Animals and Men - No 24

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 24
Date: 2000
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ)
Country: England

This issue of 'Animals & Men', the journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, is dedicated to exploring a wide range of unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and new zoological discoveries. Despite a delay in publication due to organizational challenges within the CFZ, the issue presents a rich collection of articles, expedition reports, and news items.

Editorial and Staff

The editorial team includes Director Jonathan Downes, Deputy Director Graham Inglis, and Assistant Editor Richard Freeman. The magazine features a range of consultants and regional representatives from various countries, including Dr. Bernard Heuvelmans, Dr. Karl Shuker, Loren Coleman, and Darren Naish. The issue also notes the personal update that the editor, Jon Downes, is no longer with Linda.

Expedition Report: The Gambia

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an expedition report by Chris Moiser to the Gambia in search of legendary dragons, specifically the 'Ninki-Nanka'. This report is supplemented by an article by Richard Freeman discussing the 'Terror of the Gambia'.

Newsfile and New Discoveries

The 'Newsfile' section is expanded due to the amount of recent news. Several new species are detailed:

• Limnognathia maerski: A 0.1-millimeter long freshwater organism discovered in Denmark, forming a new phylum, Micrognathozoa, notable for its complex jaws and reproduction via parthenogenesis.
• Indonesian Scrub Pythons: Research has revised the classification, creating three new species: *Morelia kinghorni*, *M. amethistina*, and *M. amethistina amethistina*, with phylogenetic relationships analyzed.
• New Fish Species: Several new fish have been discovered, including those at Lake Puma Yumu in China (described as 'nude fish' with six feelers and no scales), and three species in a Tibetan lake dubbed 'the lake in the sky'.
• Hippocampus Queenslandica: A new species of seahorse discovered off the Australian coast, living at depth and susceptible to decompression sickness.
• New Millipedes: A 158-leg millipede was found in North Carolina, identified as a new species. Another new millipede was documented in Jacksonville, North Carolina.
• Flatworm on Marlin: A new species of flatworm was identified living on striped marlin caught in a game tournament in Queensland, Australia.
• Spiders: Three previously undiscovered species of spiders were found in forest preserves in Lake County, Illinois.

Cryptid Sightings and Encounters

The issue covers various cryptid reports and sightings:

• Loch Ness Monster: New pictures purporting to be of the Loch Ness Monster are discussed, with an expert unable to identify them, leading to speculation it is 'Nessie'. The magazine, however, humorously suggests it looks like a bicycle inner tube.
• Bosnian Beast: An article by Jon Downes discusses the 'Bosnian Beast'.
• African Owlman: An article is dedicated to the 'African Owlman'.
• Myakka Skunk Ape: Photographs of the Myakka Skunk Ape are featured.
• Tsuchinoko: A mythical snake-like creature with a moon-face and grin, known as the 'tsuchinoko', is reported in Yoshii, Japan. A bounty was placed on its head, and local businesses saw increased sales of tsuchinoko-themed products. A farmer claimed to have encountered one, and a body was later found and sent for examination.
• Rare Bears: Reports of unusual panda color morphs, including a pure white giant panda and a reddish-brown panda, were noted in a Chinese reserve.
• Mysterious Animal in Nepal: A villager reported an attack by a mysterious animal resembling a Tibetan hound-like dog, which had been causing panic and had allegedly killed someone previously.
• Bigfoot Sightings: Several sightings of Bigfoot were reported in Louisiana during the summer of 2000.
• Walking Sausage: A stick insect that evolved before the dinosaurs and was thought extinct for 80 years has been found alive on an island off the Australian coast, described as a giant flightless insect.
• Unknown Insects in Ukraine: A plague of unknown insects, described as large horned beetles, was reported to be menacing Ukraine, spreading and annihilating vegetation.

Rediscoveries and Unusual Animal Behavior

• Paradise Parrot: The paradise parrot, believed extinct since 1927, has reportedly been sighted near Brisbane, Australia, prompting new search efforts.
• Central Rock Rat: Rare and endangered central rock rats, previously thought extinct, have been found in West MacDonnell National Park, Australia.
• Jellyfish: Two jellyfish caught in Japan were found to belong to a new family, *Lobato lampea tetragona*, with unusual characteristics.
• Wolf Snake: A British-led expedition in Cambodia discovered new animal species, including the wolf snake, notable for its dog-like fangs and resemblance to the poisonous krait.
• Horse Sweating Blood: A photograph of a Central Asian horse appearing to sweat blood is presented, potentially confirming ancient Chinese legends of such steeds.
• Sri Lankan Strigiform: A new species of owl has been discovered in Sri Lanka, noted for its unfamiliar call and described as having a frightful cry.
• Kokako: A bird long thought extinct, the kokako, may have been rediscovered in South Otago, New Zealand, with a large nest and unusual feathers found.

Other Features

• Obituaries: The obituary section is larger than usual due to the recent deaths of several figures in cryptozoology and forteana.
• Letters and Book Review: The issue includes a section for letters from readers and a book review.
• Editorial Comments: Richard Freeman provides editorial comments on several articles, including the tsuchinoko and the Sri Lankan owl.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of zoology and unexplained phenomena, giving space to reports of cryptids, newly discovered species, and anecdotal accounts that challenge conventional scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and reports for readers to consider, even when they involve hoaxes or misidentifications, as stated in the editorial regarding the Loch Ness Monster pictures. The CFZ positions itself as a dedicated center for such research, encouraging subscriptions and engagement from its readership.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (Issue #24) delves into a variety of unexplained animal sightings and cryptozoological phenomena from around the world, covering reports from early 2000 to early 2001. The magazine presents a collection of intriguing, often bizarre, accounts that challenge conventional understanding of the natural world.

Bigfoot and Related Sightings

The issue features several reports related to Bigfoot and similar creatures. Capt. Bryan Poston of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries dismisses Bigfoot sightings as hoaxes, stating he deals only in facts. Despite this, hundreds visit Mary Ward's bait shop in Cotton Island, Louisiana, where her son Joe claims to have seen the creature, and the Wards sell merchandise and display large tracks. Lab tests on hair samples from this sighting revealed it was from a horse. In Oregon, Grants Pass psychologist Matthew Johnson insists he saw a tall, hairy Bigfoot while hiking with his family, describing it as standing upright about 60 feet away. Rangers found nothing unusual in the area.

Yeti and Himalayan Encounters

Adventure travel company High and Wild is now offering insurance against yeti attacks for travellers to the Himalayas. Mountaineer Nigel Gifford stated he has known of creatures living above the snow line for 30 years and felt it important to insure clients.

Orang Pendek Investigations

A news release from February 2001 reported an orang pendek sighting by Aripin, an Indonesian forestry ranger in Sumatra. Debbie Martyr, stationed with the Tiger Project and Project Orang Pendek, believes the description is accurate. She also noted a wailing call that she attributes to an orang pendek. Martyr suggested the creature might have been moving just above the ground, possibly brachiating, rather than terrestrially. She described the colour as dark brown, with a possible honey gold morph also noted.

Yowie Hunters and Ethical Dilemmas

The Gold Coast Bulletin highlighted a moral dilemma for yowie hunters preparing to capture one of the elusive creatures on video. Dean Harrison of Australian Yowie Research suggested that while revealing the creatures' whereabouts could be problematic, the film project might also support arguments that logging endangers their habitats. Operation Rotation, involving 24 people with military tracking experience, was planned to camp in a southeast Queensland state forest, a known hotspot for yowie sightings.

Lake and Sea Monsters

Erik Knutterand reported that fishermen in Norway claimed to have seen a sea serpent in Storfjorden. On May 5th, the Scottish Daily Record reported that day trippers found two dead snake-like creatures on the shores of Loch Ness, identified as conger eels. This discovery revived theories of an underground tunnel linking Loch Ness to the sea.

Mysterious Animals and Out-of-Place Sightings

Ogopogo: A reward of Canadian $2 million was announced for conclusive evidence of the existence of Ogopogo in Lake Okanagan. Local businessmen insured the reward, and the manager of Penticton's chamber of commerce hoped it would boost tourism. Winners must meet specific scientific criteria.

Tiger in Lebanon: An irate owner of a travelling circus denied reports of a tiger seen in the South of Lebanon, questioning how it could vanish without being seen. Villagers, however, claimed to have seen the animal.

Wolf in Belgium: A mysterious wolf was reported to have killed at least 10 sheep in northern Belgium. The closest countries with wild wolf populations are Poland and Slovakia. Hughes Fanal of the Flanders Bird Protection League suggested it might have escaped from a zoo or been released.

Wolf in Scotland: Conrad Sheward reported seeing a wolf-like animal in Clashindarroch Forest, Scotland, describing it as grey with a whitish tail and too large to be a fox. He was convinced it was a wolf.

Jaguar in New Mexico: News reported a jaguar sighting in New Mexico, with similar sightings in Arizona in recent years, suggesting potential recolonization of areas where they were hunted to extinction.

Unknown Possum in England: A possum of unknown species was discovered in Staffordshire, England. Jeff Blundred found the creature, described as cat-sized with a pointed face, thick grey fur, and a long tail. Experts at Chester Zoo doubted it could survive the climate, but local animal expert Jini Plant was convinced it was a possum.

White Elephant in India: Villagers in Arunachal Pradesh, India, reported sightings of a large whitish creature with a trunk and twisted tusks, believed to be a white elephant, revered as an incarnation of Lord Buddha. Wildlife officials were asked to search for it.

Environmental Concerns and Extinctions

Fire Ants in Australia: The invasion of Australia by South American fire ants raised concerns about crop destruction. Professor Myron Zalucki stated that fire ants are difficult to eradicate and can be detrimental to native wildlife and productive land.

'Extinct' Bat Found: An elderly female mouse-eared bat, thought to be extinct, was found in Bognor Regis, Sussex, but died three days after its rescue.

Rare Mammal in Bognor: Conservationists hoped that a rare mammal, large enough to fill a man's hand, was not extinct. Plans were made to search for it in the summer. The last known colony was discovered in 1969 and contained several females until 1985.

Miss Waldron's Red Colobus Extinct: Scientists pronounced a large West African monkey, Miss Waldron's Red Colobus, extinct, marking the first primate extinction of the 20th century. The last confirmed sighting was over 20 years ago, with hunting and habitat disruption blamed for its demise.

Spix's Macaw Endangered: Experts feared the last remaining wild Spix's Macaw might be dead after disappearing for two months. The blue-plumed parrot is believed to be the last of its kind in the wild. While 60 Spix's Macaws live in captivity, there is a slim chance of survival without the male bird to teach survival skills.

Other Stories

Toad in Dog Food: Elaine Sheridan found a live toad in a tin of dog food that had been vacuum-packed for three months and shipped from France. The toad survived by entering suspended animation.

Eurasian Griffon Vulture: This carrion-feeder, usually seen in Spain or Portugal, appeared over Sark and Guernsey in the Channel Islands, suggesting vultures are drifting north.

Baboon Smuggling: A drugged baboon, part of an illegal consignment, escaped on a flight between Sanaa and Damascus, causing chaos. The baboon was awaiting repatriation to Yemen.

Crocodile Genitals as Love Potion: In Kenya, prostitutes attempted to steal the genitals from a crocodile carcass, believing them to be a strong love potion. Wildlife wardens intervened.

Elephant Encounter: Robin Walker's grandson warned him of an elephant pressing its head against their sliding glass door in Texas. The elephant belonged to a neighbour who was an animal trainer.

Beaver Reintroduction: Ten wild European beavers arrived in Britain for a conservation experiment aimed at restoring a wetland reserve. Beavers were once widespread in Britain but were wiped out by the 12th century.

Beaver College Name Change: Beaver College in Pennsylvania was considering a name change due to the word 'beaver' eliciting ridicule and being blocked by internet filters.

Obituaries

Dom Gregory Brusey (1913-2001): A monk, organist, and teacher of music, Brusey is best known for claiming to have seen the Loch Ness monster in 1971.

Dave Shenton (d 2000): Described as a tangential player in the saga of the Owlman of Mawnan, Shenton died in 2000. An incident involving him and the Bishop of Truro in 1986 was controversial.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features reports of unexplained phenomena, cryptozoological creatures, and unusual animal behaviour. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these accounts, often with a degree of skepticism or a focus on the intriguing nature of the unknown, rather than outright endorsement. There's a clear interest in fortean phenomena and challenging conventional explanations for natural events. The magazine also touches upon conservation issues and animal extinctions, highlighting the impact of human activity on wildlife.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (#24) is a collection of articles and news items focusing on cryptozoology, fortean events, and obituaries of notable figures in these fields. The magazine features a mix of investigative pieces, personal anecdotes, and news updates.

Obituaries

John Gordon (d 2000)

The issue notes the death of John Gordon, described as a pivotal part of bizarre fortean events in Cornwall during the closing years of the 20th Century. The author hints that Gordon may have been the real hoaxer of the 'Mary F photographs' from 1976. The author met Gordon once and found him to be a good man.

Rene Dahinden (1930-2001)

Rene Dahinden, a renowned hominologist specializing in Sasquatch, Bigfoot, and Yeti, passed away on April 18, 2001. Born in Switzerland, he moved to Canada in 1953 and began researching Sasquatch within three years, often collaborating with John Green. Dahinden conducted numerous field investigations in the Pacific Northwest and was instrumental in bringing the Patterson Gimlin Film to scientific attention. His book, "Sasquatch," was published in 1973. The character of the Sasquatch hunter in the movie "Harry and the Hendersons" was loosely modeled on him. Dahinden was known for being open and friendly to researchers.

Roy Stringer (d 2001)

Roy Stringer was responsible for the CDROM "Of Monsters and Miracles" accompanying the 1995 Fortean Times exhibition. He is remembered as a lovely bloke, a first-class interactive designer, and someone who grasped the fortean spirit swiftly. He died of cancer in early February.

Joey Ramone (1952-2001)

The issue marks the passing of Joey Ramone, lead singer of the iconic rock band The Ramones, who died on April 15, 2001. The Ramones, formed in 1974, were known for their short, stripped-down songs and energetic performances. The article notes the band's connection to forteana through song titles like "Pinhead" and "Zero Zero UFO." The band split acrimoniously in 1996 after their final concert. Joey Ramone is remembered as a pioneer of punk rock.

Personal Accounts and Animal Encounters

Isabella Carruthers (1985-2000)

Isabella was a cat acquired from the Cat's Protection League in 1986. She quickly became the boss of the household's cat population and was friends with Toby the dog. Isabella, along with Toby and another cat named Cuddles, died within weeks of each other in the summer of the previous year.

Flump (d. 2001)

Flump, a Chinese Soft Shelled Turtle, was another long-term inhabitant of the CFZ Menagerie. Named for being 'cute,' Flump was described as one of the most aggressive creatures owned but was a favorite with visitors. He died in the early spring.

Cuddles the Amphiuma (d. 2001)

Cuddles, a large two-toed amphiuma, was a notable resident of the Centre for Fortean Zoology Menagerie. She appeared in the "Owlman and Others" movie as Morgawr and on TV shows. The article reprints a piece from "The Planet on Sunday" detailing how the author acquired Cuddles, a rare and obscure eel-like salamander from the southern United States, from a pet shop in Enfield. The author, initially looking for a "Conger Eel," was surprised to find the amphiuma. He recounts haggling the price down and his subsequent difficulty in finding information on its care. The author is seeking help from readers to find other owners or to assist in breeding Cuddles, who is now nearly four feet long.

Un-Natural History – A Lonely Hearts Club

By Jonathan Downes, this article discusses the author's peculiar habit of being drawn to the most unusual and often unpleasant-looking animals in pet shops. He describes his preference for creatures that are "large, slimy, dark brown, expensive and smelly" and recounts his acquisition of Cuddles the amphiuma as an example of this preference.

Newsfile Xtra

Skunk Ape Fever

By Richard Freeman, this segment discusses recent internet photos purporting to show a "skunk ape" in Mayakka, Florida. The photos are considered highly questionable, with the creature resembling a large, sexually immature male Sumatran orang-utan. Freeman expresses skepticism, suggesting the story "stinks" and that the creature might be a hoaxer in an ape suit.

The Bosnian Beast

By Jonathan Downes, this article addresses a photograph of an animal found near Zenica, Bosnia. Initially circulated as a potential unknown species, it was widely agreed by cryptozoologists to be a skinned stone marten (Martes foina) with its fur removed for commercial purposes. The article notes the increasing prevalence of such photographs of known animals, often presented as cryptids.

Lara The Lynx of London Town

By Paul Crowther, this report details the capture of a European lynx in Goldersgreen, London. The lynx, named Lara, was found on a garden wall and subsequently captured by authorities with assistance from London Zoo. There are discrepancies in the reported locations and timing of the capture. The lynx, a female approximately 18 months old, was found to be underweight and had a damaged left hind leg. The article discusses the possibility of it being an illegal import and the lack of immediate reporting by residents. The zoo is keeping quiet on the matter, and the origin of the lynx remains unknown. The article also touches on the legal requirements for owning exotic animals and the potential danger posed by such animals if threatened.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the passing of significant figures in the fortean and cryptozoological communities, the investigation of unusual animal sightings and evidence, and personal reflections on the nature of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, particularly evident in the "Newsfile Xtra" segments, where claims are scrutinized for their validity and potential for hoaxes. There is a clear interest in the unexplained and the bizarre, but also a commitment to rational analysis and debunking when necessary. The magazine also celebrates the unique and often overlooked aspects of the natural world through personal accounts of exotic pets.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: # 24
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Animals & Men" delves into various cryptids and folklore from around the world, with a significant focus on West Africa. The main articles explore the legend of the Ninki Nanka, a dragon-like creature from the Gambia, and the Sasabonsam, a monstrous entity from Ghanaian folklore.

Ninki Nanka – The Dragon of the Gambia Expedition Report by Chris Moiser

Chris Moiser recounts his expedition to the Gambia to investigate the Ninki Nanka, a creature he first learned about through an article by Dr. M. D. W. Jeffreys. Jeffreys' 1944 article in the Journal of the Royal African Society mentioned a native tradition of an enormous monster that emerges from mangrove marshes.

Moiser's initial research involved searching Gambian texts and the internet, which yielded little information beyond a song by Toure Kunda. He notes the insult that the popular song's origin, Casamance, Senegal, is geographically close to the Gambia, potentially within the creature's range.

During his visit to the Gambia, Moiser spoke with locals. A hotel cashier from the Mandinka tribe dismissed the Ninki Nanka as a myth used to scare children. However, Adama Touray, a silversmith, confirmed the existence of the creature and stated he had made Ninki Nanka jewelry, though none were in stock at the time. Moiser acquired two silver dragon figures.

Assan Njie, a local taxi driver, firmly believed the Ninki Nanka is a real, scarce animal living upriver, known for driving people mad. He recounted a story of the creature causing a bridge collapse that killed four people. Njie described the animal as a large snake with horns, including one on its forehead, and said it lives in a large hole, occasionally going to sea, leaving a boat-like wake.

Further research led Moiser to Arthur C. Clarke's book, "Chronicles of the Strange and Mysterious." Clarke had received a letter from Dr. Thomas Hardie Dalrymple, a medical officer in the Gambia in 1935. Dalrymple never saw the animal but reported three experiences: natives being excited by 'Nikenanka' appearing, a description of the creature as having a horse's face, giraffe's neck, crocodile's body, and being about 30 feet long, appearing on moonlit nights and living in mangroves. Dalrymple also heard of another Nikenanka and was told of a picture of it in an imported magazine, which turned out to be a concrete dinosaur in a New York park.

Beatrice Appia's paper, "Notes sur le genie des eaux en Guinee," translated by Tony, suggested that Ninki Nanka might be a genie or spirit rather than a flesh-and-blood animal, with details kept secret by natives. Consensus suggested it lives in water, with young ones in baobab trees, and sightings are associated with rain. It was known by various names in different regions, including "landouman," "Niniganne," "Ninger," "Ningiri," and "Rianse'ou." Possession of parts was believed to bring advantage or wealth.

Moiser concludes that while some locals believed it was a myth, others made jewelry of it, and one firmly believed, while a professional person was too concerned to speak of it. He notes the frustration of not being able to definitively prove the existence of a myth or a cryptid.

More on the terror of Gambia by Richard Freeman

Richard Freeman provides additional information on Ninki Nanka and related legends.

The 1911 Drainage Project: British authorities draining a lake near Bathurst (now Banjul) encountered local fear of a dragon residing in its depths. After a night watchman was found dead, a native wiseman suggested erecting a large mirror, as dragons supposedly fear their own reflection. The dragon was never seen again.

Folklore Parallels: This story is compared to Western and Middle Eastern folklore of the basilisk or cockatrice, which also feared its own reflection.

Matthew Hall's Visit: Shortly after Moiser's trip, Matthew Hall visited the Gambia and gathered more stories. One man claimed the creature existed about 100 years ago and was now extinct, drawing it as a long-necked, large-bodied animal with small legs, calling it a "kind of dragon."

Gambo and Ninki Nanka Corpse: Hall was told of a supposed Ninki Nanka corpse buried on South beach, killed by an old, wise man. This is contrasted with the corpse of 'Gambo,' a distinct pliosaur-like animal washed up in 1983, whose head was reportedly hacked off by natives.

Possible Identification: Freeman suggests Ninki Nanka could be a giant monitor lizard, possibly a swamp-dwelling monitor similar in size to the Australian Megalania Prisca.

Paranormal Entity: Alternatively, it could be a paranormal entity, similar to those that terrorized medieval Europe.

Future Expedition: The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ) planned a December expedition to explore the Gambia's interior in search of this beast.

AN AFRICAN OWLMAN? and LIVING MONSTER OR FABULOUS ANIMAL? by J B Danquah

This section discusses the archetype of the owlman and the Sasabonsam, a creature from Ghanaian folklore.

The Sasabonsam: The article begins by referencing a carving by Osei Bonsu, the Asantehene's carver, which is a representation of the Sasabonsam. The carving is praised for its craftsmanship and the unique conception of the monster, which has short arms, long twisted legs, and web-like wings.

• Interpretations of Sasabonsam:
• Monstrous Being: Authorities generally consider the Sasabonsam an imaginary monstrous being. Christaller's "Dictionary" describes it as having a huge human shape, red color, long hair, living in the forest, inimical to man but a friend to sorcerers and witches.
• Human Spirit: Another interpretation is that it is a quarrelsome human spirit banished from the land of spirits.
• Bat-like Creature: A third explanation suggests it is a "kind of bat" that catches human beings.

Evil Influences: Captain Rattray states the word derives from "bonsam" (devil) and "sesa" (possessed by a spirit). The Sasabonsam's power is for evil and witchcraft, with the "obayifo" (witch) as its servant. It has long legs with hooks, iron teeth, and exists in male, female, and little forms.

Mr. A. W. Cardinall's View: He suggests the Sasabonsam are connected to stories of giants or huge lions with hair.

Eyewitness Account: The writer recounts a story from an educated Gold Coast man about a man named Agya Wuo who killed a Sasabonsam. The creature was described as taller than a man, with narrow ankles, long hands, and a smooth forehead. It had abundant, stiff hair, long claws, bat-like wings, and scales like a crocodile over its eyes. Its chest was fowl-like, and it had big bones at the sides. It was rolled into a bundle and taken to Kumasi.

Photographic Evidence: Mr. L. W. Wood, the District Commissioner, photographed the creature in 1928. However, Wood could not confirm his involvement in 1928, and questions arise about potential date mix-ups.

European Art Comparison: The article contrasts the Sasabonsam carving with European art, such as the unicorn, questioning whether the Sasabonsam is purely imaginary or based on a seen object.

THEY WALKED IN LINE - Letters to Yer Editor

Naga vs. Oarfish: Paul Farrell from Thailand writes about a photo of a "Naga" from Nong Khai, 1972. The editor clarifies that the creature is an oarfish (Regalecus glesne), also known as the "King of Herrings," which has a naga-like crest but is a fish, not a snake. Oarfish are deep-sea dwellers and harmless, though their appearance can fuel legends.

Goatsucker and Cabra: Jon submits an article about "How many Goats can a Goatsucker Suck?" and notes a quote from "Dr. (?) Olmo-Terron" regarding the translation of "cabra." The editor strongly refutes Terron's translation, explaining that "cabra" means goat and "cabron/cabrona" means bastard, and that Terron's interpretation is nonsensical.

Steve Piper Video: A transmission mentions a video by Steve Piper, allegedly taken in the Brindabella Mountains near Canberra, Australia. Cryptozoologist Tim Bull (aka Tim the Yowie Man) is acting as Piper's agent. The video is described as impressive but not clear enough to prove anything.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of folklore, eyewitness accounts, and cryptozoology, often presenting unverified or anecdotal evidence of mysterious creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, while also providing context and potential rational explanations (e.g., oarfish for Naga legends). There is a clear interest in documenting and investigating cryptids from various parts of the world, particularly those with roots in local folklore and mythology. The magazine encourages reader correspondence and actively seeks to uncover more information on these subjects.

Animals & Men #24 is a cryptozoology-focused magazine featuring a diverse range of reports, personal accounts, and a book review. The issue covers potential sightings of yowie, mystery cats, unusual insects, and other unexplained phenomena, alongside scientific discussions and personal anecdotes.

Article: Yowie Sighting Discussion

The issue begins with a discussion about a film that appears to show a yowie, described as a bulky, bipedal, and apparently hair-covered creature. The correspondent notes that the film site is in an area known for strange animal reports. Plans are mentioned for further investigation, including meeting with US bigfoot researcher Danny Perez to use electronic distance measuring equipment. The correspondent reserves judgment but is inclined to believe the video if Steve Piper, the subject of the film, seems truthful.

Letter: Pike Attack Story

A correspondent named Richard shares a memory of a pike attack story that he believes was featured in a previous issue of Animals & Men. He worked for SJ Dixon in Walsall and recalls paint deliveries from Permoglaze of Leicester. He mentions a driver named Derek Yorrall and a childhood incident where he or a friend was attacked by a vicious pike. He suggests checking directory inquiries for Derek Yorrall in Leicester.

Letter: Mystery Big Cats and Novel Promotion

Nick Redfern writes to promote a website he has set up to discuss his novel, 'The Shadow Trackers', and information about Mystery Big Cats in Australia. The website address is provided, along with a link to Zeus Publications. He mentions that the novel is loosely based on his experiences with the Australian Rare Fauna Research Association and that his website offers information on footprint analysis and sightings to help novice investigators.

Letter: Large Flying Insects

Ken Bakeman emails Jon about an experience from his childhood in Washington State, USA, in the 1960s. He recalls stumbling across a nest of extremely large flying insects, estimated to be between 18 and 24 inches long, in a meadow behind his house. He asks if there is any literature that mentions such creatures. He also mentions having had various ET experiences and encounters with cryptids, including Sasquatch.

Personal Account: A Nest of Terror

This section details Ken Bakeman's childhood experience in the late summer of 1963. While flying kites with friends, he describes a chaotic scene of tangled kite lines. During this, John Jay used his streamlined bat-shaped kite to dive-bomb and rip apart other children's kites. Later, while flying a kite alone, the correspondent stumbled into a large, camouflaged fissure in the ground. He threw rocks into the opening, which produced a low-pitched buzzing sound. Subsequently, at least six large, insect-like creatures emerged. These creatures were over two feet long, with silvery wings, black frames, and large, intelligent-looking eyes. They communicated telepathically, conveying that their nest had been injured. The correspondent felt guilt and fear, and his soul part separated from his body. He describes a feeling of being tethered by a frail life-force, slipping apart from his physical form. He eventually managed to re-enter his body, feeling weak and with a pounding headache. He also recalls a voice speaking to him faintly before fading.

Author's Comment on 'A Nest of Terror'

An author's comment states that thirty-four years after the experience, a soul-retrieval was performed. Five pieces were 'returned', one of which was identified by a Shaman as a fragment that split off due to fear from being chased by huge, insect-like beings as a boy.

Letter: Lynx Sighting in Kent

Neil Arnold of Chatham, Kent, shares a report from his father, Ron, about a possible lynx sighting on April 14th, 2001. While driving near Chatham, Ron spotted an animal in a field that he described as "the size of a fox but more fawn in colour." He noted it was definitely feline, slender, and had no tail. He initially thought it might be a hare but concluded it was a small lynx, possibly Siberian. The letter mentions that similar sightings of rusty-coloured and fawn cats have occurred in the area since the early '70s.

Book Review: Planet Zoo: One hundred animals we can't afford to lose

This review discusses Simon Barnes' book, 'Planet Zoo'. Although aimed at children, the reviewer praises it as being better than many adult books on the subject. It is described as an intelligent introduction to endangered species and conservation, showcasing 100 species and detailing the reasons for their peril. The reviewer notes the range of animals covered, from familiar ones like rhinos to lesser-known creatures. While the reviewer personally would have included other species like the thylacine and mountain gorilla, they find the book unfaultable. The text is complemented by fine illustrations, and the book offers conservation success stories and concludes with Homo sapiens, aiming to inspire future conservationists.

Contents Section

The contents section lists articles from previous issues of Animals & Men, covering a wide array of topics including various cryptids (e.g., Relict Pine Martens, Giant Sloths, Sumatran and Javan Rhinos, Loch Ness reports, Woodwose, Tatzelwurm, Giant Worm, Migo, Thylacine, Owlman, Nandi Bear), mystery animals from different regions (e.g., New Guinea, Papua, Dartmoor, Nepal, Africa, Scotland, Japan), and specific cases like the Essex Beach Corpses and the Chupacabra. It also includes bibliographies of cryptozoology books and discussions on topics like UFOs and cryptozoology itself.

Back Issues and Payment

Information is provided for purchasing back issues of Animals & Men for £2 each, with details available on the editorial address and "methods of payment" on the title page.

The Cryptozoology Files: Burp!

A comic strip titled "The Cryptozoology Files" by Mark North features a dog on a podium with the caption "BURP!". It humorously describes the annual Crufts Dog Show at Earls Court, London, where an unusual breed from Bungay, Suffolk, takes first place as all other entries mysteriously disappeared. The ISSN number 1354 0647 and © CFZ COMMUNICATIONS 2001 are noted. The typesetting is attributed to "a one eyed dwarf who's rolling dice along the wharf."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Animals & Men consistently explores the unexplained, with a focus on animal-related mysteries, cryptids, and paranormal phenomena. The magazine provides a platform for personal accounts, eyewitness reports, and scientific discussions within the field of cryptozoology. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, encouraging readers to share their experiences and contributing to the ongoing exploration of unknown creatures and events. The inclusion of a book review on conservation and a comic strip suggests a broader interest in the natural world and the more whimsical aspects of mystery.