Animals and Men - No 26

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 26
Publisher: Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: England
Price: £2.50 / $US3.50

This issue of Animals & Men, the journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, presents a diverse range of articles covering cryptozoology, zoology, and unusual phenomena. The cover prominently features 'Black Dog Phenomena', with accompanying articles on big cats in the Isle of Sheppey and the Dorset Dragon Skull. The issue also includes an interview with Colonel John Blashford-Snell OBE, who has become the Centre's Honorary Life President.

Editorial

Jonathan Downes, Director of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, opens the issue with a personal reflection on a difficult period marked by personal losses and health issues, contrasting it with the Centre's robust state and future optimism. He highlights upcoming expeditions, the application for charitable status, and the appointment of Colonel John Blashford-Snell as Honorary Life President. The establishment of a full-time US office, headed by Nick Redfern, is also announced, with the aim of improving distribution and establishing a network of regional representatives across the USA.

Newsfile

The 'Newsfile' section covers several intriguing reports:

• Ulyanovsk Ectoparasite: A story from Pravda alleges the discovery of a new type of human ectoparasite in Ulyanovsk, Russia.
• New Butterfly Species: Ananova reported the discovery of *Leptidea reali*, a new butterfly species in Ireland, notable for its large genitalia. However, further investigation suggests it might be a known species from 1989.
• Hanoi Turtle Sighting: A rare sighting of a giant soft-shelled turtle in Hanoi's Hoan Kiem Lake is reported, an event locals associate with major happenings.
• Spotted White-Tail Deer: A biologist in East Texas photographed a white-tail deer with unusual white spots, a phenomenon never previously documented.
• World's Smallest Reptile: The Jaragua gecko, a dwarf lizard measuring about three-quarters of an inch, has been discovered on Beata Island in the Dominican Republic, making it the smallest known reptile.
• Maned Cat in Turkmenistan: A report from Turkmenistan mentions a clear sighting of a maned big cat, possibly a lion, in a remote area near the Iran border.
• Michigan Cougars Confirmed: New DNA evidence from the Michigan Wildlife Habitat Foundation confirms that cougars (mountain lions) are present in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula, a population thought to have been extinct for 95 years.
• Return to Metebelis Three: A German scientist rediscovered a spider with the longest legs in the world, *Heteropoda maxima*, with a leg span of 30 centimeters, found in a Paris museum.

New Insect Order in Namibia

An international team of scientists has announced the discovery of a new insect order in the Brandberg area of western Namibia. This is the first new insect order discovered in 87 years, bringing the total to 31. The discovery is compared to major finds like the Coelacanth fish and Wollemi pine tree. Specimens have been collected for study in Germany to determine the insect's habitat, behaviour, and evolutionary history. The area's unique ecological factors suggest the insects may have evolved with little interaction with other species for thousands of years. Conservation International hopes this discovery will encourage support for conservation efforts in the Brandberg area, potentially leading to its nomination as a World Heritage Site.

Bigfoot and Other Mysteries

This section explores several Bigfoot-related stories and other unusual animal reports:

• South Carolina Bigfoot Corpse: A news item from South Carolina claims a man shot and killed a Bigfoot, offering the corpse for sale. The article notes similarities to previous hoaxes like the 'Rant Mullins' and 'Minnesota Iceman' stories, advising caution.
• Kyrgyzia Bigfoot Prints: A frontier guard in the Kyrgyzia Republic reported finding large footprints, possibly belonging to Bigfoot, in a remote mountainous area.
• Blurry Bigfoot Photo: A photograph of a purported Bigfoot is shared, with the photographer claiming it was taken while planting trees in Oregon. The image is noted to be unclear.
• Marsha's 'Bigfoot': A story about a 'bigfoot' turning out to be a rotten tree stump, highlighting how such images can circulate widely within the crypto community.
• Extinctions: The common skate has been declared extinct in the North Sea, prompting environmental ministers to close off large areas to fishing to protect other species like cod and herring. Beam trawling is cited as a major cause.
• The Blob: Scientists analyzed tissue samples from a mysterious carcass washed up in Newfoundland in August 2001. DNA analysis identified it as a sperm whale, not a sea monster.
• Caviar Corpse: A news item describes a bizarre, armour-plated fish found in St. Petersburg, Florida. Experts identified it as a Guff Sturgeon (*Acipenser oxyrhynchus*), a species known to reach 2.5 meters and found along the Atlantic seaboard of North America.
• The Monster of Southport: Staff at the Martin Mere nature reserve in West Lancashire are investigating reports of a large creature dragging swans into one of their lakes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of zoology and the unexplained, often presenting news items with a critical yet open-minded perspective. There is a clear interest in cryptozoology, unexplained animal sightings, and newly discovered species. The editorial stance, as expressed by Jonathan Downes, is one of optimism and a commitment to exploring the unknown, despite personal and logistical challenges. The publication aims to inform its readers about a wide array of unusual phenomena and discoveries, encouraging further investigation and discussion within the Fortean community.

Animals & Men #26 is an issue dedicated to exploring a variety of unusual phenomena, including cryptids, UFOs, and notable figures in the field of Fortean studies. The magazine features reports on alleged monster sightings, animal anomalies, and research into unexplained events, alongside obituaries and tributes.

Lake Okeechobee Monster

The issue details numerous sightings of a large, reptilian creature in Florida's Lake Okeechobee, dubbed the 'Lake Okeechobee Monster'. Witnesses describe a creature with a long neck, resembling a dinosaur, estimated to be around 65 feet long, significantly larger than the Loch Ness Monster. One dramatic account comes from fisherman Mark Tagerton, whose boat was capsized by the creature. Law enforcement officials have heard reports of this monster for years, with a recent increase in sightings. Zoologist Dr. Victor Tandy is studying the phenomenon, suggesting the drought or environmental problems might be contributing to the increased sightings, and is convinced something resides in the lake.

Manilla Godzilla

A report from the Philippines describes five 'huge, black creatures' sighted in the Tikis River near the former mining village of Buhawen. These creatures, described as being about seven feet long and three feet wide, have baffled local Aeta families. Their elongated outlines are visible, but they never show their heads or tails, leading to speculation about whether they are fish, snakes, or eels. The sightings have caused fear, with children ordered to stop bathing in the river and fishing activities halted.

Polly Wants a Cracker

This section reports on the successful breeding of exotic parrots, specifically the blue-crowned parakeet, in the wild in southeast England. Originally from South America, these parrots were first spotted in Bromley in 1997, and their numbers have since increased significantly. Ornithologists are studying how these tropical birds adapt to a built-up environment.

Papa's Got a Brand New Jag

Evidence of jaguars in southern Arizona is presented, with a young male jaguar photographed by a motion-activated camera near the U.S.-Mexico border. This sighting provides new evidence that jaguars may be living in the area, which is at the northern end of their historic range. Conservation groups are hopeful about the potential for the jaguar to repopulate the American Southwest.

Gruesome Moose-ome Twosome

A bizarre discovery in Alaska: a two-headed fetus was found in a cow moose harvested near Clear Air Force Station. The moose fetus, described as being foot-long with two heads and four legs, is being studied to understand this rare anomaly. Scientists are also consulting with tribal communities to see if similar occurrences have been reported.

The Nicest Story of the Year So Far

A heartwarming story from India where a tiger entered a farmer's hut and slept peacefully through the night without harming the family. The farmer expressed gratitude to Goddess Durga for the tiger's harmless behavior. Animal experts tranquilized and relocated the tiger, which was believed to have strayed from its natural habitat and was too tired to pose a threat.

Grover S. Krantz (1931-2002)

This section is an obituary and tribute to Grover S. Krantz, an anthropologist and a leading figure in Bigfoot research. Krantz was known for his academic approach to cryptozoology and his theories on the survival of Gigantopithecus as the source of Sasquatch reports. He authored several books and papers on the subject and was a spokesperson for the stance of killing a Bigfoot to prove its existence. His research included examining the Patterson-Gimlin film and the Skookum body cast. Krantz was a professor at Washington State University and his work is remembered for his candid assessments and vision in cryptozoology.

Mary Downes (1922-2002)

An obituary for Mary Downes, mother of the founder of the Centre for Fortean Zoology. The author recounts how his mother instilled in him a love for natural history and strange monsters, significantly influencing his path. Mary Downes was also a writer of books on Nigerian folklore and contributed to her son's work. The obituary details her life, including her marriage and her support for the Centre for Fortean Zoology.

Roly Holloway (1943-2002)

This obituary remembers Roly Holloway, who lived next door to the Centre for Fortean Zoology. He is described as a quiet, kind, and brave man who supported the Centre's work. The obituary mentions his happy relationship with his wife Leigh, who passed away from cancer, and his subsequent relationship with Rita. Holloway was known for his discussions on UFOs and mystery animals.

The CIA and the Bionic Cat

This article reveals declassified CIA files detailing a project from the mid-1960s called 'Acoustic Kitty'. The agency attempted to turn cats into walking, bugging devices by implanting sophisticated transmitting and control devices. The project aimed to eavesdrop on secret conversations but was ultimately unsuccessful, with the cat being accidentally run over by a taxi during testing. The technology reportedly cost millions of dollars.

Nick Redfern's Letter from @merica

Nick Redfern shares his experiences since moving from England to Texas, USA. He recounts a conversation with Jon about an upcoming UFO Conference in Laughlin, Nevada, where Redfern was scheduled to speak. The letter touches on personal anecdotes and the transition to life in America.

Big Cat in Texas

A report on a big game hunt in Fort Bend County, Texas, where pets were disappearing. Locals blamed a rumored black panther. One man set a trap after his dog was killed by a large cat. Large paw prints were found, and sightings of wild cats in the area are common. The article also mentions a UFO conference in Lytham St. Annes and a return trip to the UK.

Upcoming Bigfoot Events

This section lists several upcoming events for Bigfoot enthusiasts, including the Ohio Bigfoot Conference, the International Western Bigfoot Society Conference in Oregon, and the annual Texas Bigfoot Conference. Contact information for each event is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of science and the unexplained, with a strong focus on cryptozoology and Fortean phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting reports and research without necessarily endorsing them as fact, but rather as subjects worthy of investigation. The inclusion of obituaries for individuals connected to the Fortean community suggests a close-knit and dedicated readership. The magazine aims to inform and engage readers interested in mysteries, anomalies, and the unexplained aspects of the natural world.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #26
Date: Spring 2002
Publisher: Oakmagic Publications
Country: United Kingdom
Theme: Cryptozoology, Forteana, Folklore

This issue of "Animals & Men" (#26) delves into the mysterious world of unexplained animal sightings and folklore, with a particular focus on spectral black dogs and exotic big cat encounters, especially on the Isle of Sheppey.

Editorial Stance & Introduction

The magazine opens with a personal account from the author, who has moved to the US and is now running the US office of the Centre for Fortean Zoology. He recounts an unusual sighting of a large wolf-like creature near the New Mexico border and promises further investigations into local mysteries, including a potential "white Sasquatch" and a woman ranting about the Kennedy assassination. The editorial note from the magazine's editor expresses pleasure at having the author on board and provides his email address.

The Black Dog of Lyme

This section, authored by Mark North, provides an introduction to the phenomenon of "Black Dogs" in British folklore. These spectral creatures are described as large, black, dog-like beasts with fiery eyes and unusual behaviour, often associated with omens of death or supernatural guardianship. The article traces their origins through ancient Egyptian (Anubis) and Norse (Garmr) mythology, noting their presence in old country sayings like 'The Black Dog is at his heels'.

A specific tale from Dorset concerns a spectral black dog at Colway Manor, which haunted the premises after its owner died of starvation. The dog eventually led the new owner to a hidden cache of gold coins, prompting the owner to name his new coaching inn 'The Black Dog'. The article also recounts a later haunting of 'Haye Lane' (alias 'Dog Lane') where a black dog grew to the size of trees before disappearing. The last reported sighting in Lyme was in 1959.

My Sighting Of An Exotic Cat

Neil Arnold recounts an encounter on October 26, 2001, at Capstone Country Park, Kent, with his girlfriend Nicola. They observed a large, unusual cat-like animal in a field, too big to be a domestic cat and not resembling a fox. Despite its unusual appearance, they could not identify the species, though it was described as slightly larger than a fox, with a slim head and pointed ears.

Big Cats on The Isle of Sheppey

This extensive article by Neil Arnold investigates numerous reports of big cat sightings and related incidents on the Isle of Sheppey. The island is described as a harsh, desolate landscape. The article details several key incidents:

• A Black Leopard Shooting: An account from a witness who saw a large black cat, about three feet long, tussle with a dog during a pheasant shoot. The cat was subsequently shot and killed. The witness was deeply affected, comparing it to his experiences in war.
• Animal Kills: Reports of unusual animal deaths, including a pet duck named Daisy going missing without a trace, and fourteen ducks being found slaughtered in a garden with injuries suggesting an agile and silent predator.
• Sightings of Large Felines: Multiple eyewitness accounts of large, black, leopard-like cats and a golden-coloured cat sighted in various locations on the island, including near garage roofs and in hedge-rows.
• Puma Mentions: The article mentions a puma named Kitten kept in a cage years ago, and a sighting of a puma on a roof in 1992. It also discusses the possibility of brown cats appearing black at night.

Neil Arnold expresses concern over these incidents and advocates for the prosecution of those who kill such animals. He notes that many residents have never seen a fox, making the presence of exotic cats even more remarkable. The article also touches upon the possibility of these cats being linked to the 'Blue Bell Hill feline' and the potential danger if an animal is wounded.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of the known, presenting anecdotal evidence and folklore surrounding mysterious creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into phenomena that defy conventional explanation, encouraging readers to share their own experiences. The articles blend personal accounts, historical folklore, and investigative reporting, aiming to document and understand these unusual occurrences.

This issue, Animals & Men #26, covers a range of fortean topics, including reports of big cat sightings, discussions of mysterious skulls, and an in-depth interview with explorer Colonel John Blashford-Snell. The magazine also features a review of a band and a reader's letter about an unusual find.

Big Cats in Kent

The issue begins with reports of big cat sightings in Kent. In September 2000, a large, dark-coloured cat was seen crossing a road near Jenkins Hill. In early 2001, a 'young' black panther was observed near sheep. Eyewitnesses described the animal as smaller than a labrador with a long, hooked tail. Another sighting from the mid-1990s at Warden Bay described a black feline the size of an Alsatian. Gary Oxiand of Strood reported seeing a lynx-like cat in marshland in November 1998, though further questioning suggested it might have been a puma. The author notes that while many 'Big Cat Groups' exist, many members are armchair enthusiasts, and the Isle of Sheppey is highlighted as a location where large, exotic cats might remain elusive.

Mysterious Skulls

The magazine presents two intriguing skull finds. The first is the 'Dragon Skull', discovered by the son of Carrie De Fey on Chesil Beach, Dorset, in 1996. Despite its fragility, it was transported home and has since been examined by several museums without positive identification. The article suggests it might resemble the skull of a sea horse or pipe fish. A second bizarre skull is mentioned from Holdemesse in East Yorkshire, possibly related to the legendary 'Beast of Holderness'. A cutting from The Holdemesse Gazette of February 2002 shows a picture of a small skeleton found in a plant pot, which staff were unable to identify. Speculation ranged from an ex-bat to a defunct tortoise, but it's considered too small to be the 'Beast of Holderness'. The author leans towards the idea that both skulls are piscine in nature.

Interview: Colonel John Blashford-Snell

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an interview with Colonel John Blashford-Snell, described as the 'living epitome of the English Gentleman explorer'. The interview, conducted by Richard Freeman, covers Blashford-Snell's background, his father's missionary work in the Pacific, and his own military career, particularly his time in the Royal Engineers, which he calls 'the Army's explorers'. He discusses his early involvement in underwater diving and his subsequent role in Adventure Training, which led to expeditions like the one up the Blue Nile in 1968. This led to the formation of the Scientific Exploration Society in 1969, of which he is still Chairman.

Blashford-Snell recounts the establishment of Operation Drake, initiated by a PR company for the Royal Trust Company of Canada, and its subsequent expansion into Operation Raleigh, with Prince Charles's patronage. He explains how the Prince's involvement was spurred by the success of smaller expeditions and the desire to provide leadership opportunities for young people in Britain's inner cities.

The interview also touches upon Blashford-Snell's discovery of giant lizards in Papua New Guinea during Operation Drake. Local legends spoke of a dragon-like creature called Artrellia. His team investigated, finding tracks and hospital records of a man killed by such a creature. They eventually captured a baby specimen, identified as a Salvatori's Monitor, which, though small, suggested the potential for the creature to attain enormous size. He also mentions hearing stories of humanoids and the Siberian Tiger.

Music Review: Pet The Pig!

The magazine reviews the band 'Pet The Pig!', an American indie/punk band whose song about Mothman caught the editors' attention. Their CD, "Mothman And Other Twisted Tales", is described as excellent and truly fortean. The band's sound is compared to REM and XTC, and the review highlights songs like "Mothman" and "Mothman Christmas". The reviewer urges readers to buy the CD, lamenting the lack of justice in the music industry.

Letters to the Editor

The 'Letters to Yer Editor' section includes a letter from Elizabeth Clem of Indiana, who recounts an experience from her childhood in Florida in 1960. She found a small, square, crystal-clear object, about two and a half inches square and half an inch thick, with rounded edges and no discernible features. Her father dismissed it as a jellyfish, but she has never seen anything like it since, except in paranormal books. She asks for ideas about what it might have been.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Animals & Men #26 reinforces the magazine's focus on fortean phenomena, cryptozoology, and unexplained mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to share their experiences and contributing to the collective knowledge of the unexplained. There's a clear distinction made between genuine researchers and 'armchair enthusiasts', with an emphasis on fieldwork and credible evidence. The magazine also promotes a sense of adventure and exploration, exemplified by the extensive interview with Colonel John Blashford-Snell and the coverage of his expeditions.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #26
Publisher: CFZ Communications
Date: Not specified, but content references 2002 Yearbook and events up to that period.

This issue of "Animals & Men" delves into a variety of cryptozoological and Fortean phenomena, featuring reader correspondence, book reviews, and discussions on mysterious creatures and events.

Reader Correspondence

Letter from Dave Sivier, Bristol

Dave Sivier writes in response to a previous article by Dr. Pye concerning the possible origins of various BHMs (Big Hairy Monsters) from undiscovered relict populations of Miocene anthropoid apes. While finding Dr. Pye's theories convincing, Sivier offers several points for consideration. He references an article in "The New Scientist" that challenges the idea of gradual species multiplication through bifurcation, suggesting instead that specialisation occurs in rapid explosions after mass extinctions. This perspective makes the rapid extinction of many species unlikely, supporting Dr. Pye's idea that more ape species may have survived. Sivier also questions Dr. Pye's thesis on the brain-hand connection as a cause for hominid evolution, posing how such a creature could have moved out of African forests to become the dominant animal. He concludes by lamenting the death of Dr. Heuvelmans, a key figure in cryptozoology, and expresses hope that future generations will continue his work.

Letter from Tom Anderson, Aberdeen

Tom Anderson addresses "Ed" regarding Gary Cunningham's article in the 2002 Yearbook. He discusses the etymology of the word for 'otter' in Scots Gaelic and Irish Gaelic, noting that while both languages share a common root, the word for otter differs. He explains that "Madadl-donn" in Scots Gaelic means "Brown Dog," and "Madadl-ruaal" means 'Red Dog' (fox). He also mentions "Cu" meaning dog, as in "Cu-uisge" ('Newfoundland Water Dog'). Anderson points out that the Irish "Dobhar-Chu" is identical in Scots but refers to a beaver, not an otter, making theoretical conjecture about them being the same animal meaningless. He references a 1703 account by Martin, a non-Gaelic speaker, referring to a "Tarbh-suisge" or 'water bull'. Other contenders for creature names include "luga" ('big worm'), "smogaitheach" (large-pawed squat beast), "Beithin" (large serpent), and "Seich Mhor" ('large water monster' or 'sea devil'). Anderson argues that given the Gaels have specific words for creatures like mermaids and unicorns, they would not confuse otters and beavers.

Fortean Events and Sightings

An airship and a swarm of caterpillars

Richard Muirhead of Macclesfield recounts a strange Fortean event from the autumn of 1917 in the Jenkin Chapel area of Saltersford, Cheshire. A German Zeppelin flew over the area and dropped a bomb that did not explode. That night and the following morning, local residents discovered millions of black and yellow caterpillars, about one and a half inches long, covering the ground. Experts suggested they could be from the cinnabar moth or the antlar moth. The caterpillars consumed everything, leaving fields bare and even entering houses. Thousands of crows gathered to feed on them. Muirhead questions whether this was an early example of biological warfare or a natural aberration. The editor notes that the crows' appetite suggests they were not cinnabar moth larvae, as these are distasteful to birds. The editor also references Charles Fort's "The Book of the Damned," which mentions a similar fall of black larvae in Bramford Speke, Devon, which occurred in winter during snow and ice, making it even more unusual.

Early UFO Sightings

The antlar moth caterpillars are noted for their large numbers. The article mentions that there are no pre-World War One incidents of early UFOs dropping insects. However, from late July to early September 1909, "airships" were observed by hundreds of people over New Zealand. This is presented as occurring long before the modern wave of UFO sightings began in 1947 with Kenneth Arnold's observations in the USA.

Book Reviews

Mothman and Other Curious Encounters, by Loren Coleman

This review praises Loren Coleman's book, calling it the best ever written on the "faceless winged horror" of Mothman, comparable to John Keel's "The Mothman Prophecies." The reviewer notes Coleman's engaging writing style and the book's exploration of potential inhuman reasoning or alien purpose behind events. The book covers various American cryptids like Lizardmen, the Flatwoods monster, and thunderbirds, but the Mothman entity from Point Pleasant, West Virginia, is highlighted as the main attraction. The review suggests the book leaves the reader with an uneasy feeling about the potential for future "flaps" of such visitations.

Monsters: an investigators guide to magical beings, by John Michael Greer

This review introduces John Michael Greer, described as a noted magician and an initiate of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids. The book is presented as an excellent example for forteans of an outsider's perspective on monsters. Greer accepts the reality of physical cryptozoology but primarily focuses on "magickal" or paranormal creatures. He believes monsters originate from varying levels of being (physical, etheric, astral, mental, and spiritual), a concept that resonates with John Keel's super-spectrum and Ted Holliday's goblin universe. The book covers a range of creatures including vampires, werewolves, dragons, fairies, demons, and spirits.

Film: The Mothman Prophecies

This section critiques the film adaptation of John Keel's "The Mothman Prophecies." The reviewer expresses frustration that filmmakers often ignore or warp source material. The film updates the story to the 1990s, changing John Keel to John Klien and adding a predictable subplot. Klien's wife dies of a moth-shaped brain tumor, and he becomes involved in investigating Mothman sightings in West Virginia. The reviewer finds the film lacking, with much of the book's essence missing and replaced by "unimaginative pap." The reviewer concludes by stating that Mothman himself is barely visible in the film and expresses anticipation for Quentin Tarantino's adaptation of "The Dragon and the Disk."

Cryptozoology and Folklore

The Adventures of Tim the Yowie Man Cryptonaturalist, by Tim Bull

This review highlights Tim Bull, an Australian cryptozoologist, and his book chronicling his adventures. Bull has pursued monsters worldwide, including the yowie and bigfoot, and is candid about his mistakes, such as being hoaxed by a painted greyhound and being attacked by a monkey. The book covers various creatures, including the yowie, bigfoot, Nessie, sea serpents, and unique cases like the Hawaiian lava tube pig monster. Bull also investigates earth lights, UFOs, and ancient archaeology, hence his self-proclaimed title of "cryptonaturalist." The review praises Bull's disruption of the "Survivor II" TV series, where he exposed the show's manipulation and revealed secret locations.

SUNDS and the Dab Tsog

Of particular interest is the case of SUNDS (Sudden Nocturnal Death Syndrome), which began in the USA in 1977. Healthy people from a Laos hill tribe called the Hmong, who had emigrated after the Vietnam War, died in their sleep for no apparent reason. The Hmong believed in a vampire-like ghost called the "dab tsog" that preyed on the living. It was found that SUNDS stopped when the ex-pat Hmong resumed their ancient rituals. The book also offers practical advice on investigating monsters and protection from them, along with an extensive bibliography.

New Books from CFZ Communications

CFZ Communications is celebrating its tenth anniversary by releasing a collector's volume of the first five issues of "Animals & Men." This book includes an introductory essay by Jonathan Downes and notes contextualizing each issue. It features a full-colour cover by Mark North and is priced at £14.99 / $US23.

The Owlman and Others

This section promotes the third edition of Jon Downes's investigation into the Owlman of Mawnan. This edition is described as the most comprehensive yet, with added pages to update the story. It features a colour cover that spoofs the "Mothman Prophecies" movie.

The Cryptozoology Files

A comic strip titled "The Cryptozoology Files" by Mark North is included. It depicts an astronaut, Navigator Lawrence Talbot, on a moon mission in 2003, who realizes why his parents begged him never to be an astronaut, implying a werewolf or similar creature is involved. The case is labeled "Werewolves."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Animals & Men" consistently explores the fringes of science and folklore, focusing on cryptozoology, Fortean phenomena, and unexplained events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting reader accounts and book reviews that engage with the mysterious and the unknown. There is a clear interest in historical accounts, folklore, and the intersection of these with modern scientific understanding, or lack thereof. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the unexplained and the unconventional, with a particular emphasis on creatures and events that challenge mainstream explanations. The inclusion of book reviews and reader letters suggests a community-oriented approach, fostering discussion and sharing of information within the field of Fortean studies and cryptozoology.