Animals and Men - No 23

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 23
Date: 2000
Publisher: Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of Animals & Men, the journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, is dedicated to a diverse range of cryptozoological and zoological mysteries. The cover prominently features the headline "ON THE TRAIL OF THE NAGA – THE 2000 CFZ EXPEDITION TO THAILAND," alongside other intriguing topics such as "Lake Monsters in Switzerland; Geordie Big Cats; Mammoths in Thailand; Rediscovery of the Caspian Tiger; News and more.."

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Jon Downes (Editor), reflects on the year 2000 as an "Annus Horribilis" for the CFZ, expressing relief that it is over. The only "bright spot" mentioned was Richard Freeman's "momentous trip to Thailand," an account of which is featured prominently. Downes notes that this expedition was the most important accomplishment since the CFZ's 1998 expedition to Puerto Rico and Mexico in search of the chupacabra. He expresses hope that 2001 will be better, even if Arthur C. Clarke's predictions about discovering megaliths on the moon do not materialize. The editorial also announces upcoming projects, including the "long awaited 2000/1 Yearbook" and a reprint of Andy Roberts' work.

Key Articles and Reports

On the Track of Geordie Big Cats

This article, by Mike Hallowell, likely delves into reports and sightings of large feline predators in the North East of England, often referred to as "Geordie Big Cats."

In the Coils of the Naga – The 2000 CFZ Expedition to Thailand

Authored by Richard Freeman, this is the lead article detailing the CFZ's expedition to Thailand. The focus is on the search for the "Naga," a mythical serpent-like creature prominent in Southeast Asian folklore. The article likely includes accounts of the expedition's activities, findings, and any potential evidence or encounters related to the Naga.

Lake Monsters in Switzerland

Andreas Trottmann contributes an article on lake monsters reported in Switzerland. This section likely explores local legends, eyewitness accounts, and any scientific investigations into unexplained phenomena in Swiss lakes.

Sighting of Ivory-Billed Woodpecker

This report details the claims of forestry student David Kulivan, who believes he sighted an ivory-billed woodpecker in the Pearl River wildlife refuge near New Orleans. The ivory-billed woodpecker is widely considered extinct. The article includes quotes from Kulivan and Steve Shively of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, discussing the significance of such a sighting and the scrutiny it has undergone. The distinctive features of the ivory-billed woodpecker, such as its ivory-white beak and the male's red crest, are highlighted, differentiating it from the similar pileated woodpecker.

Rediscovery of Japanese Wolf?

Following a previous article on Japanese mystery animals, this piece discusses the potential rediscovery of the Japanese wolf. It mentions two types of wolves historically found in Japan: the Yeso Wolf and a smaller species known as the Shamu or Shamanu. The article recounts a sighting by Satoshi Nishida, a high school principal in Kitakyushu, Japan, who photographed an animal resembling a Japanese wolf believed to have been extinct since 1905. Experts, including Dr. Yoshinori Imaizumi, are consulted for their opinions on the classification of the photographed animal.

"Extinct" Moth Rediscovered in the UK

This report announces the rediscovery of the New Forest Burnet moth (Zygaeba viciae), a species thought to be extinct in Britain for nearly 80 years. While previously found in the New Forest, it had not been seen since 1927. Colonies were later discovered in Argyll, and now there are repeated sightings on the west coast of Scotland. Dr. Mark Young of Aberdeen University's zoology department describes the moth's successful conservation as a "major success story."

Rediscovery of Caspian Tiger?

This article explores the possibility of the Caspian tiger, a subspecies of tiger believed to be extinct, still existing in the wild. Local hunters in Turkey's Cud Mountains, near the border with Iraq, claim to have seen these tigers. An expedition is planned for the following year to investigate these claims and also to look for Persian leopards and monitor striped hyenas. Dr. Eken of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Turkey notes the pristine habitat in the mountainous region.

Three New Species of Lemur Discovered

Scientists working in Madagascar announced the discovery of three previously unknown species of mouse lemurs, the world's smallest primates. This find is considered an encouraging sign for conservationists, as Madagascar is home to about 40 species of lemurs. The new varieties were confirmed through genetic tests and physical characteristics. Steven Goodman of the Field Museum of Natural History highlights the rarity of discovering new primate species.

New South American Rodent

An article reports on the discovery of a previously unknown "giant tree rat" in the Vilcabamba mountains of Peru. This powerful, tree-living mammal, with large claws, represents a new genus with unknown characteristics in the rodent family. The animal, named *Cuscomys ashaninka*, was discovered by Louise Emmons of the Smithsonian Institution.

Giant Snake in South Africa?

This piece details reports from residents of Ezitapile in South Africa's Eastern Cape who claim to have seen a strange snake-like creature. The animal is described as having a body like a "20-quart barrel" with a horse-like head and a mane. Livestock reportedly become agitated when the creature is near, though there have been no reports of attacks.

BHM/Man-Beasts: New Evidence for the Yowie?

This section discusses the Yowie, a cryptid known in Australia. Amateur cameraman Steve Piper captured video footage in the Brindabella ranges, south of Canberra, of what he initially thought was a kangaroo but realized was much larger. The footage is considered by some to be the most conclusive evidence to date for the existence of a Bigfoot-like creature in the Australian wilderness. The article also mentions another yowie sighting by Ashley Mills near Taree, New South Wales.

Richard Freeman's Comment

In a brief comment, Richard Freeman relates the description of the "giant snake" in South Africa to crested and horned snakes reported elsewhere. He also speculates that these animals, along with the sightings of similar creatures in South Africa, might lend weight to his theory that they could be surviving mastodons from the Pleistocene era, connecting it to his article on the CFZ Thailand expedition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Animals & Men are the exploration and documentation of undiscovered or rediscovered animal species, both known and unknown to science. The journal consistently focuses on cryptozoology, expeditions to remote locations, and the investigation of anomalous zoological phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting evidence and accounts from various sources while maintaining a critical perspective, as indicated by the "Editor's Note" on the "Extinct" Moth article which questions the significance of insect discoveries but argues for their importance when occurring in well-explored areas like the UK.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: # 23
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Bigfoot Controversy

The issue opens with a report on the "BIGFOOT CONTROVERSY," detailing conflicting conclusions from researchers regarding tracks found on the Lower Hoh Indian Reservation in Washington State. Cliff Crook, a self-proclaimed Bigfoot tracker, believes the evidence is substantial and is gathering more data. He describes the creature as approximately 8 feet tall with 17-inch feet and an estimated weight of 600 pounds. In contrast, Dr. Jeffrey Meldrum, an assistant professor of anatomy and biology, concluded that there was not enough factual evidence to continue an investigation. Crook, who has assembled around 400 plaster footprints and advised on the Bigfoot film "Harry and the Hendersons," reported 19 sightings in the Pacific Northwest in the current year alone, having thoroughly investigated nine.

Bigfoot Sighting

A separate article details a Bigfoot sighting in early July 2000, reported by psychologist Matthew Johnson in Selma, Oregon. While hiking with his family at the Oregon Caves National Monument, Johnson claims to have heard, smelled, and seen the mythical Bigfoot. He described the creature as "very tall" and "very hairy," standing upright about 60 feet away, spying on his family. The sighting was preceded by a pungent, musky scent and deep, guttural groans.

Temperate Tarzan

This section reports on a bizarre crypto news story from British Columbia, where a Bigfoot has reportedly been seen accompanied by a blond-haired boy. Over two dozen people claim to have seen this "human youngster dressed in animal skins." Some investigators speculate the boy might be the missing survivor of a plane crash, raised by Bigfoot. Dr. Rob Worrier, a zoologist, suggests this indicates Bigfoot is not a mere monster but a gentle, intelligent being capable of nurturing behavior. The boy, described as lean and wiry with long, matted hair, was first spotted by dentist Dr. Arthur Gosten, who witnessed him stealing food. Gosten chased the boy and saw him next to an "enormous, hairy, man-like creature at least 8 feet tall."

Other News

Scottish Owlman?

An article mentions a similar beast sighted by Anne Jones in Edinburgh. She reported being woken by an intense white light and seeing a creature crouching on a large branch in her garden, which she initially thought was a bird but realized was "far too big," about the size of a man with wing-like structures.

Old Whale Tale

This segment discusses evidence suggesting whales can live much longer than previously thought. Analysis of tissue samples and ancient harpoon heads found in bowhead whales between 1978 and 1996 indicates they can live for over two hundred years, with some potentially still alive if not hunted.

A Frozen Zoo?

Reporting on a story from The Sunday Times, this section details scientists locating a "frozen zoo" of prehistoric creatures under the Siberian permafrost. An expedition has already retrieved a mammoth and claims evidence of an extraordinary menagerie of extinct creatures, including woolly rhinos, steppe lions, giant deer, foxes, and hardy horses, with plans to retrieve more. Bernard Buigues, the expedition leader, believes they may also have found signs of human settlement from 2,000BC. Competition among scientific teams is noted, with accusations of underhand tactics. The prospect of discovering more remains has revived hopes of re-creating Pleistocene era life. Larry Agenbroad, a professor of geology, believes it may be possible to introduce these animals to North America in the long term.

Mammoths in Thailand?

A newsfile reports on the sighting of a herd of large, hairy elephants in Thailand, dubbed "Thai mammoths" by Princess Rangsrinopadorn Yukol. The elephants were described as bigger than normal, with long hair and tusks up to three meters. While some officials expressed skepticism due to the tropical climate, others confirmed the sightings. A conservationist from the Wildlife Fund of Thailand suggested it was unlikely to find such a species there, but the Princess stated local officials confirmed their existence and urged conservation. The article also mentions a similar case in Nepal involving giant elephants with high, domed skulls, which were attributed to a small gene pool and inbreeding, suggesting the Thai elephants might be a similar phenomenon rather than actual mammoths.

Obituaries

This section includes an obituary for Tracy Freestone (1967-2000), a friend of the magazine's deputy editor, Graham Inglis. Her life is described as a "string of cock-ups."

Nobby c. 1975 - 2000: Fish You Were Here

This piece commemorates Nobby, a record-breaking giant gourami who lived at the Crew's Hill Water Garden Centre for 16 years and was thought to be the largest of her species. Nobby, estimated to be at least 25 years old and 30 inches long, was often misunderstood due to her "morose appearance." The article notes that fish faces cannot display emotions like humans and that Nobby was sensitive to criticism of her looks. She was hand-fed processed peas and enjoyed Glacé cherries on special occasions.

Welcome to the New CFZ Pooch

This section announces the arrival of Tessie, a seven-year-old blonde bitch, as the new CFZ dog, following the passing of Toby the CFZ Dog. The CFZ staff were devastated by Toby's death but acquired Tessie due to her circumstances, even before Tracy Freestone's passing.

On the Track of Geordie Big Cats

Mike Hallowell investigates sightings of large cats in the Tyne & Wear region of England. A witness reported seeing a "very large cat running past the back of my house at about 12 noon. It was completely black, had a small head and a long, curled tail." Another witness, initially a skeptic, was convinced after seeing the creature. The sightings have led to a sense of paranoia in the village of Cleadon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and unusual animal reports from around the world. There is a clear interest in Bigfoot and similar cryptids, as well as ancient or extinct creatures like mammoths. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting various accounts and scientific perspectives, while also acknowledging the need for critical evaluation, as noted in the editor's note regarding the "Thai mammoths" story. The magazine also features obituaries and tributes to animals associated with the Centre for Fortean Zoology, highlighting a broader interest in the animal kingdom and its mysteries.

This issue of "ANIMALS & MEN # 23", dated July 2000, delves into two primary narratives: the 'Cleadon Big Cat' phenomenon in the United Kingdom and a cryptozoological expedition to Thailand.

Bravely Going Where No Hand Has Set Foot: The Cleadon Big Cat

The article begins with an account of the 'Cleadon Big Cat' (ABC) sightings, starting with a report in the "Gazette" by lain Smith. The author recounts an early morning pursuit in Cleadon Village, describing the eerie atmosphere and the agitated behavior of four ponies when a large, dark shape was observed near a hedge. This incident is presented as a potential sighting of the ABC.

Further investigation by lain Smith and a "Gazette" photographer involved a playful reenactment, dressing up in a pith helmet and hunting rifle, which could have led to detention by the constabulary. The nature of the ABC is questioned: is it a 'Fun Thing' or a 'Serious Thing'?

A resident, Tracey Stores, offers a possible explanation: her Burmese Mountain Dog, Julius, a large, multicoloured canine, might have been mistaken for a panther, though the timing (0530hrs) and the dog's appearance make this unlikely.

By January 16, the ABC was no longer considered just a 'Fun Thing'. lain Smith interviewed a chap who had encountered the 'beast' while walking his dog. The fear factor escalated, leading to a boycott of Cleadon Hills by dog walkers and ramblers. The subject gained a more serious tone, with rumors of a mutilated rabbit circulating.

lain Smith collaborated with the author, sharing theories. The author suggested contacting PC Eddie Bell, a Durham Police wildlife officer, who confirmed numerous ABC sightings in the region, including Burnmoor, Consett, and Weardale. The possibility of a rogue puma migrating from these areas was considered.

Albert Burr, a resident, reported seeing the 'beast' multiple times, describing it as a large dog. Kim Denham found massive footprints in the mud. Another resident humorously dismissed a constable's suggestion that a sighting could be a tabby cat, calling the constable 'bonkers'.

By January 27, Sergeant Bell from Durham suggested that several pumas might have been released by a private collector in the 1970s, with evidence pointing to releases in Weardale.

Just Give Me The Facts, Ma'am.

On February 20, a new witness, Mrs. X, came forward with a close-range sighting. She described a huge, black, 'panther-like' creature standing on the pavement. The creature licked its lips and crossed the road before disappearing. The weather was 'slightly foggy'. Mrs. X noted that the creature's legs were invisible, despite seeing the rest of it clearly. She also mentioned 'bright red eyes' that frightened her.

The author discusses the possibility of a 'zooform' animal, as described by cryptozoologist Jon Downes, which has the appearance of a normal creature but is not 'real'. Zooform animals are said to sometimes appear with missing limbs and often have 'red, glowing eyes'. The author predicted the ABC would disappear within weeks.

Roll Up, Roll Up

By March 19, the hunt for the ABC had become a 'Fun Thing' again, with newspapers discussing 'Big Cat Mania'. The South Shields Museum and Art Gallery hosted an exhibition called 'Claws'. The public flocked to see displays about prehistoric and modern big cats. The exhibition included a life-size, moving replica of a sabre-tooth tiger.

In April, lain Smith speculated that the cat might have 'gone south'. Public enthusiasm surged again with reports of other mystery big cats from Devon and Cornwall, leading to calls for similar helicopter tracking assistance in Cleadon.

By May, 'Big Cat Fever' continued. Sergeant Bell gave a talk at the museum. The article mentions the recruitment of volunteers for the Protection League and advice from a Northumbria Police Wildlife Officer.

IN THE COILS OF THE NAGA: THE CFZ THAILAND EXPEDITION 2000

This section, by Richard Freeman, details a cryptozoological expedition to Thailand in July 2000, organized by Bang Productions for a Discovery Channel project called "Mysteries of Asia". The focus was on the Naga, a legendary snake reputed to inhabit the Mekong River, and other phenomena like the yeti and UFOs.

The author was contacted by Manami Szymko, who interviewed him and filmed a screen test. Later, Sandra Egart from the same company invited him to Thailand. The expedition team included producer Peter Daniel, researcher and interpreter Athihan Srivetbodee ('Bob'), camera man Derek Williams, and soundman Somyot Pisapark.

Upon arrival in Bangkok, the author was surprised by the youth of the production team and stayed in the luxurious Amari Atrium hotel.

The Naga and Giant Crocodiles

The article provides background on the Naga, described as gigantic snakes with erectile crests, capable of killing by biting, spitting venom, or constriction. They are believed to have immense intelligence and magickal powers, able to transform into humans and inhabit underwater palaces.

The team visited the Samutprakarn crocodile farm, home to a 20-foot Indo-Pacific Siamese cross named Yai. The author observed other crocodiles, including specimens estimated at 23 and 25 feet. He theorized that the 'Mekong monster' could be a large Indo-Pacific crocodile (C. porosus), though he later abandoned this idea based on eyewitness accounts.

The author participated in feeding the crocodiles, recalling his past experience as a zookeeper. He noted that Samutprakarn's promotional material emphasized conservation but suggested that cross-breeding was diluting gene pools. The Siamese crocodile, previously thought extinct in the wild, had been rediscovered in Cambodia.

Zoo Conditions and Other Creatures

The expedition also visited the Pata zoo in downtown Bangkok, located atop a department store. While the reptile collection was deemed adequate, the conditions for mammals and birds on the roof were described as appalling. Animals like gorillas, tigers, and bears were kept in tiny enclosures.

A preserved specimen of the giant freshwater stingray (Himantura chaophraya), discovered in 1987, was noted. This fish is described as organic flying saucer-shaped, greeny-grey, measuring seven by six and a half feet, with tiny eyes.

The author was meant to interview the director of Pata zoo about film of an alleged Naga, but the director was hospitalized after an accident. Instead, they spoke with Dr. Apicsart, a fish expert, who was skeptical about the Naga sightings, suggesting witnesses might have seen zooform animals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue highlights a fascination with the unexplained and unusual, covering both local mysteries like the 'Cleadon Big Cat' and exotic legends such as the Naga. The magazine adopts a tone of investigative journalism mixed with a sense of wonder, presenting witness accounts, expert opinions, and personal experiences. There's a clear interest in cryptozoology and the intersection of folklore, zoology, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, exploring possibilities without necessarily endorsing every claim, while also critiquing poor animal welfare practices in zoos.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (#23) focuses on the author's expedition to Thailand to investigate the legend of the Naga, a mythical serpent deeply ingrained in local folklore and religious beliefs. The journey involves exploring sightings, alleged physical evidence, and cultural interpretations of this creature.

The Expedition and Encounters

The author begins by recounting his arrival in Bangkok and his flight to Udon Thani, the base for his expedition. There, he meets Pongpol Adireksarn, also known by his pen name Paul Adirex, a best-selling author and the campaign manager for the opposition party in Thailand. Pongpol is described as charming and witty, offering a unique perspective on Thai politics: "In Thai politics there is no left or right just right and wrong!"

In Udon Thani, the author is introduced to Pongpol's friends and assistants, including Pracha Manakarn, nicknamed "Pang." A banquet is held in Pongpol's honor, where the author experiences the delicious Mekong catfish. The following day, they visit a statue garden featuring gigantic religious figures, some over 150 feet tall, depicting Hindu deities alongside Buddha, highlighting the syncretic nature of Thai Buddhism.

Naga Legends and Sightings

The narrative then delves into specific incidents related to the Naga. In Vientaine, Laos, a peasant reportedly dug up large eggs believed to be naga eggs. Despite warnings of a flood and the need for atonement ceremonies, the authorities, including Prince Souvana Phouma, ignored the pleas, and the Mekong River subsequently flooded. This incident is linked to the town of Nongkhai, where the author interviews Malinee Phisaphan, an old lady who claims to have seen a huge black snake, approximately seventeen feet long and as thick as a football, in the Mekong five years prior.

A significant phenomenon discussed is the "naga fireballs," balls of red light observed annually on October 13th shooting from the Mekong River, which locals attribute to the naga's breath. The author, however, speculates they might be fireworks, possibly orchestrated to attract tourists, noting their localized origin from the Laotian side of the river.

The expedition continues to Phon Pisai, where the author interviews Officer Suphat, the chief of police. Suphat recounts a sighting of a gigantic black snake, estimated to be seventy meters (or 230 feet) long, swimming in the river. The author considers this sighting potentially exaggerated, suggesting it might have been multiple nagas swimming in line or a long wake.

Physical Evidence and Theories

The issue explores attempts to find physical evidence of the Naga. The author visits Mr. Pimpa, an old man who claims a frightening encounter with a naga in a cave system. Mr. Pimpa describes a giant snake, sixty feet long, in a tubular cave. He later offers to guide the author and his crew into the cave network, which is described as a strange and alien environment with unusual rock formations and luminous midge larvae.

Regarding the naga bones, a story is recounted where a man repeatedly dreams of a naga, instructing him to acquire naga bones from Laos. After three attempts, he succeeds, but the bones are later examined and revealed to be elephant teeth, a significant disappointment for the author seeking physical proof.

The Big Fish Project and Conclusions

The author presents his theory that the Naga legend is a fusion of ancient mythology with a real, large animal that has always inhabited the Mekong. He suggests that creatures like the Madtsoids, an ancient group of giant snakes, might be the basis for these legends. He notes that while many giant snake legends exist worldwide, the specific characteristics attributed to the Naga, such as venom, might be a later addition to the folklore.

The author concludes that while the fireballs and bones might be explained away, the Naga itself remains an enigma, with witnesses falling into categories of those seeing something in the river and those seeing something on land, both imbued with mystical significance.

The issue also includes an editor's note about the "Big Fish Project," an initiative to correlate legends of lake monsters globally, and a letter from Andreas Trottman in Switzerland regarding this project.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are cryptozoology, folklore, and the intersection of myth and potential reality, particularly concerning giant serpentine creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting witness accounts and theories while also applying critical analysis and skepticism, especially regarding physical evidence and phenomena like the naga fireballs. The author clearly values firsthand accounts and cultural interpretations but seeks rational explanations or evidence for extraordinary claims. The exploration of Thai culture, Buddhism, and Hinduism provides a rich backdrop for the cryptozoological investigations.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 23
Publisher: CFZ COMMUNICATIONS
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £2 each
Cover Headline: LAKE MONSTERS IN SWITZERLAND?

Article: LAKE MONSTERS IN SWITZERLAND?

This article, authored by Andreas Trottmann, investigates the phenomenon of lake monsters, particularly in the Swiss lakes, with a focus on the Lac de Morat (Murtensee). Trottmann, who lives near the lake, became intrigued by newspaper reports of strange creatures and embarked on research involving witness interviews, archival research, and fishermen's accounts. His conclusion is that these sightings are likely misidentifications of the large wels catfish (Silurus glatris) that inhabit the lake.

The Lac de Morat is described as a shallow lake with a surface area of 23 square kilometres and a main depth of 46 metres. It is connected to the larger Lac de Neuchâtel and Bielersee. The surrounding area features small villages and the medieval towns of Murten and Avenches.

Trottmann recounts two curious letters to the editor published in the Berer Zeitung in August 1992, which described sightings of four long, very dark objects, estimated to be 4.5 to 5.5 metres in length, swimming in unison. These objects were observed from a distance and their size was calibrated with the help of a nearby anchored boat. Another reader corroborated these sightings, reporting similar objects and unexplained wake motions observed numerous times on warm summer evenings.

Trottmann contacted the witnesses for more details. The first witness, Max Mössinger, an architect, confirmed the measurement of the four bodies between 4.5 and 5.5 metres, stating they swam in a single line and disappeared one by one over approximately five minutes in calm waters. No specific body details like flippers or heads were visible.

The second witness, Hansruedi Lauper, reported sightings typically occurring on warm summer evenings between 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm in very shallow waters (about 10 metres depth). Again, no specific body details were visible.

Trottmann himself experienced similar phenomena. One summer evening in 1995, he observed people looking at a village fountain where a 2-metre, 55 kg wels was displayed. He also recounts a colleague of his wife who felt a heavy blow from beneath her inflatable boat, suggesting a large body swimming underneath.

He further details the wels population in Lac de Morat and Bielersee, noting that specimens of 2 metres and 50-60 kilograms are frequently caught. He found newspaper articles on such catches, often with headings like "A lake-monster was caught...". An interesting photograph from a private source shows a wels caught in wintertime, stuck between the lake bottom and the surface ice, measuring 1.97 metres and weighing 95 kg.

Trottmann concludes that the strange "lake-monster" reports are explained by the behaviour of the wels, despite the intriguing discrepancy in size estimates (4.5-5.5 metres for the reported objects versus actual wels sizes). He also refers readers to the "Guinness book of Animal Facts & Feats" by Gerald L. Wood for further information.

Article: WHAT'S AFOOT?

This article by Richard Freeman recounts his travels and experiences, touching upon various fortean topics. After returning from Indo-China, Freeman traveled to South Shields for a lecture tour with Jon, invited by their friend Mike Hallowell. The tour coincided with severe storms and floods.

Freeman lectured on dragons, while Jon spoke on animal mutilations. They were joined by Dr. Gail Nina Anderson. Subsequent lectures covered the Chupacabra and general forteana. Mike Hallowell also showed them Marsden Grotto and his sea serpent encounter.

Article: OWLMEN AGAIN

This section features a letter from Mike in Ohio, USA, to 'Jon' (presumably the editor or a regular contributor). Mike describes sightings of an 'owlman' in his town near the Grand river, between Bristol and Farmington, Ohio. He states that three people saw it in the 1960s and 70s; it was about three to four feet tall with glowing yellow eyes and crossed a dirt road in front of them, stopping to look at them. He also recalls a third sighting around 1960 where an 8-year-old boy described an entity with the body of a monkey and the face of an owl. Mike expresses his fear and seeks information about this creature.

Letters to Yer Editor

This is a standard editorial section welcoming correspondence on any subject of interest to readers. The editor reserves the right to edit letters and clarifies that the opinions expressed are those of the individual correspondents, not necessarily the editorial team or the Centre for Fortean Zoology. They also state that every effort is made not to infringe moral rights or copyright.

Back Issues

This section lists available back issues of ANIMALS & MEN, priced at £2 each. It provides a detailed table of contents for issues 1 through 22, covering a wide range of cryptozoological and fortean topics such as lake monsters, mystery cats, giant animals, cryptids like the Thylacine and Chupacabra, and various unexplained phenomena from around the world.

The Cryptozoology Files

This is a comic strip by Mark North, depicting a construction worker confronting a devil-like creature. The location is Dawlish, South Devon, England, and the case is titled 'The Devil's Hoofprints'. The text notes that since the discovery of the Devil Hoofprints 145 years ago, their reappearance has failed to recapture the same mysterious effect. The comic includes dialogue where the worker tells the creature to get out of his concrete.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are lake monsters, cryptozoology, and fortean phenomena. The editorial stance, as indicated by the "Letters to Yer Editor" section, is open to diverse opinions and reports from readers, while maintaining a focus on unexplained phenomena and creatures. The magazine appears to be a platform for sharing research, witness accounts, and discussions on topics related to zoology, cryptozoology, and unexplained mysteries.