Animals and Men - No 20

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 20
Publisher: Centre for Fortean Zoology
Price: £2.00
Cover Headline: Mystery Animals of Japan

This issue of "Animals & Men: The Journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology" presents a diverse range of articles and news items related to zoology, cryptozoology, and unexplained phenomena. The cover prominently features a dragon illustration and highlights lead stories on "Mystery Animals of Japan," "ESP in Animals," and "The Government Connection."

Editorial

The editorial, written by Jon Downes, addresses the delay in publication, attributing it to financial considerations and the necessity for the editorial team to earn a living. He announces that short-term problems are over and outlines several new developments at the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ). Generous donations have enabled the acquisition of new video and printing equipment, facilitating several planned projects. These include the release of chronicles from the 1998 Puerto Rico and Mexico expedition as both a book and a video, and a video on the south Devon dolphin mutilations. The "Owlman" film is nearing completion and will premiere at the 2000 UnConvention. A major expedition is planned for the following year.

Due to a dispute with Domra publications, some of Jon Downes' books are temporarily out of print but will be reissued by the CFZ. These include "The Owlman and Others," "Smaller Mystery Carnivores of the Westcountry," and "The Rising of the Moon." Two new books are also announced: "Only Fools and Goatsuckers – the hunt for the Chupacabra," and "The Blackdown Mystery."

The editorial team will not be producing a Yearbook for 2000 due to financial strictures and lack of time, but hope to resume in the following year. Monthly newsletters will also cease, with outstanding subscriptions being added to magazine subscriptions. The future of the sister magazine "The Goblin Universe" is uncertain, with a possibility of it resuming publication or being transferred to a different publisher.

Excitingly, the "Crypto Shop" is set to return bigger and better next year, aiming to offer the world's largest selection of second-hand cryptozoology books in collaboration with Danish cryptozoologist Erik Sorenson.

Finally, the editorial apologizes for omitting the name of John Tait, who designed the cover and the previous issue's cover, and thanks him for giving the magazine a facelift for the new millennium.

Contents

The issue includes an editorial, a newsfile, and several feature articles:

• 3 Editorial
• 4 Newsfile
• 14 Wolverines: a Reply - Chris Moiser
• 16 George Lekaukau - Roy Kerridge
• 20 Bestiary: The Chimaera - Ade Dimmick
• 22 Crypto-Curiosities of Kent's Past - Neil Arnold
• 27 How many Kiwi species are there? - Darren Naish
• 31 Big in Japan - Richard Freeman
• 35 ESP in Animals: the Government Connection - Nick Redfern
• 39 Eternal Cat - Marcus Matthews
• 40 Letters
• 42 What's Afoot - Richard Freeman
• 43 Book Reviews - Richard Freeman
• 45 Subscriptions & Payments
• 46 CFZ Publications
• 47 Back Issues

Key Persons and Organizations

The issue lists the "Current Crew" of the CFZ Mothership, including Director Jonathan Downes, Deputy Director Graham Inglis, and Assistant Editor Richard Freeman. It also names magazine cartoonist Mark North, Picture Editor Phil "Jester" Williams, Associate founding editor Jan Williams, Tour Manager Nigel Wright, and cover artist John Tait. A list of consultants includes Dr Bernard Heuvelmans, Dr Karl Shuker, Dr Lars Thomas, Loren Coleman, Chris Moiser, and Darren Naish. Regional representatives are listed for various parts of the UK, USA, Denmark, Republic of Ireland, Spain, Germany, France, and Mexico.

Organizations mentioned include the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ), Domra publications, the World Wildlife Fund, RSPCA, and various government departments and research institutions in the USA, Canada, and New Zealand.

Newsfile

The "Newsfile" section compiles several short reports:

• Conservation - Release the Bats: A report from The Sunday Times (May 23, 1999) details a disturbing and illegal trade in protected bat species meat in Britain. Fruit bats were found for sale in shops and restaurants, with one reporter being offered smoked bat meat for £1.86. Analysis confirmed the bones matched fruit bat samples, and the meat was infested with foreign beetle larvae. Bat meals were also offered in cafes.
• Mystery Cats (USA):
• New Hampshire: Two construction workers reported seeing a mountain lion, though wildlife biologists state the animal disappeared from New England at the turn of the century. Around half a dozen such sightings are reported annually.
• Michigan: A Green Oak Township family reported sighting a black cat-like creature, possibly a panther, near their home. Police and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources investigated, finding tracks too large for a housecat.
• Canada: The Toronto Globe and Mail (June 19, 1999) reported on evidence of the eastern cougar in Ontario. Resource management technician Lil Anderson found fecal matter, identified by wildlife biologist Neil Dawson as the first solid proof of the cougar's existence in the province. The eastern cougar was thought to have been driven out of Ontario a century ago.
• Out of Place (USA):
• Telford, Shropshire, England: A 3ft-long puma was recorded by surveillance cameras at a brickmakers factory, having been spotted three times that year. The RSPCA believes it to be a puma, but advises against trying to trap it.
• Pound Ridge, New York, USA: Escaped emus are a recurring problem, with the Town Council doubling the fine for loose livestock. These emus are believed to be pets, with some residents keeping them on their properties. The article notes that emus can be dangerous if provoked.
• Palmyra, Wisconsin, USA: An emu ran through a local Burger King drive-through, leading to humorous local "Whopper jokes." The bird was corralled by the constabulary and returned to its owner.
• Foristell, Missouri, USA: An emu was shot and killed by a farmer after an animal control officer's tranquilizer attempt failed. Authorities suspect the bird was released by someone involved in selling emus for meat.
• Moose on the Loose (Denmark/Sweden): A moose that swam five km from Sweden to Denmark disappeared into forest north of Copenhagen. Danish authorities were hunting for it, with appeals for it not to be shot. The incident is noted for its potential cryptozoological significance, linking to theories about lake monster sightings being swimming moose.
• JAWS 25? (Philippines): Claims of "25 New Shark Species" found in Philippine waters are reported, but shark expert John Stephens cautions that many species are yet to be named and require further comparison with existing collections. The newspaper report is described as having "twisted" the findings.

Fishy Stories

This section reports on new species discoveries:

• Galapagos Islands: A new 3D IMAX film titled "Galapagos," focusing on the wildlife of the Pacific island group, resulted in the discovery of over a dozen new marine species. Marine biologist Carole Baldwin was involved in the research, which utilized a submersible vessel to explore waters between 200 and 1,000 feet deep. Discoveries include an anthiine bass, an unusual wrasse, a new cat shark, and several new scorpion fish. Other researchers found new sponges, urchins, and gastropod mollusks. These findings will be added to museum collections in the USA and Ecuador.
• New Zealand: Dr Dominique Didier Dagit discovered a new species of Chimaera, named "Chimaera panthera" (leopard chimaera), characterized by distinctive leopard-like brown spots. This is the first Chimaera species discovered in New Zealand and the sixth recognized in the genus.
• Hawaii: Several new species of deep-water fish with "big eyes and teeth" were reportedly discovered, including a dragonfish specimen.

New and Rediscovered

• Cloud-forest Pygmy-Owl (Ecuador/Colombia): Fieldwork by a University of Kansas ornithologist, Mark Robbins, led to the discovery of a new species of pygmy-owl, named "Glaucidium nubicola" or Cloud-forest Pygmy-Owl. This discovery adds to the known biological diversity of the New World tropics.
• New Class for Galapagos: The issue highlights the establishment of breeding populations of frogs on the Galapagos Islands, marking the first known colonization by amphibians. A small arboreal frog, "Scinax quinquefasciata," has been found increasingly frequently since 1998. This is attributed to increasing human activity and climatic fluctuations altering the environment, making it possible for amphibians to reach the islands.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on the unusual, the unexplained, and the lesser-known aspects of the natural world, often with a cryptozoological or fortean perspective. There is a clear interest in documenting sightings, discoveries, and research related to mystery animals, cryptids, and phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting findings and reports from various sources, while also acknowledging the challenges and limitations of such research. The CFZ actively engages in expeditions and research, aiming to expand knowledge in these fields, as evidenced by their planned projects and publications.

This issue of ANIMALS & MEN, number 20, published with a cover date of '20', features a prominent article on 'Monsters of the next millennium' by Richard Freeman. The magazine also includes sections on 'NEWSFILE', 'FEATURE', and 'LETTERS'. The price is listed as £2.50.

Newsfile: Invasive Species and New Discoveries

The 'Newsfile' section reports on the introduction of the frog species *Scinax quinquefasciata* to the Galapagos Islands. Observations since 1998, particularly during the 1997-1998 El Nino event, indicate wetter conditions and dense frog populations. The hypothesis for their dispersal suggests they arrived in materials from continental Ecuador, possibly Guayaquil. The Galapagos National Park Service considers all alien species potential threats and aims to control or eradicate them. Current priorities include determining the frog's distribution, dispersal rate, potential eradication methods, and breeding sites. Experiments are planned to explore potential toxicity to indigenous predators.

Another news item highlights the birth of a monkey weighing less than an ounce in the Brazilian Amazon, potentially a new species. Dutch zoologist Marc van Roosmalen suggests it might be an anomaly developed by the dwarf marmoset to survive in the rainforest. DNA tests are pending to determine its genus and species. The monkey has distinctive claws and a small size, weighing less than 2 ounces and expected to reach only 5-6 ounces as an adult. It was found in the same region where Roosmalen discovered the dwarf marmoset the previous year.

A brief mention of 'Muntjac News' indicates that muntjacs are capturing the imagination of the 'forte an zoological community'.

Feature: Cryptozoology and New Species

Richard Freeman's article, 'Monsters of the next millennium', presents a top ten list of likely cryptozoological discoveries for the next 100 years. The list includes:

1. The thylacine: Believed to have existed until 1936, with recent sightings and computer predictions suggesting its rediscovery is imminent.
2. Delcourt's giant gecko: A cryptid that has been stuffed and mounted, with sightings of a large arboreal lizard in New Zealand suggesting it may still exist.
3. The giant anaconda: While anacondas exist, the article speculates on the potential for exceptionally large specimens (15-18 meters) in ill-explored areas.
4. The yeti: Analysis of yeti hair by proton-induced X-ray emission has concluded it belongs to an unknown primate.
5. Orang Pendek: Described as the yeti's 'little brother', possibly a large, robust, ground-dwelling gibbon seen in Sumatra.
6. Megalania prisca: The great Australian dragon, with recent discoveries of a hip bone unfossilized and possibly only 100 years old, alongside Aboriginal folklore and modern sightings.
7. Giant eels: The possibility of 9-meter eels in Loch Ness is considered, with many sea serpent and lake monster reports potentially referring to gargantuan eels.
8. Mokele-mbembe: Sightings suggest a large, amphibious, long-necked creature in the Congo rainforest, possibly a semi-aquatic monitor lizard.
9. The lusca: A creature from a massive carcass washed up in Florida in 1896, speculated to be an enormous octopus or sperm whale.
10. The giant ground sloth: South American Indian sightings of a monster resembling a mylodont sloth, with body armor beneath the skin, except for the stomach.

Another 'Feature' article discusses new species of muntjac found in Southeast Asia. It references a paper by Baker, Rosenbaum, Robichaud, and DeSalle on the rediscovery of Roosevelt's Barking Deer (*Muntiacus rooseveltorum*), confirming its validity after 60 years of controversy. The article also highlights the discovery of an entirely new species of muntjac, the 'leaf deer' or 'leaf muntjac', measuring just 20 inches at the shoulder and weighing no more than 25 pounds, making it the world's smallest deer. This species was first seen by WCS biologist Alan Rabinowitz in Myanmar in 1997. DNA analysis confirmed it as unique, with lead author Dr. George Amato calling it a 'very exciting discovery'.

Chris Moiser writes a reply regarding 'Wolverines or Muddy Badgers?', addressing the controversy stirred by his previous article. He discusses a photograph of a muddy badger, clarifying it was not intended to suggest mistaken identity but to show that white badgers can get muddy. Moiser expresses skepticism about the idea of seven separate wolverine populations in the United Kingdom, citing the lack of historical import, farming, or popularity as pets. He notes that only one zoo in England has exhibited wolverines recently. Moiser also argues against the need for confidentiality regarding potential wolverine releases in the UK, citing the species' long absence, lack of natural predators, and the potential ecological disaster if they were to establish, drawing parallels with the established mink population.

Feature: George Lekaukau and Kalahari Traditions

Roy Kerridge's article 'George Lekaukau' recounts an encounter with an elderly cattle herder in the Kalahari Desert during the Gulf War. George, described as having a 'fiercely majestic appearance' and an 'occult aura', served as a guide for the author's family. The article details George's traditional way of life, his disregard for game laws, and his stories. One story involves a lion that kills animals for Bushmen hunters, who then take the remains. Another tale features a cunning hare outsmarting a lion and jackal. George also shares his views on the importance of lions for the economy through hunting tourism, and his clan affiliation ('Clan of the Multi-Coloured Cow'). He expresses a sense of loss regarding Botswana's independence from British rule, reminiscing about the time when 'England is the mother country'. The article touches upon the impact of the plough and guns on the Kalahari's environment and the traditional role of men in cattle herding. George's strong sense of pride is evident in his reaction to being asked if he milked his own cows, responding, 'Am I not a man?' His opinion of London is conveyed by his swift departure back to Africa, a land where 'men are men and own the cows to prove it.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the study and impact of introduced species (Galapagos frogs), the discovery of new species (monkey, muntjac), and the exploration of cryptozoology and unexplained phenomena. There is also a strong focus on cultural anthropology and traditional ways of life, particularly through the narrative of George Lekaukau. The magazine appears to maintain an interest in the natural world, with a particular fascination for the unusual and the potentially undiscovered. The editorial stance seems to be one of curiosity and a willingness to explore diverse topics, from scientific discoveries to anecdotal accounts and folklore.

This issue of "ANIMALS & MEN # 20" features a "BESTIARY" cover story by Ade Dimmick, exploring the mythological creature known as the Chimaera. The magazine also includes articles on cryptozoological curiosities in Kent and the evolving taxonomy of kiwi species.

The Chimaera

The article "THE CHIMAERA" by Ade Dimmick details the mythological creature, its description, parentage, and origins. Homer described it as having the foreparts of a lion, the middle of a goat, and the hindparts of a serpent. A 5th-century Etruscan bronze depicts it with a lion's head, a goat's head protruding from its body, and a serpent's head at its tail. It is also referred to as the 'Divine Nymph' or having the face of a beautiful maiden. The Chimaera was the female offspring of Echidne and Typhon. While usually depicted as singular, its swollen teats suggest symbolism of suckling young. Its origins are linked to Lydia in Asia Minor, the Near East, and the Mediterranean region, though a Chimaera-type statue was found in China from the Han Dynasty. It was known for strength and swiftness, symbolizing storms, wind, and danger, and was seen as representative of the Divine Feminine, later becoming synonymous with evil.

The Chimaera was said to wreak havoc and kill anything in its path with its fiery breath. It was eventually destroyed by Bellerophon, who rode Pegasus and cast lead into its mouth, melting and searing its vital organs. Robert Graves proposed the Chimaera was a calendar beast symbolizing the tripartite year of the Great Goddess (lion for Spring, goat for Summer, serpent for Winter), and its death symbolized the destruction of the Great Goddess's shrine. Another theory suggests it was a figurative description of a volcanic mountain in Lycia, with a lion's lair at the summit and goats and serpents in the foothills. Pliny referred to a volcano called Chimaera near Phaselis, Lycia. In modern language, 'Chimaera' means an illusion or fabrication, and 'to chase the Chimaera' means to indulge in useless fancy. Scientifically, it refers to an organism with genetically different tissues from fused embryos.

Crypto-Curiosities of Kent's Past

"CRYPTO-CURIOSITIES OF KENT'S PAST" by Neil Arnold explores various strange phenomena and unusual beasts reported in Kent. The Weald of Kent is described as steeped in mystery, with ghostly activity and spectral incidents overshadowing other strange phenomena. The article highlights reports of unusual beasts, UFO cases, and landings, but focuses on ghostly occurrences and the 'big cat flap'.

One account features Joan Forman's encounter in the 1950s in Goodhurst, where she saw a strange, two-foot long creature with wide eyes that emanated a menacing aura and faded at dawn. This is considered akin to phantom black dogs rather than a real creature.

The article also recounts personal anecdotes of ghostly black dogs seen by the author's mother and an aunt, both of which appeared during stressful times and were seen as symbols of good will or better things to come.

Further reports detail a gigantic, frothing hound roaming the wooded area of Trottiscliffe, near the Pilgrims' Way path. Little is known about this creature, and its legend is not widely featured, suggesting a straightforward haunting or something more sinister.

The Black Dog of Leeds is described as a bringer of misfortune, but one instance saw the spectral hound save a woman's life by attracting her attention just before a bay window collapsed.

The article notes a pattern in black dog lore across Britain, with some hounds appearing ethereal and others having a 'Baskerville' glow, often signifying misfortune. Smaller dogs, however, may appear malevolent but seem to serve a good cause.

"If You Go Down To The Woods Today..." discusses a letter in "Encounters" magazine about a twelve-foot tall rabbit. This leads to an account from the '70s in Robin Hood Woods where a witness saw a six-foot tall white rabbit. The author also recounts a personal experience with friends setting off fireworks in a woodland near Blue Bell Hill, where one friend was terrified by a head that popped up and then saw a creature like a large ferret with white fur standing up.

Another section, "PHANTOM OR FLESH?", details a November 1963 incident in Hythe where four friends saw a weird light and a tall, dark, headless, leathery humanoid figure with wings. This was followed by unusual footprints and a peculiar light in the woodland, suggesting Mothman.

Further UFO sightings in the Hythe area are mentioned, but the article cautions against connecting them directly to the creature. It also discusses the possibility of the creature being a spectral manifestation or from another dimension.

"More Beasts..." reports on a January 1973 sighting of a strange creature crossing the road near Folkestone, later identified by paw prints as a big cat, possibly a puma. Other sightings of large felines in Kent during the early '70s are also mentioned.

The article touches on the possibility of zoo escapes or unleashed creatures, citing a large crocodile sighting on the banks of the River Stour in Sandwich in 1975.

The final section, "APPARITIONS OR ANIMALS?", discusses how some people are targets of paranormal incidents, experiencing ghosts, UFOs, and ghastly manifestations. It notes the difficulty in distinguishing apparitions from real animals and suggests that haunted areas may conjure creatures that target sensitive individuals.

So how many kiwi species are there?

This article by Darren Naish examines the complex and evolving taxonomy of kiwi species. Until recently, there were considered to be three species, with the Brown kiwi subdivided into three subspecies. However, new DNA studies have complicated this picture.

The history of kiwi classification is traced through the 19th century, with the Brown kiwi (Apteryx australis) described in 1813, followed by the Little spotted kiwi (A. owenii) in 1847. Attempts to give A. owenii its own genus were unsuccessful. A kiwi named A. mollis by Thomas Potts in 1873 was later found to be a synonym of A. owenii. The Little spotted kiwi, one of the rarest, is now restricted to island reserves with a population of around 1,110.

In 1850, Bartlett proposed that North Island Brown kiwis were a distinct species (Apteryx mantelli) due to their smaller size, darker color, and coarser plumage compared to South Island birds. This suggestion was debated for years. In 1888, Sharpe argued for A. mantelli specimens to be recognized as another species, A. bulleri, which was later deemed unwarranted. However, it became accepted that North Island birds warranted separate recognition as a subspecies (A. australis mantelli), not a species. The South Island brown kiwi became the nominate version, A. a. australis.

A new species named A. fusca by Potts in 1873 proved to be a synonym of A. a. australis. The Great spotted kiwi, Apteryx haastii, was named in 1871 by Potts, honoring Julius von Haast. A. haastii is believed to be the same as A. maxima, a name created by Jules Verreaux based on anecdotal tales of an aggressive kiwi. Some workers considered A. maxima the same as brown kiwis from Stewart Island, while cryptozoologists suggested it might be based on observations of emeid moa.

In 1890, Walter Buller described the Stewart Island kiwi as a new species, regarding it as the same as A. maxima. Walter Rothschild later argued for a new name, A. lawryi, honoring Buller's middle name. Subsequent work confirmed the Stewart Island kiwi was distinct and downgraded to a subspecies of A. australis, becoming A. a. lawryi. This form is distinctive with a large beak and bluish-grey legs and features.

By the end of the 19th century, three main species were recognized: Little spotted (A. owenii), Great spotted (A. haastii), and Brown (A. australis), with the latter having three subspecies: South Island (A. a. australis), North Island (A. a. mantelli), and Stewart Island (A. a. lawryi).

In 1993, Charles Daugherty and Alan Baker's DNA analysis complicated this classification. They found that birds from three southern populations (Haast, Fiordland, and Stewart Island) were genetically similar but distinct from other brown kiwis. They proposed this new form be named Tokoeka. Further research suggests the Haast population (Haast tokoeka) is distinct from Southern tokoeka.

Curiously, tokoekas resemble the Great spotted kiwi, suggesting potential interrelations. Some South Island brown kiwis, known as Okarito brown kiwis, are genetically distinct and more closely related to North Island brown kiwis than to tokoekas. Okarito browns are critically endangered, with an estimated population of 200 individuals restricted to 40 km² of forest.

Research continues on kiwi affinities and formal nomenclature.

Advertisment

An advertisement promotes "The Rising of the Moon" by Jonathan Downes, described as a major investigation into the links between UFOs, animal mutilations, mystery creature sightings, and other fortean phenomena. Only 20 copies of the 1999 edition are in stock for £12.95.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unusual, the unexplained, and the natural world with a focus on fortean phenomena, cryptozoology, and scientific inquiry into classification and origins. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting various theories and accounts without necessarily endorsing them, while also grounding discussions in scientific research where applicable, particularly in the article on kiwi taxonomy. There is a clear interest in folklore, mythology, and eyewitness accounts of strange creatures and events.

This issue of "ANIMALS & MEN" (Number 20) features a prominent article titled "Big in Japan" by Richard Freeman, exploring the lesser-known fauna and folklore of Japan. The magazine also includes articles on ESP in animals and the history and mythology of cats and lions.

Big in Japan

Richard Freeman's article challenges the common perception of Japan as solely a high-tech society, highlighting that nearly 90 percent of the country is mountainous and harbors unknown animals. The article introduces the "Hibagon," a Japanese ape-like creature said to inhabit the Mount Hiba area. Described as a terrifying beast, it stands about 5 feet tall, is covered in bristly brown hair, resembles a gorilla, and possesses a snub nose and long muscular arms. The Hibagon reportedly first appeared in 1970 and terrorized the district for several years. A sighting by Reiko Harada in 1972 is recounted, where she saw a Hibagon by the roadside.

The article contrasts the Hibagon with the Japanese macaque (snow monkey), noting the macaque is significantly smaller. It suggests the possibility of a moderately sized unknown ape or a giant short-tailed monkey still existing in Japan's mountain wilderness. The text also links these creatures to the genesis of the "demonic Oni," Japanese devils with animalistic red faces, and mentions the legend of "Kappa," an aquatic demon with the head of a monkey, shell of a terrapin, and body of a frog, known for its strength and fondness for human flesh.

Issie and its kin: the modern day dragons of Japan

This section discusses the cultural significance of dragons in Japan, tracing their roots to legends and their connection to modern cinematic monsters like Godzilla. Japanese dragons are described as magnificent creatures with distinct features, such as three claws per foot, unlike the imperial Chinese dragon. Tales of dragon eggs hatching into rapidly growing reptiles are shared. The article also touches upon descriptions of dragons resembling crocodiles and the presence of Indo-Pacific crocodiles in Japanese waters.

A significant portion is dedicated to "Issie," a lake monster reported in Lake Ikeda, Kyushu. Similar to the Loch Ness Monster, Issie is described as a massive animal over 30 feet long with a snake-like head and neck, and a long humped back. Photographs taken by Tosiaki Matsuhara in 1978 and sightings by Yutaka Kawaji and his family are mentioned, describing a black-skinned animal exhibiting hump-backed movements.

The Shamanu: Japan's dwarf wolf

The article details the Japanese wolf, or "shamanu" (Canis lupus hodophila), the smallest wolf species, reaching about 41 inches in length. It was distinctively marked with grey, white, and russet fur and worshipped by the Ainu people as the "howling god" or "Okami." The shamanu's range diminished due to deforestation and hunting, and the last one was supposedly killed in 1905 near Washikaguchi on Honshu. The article draws parallels to the extinction of the Tasmanian marsupial wolf and expresses hope that the shamanu might still survive.

A flat snake and a hairy fish : real life "pokemon!"

This section explores two lesser-known Japanese creatures that resemble fictional monsters. The "tzuchinoko" is described as a snake flattened like a stingray, with horn-like ridges and a well-defined neck, possibly an aberrant pit viper. It became known in the West in 1987 but a type specimen has yet to be procured. The article also discusses "hairy fish" mentioned in ancient manuscripts, described as 4-5 feet long, covered in hair, aggressive, and capable of making loud noises on land. These are speculated to be a forgotten species of freshwater seal.

ESP in Animals: the Government Connection

Written by Nick Redfern, this article investigates the US government's interest in animal parapsychology, particularly the Defence Intelligence Agency's (DIA) awareness of Soviet research. The DIA has produced reports on telepathy, out-of-body experiences, and other parapsychological phenomena. The article details Soviet research from the 1920s and 1930s, focusing on proving telepathy between humans and animals, citing experiments by VIM. Bekhterev. It notes that current Soviet research emphasizes biological energy transfer and electromagnetic fields rather than traditional telepathy. Czechoslovakian research on energy transfer between animal muscle preparations and humans is also discussed, with Dr. Jiri Bradna's work on "myotransfer" and its potential applications in physiotherapy and influencing animal behavior.

Soviet scientist Y.A. Kholodov's research on the effects of magnetic fields on rabbits and A.S. Presman's theories on electromagnetic field interactions between living organisms are presented. The article highlights the shift in terminology from "ESP" and "telepathy" to "biocommunication" and "psychotronics" in current research. Dr. Pavel Naumov's studies on animal biocommunication involving a submerged submarine and shore station are mentioned, as well as a controversial Soviet experiment involving mother rabbits and their dying litters. The article concludes by questioning the extent of government knowledge regarding animal ESP in 1999.

The Eternal Cat

Marcus Matthews' article explores the history and mythology of cats, starting with their association with warm climates but noting their presence in Pleistocene Europe. It discusses various extinct feline species like the cave lion and sabre-toothed tiger. The article touches upon the depiction of lions in cave paintings and Assyrian monuments, and their historical use by figures like Amenophis III, Ramses the Great, Nero, Caligula, and Mark Antony. The domestication of cats in ancient Egypt, their revered status, and their use in protecting grain stores are detailed. The article also mentions the transport of cats to Britain and their presence in Roman times, citing evidence from Silchester.

Laws protecting cats in the British Isles dating back to 936 AD are discussed, along with criteria for judging a cat's perfection. The article notes the possible origin of domestic cats from the crossing of the Euro-African wild cat and the jungle cat, and their hybridization leading to breeds like the Persian and Siamese.

Letters

This section contains a letter from a reader commenting on a previous issue and expressing interest in a story about Cobtree Manor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the natural world, folklore, and unexplained phenomena. There's a clear interest in cryptids, ancient legends, and the potential for undiscovered species. The inclusion of articles on government research into parapsychology suggests an editorial stance that acknowledges and investigates claims of paranormal activity and government involvement, while also maintaining a critical and analytical approach. The magazine seems to aim at presenting intriguing stories and research that challenge conventional understanding of the animal kingdom and the unexplained.

This document is issue #20 of the magazine "ANIMALS & MEN". It contains a collection of letters, articles, book reviews, and a cartoon, primarily focusing on cryptozoology and paranormal phenomena. The issue is 47 pages long, with page numbering indicating it is part of a larger publication.

Letters

The letters section features two main topics. The first is a discussion initiated by Richard Freeman regarding the saltwater tolerance of the Nile crocodile (*Crocodylus niloticus*), refuting the idea that it could not cross seas to reach islands like Rhodes. The second is a humorous anecdote from David Sutton about a wild boar chasing a man up a tree in Kent, followed by a response from Graham Inglis, the deputy director of the CFZ, apologizing for mail-out service delays in 1999.

Articles

What's a-foot?

This article, written by Richard Freeman, details the editorial team's experience in creating a fictional TV show titled "The Brassknocker Hill Project" for HTV. Initially, they were working on a show called "Weird about the West" with a regional TV company, but this was cancelled. The Brassknocker Hill Project was conceived as a "video diary" in the style of "The Blair Witch Project", featuring Jon, Graham, Phil Williams, and the author. The film involved a bigfoot mask, a possessed jester character, and various simian vocalizations. The article humorously describes the roles played by the team members and the supernatural elements of the film.

The Brassknocker Hill Project

This section elaborates on the fictional film about the simian creature of Brassknocker Hill. The film was transmitted on HTV West on September 21, 1999, as part of the "Heads and Tails" series. The article notes that while the original event had a prosaic explanation (escaped baboons from Longleat Safari Park), the production company wanted to make a film on it. The article also mentions that enough viewers watched the film to interest "big cheeses" at HTV, leading to discussions about a potential series.

Book Reviews

This issue features several book reviews, all written by "RF" (presumably Richard Freeman) or other authors.

Fossil Remains of Mythical Creatures by Bob Slaughter

Reviewed by Richard Freeman, this book presents bogus fossils of legendary creatures. While the idea is praised, the execution is criticized for featuring mundane subjects rather than spectacular ones like dragons or gryphons.

Truly Weird: Real life cases of the Paranormal by Jenny Randles

Reviewed by Richard Freeman, this book covers various Fortean subjects and is described as a coffee table book. Jenny Randles is noted as a prolific writer in UFOlogy.

Mysteries of Planet Earth by Dr Karl P.N. Shuker

Described as "the book of the year" by the reviewer (RF), this publication is praised for its quality and extensive information on cryptozoological subjects, including obscure creatures and phenomena.

The History of British Mammals by Derek Yalden

This book, the first of its kind in 117 years, charts the mammalian fauna of the British Isles. It covers the ice age, changing climate, and the possibility of reintroducing extinct species like wolves and bears. The return of the wild boar is highlighted.

Psycho-Electrics: A theory offering rational explanations for paranormal phenomena by John Ivimy

Reviewed by RF, this book explores electro-magnetic currents as explanations for phenomena like UFO sightings and spontaneous human combustion. It examines air crashes in New York in 1951.

The Encyclopaedia of the Loch Ness Monster by Paul Harrison

This book is described as unique and comprehensive, covering witnesses, experts, theories, and locations related to the Loch Ness Monster. Despite minor printing errors, it is considered a "truly wonderful book". The reviewer notes a puzzle about why Nessie is referred to as female and offers to share the answer.

Back Issues and Publications

Back Issues of Animals & Men

A list of back issues of "Animals & Men" is provided, detailing the contents of issues 1 through 19, covering a wide range of topics from specific animals and cryptids to historical mysteries and expeditions.

The Goblin Universe Back Issues

Similarly, back issues for "The Goblin Universe" are listed, with contents focusing on witchcraft, hauntings, UFOs, and other paranormal subjects.

Our Own Publications

Information is provided on "The Owlman and Others", a new updated edition by Jonathan Downes, and the "CFZ YEARBOOK 1999". The yearbook contains longer articles than those in the magazine, including topics like "Surviving Neanderthals", "The Beast of Bluebell Hill", and "Wolverines in Wales?".

Subscription and Payment Information

Details are provided for subscribing to "Animals & Men", including rates for the UK, EC, US/Canada/Oz/NZ, and the Rest of the World. Methods of payment include UK cash, IMO, Eurocheque, and UK bank cheques. Instructions are given for international payments, particularly regarding US dollars.

The Cryptozoology Files

This section features a cartoon by Mark North titled "The Cryptozoology Files". It depicts a sea monster, identified as "The Morgawr", in Falmouth Bay, Cornwall, with a humorous dialogue between two characters about eclipse glasses, and a quote attributed to Michel de Nostredame.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers topics related to cryptozoology, unexplained phenomena, and Fortean studies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, with a degree of skepticism, particularly evident in the book reviews. The publication aims to inform readers about a wide array of unusual subjects, from mythical creatures and historical mysteries to modern paranormal events and alleged sightings. There is a clear emphasis on providing detailed content, as evidenced by the extensive lists of back issues and the inclusion of longer articles in the yearbook.