent and lake monster legends.
Historical Context and Interpretations
Naish reviews the work of cryptozoologists like Heuvelmans, Michell, and Rickard, who have explored the possibility of surviving archaeocetes. He notes that Basilosaurus and Zeuglodon are frequently cited candidates for sea monster identities. The article discusses how some researchers, like McEwan, have suggested that certain sea serpent descriptions align with Basilosaurus, even proposing that Hans Egede's 1734 sighting off Greenland could be of a rearing basilosaur. Shuker also suggests Egede's monster might be an archaeocete. The article also touches upon lake serpents and their potential relation to Basilosaurus, citing Dr. Roy Mackal's classification of 'Ogopogo' and other Canadian lake monsters as related.
The 'Cetacean Centipede' and 'Many-Humped' Sea Serpents
Heuvelmans identified three forms of modern-day archaeocetes among cryptids: the 'Cetacean Centipede' (Cetio colopendra acliani) with numerous small lateral fins and segmented bony plates, and the 'Many-Humped' (Plurigibbosus novaeangliae) responsible for sightings of humps, particularly in Gloucester Bay, Massachusetts, around 1817.
Lake Monsters and Archaeocetes
Naish addresses the suggestion that the 'Champ' monster of Lake Champlain might be an archaeocete. However, based on the Sandra Mansi photograph, he argues it depicts a plesiosaur-type creature, not a whale. He vehemently opposes the Champ-as-basilosaur notion. He also discusses the possibility of land-locked marine cetaceans contributing to lake monster sightings, though he finds this idea unsubstantiated. The article posits that while many lake monsters are composites of local folklore, some serpentine and humped beasts might indeed be related to whales, possibly a new type of freshwater cetacean.
Whales with Body Armour
Naish examines the concept of 'body armour' in relation to sea serpents and archaeocetes. He discusses Heuvelmans' and McEwan's ideas about scutes and tubercules being remnants of primitive whale features. However, he notes that modern research indicates these scutes are often from early leatherback turtles, not archaeocetes, and that tubercules on the Black Porpoise are likely neomorphs (recently evolved oddities). Despite this, he acknowledges that the idea of armour in archaeocetes has persisted in cryptozoological literature, linking it to the 'Cetioscolopendra' and 'Plurigibbosus' descriptions.
Tale of a Whale's Tail
'Ogopogo' from Lake Okanagan is considered as a potential surviving basilosaur. Descriptions of multiple dorsal fins or ornamentation are linked to sturgeon sightings, while other suggestions include giant carnivorous eels or river otters. Naish notes that creatures with 'whiskers' or manes are generally not cetacean. He discusses the 'whale tail' characteristic, with forked and horizontal flukes, as a strong indicator of mammalian affinity, seen in creatures like the 'Cadborosaurus' and the 'humped creature' from Lake Brompton. He concludes that this tail structure is not unique to Cetacea and can be characteristic of serpentine and humped lake serpents, suggesting mammalian origins.
Lacustrine Basilosaurs Far and Wide
Naish considers various lake monsters as potential archaeocetes. The Flathead Lake monster is suggested as a cold-adapted archaeocete. The Marakopa River monster and 'Winipogo' are also mentioned. The monster of Lake Van in Turkey, with its elongate body and dorsal fins, is suggested by Shuker to be a basilosaur, though Naish finds its hairy and horned appearance less convincing. He notes that creatures with 'alligator heads' and serpentine features, like those reported in Canadian lakes, could be interpreted as lake-dwelling basilosaurs, possibly dwarf forms.
The Resurrection of Eocene Protocetids
This section discusses the possibility of protocetids, an extinct group of early whales, being resurrected as cryptids. Heuvelmans identified 'Hyperhydra egedei', an Arctic Ocean marine mammal, as a potential 'super otter' and an evolved archaeocete. While 'Hyperhydra' had a sinuous body and four limbs, Naish argues that protocetids are generally short-bodied and seal-like, and there's no evidence of a trend towards serpentiformity. He points out the lack of protocetid fossils for 38 million years and suggests that the presence of four limbs in some cryptids doesn't exclusively point to protocetids, as hind limbs were retained by other whale groups.
Fig. 7: 'Super-Otter' ('Hyperhydra')
This figure shows a restoration of 'Hyperhydra' under Heuvelmans' direction, with a man and a protocetid for scale, illustrating its serpentine form.
Conclusion on Protocetids
Naish concludes that the argument for protocetids as 'Hyperhydra' ancestors is weak due to their morphology and the lack of recent fossil evidence. He suggests that while Shuker offered basilosaurids as closer relatives, the case for their survival is also poor. He acknowledges that cryptozoologists must explore possibilities, even with meagre evidence.
Acknowledgements and References
The article concludes with acknowledgements to individuals who assisted in its completion, including Jon, Alison, Karl Shuker, Ewan Fordyce, Gareth Dyke, Ian Harding, Ben Roesch, John Moore, and Jason Head. A list of references and notes is provided, citing works by Sanderson, Naish, Heuvelmans, Michell & Rickard, McEwan, Shuker, Bright, Morell, Bord & Bord, and Costello.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring theme throughout the cryptozoology section is the re-examination of fossil animals, particularly extinct whales like Basilosaurus and protocetids, as potential explanations for modern sea serpent and lake monster sightings. The magazine adopts a critical yet open-minded stance, presenting scientific findings and historical cryptozoological theories, while also offering reasoned arguments against certain interpretations. The editorial stance appears to favour rigorous analysis and evidence-based speculation, encouraging readers to explore possibilities within the bounds of scientific understanding.
Title: Animals & Men
Issue: Issue Ten
Date: 1997
Publisher: CFZ
Country: UK
Language: English
This issue of "Animals & Men" explores a variety of topics at the intersection of zoology, cryptozoology, and fortean phenomena. It features articles on predicted moths, lake monsters, hybrid cats, and zoomyths, reflecting the magazine's focus on unusual and often controversial subjects.
The 'Predicted Moth' of Madagascar: An Ill-Known Success of Cryptozoology
This extensive article by Michel Raynal details the fascinating story of how Charles Darwin, through his study of the Angraecum sesquipedale orchid in Madagascar, predicted the existence of a moth with an exceptionally long proboscis. The orchid, with nectaries up to eleven and a half inches long, suggested that a moth capable of reaching the nectar must exist. Darwin's prediction, made in 1862, was later vindicated when a new subspecies, Xanthopan morgani praedicta, was discovered and described in 1903, possessing a proboscis of about 25 cm (ten inches). The article also notes a similar prediction made by American entomologist Gene Kirsty regarding another Madagascar orchid, Angraecum longicalcar, which has an even deeper nectary.
The article references historical accounts and scientific papers, including contributions from WA Forbes, Herman Muller, Fritz Muller, Alfred Russel Wallace, and Walter Rothschild & Carl Jordan, who discussed similar moths and evolutionary theories. The discovery of this moth is presented as a significant success for cryptozoology, demonstrating the power of scientific prediction based on ecological evidence.
Spotting Cats with Spots: The Bengal Cat
This section presents two opposing viewpoints on the Bengal cat, a hybrid breed developed by crossing domestic cats with the Asian leopard cat (Felis bengalensis). Anita Cox, a breeder and zoologist, describes the aim of creating a wild replica with a gentle temperament. Clinton Keeling, a zoologist and zoo keeper, expresses strong disapproval of this practice, viewing it as a violation of nature and foreseeing potential problems. The article notes that first-generation male hybrids are typically sterile. Keeling also discusses the natural behavior of the leopard cat, its distribution, and a curious mystery surrounding its type specimen, which was found swimming in the Bay of Bengal.
The Derry
Written by Sunila Sen-Gupta, this piece introduces the 'Derry' as a 'sociological zoomyth' rather than a cryptid. The editorial note emphasizes that not all zoomyths are rooted in living creatures but can serve cultural functions, sometimes created for spiritual, financial, or political reasons. The Derry is presented as a creature unheard of outside Switzerland, and its concept is linked to practical jokes or rituals common in certain professions, such as building sites, where new employees might be sent on a 'wild goose chase' for mythical equipment.
The article is accompanied by a comic strip illustrating the Derry, depicting its features, adaptations to mountain living, and potential problems arising from its unidirectional movement and interactions with other Derris. The comic highlights its camouflage abilities and susceptibility to confusion in unnatural or psychedelic environments.
Of Moose, Men and Monsters
Lars Thomas writes about the Storsjo-monster of Lake Storsjon in Sweden. He recounts the history of sightings, starting in the 1890s, and the efforts made to capture the creature, including the involvement of Dr. Peter Olsson. The article notes that the monster was declared a protected species in 1986. A key aspect of the Storsjo-monster's description, particularly the mention of large, white ears, leads Thomas to propose a novel theory: that many sightings might actually be of moose swimming in the lake. He explains that moose are strong swimmers, can dive, and their antlers, when free of velvet, could resemble sails or fins, potentially leading to misidentification, especially when appearing suddenly from the water.
The Derry (Continued)
This section seems to be a continuation of the 'Derry' article, possibly with more illustrations or further discussion, though the provided OCR text does not contain explicit new content for this section beyond the comic strip.
Scottish News from Tom Anderson
Tom Anderson reports on the introduction of a deer bill in the UK designed to manage red deer herds, which have increased significantly to 350,000. The bill proposes a cull of 100,000 deer and would grant powers for using all-terrain vehicles and helicopters to drive herds. The article mentions the economic aspect of deer stalking and the controversy surrounding the proposed cull, with animal welfare groups advocating for birth control pellets as a less contentious alternative.
Editor's Note: Cryptozoology and Controversy
Darren Naish, the editor, welcomes controversial articles, stating that cryptozoology is inherently a controversial subject. He congratulates the author of an article (likely the one on the predicted moth) for meticulous research, while acknowledging that some assertions may contradict established works, including those by contributors and subscribers. Naish encourages responses and dialogue, promising to publish them in the upcoming Yearbook to foster an open and scientific discussion.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently embraces controversial and unusual topics within the realm of zoology and forteana. The editorial stance, as articulated by Darren Naish, is one of openness to debate and scientific inquiry, even when dealing with subjects that challenge conventional understanding. The inclusion of diverse articles, from scientific predictions of species to the analysis of zoomyths and the debate over hybrid animals, highlights a commitment to exploring the fringes of knowledge and encouraging reader participation.
Animals & Men, Issue Ten, is a publication dedicated to exploring a wide array of subjects at the intersection of zoology, folklore, and the unexplained. The issue features a diverse range of articles, letters, and reviews, reflecting the magazine's commitment to covering both established scientific topics and more speculative or fortean phenomena.
The Boars Are Back in Town
This lead article by Neil Arnold discusses the re-emergence of wild boar in Britain. Arnold posits that while man's aggressive nature has led to the extinction of many larger animals, the reintroduction of species like the wild boar, bears, and even poisonous insects might be a way for nature to reclaim its roots. The article details the historical hunting of boar by Britons, Saxons, and Romans, and how they were even imported for sport. It notes that while forests in Germany and France are still home to boar, their presence in Britain is now a reality, with some escaping from farms and becoming part of the local menu in exclusive restaurants. Despite breeders denying responsibility, eyewitness reports and photographs confirm their existence. The article touches upon the controversy surrounding these animals, with some locals wanting them eradicated while others see their return as a positive sign for British wildlife. It also mentions the potential for cross-breeding and the challenges of conservation, hoping that these 'native creatures' will survive.
Now That's What I Call Crypto
This section, by Neil Nixon, reviews 'The Neutrons - Mermaid and Chips', a track from a mythical compilation LP. Nixon describes the music as obscure prog. rock with tinkling pianos, synth effects, and choral backing vocals. The lyrics are characterized as an arty mishmash of the mundane and mythical, taking the listener from 'Swansea pier' to Tintagel. The review highlights the elusive nature of the 'beauty' described in the song and the quest for proof, which in this case is 'broken shells'. The sound is compared to Genesis, and the track is noted as being from the ultra-rare 'Black Hole Star' album, originally released in 1974.
Guiafairo - The fear that flies by night
Owen Burnham writes about the Guiafairo, a notorious entity from West African folklore, particularly in forest regions and savannahs with rocky outcrops. Described as a grey, stealthy, flying creature with a man-like face and wings, it is said to bring a nauseating smell and a creeping, paralyzing death shortly after an encounter. The Guiafairo is believed to haunt hollow trees and rocky outcrops by day. The article notes its ability to appear and disappear at will, with only extreme good-luck charms offering protection. Traces left by the creature are its smell or claw marks on dirt floors. The editor notes a similarity to the Owlman phenomenon reported near Falmouth Bay.
Letter from the Loch-Side
Richard Carter, from the Loch Ness Society, shares his observations while watching Loch Ness. He discusses how natural phenomena like boat wakes, wind slicks, and even ducks can be misinterpreted as sightings of the Loch Ness Monster. Carter emphasizes the need for skepticism and awareness of potential misinterpretations, while still holding out hope for a genuine sighting.
Help Extra: A Strange Fish Indeed
This section, by Michael Goss, investigates a 'strange aquatic creature' mentioned in a previous issue. Goss identifies it as likely an angler fish washed ashore at Canvey Island on November 29, 1953. He references 'Beachcomber' from the 'Southend Standard' and the 'Canvey News and Benfleet Recorder' for details. The creature was described as a 'Fish with teeth and toes', weighing 30lbs, 2ft. 9 inches long, with protruding eyes, a tongue, and two 'feet' on its back. Goss also mentions a similar find on August 10 of the following year, described as 'four feet long with staring eyes and a large mouth on its stomach, it had two feet, each with five toes'. Goss analyzes the media's presentation of these finds as mysteries, suggesting an American source from the late 1950s or early 1960s.
Help Extra: Continued...
This section continues the discussion on strange finds, referencing a 'peculiar fish' found on Canvey Island, identified as a 'pocket' or 'fiddler fish', likely an angler fish. The writer expresses skepticism about how these local news items are blown up into major mysteries, suggesting a possible American origin for the sensationalized accounts. The article also touches upon the Devil's Hoofprints and other beached enigmas.
Odd Ornithology
Alison Downes reports on recent ornithological sightings: rare Arctic snowy owls seen in Scotland, thought to be passing through rather than breeding; a rose-breasted grosbeak from the USA blown off course to the Isle of Wight; and a government survey on the feeding habits of wild ringneck parakeets in the UK, with an estimated 5,000 birds in colonies.
Bert the Vulture
A brief update on Bert the vulture, who was reared by an old sock, mentions that he has been taught to fly by being thrown out of a hot air balloon.
Letters
The Killing Joke 1
Richard Freeman writes about the article 'On Collecting a Cryptid', questioning whether specimens of unknown animals should be collected solely for proof. He references Peter Dickinson's novel 'Emma Tupper's Diary', which deals with a relict colony of Plesiosaurs adapted to a cold water environment. The letter highlights the ethical dilemma of studying such creatures, potentially leading to their extinction, as posed by Prof. Krantz.
The Killing Joke 2
Martien 't Mannetje comments on Prof. Krantz's theories regarding the Loch Ness phenomena, particularly the idea of harpooning Nessie. He criticizes this approach, drawing parallels to the hunting of whales into extinction and questioning the effectiveness of local laws protecting the Loch Ness phenomena. 't Mannetje also mentions a conversation with the Department of Wildlife in Oregon, which passed a resolution to protect Bigfoot against hunting, contrasting it with the stances of Washington and British Columbia.
Alan Moore Knows the Score
This letter, from Martien 't Mannetje, responds to a request for cryptozoological comics. He recalls a story about a yeti in Marvel UK's 'Dr Who Monthly' from 1979 or 1980, written by Alan Moore and drawn by Dave Gibbons.
Negative Feedback
Clinton Keeling expresses disappointment with the magazine's perceived lack of seriousness, contrasting high-quality articles with 'sheer, utter, rot' like 'Now that's what I call Crypto'. He criticizes the casual tone and the use of 'somewhere' as an address, suggesting it undermines the magazine's credibility. Keeling, a cryptozoologist for decades, believes the subject should be treated seriously and fears the magazine might present it as a haven for 'offbeat oddballs'.
Editorial Response
The editor responds to Clinton Keeling's feedback, stating that cryptozoology is both a 'serious and specialized science' and a field for 'freethinkers' and potentially 'dangerous lunatics'. The editor defends the inclusion of lighter-hearted content and explains the magazine's broad scope, which includes Fortean Zoology. The response also addresses the lack of cooperation from some natural history societies and museums, attributing it to a 'Victorian amateurism' and a reluctance to engage with fortean topics. The editor highlights successful collaborations with other institutions and asserts that the magazine is taken seriously by various media outlets.
Book Reviews
'The Lost Birds of Paradise' by Errol Fuller
This review praises the book for its examination of nineteen species of Birds of Paradise known from single specimens. The reviewer finds the book to be a 'detective story' and highlights the narrative intertwined with the life of Baron Rothschild. The book is described as masterfully written, lavishly illustrated, and essential for anyone interested in birds or cryptozoology.
'Rumours of Existence' by Matthew Bille
Described as a new book on general cryptozoology from the editor of 'Exotic Zoology', this review notes that the book covers well-known cryptids in a fresh and interesting way, including information not previously encountered. It is divided into sections on 'Recent Discoveries', 'Presumed Extinct', and 'The Mystery Animals'.
'Hills and Streams - An Ecology of Hong Kong' by David Dudgeon and Richard Corlett
This review focuses on the book's scholarly insight into the ecology of Hong Kong, a landscape shaped by man. It discusses the original deforestation and subsequent reforestation, and how the recovery of the countryside has impacted its zoology. The book is seen as providing signposts for understanding ecological recovery.
'Sasquatch Bigfoot - The Continuing Mystery' by Thomas N. Steenburg
This review describes the book as an engaging account of a search for the Canadian man-beast, based on eyewitness accounts. While acknowledging its strengths, the reviewer notes that it omits better-known cases and is not the definitive work on the subject, suggesting John Green or Grover Krantz as more comprehensive sources. It is considered a useful addition to the 'man-beast' section of a cryptozoological library.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue include the reintroduction and conservation of wildlife, the investigation of cryptozoological phenomena (such as wild boar, Guiafairo, Loch Ness Monster, Bigfoot, and Thylacine), and the broader scope of Fortean Zoology. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious scientific inquiry alongside more speculative and 'offbeat' investigations, aiming to cater to a wide readership interested in mysteries and the natural world. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness, encouraging discussion and research while acknowledging the ethical considerations involved in studying and potentially preserving unknown species.
Title: Animals & Men
Issue: Ten
Date: Not specified, but likely around 1996-1997 based on content.
Document Type: Magazine Issue
This issue of "Animals & Men" focuses heavily on book and periodical reviews, particularly within the realms of cryptozoology, fortean phenomena, and related fringe sciences. The editorial stance appears to be critical of overtly commercialized or sensationalist content, preferring well-researched and genuinely interesting material.
Book Reviews
The magazine features reviews of several books, offering brief summaries and opinions:
- 'Sasquatch - The Apes Amongst Us' by John Green: Described as a timely re-print and a classic work on the subject, though the reviewer notes its purely zoological frame of reference, suggesting a 'zooform' nature for many phenomena.
- 'According to the Evidence' by Erich von Daniken (£9.99): Listed without a detailed review.
- 'Signs of the Gods' by Erich von Daniken (£7.99): Listed without a detailed review.
- 'Journey into Supermind' by Dr. Richard Lawrence (£8.99): Listed without a detailed review.
- 'The Lost world of Agharti' by Alec Maclellan (£7.99): Listed without a detailed review.
- 'The Bermuda Triangle' by Charles Berlitz (£8.99): Listed without a detailed review.
- 'Zolar's encyclopaedia of ancient and forbidden knowledge' (£9.99): Listed without a detailed review.
- 'Monster Monster - A Survey of the North American Monster Scene' by Betty Sanders Garner (Hancock House, 190pp, $12.95US): The reviewer finds the title and cover art tacky but praises the book's content as a cheerful and readable round-up of North American cryptids. The chapter on the White River Monster is highlighted as particularly good.
- 'The Book of the Unicorn' by Nigel Suckling (Paper Tiger, 128pp, £12.95): The reviewer expresses a dislike for Paper Tiger's 'whimsical hippy' art books, finding their relevance to serious fortean research questionable, though acknowledges the book's aesthetic appeal and the text's neatness. It includes an account of Dr. Dove's experiments and references to Biblical and mythological lore.
- 'LOCH NESS The Tour' by Richard Carter (Carterways, 32pp, £1.50): This booklet is praised as an engaging and affordable guide to visiting Loch Ness, focusing on other sights and sounds of the area rather than solely on 'Nessie' sightings. It includes information on spawning salmon, Aliester Crowley's sojourn at Boleskine House, and local wildlife.
- 'CADBOROSAURUS -Survivor from the Deep' by Paul LeBlond and Edward Bousfield (134pp): This is described as a remarkable piece of research that paints a convincing picture of an extraordinary cryptid, even converting a hard-core skeptic. The authors are encouraged to seek funding for further proof.
Periodical Reviews
The magazine categorizes its reviews of other periodicals:
Cryptozoology and Zoomythology
- DRAGON CHRONICLE: A4 and glossy, published four times a year.
- THE BRITISH COLUMBIA CRYPTOZOOLOGY CLUB NEWSLETTER: Well-put-together and now on the Internet.
- CREATURE RESEARCH JOURNAL: Devoted to Pennsylvania Bigfoot reports from 1994-5.
- CRYPTOZOOLOGIA: A French language magazine from the Belgian society for Cryptozoology.
- CRYPTOZOOLOGY REVIEW: A new publication including an article on a cryptic polychaete from St Lucia.
- EXOTIC ZOOLOGY: A free newsletter from the author of 'Rumours of existence', covering new and rediscovered species.
Fringe Science
- SCIENCE FRONTIERS: Newsletter of William Corliss's Sourcebook Project, featuring snippets of useful information. A review of their book 'Mammals Vol. 1' is promised for a future issue.
- NEXUS: Described as an intelligent look at the fringes of science, well put together and impressive.
Fortean/Earth Mysteries/Folklore
- TEMS NEWS: An entertaining collection of odds and sods, generally weird stuff, and recommended.
- HAUNTED SCOTLAND: A bizarre newsletter covering weirdness from Scotland, soon to be a magazine.
- COVER UP: The magazine of the Lothian Unexplained Phenomena Research group, covering UFOs, animal mutilation, and ghosts.
- DELVE: A Fortean magazine including an article on the flying snake of Namibia.
- 3rd STONE: A magazine of the Gloucester Earth Mysteries Group, described as wittily and intelligently put together.
- DEAD OF NIGHT: An amusing and intelligently put together Fortean magazine, with a great article about Crowley/Boleskine, noted as a favourite fortean journal.
Zoology/Natural History
- SOUTH WEST HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY NEWSLETTER: Entertaining and informative, from a thriving organisation.
- BIPEDIA: A scholarly magazine exploring the theory of Initial Bipedalism and allied disciplines, written partly in French and English.
- MILTON KEYNES HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY: An excellent AS magazine with handy hints, informative articles, and news.
- MAINLY ABOUT ANIMALS: Edited by Clinton Keeling, this is a highly recommended AS magazine covering animals.
- ESSEX REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS SOCIETY: Another excellent and lively regional reptile society.
- NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF PRIVATE ANIMAL KEEPERS: A useful publication with information on wild animal husbandry, noted as needing support.
- THE MANE: A fascinating journal about wild horses and their relatives, of interest to cryptozoologists.
Miscellaneous
- NETWORK NEWS: Covers anarchism, Earth mysteries, weirdness, and cryptozoology. Issue 10 is noted as the 'Sex Magic Sacrifice' issue.
- FOAFTALE NEWS: An academic approach to contemporary folklore.
- PENDRAGON: A scholarly and entertaining magazine on Arthurian topics, balancing literature and history.
- LOBSTER: A conspiracy theory magazine with a UK bias, noted for articles on the MI6 involvement in the 1953 Iran coup and a mention of Arthur Ransome.
Coming Soon
The Centre for Fortean Zoology plans to publish several books later in the year, including reprint volumes of 'The Shiels Effect' and 'The Cantrip Codex' by Tony 'Doc' Shiels, and 'The Owinan and Others' by Jonathan Downes. The CFZ Yearbook 1997 is also expected. Additionally, they plan to reprint the first four issues of 'Animals & Men' and release a supplement on out-of-place birds.
Available Publications
The magazine lists three available books for sale:
- THE CFZ YEARBOOK 1996 (£10.00): Contains research papers and articles by various cryptozoologists.
- THE MORGA WR: MONSTER OF FALMOUTH BAY by A Mawnan-Peller (£1.50): A timely reprint with a new introduction.
- THE SMALLER MYSTERY CARNIVORES OF THE WEST COUNTRY by Jonathan Downes (£7.50): A guide to lesser-known mammalian cryptids of the south-western British Isles.
The publishers emphasize that they are entirely self-financing and rely on sales to continue.
Cartoon
A cartoon by Mark North depicts a Loch Ness Monster emerging from a supermarket, with a character named Adrian commenting on the lack of food in the Loch.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are cryptozoology, the review of niche publications, and a critical yet appreciative approach to fortean literature. The editorial stance is one of supporting independent research and publications, while maintaining a discerning eye for sensationalism or purely commercial ventures. There's a clear emphasis on the value of detailed research and the exploration of lesser-known phenomena, as evidenced by the positive reviews of books and periodicals that delve into specific cryptids or regional mysteries.