Animals and Men - No 17

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 17
Date: September 1998
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: England
Language: English

This issue of 'Animals & Men' marks a significant change with a new layout, the introduction of color, and the announcement of a forthcoming monthly newsletter. The editorial highlights the acquisition of new equipment to improve production standards, which had reportedly slipped in recent years. The magazine is now linked to the global media via the Internet, increasing its news-gathering capabilities.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Jon Downes, reflects on the "Great Days of Zoology" not being over. He announces the new layout and color capabilities, attributing them to new equipment. A new monthly newsletter is also introduced, starting from September 1998, to supplement 'Animals & Men' and accommodate the volume of information received. A significant departure is noted with the departure of Tony "Doc" Shiels, the "Surrealchemist in Residence," who has left the field of contemporary forteana. Downes humorously quotes "The Wizard of the Western World has other Fish to Fry" and "Doc Shiels has left the building." He also mentions Richard Freeman joining the CFZ full-time in Exeter and his "inimitable style," including an "unhealthy obsession with things appertaining to the works of H.P. Lovecraft." The editorial concludes with a quote from Spinal Tap, "err... we hope you like our new direction."

Contents Overview

The issue features a diverse range of articles and news items:

• Editorial
• Newsfile (Pages 4-10)
• Giant Squid specimen
• Lake Iliamna Monster
• Cadborosaurus
• Ogopogo and Cadborosaurus wills
• 'Eskie' monster of Lough Eske
• Megamouth shark
• Snail infestation in Pennsylvania
• Alleged alien body discovery
• Yip Yip Baboon (Boston Garden monkey remains)
• New Guinea singing dogs
• Penguin mascot for soccer team
• Alligator in Great Miami River
• Termite eradication program
• Emu sightings
• Cougar/coyote sightings
• New giant turtle species in Hanoi
• New bird species discovered in Ecuador
• Vertebrate Palaentology, by Darren Naish
• Wolverines or Muddy Badgers? by Chris Moiser
• Turtle Tales, by Dr Lars Thomas
• The Ziphiidae - a possible new species, by Darren Naish
• Clinton's Cogitations, by Clinton Keeling
• What's Afoot, by Richard Freeman
• A Virgin Conference-goer Breaks his Duck, by Nigel Wright
• Letters
• Reviews: books, websites, periodicals
• Back issues and CFZ publications

Newsfile - Key Reports

Giant Squid: A 25-foot baby giant squid, caught in New Zealand, was flown to the American Museum of Natural History. Dr. Neil Landman described it as "gorgeous" and "the best giant squid specimen in existence." Scientists plan to study it and potentially put it on public display. The squid's age and depth of habitat are unknown.

Lake Iliamna Monster: Reports from July 27 describe a 10-foot, black "fish" leaping in the lake. Previous sightings include a creature observed by a biologist in 1963, estimated to be 25-30 feet long. Explanations range from lost whales to large sturgeon or freshwater seals. Local Native people consider it a monster.

Cadborosaurus and Ogopogo: The sea monster Cadborosaurus was last seen a year prior. Ed Bousfield suggests El Nino and noise pollution may be factors. His paper links Cadborosaurus to the Okanagan's Ogopogo, suggesting they are related reptilian species, possibly freshwater variants.

'Eskie' Monster: Sightings of a monster nicknamed 'Eskie' have occurred at Lough Eske, Ireland. Seamus Caldwell reported seeing something moving in the water.

Megamouth Shark: Three fishermen in Macajalar Bay, Philippines, caught an unidentified fish, later identified as a megamouth shark, a rare species with only 10 previous sightings.

Snail Infestation: A species of snail, considered a major agricultural pest in California, has been discovered in Pennsylvania, posing a threat to farms and nurseries.

Alien Body: A treasure hunter in Arkansas claims to have discovered the decomposed body of an alien being, described as small, with skin "like a fish," silver hair, and a fin.

Boston Garden Monkey: Mysterious remains of a monkey were found in the wreckage of Boston Garden, prompting speculation about its origin.

New Guinea Singing Dogs: A rare New Guinea singing dog named Scirocco was housed at the Spokane County Animal Shelter, highlighting the breed's endangered status.

Penguin Mascot: A stray penguin found off Rio de Janeiro became a mascot for the Brazilian soccer team during the World Cup.

Alligator in River: A 6-foot alligator was found in the Great Miami River, Ohio, suggesting pets are being released into the wild.

Termite Eradication: A £129,000, 12-year program is underway to eradicate a million-strong house-eating termite colony on the north Devon coast.

Emu Sightings: Three emu sightings were reported in Burlington, N.C., but no birds were found. Emus are described as large, flightless, and dangerous.

Cougar/Coyote Sightings: Sightings of an animal described as a coyote or cougar were reported near Wolf trap, Beulah, and Old Courthouse Roads, with a cougar-like footprint found.

Giant Turtles in Hanoi: Rare giant turtles have been sighted in Hanoi's Hoan Kiem Lake. These creatures are believed to be ancient, possibly linked to a legend of King Le Loi. Professor Ha Dinh Duc studies these turtles, which can measure up to 2 meters long and weigh 200 kilograms, and believes they may be a new species.

New Bird Species: Robert S. Ridgely discovered a new bird species in Ecuador, described as having unusual white facial markings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of zoology and unexplained phenomena, often referred to as "Fortean" topics. There is a clear interest in cryptozoology, with multiple articles dedicated to lake monsters, sea serpents, and cryptids like the wolverine. The CFZ's mission appears to be documenting and investigating such reports, even those that are anecdotal or lack definitive scientific proof. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various accounts and scientific perspectives without necessarily endorsing sensational claims. The introduction of a new newsletter and the use of the Internet indicate a commitment to expanding their reach and reporting on a wider array of unusual occurrences. The magazine also seems to have a playful, sometimes irreverent tone, as seen in the editorial's commentary and the "shut up Richard!" note.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (Issue #17) presents a collection of diverse and often unusual news items related to the natural world, animal behavior, and scientific discoveries. The content spans new species identification, animal deformities, paleontology, and intriguing anecdotal reports.

New Species and Rediscoveries

The issue highlights the discovery of a new species of Antpitta, described as the second largest known, with a distinctive white facial stripe. Ornithologists John W. Fitzpatrick and Ridgely were involved in its identification, noting the rarity of such finds in well-explored areas. Another significant report details the rediscovery of a breed of Australian wallaby on Kawau Island, New Zealand, thought to be extinct for a century. These wallabies, descendants of a population shipped from South Australia in the late 1880s, are now posing a threat to native bird species.

In Brazil, scientists identified a new species of lowland tapaculo, a small gray-black bird found in a marshy urban habitat in Curitiba. Its song was noted as unique, and its physical characteristics differed from related species.

Animal Deformities and Environmental Concerns

The magazine features several reports on animal deformities and the potential impact of environmental factors. In the USA and Canada, abnormal frogs with a wide range of deformities were found, linked by researchers James J. La Clair and John Bantle to degradation products of the pesticide S-methoprene.

A shocking report from the Norwegian Arctic territory of Svalbard details the discovery of polar bear cubs with both male and female sex organs. This condition is suspected to be caused by polychlorinated biphenyl chemicals (PCBs), persistent pollutants that mimic sex hormones and are accumulating in the Arctic food chain.

In Iowa, a two-headed, four-eyed, three-eared calf named "Reflections" was born, presenting significant health challenges. Similarly, a pig with two snouts and three eyes, named Ditto, was rescued by the organization Pigs Without Partners.

Paleontology Updates

The "Feature" section provides extensive coverage of recent developments in vertebrate paleontology. Darren Naish discusses new findings related to gigantic theropod dinosaurs, including Tyrannosaurus rex, Giganotosaurus, and Carcharodontosaurus, debating their relative sizes and weights. The article explores the challenges in accurately determining dinosaur dimensions and the ongoing research into their evolutionary relationships.

Further paleontological news includes the first preserved furcula (wishbone) found in a Velociraptor, sparking debate about whether furculae in theropods indicate a link to flying ancestors. The article also touches upon research into feathered theropods, the potential semi-aquatic nature of compsognathids, and the ongoing classification of Sinosauropteryx.

Unusual Animal Encounters and Anecdotes

The "Newsfile" sections are filled with a variety of intriguing stories. Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson participated in an event to clean pigeon droppings from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. A Romanian shop worker is suing his employers, claiming he is a werewolf and needs time off during full moons.

In San Diego, a rare albino koala named "Ghost Boy" made its public debut at the zoo. The story of Princess Diana's burial on "Dog Island" at her childhood home is also recounted.

UFO and Cryptid Reports

The issue includes reports on Africanized "killer bees" in California and Nevada, including a fatality. There is also a detailed account of a press launch for a "big cat" video footage by Mike Thomas of Newquay Zoo, which is met with skepticism and questions about its authenticity. The author, Paul Crowther, expresses frustration with the handling of the footage and its potential impact on the credibility of those seeking evidence of large, unknown felines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the discovery of the unknown in the natural world, the impact of human activity and pollution on wildlife, and the ongoing scientific exploration of prehistoric life. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on a wide array of often sensational or unusual findings, encouraging public interest in zoology, paleontology, and unexplained phenomena. The inclusion of "Richard's Comment" and the "Editor's Note" suggests a somewhat informal and opinionated tone, particularly regarding the more speculative or sensationalist reports.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (Number 17), published in July 1998, delves into a variety of paleontological and zoological topics, featuring articles on prehistoric birds, migrating marsupials, fossil coelacanths, alleged wolverine sightings in Britain, marine turtles, and the taxonomy of beaked whales. The magazine's tone is informative and investigative, often questioning established theories and presenting new research.

Feathered Theropods and Bird Phylogeny

The issue revisits the topic of "feathered theropods" with updates on *Protarchaeopteryx* and *Caudipteryx*. It clarifies that feathers on *Protarchaeopteryx* have been officially verified, and that both species, while not birds, demonstrate that non-avian theropods possessed feathers. *Caudipteryx* is considered the most closely related non-avian theropod to birds, while *Protarchaeopteryx* is more primitive.

A significant portion of the content is dedicated to Robert Chandler's new theories on bird phylogeny. His research on *Titanis walleri*, a large phorusrhacoid (terror-bird), suggests these birds had larger wings than previously thought and a hyperextendable sickle-claw on their second toe, similar to living seriemas and some Cretaceous dinosaurs. More controversially, Chandler proposes that seriemas are the closest relatives to phorusrhacoids, and that the next closest relatives are the fruit-eating African touracos. Condors are suggested as the outgroup to this clade. The article notes that palaeornithologist Storrs Olson had previously made similar suggestions regarding evolutionary relationships between hoatzins, falcons, seriemas, and touracos.

The article also touches upon the Sibley and Ahlquist (1990) DNA-DNA hybridization study, which proposed a phylogeny of higher birds that is largely discordant with morphological analysis and not accepted by most ornithologists. This study classified condors as a stork subfamily and linked falcons and accipitrids to an extended Ciconiiformes, while placing touracos near owls and nightjars, and hoatzins near cuckoos.

Migrating Marsupials

Another feature explores the biogeography of carnivorous marsupials, focusing on the borhyaenoids of South America. New work by de Muizon, Cifelli, and Paz suggests that borhyaenoids are closely related to living didelphid opossums, forming the group Didelphimorphia. This group also shares features with South American microbiotheres and Australian dasyuromorphs. The article traces the evolutionary path of marsupials from their origin in North America, their dispersal southward, and their eventual diversification in South America and Australasia, with a stopover in Antarctica.

The presence of *Eurotamandua*, a supposed advanced anteater from the Eocene Messel shales in Germany, is presented as a biogeographical puzzle. While some argue it's an early anteater, others suggest it might be more closely related to sloths or even pangolins, resolving the issue of its "out-of-place" status. The article notes that *Eomanis*, an early pangolin, has also been found in the Messel fossil beds.

Coelacanths and Marine Reptiles

The "And Finally..." section discusses the unusual fossil record of coelacanths (*Actinistia*), contrasting it with that of marine reptiles like plesiosaurs and mosasauroids. Coelacanths were abundant in the Devonian and Carboniferous, became rare in the Permian, peaked in the Triassic, and then gradually decreased through the Jurassic and Cretaceous, unlike marine reptiles which thrived until the KT extinction event and left no post-Mesozoic record. The 65 million-year gap in the coelacanth fossil record is addressed, with the recent discovery of early Miocene coelacanth fossils from the Negev, Israel, suggesting a continuity of forms similar to *Latimeria*. This evidence is used to argue against using coelacanth survival as an analogue for post-Cretaceous marine reptile survival.

Wolverines or Muddy Badgers?

This article by Chris Moiser investigates the numerous reports of wolverines living wild in Great Britain since the mid-1970s. Despite the persistence of these reports, convincing evidence remains absent. Moiser suggests that most sightings are likely misidentifications of European Badgers (*Meles meles*). He details the physical similarities between badgers and wolverines, particularly noting the variations in badger coloration, including albino and semi-albino forms. When combined with soil staining, these variations can create an appearance that might be mistaken for a wolverine, especially under poor lighting conditions. The article concludes that the alleged sightings are likely erroneous and that the animals seen are probably badgers.

Turtle Tales

Dr. Lars Thomas reports on recent "rediscoveries" and unusual sightings of turtles in Denmark. The European pond tortoise, last seen in Denmark during the Bronze Age, was found alive and well in several parts of the country. DNA testing suggests a population that has been isolated for approximately 2,000 years. The article also recounts reports of sea-turtles in western Denmark, which were initially dismissed as "silly season" stories but later identified as a leatherback turtle found floating near the coast.

The Ziphiidae: The State of the Art, and a Possible New Species

Darren Naish writes about beaked whales (Ziphiidae), highlighting that they remain among the least understood large mammals. He discusses *Mesoplodon peruvianus* (Pygmy beaked whale) and *Mesoplodon bahamondi* (Bahamonde's beaked whale), both described recently. The article notes that *M. bahamondi* and another unidentified species, *M. sp. 'A'*, may be the same. A study using mitochondrial DNA for species identification of ziphiids is presented, which revealed misidentifications in previous studies, including a Blainville's beaked whale (*M. densirostris*) previously identified as an Andrews' beaked whale (*M. bowdoini*). The discovery of *M. densirostris* in New Zealand is noted as unsurprising given its wide distribution.

Stop Press: Updates to the Above

This section provides brief updates on some of the articles. For "Giant theropods," claims about a new tyrannosaur specimen remain unsubstantiated. For "Feathered theropods," the structures on *Sinosauropteryx* are confirmed not to be frayed collagen fibers but coarse, pliable, hollow strands, and the relationships of *Protarchaeopteryx* and *Caudipteryx* to birds are discussed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions established scientific consensus, presenting new or controversial theories in paleontology and zoology. There is a strong emphasis on re-evaluating evolutionary relationships, particularly in birds and mammals, and on critically examining evidence, such as the alleged wolverine sightings. The "Editor's Note" on the wolverine article clarifies that the CFZ is not definitively stating there are no wolverines in the UK, but rather offering an alternative explanation for reported sightings. The magazine appears to champion rigorous scientific inquiry and the challenging of long-held beliefs, particularly in areas where evidence is ambiguous or open to interpretation. The inclusion of "Stop Press" sections indicates a commitment to providing the most current information available at the time of publication.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (#17) is a comprehensive exploration of various unexplained phenomena, with a strong emphasis on cryptozoology, marine biology, and fortean topics. The magazine features detailed articles, personal accounts, and editorial notes, offering a diverse range of perspectives on mysteries from around the world.

Marine Mammal Discoveries

The lead article, "Animals & Men # 17 FEATURE," delves into the complex world of beaked whales, specifically the genus Mesoplodon. It highlights the discovery of new species and the challenges in their identification, particularly concerning "Hubbs' beaked whale" (M. carlhubbsi) and its relation to other mesoplodonts. The article discusses the significance of specimens found in New Zealand and the potential for new species based on genetic differences, such as between two specimens identified as Hector's beaked whale (M. hectori). It also touches upon the poorly known M. bowdoini, noting its limited documented strandings and the difficulties in distinguishing it from M. carlhubbsi. The research by Dalebout et al. (1998) is central to this discussion, providing molecular genetic data that challenges existing classifications.

Clinton's Cogitations

Clinton Keeling's column offers a series of observations and opinions. He begins by acknowledging the belatedness of the previous issue but deems it worth the wait. Keeling comments on the difficulty of distinguishing between a Leopard and a Puma, and expresses interest in the "Tokoloshe," a creature described as a malignant spirit or a hairy hominid. He also critiques the idea of a "FLESH AND BLOOD explanation for BHM sightings" in the UK, deeming it highly unlikely. His commentary also includes a critique of a previous article, suggesting that a creature described might be a large, conspicuous species rather than an immaculate conception, and that the source might be a pathological liar.

Nigel Wright's Conference Reports

Nigel Wright provides two reports on his experiences attending conferences. His first report, "A VIRGIN CONFERENCE-GOER BREAKS HIS DUCK!," details his initial foray into the UFO conference scene at Dorchester. He describes setting up a stall selling cryptozoological material, engaging in discussions about the Roswell case, and meeting various figures in the field, including writer Terry Walters, Marcus Allen (editor of "Nexus" magazine), and Graham Birdsall (founder of "UFO magazine"). He also recounts attending a lecture by Mr. Birdsall and the general atmosphere of the convention.

His second report covers the "UnConvention of the Fortean Times" in London. Wright describes the setup of the stall, meeting Emmet Sweeney, and the large attendance. He mentions brief encounters with Nick Pope, whom he found difficult to approach due to his entourage, and Rev. Lionel Fanthorpe. He also recounts meeting Colonel Blashford-Snell. The report highlights the challenges of navigating these events and the opportunities for networking and information gathering.

Editorial Notes and Letters

The "EDITORIAL NOTE" sections address various points raised by readers and staff. One note clarifies a misattribution of a cartoon, explaining it was by Dr. Lars Thomas, not Mr. Entertainment, and was intended as an ironic illustration for an article about Moose. Another note addresses the controversy surrounding the moon landing, with the writer expressing skepticism about the evidence. The editorial team also apologizes for teething problems with the new layout and format, assuring readers that some regular features will return.

The "LETTERS TO THE EDITOR" section features correspondence from readers. One letter discusses the "Monster of Glamis," suggesting a family secret related to the creature and speculating about the Custodian of the Royal Archives at Windsor potentially holding information. Another letter, from "Martin," defends his writing on "The Owlman and Others," clarifying a passage about Oscar Wilde and Jesus, and explaining his personal traumatic experience with graphic descriptions of ritual torture from a Latin class. He also discusses his research into Phoenician mythology and its connection to animal and child sacrifice.

A letter from a reader discusses the "great white whale" of the Greenland coasts, known as "Maby Dick," and its legendary status. This leads to a discussion of "Moby Dick" and historical accounts of white whales, including "Mocha Dick." The letter compares the details of these legends to Melville's novel, noting discrepancies in geographical location and whale type (sperm whale vs. baleen whale).

Exhibition Reviews

Two exhibition reviews are included. The first describes an exhibition of "Myths and Monsters" at the Natural History Museum, London, featuring animatronic monsters, including a large dragon. The reviewer critiques the museum's explanations for mythical creatures, suggesting they are too conventional and recommending his own article on dragons for a more in-depth look. He also discusses other models, such as a unicorn, cyclops, chimera, yeti, and an alien, and notes the presence of dinosaur exhibits and a shop selling bigfoot models.

The second review covers "The Unexplained, Part 2" exhibition in Bradford. The reviewer finds this exhibition inferior to its predecessor, consisting mostly of previously seen photographs of ectoplasm, levitation, the Cottingley Fairies, and fuzzy blobs. He humorously suggests a photograph of a "ghostly hand" might actually be a Goth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, recurring themes include the exploration of the unknown, the challenges of identification and classification (particularly in marine biology and cryptozoology), and the critical examination of evidence and accounts. The magazine maintains a stance that encourages investigation into unexplained phenomena while also employing a degree of skepticism and critical analysis, as seen in the editorial notes and reader letters. There is a clear interest in fortean subjects, historical mysteries, and the intersection of science and the unexplained.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 17
Date: Autumn 1998
Publisher: CFZ
Country: UK
Focus: Fortean zoology, cryptozoology, paranormal phenomena.

Letters

The White Whale

A reader, identified as 'Ishmael' and from London, responds to an article in the Knickerbocker Magazine about a "huge mountain-whale." He compiles a chronological list of accounts of white whales, including the sinking of the whaler Essex in 1820, the killing of 'Old Tom' by the Winslow or Essex, an anonymous whale killed in 1828, the white sperm whale Mocha Dick killed in the late 1830s, Mocha Dick's survival into the 1840s, and Hermann Melville's Moby Dick in 1851. He also mentions a whale named Maby Dick, possibly a right whale, which was reportedly around for over two hundred years in the Arctic. Based on this evidence, he concludes that the white whale might be a nineteenth-century whalers' tall tale, characterized by being white, old, and nearly impossible to kill.

'Ishmael' also comments on the anonymity of harpooners in such tales and suggests that Moby Dick might be the only major literary work based on a tall tale, questioning the wisdom of further research due to the cautionary tale of Captain Ahab.

Fairy, Moth or Whatever

Another reader from Tennessee describes an unusual insect encounter. While on a hill, they heard a humming sound, initially mistaking it for a radio. Upon closer inspection, they identified a small, upright-flying insect, about 2 inches tall, with large, almond-shaped blue eyes and long, hair-like antennae. The insect visited flowers and trees without appearing to eat. The reader was excited, believing it might be what people in earlier times mistook for sprites. The insect flew away when the reader moved closer.

The editor notes that the sender is from Tennessee and asks if any entomology enthusiasts can identify the creature. The editor also mentions Joan Aiken's children's novel "Night Birds on Nantucket," which features a pink sperm whale named "Rosy," and inquires about knowledge of the semi-legendary dolphin "Pelorus Jack" from New Zealand.

Reviews

Book Reviews: The Owlman & Others

Nick Redfern reviews Jonathan Downes' book, "The Owlman & Others." Redfern, an author on UFOs, expresses a keen interest in cryptozoology and mentions John Keel's "The Mothman Prophecies" as a favorite. He recounts his own childhood fascination with mystery beasts. The review focuses on the Owlman, a winged entity reported in the UK, similar to Mothman. Downes' book is praised for its in-depth analysis of the Owlman controversy, refuting explanations of misidentification or hoax. The book also details other bizarre events occurring in the same vicinity in Cornwall during the summer of 1976, including sightings of sea monsters, unusual animal activity, and disturbing animal mutilations. Redfern found the book compelling and recommends it to anyone interested in mystery beasts.

Indiana 'Gators and a Whale

This section presents two short accounts. The first, from the "Indianapolis Star," details an alligator liberated in a government lake in Petersburg, Indiana, in 1900. This alligator is believed to be the one killed in Mariah Creek years later. The account traces its journey from the lake through floodwaters to the Wabash River and then into Mariah Creek.

The second account, from an unnamed paper in the same region (Knox County), describes an alligator cavorting on a farm. It notes that the town of Decker, also known as Deckers Chapple, had sasquatch sightings in the late 1970s/early 1980s. Another farmer reported the alligator making a deep bass sound.

A third brief item, possibly from Mt. Carmel and listed under Knox County Folklore, mentions a 15-foot whale seen in "Mauks Pond." The source is cited as the "Western Sun." The author questions if this whale might have been an alligator.

Web Sites

• Graham Inglis provides a list of websites relevant to the magazine's interests:
• The CFZ: http://www.eclipse.co.uk/cfz (includes a news service and picture gallery).
• Virtual Institute of Cryptozoology (Michel Raynal): http://perso.wanadoo.fr/cryptozoo/welcome.htm (being developed with text and pictures).
• Earthly Delights: http://www.planet13.co.uk/earthly/EarthlyDelights.htm (features Bodmin Moor, big cats, and Celtic stones).
• Brian Goodwin's site: http://freespace.virgin.net/brian.goodwin/index.htm (covers big cats, serpents, dragons, Nessie, and Fortean news).
• Ben Roesch's site: http://www.ncf.carleton.ca/~bz050/
• Chas' Loch Ness site: http://website.lineone.net/~chas.sweeney/ness.htm (offers "Loch Ness in a bottle").

Periodical Reviews

• This section reviews several other publications:
• Parascience: Issue 1 of this magazine covers thoughtforms, dowsing, mystery animals in SW England, and Nikola Tesla's work on energy propagation. It is described as a good and interesting read.
• Animal News (NAPAK): This publication aims to promote a united front against restrictive 'anti-keeping' legislation and educate the public on animal keeping.
• Cryptozoologia: A French magazine with contributions from Michel Raynal, Franois de Sarre, and Dr Lara Palmeros.
• Herp Life: A newsletter from the South-Western Herpetological Society in England.
• Bigfoot Record: This publication from the Bigfoot Research Center features sightings, book reviews, and information on the Sasquatch/Bigfoot entity, including reproductions of newspaper articles. The reviewer notes that the photographs lack conviction due to copying degradation.

Dead of Night

Lee Walker's "Dead of Night" is described as a Merseyside publication covering a wide range of fortean matters, including ghost stories, conspiracy theories, strange news, UFOs, and religious/ritualistic/bizarre behavior, as well as fortean zoology. It is considered an entertaining and substantial read.

Mainly About Animals

This magazine from Guildford is noted for its strong opinions, likely due to its editor. The July issue covers topics such as how gulls decide their day, why dogs walk "off-square," the Bali tiger, tree monitor lizards, and zoological news.

Animals & Men Back Issues

Details are provided for purchasing back issues of "Animals & Men," with a list of contents for issues 1-16. Topics covered include various mystery animals (pine martens, sloths, rhinos, bears, lizards, cats, whales, Mothman, Bigfoot), cryptozoology, folklore, and expeditions.

The Goblin Universe Back Issues

Information is given for back issues of "The Goblin Universe," which initially focused on publicizing "The Amphibians from Outer Space." Subsequent issues cover topics like St Neot, animal mutilations, ghosts, communication with UFOs, and mystery planets.

Our Own Publications

The CFZ Yearbook 1998

Edited by Jonathan Downes & Graham Inglis, this 200-page yearbook costs £12.50 and covers subjects such as giant crocodiles, cryptozoological films, African stories, Nessie, Ichthyosaur evolution, moths, sea serpents, water monsters, and the Fortean Fauna of Percy Fawcett.

Morgawr: The Monster of Falmouth Bay

Authored by A. Mawnan-Peller, this booklet is available for £1.50 from the CFZ.

The Owlman and Others

This is a new updated edition by Jonathan Downes, with a review by Nick Redfern on page 42.

How to Order and Methods of Payment

Instructions are provided for ordering publications, including subscription rates and postage costs for magazines and books. Payment can be made in UK cash, IMO, Eurocheque, or UK bank cheque. Orders should be sent to CFZ, 15 Holne Court, Exwick, Exeter, Devon, EX4 2NA, England. A note is included about potential delays with mailouts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features a strong interest in cryptozoology, fortean phenomena, and mystery animals from around the world. The editorial stance appears to be open to discussing unusual accounts and reports, encouraging reader contributions and reviews of related publications. There is a clear focus on exploring the unexplained and the fringes of scientific understanding, often drawing on historical accounts, folklore, and eyewitness testimonies. The inclusion of book and periodical reviews, along with a web sites column, suggests an effort to connect readers with a wider community and resources within these fields.