Animals and Men - No 22

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: Twenty-Two
Date: April 6, 2000
Publisher: Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £2.00

This issue of Animals & Men, subtitled 'The Journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology', focuses on a variety of cryptozoological and zoological news and reports. The cover prominently features an obituary for 'Toby the CFZ Dog 1985-2000 RIP'.

Editorial

In the editorial, Jon Downes apologizes to subscribers who did not receive Issue 21, explaining the delay was due to personal events including the death of Toby and Isabella, and his engagement to Lindy, as well as the publication of four books. He also mentions that the Centre for Fortean Zoology has received a photocopier from the Devon County Council, which will help them resume a heavier schedule of publications and continue their work.

Contents

The issue contains a wide range of articles and news items, including:

• Editorial
• Newsfile
• Obituaries for Toby the CFZ Dog and John Aspinall
• 'Evolution of Mustelids' by Darren Naish
• 'The CIA - A Cryptozoological Intelligence Agency?' by Nick Redfern
• 'The Father of Cryptozoology retires'
• 'The Return of the Owlman'
• 'The CFZ Big Fish Project'
• 'Absence of proof is not proof of Absence' by Martin Jenkins
• 'Mystery animals of Kent' by Neil Arnold
• 'What's Afoot?' by Richard Freeman
• Letters to the Editor
• Back issues

Newsfile

Lake and Sea Monsters

Ness Than Zero: American scientist Dan Scott Taylor has postponed his quest to trap the Loch Ness Monster indefinitely due to a lack of funds. He spent 30 years building a million-dollar, 40ft mini-submarine named 'Nessa', which has sonar and powerful lights and can travel at 23mph underwater. Taylor, who first became obsessed with the monster in the 1960s, has been unable to find a sponsor and his team of volunteers has quit.

Tourist Board Gets the Hump: Dr Robert Rines, who has spent 30 years searching for creatures in Loch Ness, is reportedly being sought by Scottish tourism chiefs for a £500,000 walkway project. Rines, however, stated he had not heard of the project and was contacted at his Boston office. The Great Glen Way, a 73-mile walkway, is due to open next year and could boost the local economy, but its progress may depend on Rines' permission for access across his land.

Hasta la Bonavista Baby

Bob Crewe reported seeing a creature in the water off Cape Bonavista, Canada, measuring about 30 feet across with a long neck about four or five feet. He described it as looking like a huge snake with a snout, which moved very fast towards a lighthouse. In May 1997, fishermen in Little Bay East, Fortune Bay, described a similar creature with a long neck and gray scaly skin, estimated at 30 to 40 feet long. Another sighting of a similar creature, described as dinosaur-like, was reported by fishermen in Bay L'Argent a few years prior. While some suggested a giant squid, the witnesses maintain it was something stranger.

News

New and Rediscovered:

Takin Liberties: Chinese zoologists have found a group of 20 wild takins in Shaanxi Province, the first sighting in almost 40 years, indicating an improved ecological environment. Richard Freeman notes that takins have been filmed recently.

Oh No "They've" Discovered Two More Marmosets: Two new squirrel-sized monkey species, the Callithrix Manicorensis (Manicore Marmoset) and Callithrix Acariensis (Acari Marmoset), were discovered in northwestern Brazil by scientist Marc Von Roosmalen. They measure about 9 inches with a 15-inch tail and weigh around 12 ounces. The Manicore Marmoset is silvery white with a gray cap and yellow underparts, while the Acari Marmoset is snowy white with gray parts and a black tail with an orange tip.

Miss Your Tern: Six pairs of Chinese crested terns (Sterna bernsteini), a seabird thought extinct since the 1930s, have been spotted rearing chicks on a tiny islet in the South China Sea. Dr Ian Nisbet described this as a very exciting and rare discovery.

Monkeying Around: Researchers believe Sumatran and Bornean orang-utans are distinct species, with greater genetic differences than between common and pygmy chimps. A new theory suggests that rainforest mammals, including orang-utans, were kept separated during glacial periods by moist, protected gullies and river margins.

More Mermaids: Hordes of dugongs, a sirenian mammal, have returned to natural reserves in Beihai, China. These endangered animals were rarely seen in the Beibu Gulf years ago, but a reserve established in 1996 has focused on growing their food source. Dugong populations have decreased due to hunting, and they are sensitive to cold temperatures, found mainly in warmer areas.

Out of Place:

Cuddly Things in Staffordshire: A report suggests that one of Britain's most attractive native mammals has returned to Staffordshire after over a century. Researchers are tracking down mammals like bats, moles, foxes, badgers, and possibly dormice in the Moorlands. The discovery of dormice, believed extinct in Staffordshire for over 120 years, was made in special boxes.

Giant Snake in Arkansas: Tales of a giant snake, allegedly eating animals in Little River County, Arkansas, have surfaced. An animal rescue group is being summoned to catch the snake, reported to be up to 30 feet long. It is speculated to be a python, boa constrictor, or anaconda, and it is thought to have been eating cats and small dogs. Richard Freeman suggests it might be an escapee, noting reports of massive snakes in North American forteana.

Day of the Jackal: Hunters in central Moravia, Czech Republic, shot dead a jackal, mistaking it for a fox. This is considered the northernmost discovery of this species in the region, as jackals are typically found in Hungary, southern Austria, and southern Slovakia. Its presence could disrupt the local ecological balance.

Something Fishy: A report from the Torquay Herald Express details a sighting of a giant sturgeon in Kennick Reservoir. A fisherman claims the fish swam close to the bank. A barrister friend of the reporter also claims to have seen a dolphin in the same reservoir.

Mystery Cats:

Leicestershire, UK: A large, panther-like black cat, about 2ft high and 5ft long, was spotted in a garden in Thurnby Lodge, Leicestershire. The witness was surprised but not scared, stating that such animals usually leave people alone.

Haldon Woods and Ashcombe: There have been further sightings of a large black animal in the Haldon woods and towards Ashcombe, following recent reports near Chudleigh and Ideford.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the discovery and rediscovery of animal species, both known and unknown, and the ongoing investigation into fortean phenomena. The Centre for Fortean Zoology, as indicated by its name and the content, maintains a stance of documenting and exploring unusual animal reports and cryptozoological mysteries from around the world. The editorial highlights the organization's commitment to continuing its publication schedule and exploring areas that other cryptozoological organizations might avoid.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 22
Date: July 19, 2000

This issue of ANIMALS & MEN delves into a variety of intriguing topics, from reported sightings of large predatory animals and cryptids to detailed scientific explorations of animal evolution and biology. It also features obituaries for significant figures.

Big Cat Sightings and Cryptid Reports

The issue opens with reports of big cat sightings in the UK, including a sighting on Gilmorton Avenue, Aylestone, and a puma with cubs near Taunton, Somerset. David Spencer of the Leicestershire and Rutland Panther Watch group notes that these animals seem to be entering urban gardens more frequently, possibly targeting urban foxes, but are unlikely to attack humans unless cornered or injured. A separate report from Illinois, USA, details the discovery of a 110-pound male mountain lion carcass near the Fort Kaskaskia Historic Site, which had been decapitated after being hit by a train.

Further afield, the "...AND FINALLY" section highlights news from Chile, including claims of "Alien Eggs" found near Calama. Witnesses reported Chilean Army troops clashing with three Chupacabra, and returning with large eggs from a nest. Cristian Riffo of Ovalvision Chile suggests these creatures are the result of genetic research by NASA. The issue also details other Chupacabra reports from Chile, including mysterious clawed footprints and sightings of creatures described as 1.2 meters tall, half-hairy, and hunched over. A patrol reportedly captured one creature and killed two others, with the specimens subsequently removed by NASA personnel.

Obituaries

The issue features two significant obituaries. The first is for "Toby the CFZ Dog 1985-2000," written by Jonathan Downes. Toby was a constant companion to Downes for fifteen years and a mild celebrity within fortean circles, appearing on television and accompanying investigations. He is remembered for his loyalty and unique character, even having a 'thing' about bald UFOlogists dressed in black. The second obituary is for John Victor Aspinall (1926-2000), written by Chris Moiser. Aspinall is remembered as an eccentric figure, known for his unconventional upbringing, his career in gambling which led to changes in gaming laws, and his passion for exotic animals. He founded Howletts and Port Lympne wildlife parks and was a supporter of the Zulus. His views were described as right-wing, and he was a prolific writer, notably of "The Best of Friends." He passed away after a battle with cancer.

Feature: Mustelids

The main feature article, "WEASELS, WOLVERINES, BADGERS AND SKUNKS: HISTORICAL BIOLOGY AND EVOLUTION OF THE MUSTELIDS" by Darren Naish, provides a comprehensive overview of the mustelid family. It begins by introducing the 67 living species and their diverse characteristics, noting that sexual dimorphism is common and that size varies greatly, from the Sea otter to the Least weasel.

The article outlines five traditional subfamilies: Melinae (Badgers), Mephitinae (Skunks), Lutrinae (Otters), Mustelinae (Weasels), and Mellivorinae (Honey badgers). It then delves into the complexities of mustelid phylogeny, discussing the debate over whether the group is monophyletic and the potential relationships of skunks and stink badgers. The concept of 'Paleomustelids' (primitive) versus 'Neomustelids' (modern) is introduced, based on morphological features like the auditory bulla and molar teeth.

Extinct groups such as mustelavines, Plesictis, and oligobunines are explored, with mentions of genera like Megalictis, described as a "leopard-sized giant" and possibly a competitor to nimravids. The article also touches upon the 'neomustelid' group Leptarctinae and the ischyrictins, noting their potential ancestral links to modern mustelines.

A significant portion is dedicated to "Megalictis: 'The most remarkable mustelid of all time'," highlighting its immense size and cat-like features, and speculating on its interactions with other predators. The article also discusses the Mellivora, or Honey badger, emphasizing its fearlessness and aggressive nature, with accounts of it attacking large animals like horses and buffalo. It even entertains the idea that juvenile cheetah might mimic the honey badger for protection.

The distribution and habitat of Mellivora are described, noting its presence across Africa and extending into the Middle East and eastern India. The article concludes by discussing the potential mimicry of the African Zorilla and Striped weasel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of animals and unexplained phenomena, as evidenced by the big cat sightings, cryptid reports (Chupacabra), and the inclusion of fortean zoology (CFZ). The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting both factual reporting and speculative accounts, often with a scientific or historical perspective, particularly in the detailed biological features. The obituaries suggest a focus on individuals who were prominent in these fields. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in zoology, cryptozoology, and the unexplained.

This issue of "ANIMALS & MEN" (#22) features two main sections: one exploring the alleged involvement of the CIA in cryptozoological investigations and another detailing the classification and evolution of various mustelid species.

The CIA: A Cryptozoological Intelligence Agency?

This article by Nick Redfern posits that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), established in 1947, has a history of investigating and collecting files on a wide range of cryptozoological phenomena. Beyond its typical intelligence operations, the CIA has reportedly delved into topics such as UFOs, Noah's Ark, mind-control, hypnosis, black magic, and remote viewing. The author notes that many files related to these controversies have been declassified under the Freedom of Information Act, but suggests these represent only a fraction of the agency's involvement.

The article highlights several specific cases:

• Giant Snakes in Bolivia: In the late 1950s, CIA personnel in Bolivia reportedly investigated a local legend of a huge snake, approximately 10 meters long, that had allegedly killed at least 10 people. Plans were made to capture the beast, involving tear gas and a specially made sack. The operation culminated in the snake being killed, and its length was measured at 33 feet and 3 inches. The account is recounted with skepticism by a colleague, David Atlee Phillips, but is corroborated by a "tail zipper man" involved in the capture attempt.
• The 'Minnesota Iceman': In the late 1960s, Frank Hansen, a Minnesota farmer, claimed to possess a hairy, man-like creature preserved in ice, allegedly found off the coast of Siberia. This 'specimen' attracted significant interest from official circles, including the FBI and J. Edgar Hoover, who reportedly made inquiries about it. Hansen, fearing official intervention, allegedly fled with the 'corpse'. The article notes that while an elaborate latex copy was later substituted, the case highlights a potential link between government agencies and unusual discoveries.
• Vampires in the Philippines: During the 1950s, U.S. Air Force General Edward Lansdale, who also headed CIA Psychological Operations, reportedly exploited local vampire legends (known as 'Ausang') to scare Huk rebels in the Philippines. This involved staged killings where captured rebels were found drained of blood, a tactic that proved effective in driving the rebels from certain areas.
• Yeti and Bigfoot: The article mentions Jack "Kewaunee" Lapseritis, author of "The Psychic Sasquatch," who posits a UFO link to the Bigfoot mystery. Lapseritis cites a case of a family experiencing Bigfoot-UFO encounters in the Rocky Mountains in the late 1970s and 1980s, which attracted CIA interest. The CIA's involvement is framed as investigating "unusual activity" related to national security, with Sasquatch and space beings falling under the category of 'Unknowns'.
• Colorado Ranch Incident: Timothy Good's book "Alien Liaison" recounts a family's experiences in the mid-1970s involving Bigfoot encounters, UFOs, alien encounters, and animal mutilations. An airbase officer reportedly informed one of the individuals that directives existed for dealing with Bigfoot and UFOs.

The article concludes by suggesting that if such creatures are real, the hard evidence might be found within the vaults of secretive intelligence agencies.

Mustelid Phylogeny and Diversity

The issue also features extensive discussions on the classification and evolutionary relationships of various mustelid species, drawing heavily on recent phylogenetic studies, particularly by Bininda-Emonds et al. (1999).

Mellivora (Honey Badger)

Despite its name, *Mellivora* is argued to be not a true badger but likely a giant striped weasel, possibly related to the South American grisons (*Galictis*). Its dentition differs significantly from true badgers. Recent phylogenetic work places *Mellivora* within the mustelids, as a sister-group to the mustelines, but not within any specific mustelid subgroups like Poecilogale.

American Badgers (Taxidiini)

American badgers (*Pliotaxidea* and *Taxidea*) are also questioned as being true badgers. While sharing some tooth characteristics, they may be closer relatives of fossil leptarctines. *Taxidea* is described as a thickset, burrowing omnivore of North America, often reddish-grey with a white stripe. It is more carnivorous than true badgers, feeding on ground squirrels and other small mammals. Fossil relatives like *Pliotaxidea* from the late Miocene also show adaptations for burrowing.

Wolverine (*Gulo gulo*)

The wolverine is often confused with a small bear. Its morphology is similar to weasels and martens. It is described as a robust animal with a locking jaw joint reminiscent of badgers. Wolverines are opportunistic predators, consuming carrion, rodents, birds, eggs, berries, and even ungulates. Anecdotal accounts suggest they can bring down adult moose, and Pleistocene wolverines may have preyed on large animals like *Megaloceros*. Their large, semiplantigrade feet aid in traversing snow, and they are described as agile swimmers and climbers.

Weasels, Martens, and Minks (Subfamily Mustelinae)

This subfamily includes agile, predominantly carnivorous animals known for their distinct dentition. They are geographically widespread. The subfamily is broadly divided into Ischyrictins (fossil), Mustelins (true weasels, polecats, zorillas), and Galictins.

• Ischyrictins: A fossil group previously considered ancestors of wolverines or *Mellivora*.
• Mustelins: Characterized by a posteriorly expanded auditory bulla, including true weasels, polecats, and the African zorilla.
• Galictins: South American grisons, originating in Asia and migrating to the Americas. They are small, deep-jawed mustelines.

Martens (*Martes*)

Martens are large, heavy mustelines, more arboreal than other members of the group. Their closest relatives are likely wolverines and the Tayra. They possess large, bushy tails for leaping and are agile climbers. The Stone or Beech marten (*M. foina*) has adapted to urban environments. The genus has a long fossil record, dating back to the Lower Miocene.

African Zorillas and Other Striped Weasels

African weasels are of uncertain phylogenetic position, possibly allied with the *Mustela* group or basal mustelines. They are boldly patterned in black and white and can emit foul-smelling secretions. The Zorilla (*Ictonyx striatus*) is a widespread species, with subspecies found in southern, eastern, and western Africa. Fossil mustelines like *Baranogale* suggest African weasels migrated out of Africa.

True Weasels and Polecats (*Mustela*)

This is the most speciose and widespread genus of mustelids, comprising 16 members. They are agile terrestrial predators adapted for chasing prey through burrows. Some species are semiaquatic, like the minks (*M. lutreola* and *M. vison*). The recently extinct Sea mink (*M. macrodon*) was a large, plump species found along the coasts of New England and Canada. During the Pleistocene, northern species adapted to snowy climates, developing a winter coat change. The genus *Mustela* invaded North America during the Pliocene, evolving endemic forms like the Black-footed ferret (*M. nigripes*).

The article discusses the classification of *Mustela* into groups such as the *putorius* group (polecats), *lutreola* group (European mink), *mustela* group (long-tailed weasel, stoat, weasel), and *vison* group (American mink). Recent studies suggest that the two living mink species are not close relatives but belong to different lineages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of natural history with unexplained phenomena and intelligence agency involvement. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting intriguing, sometimes speculative, information from scientific and investigative sources, encouraging readers to consider unconventional possibilities while grounding discussions in available research and historical accounts. The detailed phylogenetic analysis of mustelids suggests a commitment to scientific accuracy within the broader context of exploring unusual animal and human activities.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: # 22
Date: July 2000

This issue of ANIMALS & MEN delves into the fascinating world of cryptozoology and unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on the retirement of Bernhard Heuvelmans, widely regarded as the father of the field.

The Father of Cryptozoology Retires

The lead story, translated from an article in *Le Temps*, announces the retirement of Bernhard Heuvelmans, a Belgian scientist who earned a PhD at 23 and dedicated his life to cryptozoology. His extensive research, spanning fifty years, has been donated to the Musee cantonal de zoologie in Lausanne. This collection comprises approximately 25,000 original files, numerous photographs, a map file, extensive correspondence, and a library of 2500 books. The museum plans to showcase this treasure trove, which includes evidence related to creatures like the Yeti, dragons, giant squids, and sea serpents. Daniel Cherix, assistant curator, emphasizes the need for a strong zoological background to be a good cryptozoologist, a principle Heuvelmans embodied. Michel Sartori, curator of the zoology museum, highlights the scientific rigor Heuvelmans applied and the importance of verifying submissions, as fakes are abundant. Heuvelmans, now 83 and living in Paris, donated his archives out of friendship with Daniel Cherix. The museum aims to establish a dedicated 'cryptozoology department' to manage and preserve this unique collection, with Lausanne poised to become the capital of cryptozoology.

The Owlman Returns (Sort Of)

This section revisits the mystery of the Cornish Owlman, a creature that has garnered significant press coverage. The article mentions contact with Tony 'Doc' Shiels, who reported another sighting. An email from a witness, Sally G, details a personal experience from July 1976 when she was 38 years old. She recounts seeing a 'feathered monster' in the woods near Mawnan, describing it as man-like with red, shining eyes. The creature made a hissing noise and rose up through the trees without flapping. Sally G describes its legs as looking like grey trouser material and its feet as black, hooking things, like an earwig's tail-piece. She initially mistook it for a werewolf from a film. The experience was deeply unsettling and affected her life for years. She notes that her friend Barbara was also present and tried to calm her. Tony Shiels played down their fear, but Sally G was convinced the encounter was real, describing the creature as a 'very weird, frightening animal, as real as any animal in a zoo.' She reflects on the difficulty of remembering and processing the event, and how she coped by pretending it hadn't happened. She also mentions a book, 'The Owlman and Others,' and a spoof art movie released by the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ).

The CFZ Big Fish Project

This ongoing project by the CFZ aims to collect accounts of 'mini monsters' – unusual fish haunting smaller bodies of water like ponds, rivers, and canals. The article notes that while large lake monsters are well-documented, smaller-scale phenomena are equally valid. Stories of ferocious or unusually large fish are common in folklore and mainstream literature. The project seeks to find parallels between these smaller accounts and those of more fearsome lake, river, and sea monsters. The section includes historical accounts of giant pike, such as one captured in Germany in 1497 that was reportedly 19 'schuh' long and 267 years old. It also mentions a 1983 incident where a 35lb pike allegedly attacked a dog, and a 1990 case of a pike found dead after trying to swallow a carp. The CFZ is actively collecting such stories, including those from local canals and reports of large sturgeon.

Historical Accounts of Giant Pike

This section provides specific historical accounts of large pike. One notable event is the capture of a gigantic pike in Germany on November 6th, 1497, near Kaiserslautern. Contemporary records state it was 19 'schuh' long (a 'schuh' being the length of a shoe), suggesting a remarkable size. This pike bore a golden ring commemorating its placement in the pond in 1230, implying it was 267 years old. The legends surrounding pike often involve their size and ferocity. The article also recounts an alleged incident in 1983 at Sir James Steel Park, Washington, Tyne and Wear, where a swimming dog was reportedly attacked by a 35lb pike that bit off three of its legs. Another account from 1990 in Godmanchester describes a 29lb pike found dead after attempting to swallow a whole 6lb carp. The article also references a story from Arthur Ransome's book 'The Big Six' about a massive pike caught before the war on the Norfolk Broads. The CFZ is collecting these stories for a new project.

Absence of Evidence Isn't Evidence of Absence

Authored by Martin E. Jenkins, this article discusses the hypothesis that some cryptids, particularly alien big cats (ABCs), might be 'psychic phenomena' rather than purely physical beings. Jenkins questions the reliance on the 'lack of bodies' argument, noting that cryptozoologists sometimes seem bothered by this. He references the work of Healy and Cropper, who suggest that cryptids might 'blink in and out of bodily existence.' Jenkins acknowledges the possibility but cautions against adopting this hypothesis out of desperation when physical evidence is lacking. He argues that for cryptids to be real, their behavior needs to be analyzed, and searches should be conducted by skilled trackers, not just urban amateurs. The article touches upon the difficulty of finding evidence for creatures like the sasquatch, suggesting that the low probability of encountering and successfully hunting such animals in vast, sparsely populated areas contributes to the lack of physical evidence. He contrasts the hunting practices of American frontiersmen with modern hunters, suggesting the former were more likely to engage in serious hunting.

Creatures from The Kentish County

This article by Neil Arnold explores the work of Charles Fort and the realm of fortean phenomena. Arnold notes that Fort's research, compiled into classic books, has influenced many within the field. He highlights that the world of monsters and strange creatures often lacks concrete evidence but remains appealing. Cryptozoology and the study of animal oddities stem from rumor, lore, and folktale, which can be fallible and brief. Arnold suggests that while not every monster story should be accepted, the approach of analyzing peculiar occurrences, as Fort did, is valuable. He mentions an account of a search for the 'beast of Bluebell Hill,' which relied on chance and the creature remaining in the area to be spotted, reinforcing the idea that understanding animal behavior is key to finding cryptids.

How You Can Help

This section provides instructions for readers who wish to contribute to 'The Big Fish Project' by sending information to The Big Fish Project, Centre for Fortean Zoology, 15 Holne Court, Exwick, Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom, EX4 2NA. Accepted contributions include documentary evidence from angling clubs, folkloric reports, pictures, preserved specimens, and newspaper cuttings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a stance that treats cryptozoology and fortean phenomena with a degree of scientific inquiry, while acknowledging the challenges of proof and the prevalence of hoaxes. There's a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation, as exemplified by the coverage of Bernhard Heuvelmans' work and the CFZ's projects. The editorial approach seems to be one of open-mindedness tempered with skepticism, encouraging the collection of evidence and the exploration of hypotheses, but also stressing the importance of verifiable data and scientific methodology. The magazine appears to champion the idea that even seemingly outlandish phenomena warrant serious study, provided it is conducted with appropriate diligence.

This issue, #22 of 'Animals & Men', is titled 'FEATURE' and focuses on a collection of articles detailing unexplained animal sightings, cryptozoological reports, and Fortean phenomena from various locations, primarily the UK.

Contents and Articles

The magazine presents a diverse range of topics, including:

Rural Legends and Strange Animals

The introductory articles discuss the author's personal contact with strange animal legends in rural Kent. These range from brief anecdotes to more detailed reports, some of which have been overlooked due to historical events like war and unemployment. Examples include 'alien hopping things' (wallabies) and rampant kangaroos sighted in the mid-1970s between East Grinstead and Tunbridge Wells. Other reports mention an angler hooking an alligator-type creature in Capstone Park, Chatham, and the presence of viperine snakes and a large python in a local quarry.

The Beast of Burham and Sheep Killers

A local warden's tale of an elusive beast that fed on rabbits led to the legend of the 'beast of Burham'. The magazine notes how such tales often play out like urban legends. It also recounts the story of an unknown vampiric sheep-slayer that terrorized flocks in Gravesend in December, puncturing sheep to consume their blood. A similar incident in Gloucester involved a large black dog blamed for attacks. The Gravesend incident is dated to 1905, with caution advised due to the unusual nature of such out-of-place animals at the time. More mysterious attacks occurred in February and March 1905, with sightings of wolf-like animals reported across the country, including a carcass found in Cumwinton. In Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, unattended flocks were savaged, with several sheep maimed.

The Jackal of Derby and Large Felines in Kent

One case details a slaughtered animal with severe wounds, where the killer was eventually spotted and shot. After examination, the beast was pronounced a jackal and was stuffed and displayed in a taxidermist's window in Derby. The article suggests that Kent, despite not being the Canadian Rockies or Florida Everglades, can be a habitat for large animals. This is supported by the 'Peckham Panther' incident in 1975, where angler Fred Lloyd found a two-foot long panther cub by the River Medway. The cub, which hissed and displayed claws, was taken home and later identified by an Essex zoo as their escaped 'Zar', worth £500. The journey from Colchester Zoo to Kent is noted as being through challenging terrain.

'Bear-like' Creature and Other Sightings

In August 1983, brothers Mark (11) and Peter (9) reported a 'bear-like' hairy creature falling from a tree in their garden in Hawkshurst. The animal, described as larger than their dog with brown fur, a long nose, and black claws, disappeared into Bedgebury Forest. Large scratches were found on the tree. The article questions whether it was a monkey, bear, or acrobatic anteater.

Escaped Tigers and Clouded Leopards

Regarding escaped animals, five tigers were deliberately released from John Aspinall's Howletts Zoo park near Canterbury in October 1984. Two adult tigers and their offspring were sighted over a 45-minute period, with one three-year-old female eventually shot after being seen near goats. The other four were recaptured. The article notes that Howletts Zoo admits to escapes, and ten years prior, a clouded leopard was shot dead after eight months on the loose, following numerous local livestock kills.

Mysterious 'Wild Dog' and 'Big Bird' Attack

A contact working for a Gravesend newspaper spotted a creamy-coloured 'wild dog' in March 2000, nosing at a half-eaten sandwich in her workplace car park. The description was vague, with the animal having a long tail and upward-hooked snout, possibly a fox with a disease, a stray dog, or a South American wild dog.

In November 1999, Sue Jackson, an experienced horse-rider, was attacked by a 'big bird' on Mill Hill. The bird of prey flew from nowhere, causing her to be thrown from her horse. She described the attacker as having an 'enormous wingspan', but strangely dismissed it as a falcon or kestrel.

Cryptozoology and Fortean Events

'What's afoot?' by Richard Freeman discusses Unconvention 2000, featuring the visual tour 'The Owlman and Others' by Jon Downes, which recounts journeys through Cornwall. The article highlights talks by Paul Harrison on British sea serpent and lake monster reports, and Lars Thomas's theory that the Lake Storsjo monster is a swimming moose. Peter Chapple of the Australian rare fauna research association gave a talk on big cats in Australia and thylacine survival.

The 'Weird Weekend' convention in Exeter featured lectures on topics such as the Marsden Grotto, the Shoney sea serpent, the Highgate vampire, ghost haunting in Scotland, the CIA's file on Noah's Ark, and global cataclysms. The magazine also mentions a talk by Australian cryptozoologist Peter Chapple on the thylacine, which lasted three hours and included audio recordings of the Tasmanian wolf's cry.

Thylacine Research and Mystery Whales

Further discussion on the thylacine suggests that mapping their preferred habitats matches sightings on Tasmania and Victoria, hinting at the possibility of two surviving species. The magazine also lists numerous back issues covering topics such as mystery whales, giant sloths, various mystery cats, and other cryptids.

Letters to the Editor

Neil Arnold of Kent writes about tracking a mysterious black cat in Lordswood, describing sightings of a 'phantom' creature moving swiftly in the mist. He believes it to be a black panther and notes that such animals are nocturnal and elusive.

Moira Littlejohn of Glospie, Scotland, recounts her sisters' sightings of a medium-sized, dark brown cat, described as having small, black-tipped ears and a very long tail, resembling a puma, in the Dunrobin Castle woods.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of unexplained animal sightings, particularly large felines and mysterious creatures, across the UK. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into these phenomena, presenting various accounts and theories without necessarily offering definitive conclusions. The magazine encourages reader correspondence and actively publishes letters detailing personal experiences with the unexplained, suggesting a belief in the existence of these phenomena and the importance of documenting them.