Animals and Men - No 28

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 28
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: England
Price: £2.50

This issue of "Animals & Men" is the quarterly journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, a non-profit making organisation. It is presented as a significant publication for fortean zoology, with this issue marking the journal's tenth anniversary year. The editorial highlights a busy period for the CFZ, including two important investigations, one of which is detailed in this issue. The journal has expanded to cover increased activity, adding four pages to this edition. A significant expedition to The Gambia is planned to investigate the mystery of the 'Bungalow Beach' carcass and research the Ninki-Nanka, a dragon-like beast of West African legend. The editorial appeals for support, including donations of money, time, equipment, knowledge, or expertise.

Contents and Key Articles

The issue includes a wide range of articles and features:

• Editorial: Jonathan Downes discusses the CFZ's activities, upcoming expeditions, and the need for support.
• The Faculty of the CFZ: A detailed listing of the current crew of the CFZ Mothership, including its Hon Life President, Director, Deputy Director, Assistant Director, and other staff, as well as consultants in various fields like Cryptozoology, Zoology, Ichthyology, and Environmental Ecology. It also lists Regional Representatives for the UK and USA, and International Representatives.
• Newsfile: This section compiles recent news and discoveries. It includes:
• Park Life: The discovery of a new species of tiny centipede in Central Park, New York, named *Nannarrup hoffmani*. This centipede is described as being about 0.4 inches long with 82 legs and belongs to a new genus.
• Pennsylvanian Peculiarities: The pugnose minnow (*Opsopoeodus emiliae*), usually found from Ohio to Louisiana, has been reported in Pennsylvania for the first time.
• Rediscoveries in Pennsylvania: Several species have been rediscovered in Pennsylvania, including the Virginia willow (*Itea virginica*) last seen in 1841, the clasping-leaved St. John's Wort (*Hypericum gymnanthm*) last seen in 1865, an Eastern spade-foot toad, and two rare fish: the ironcolor shiner and the bridle shiner.
• OBITUARY – Peter Chapple: A tribute to Peter Chapple.
• Newsfile Xtra: The Dragon of Lake Tianchi: An article on the legendary creature of Lake Tianchi.
• Letter from America by Nick Redfern: A letter from the US correspondent.
• CREATURE FEATURE: Catfish Rising – The Monster of Martin Mere: An in-depth feature on a creature reported in Martin Mere.
• Bunnyman – Man, monster of myth by Neil Arnold: An exploration of the Bunnyman legend.
• Letters: Correspondence from readers.
• Richard's Reviews: Reviews of books and other media.
• Periodical Exchange: Information on other publications.
• The Sycophant: A satirical or opinion piece.
• Cartoon: A humorous illustration.

Specific Creature Reports and Investigations

• Monster of the Mere: The cover story focuses on the search for a large and ancient freshwater fish in England.
• The Dragon of Lake Tianchi: This section likely details sightings or research related to the creature reported in Lake Tianchi.
• Catfish Rising – The Monster of Martin Mere: A feature article dedicated to a specific creature reported in Martin Mere.
• Bunnyman – Man, monster of myth: Neil Arnold investigates the folklore and potential reality behind the Bunnyman.
• Sumbe Strigiform: Reports the discovery of a new species of owl in Indonesia, named the Little Sumba Hawk-Owl (*Ninox* genus), by a University of Canberra team.
• Return of the Giant Sable: This article discusses the potential extinction and subsequent rediscovery of the Giant Sable Antelope in Angola. Adelino Serras Pires initially declared it extinct, but an expedition in August 2002 reported sightings, including adult bulls and juveniles. The article notes the impact of civil war on wildlife in Angola.
• Pining for the Fjords? TINY TYRANNOSAUR: This section covers two distinct reports:
• Indigo Winged Parrot Rediscovery: After a 90-year absence, a flock of 14 Indigo Winged Parrots was rediscovered in Colombia, near the summit of the highest volcano. The birds were first sighted in 1911. Dr. Robert Prys-Jones of the Natural History Museum advised the team.
• Tiny Tyrannosaur: Nick Sucik from Minnesota is researching reports of an elusive lizard-like creature in the Southwestern USA, described as walking on hind legs, about 3 feet tall, with armlike appendages, and seen near wet environments. Sightings have been reported in Pagosa Springs, Pueblo, and Cortez.
• Skin Deep: This report discusses the continued survival of the Shamanu or Japanese Wolf (*Nihon ookami*). A pelt found in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, was identified as belonging to this species, believed to be extinct. This is the fifth such pelt known in Japan and the eighth globally. The pelt was reportedly bought in 1922.
• Lake and Sea Monsters – Michigan-Shenanigans: Elizabeth Clem, an Indiana correspondent, has been investigating reports of lake and river monsters in Indiana, focusing on stories from Lake Michigan.
• Lake Michigan Encounters: Several personal accounts of strange encounters in Lake Michigan are shared. One account describes a large, black, snake-like animal. Another details an encounter with a large head emerging from the water, described as a 'giant head' and a 'sea serpent'. A third account mentions seeing a weird animal swim by the ship, described as a long body like a snake.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently focuses on fortean zoology, cryptozoology, and unexplained phenomena related to animals and nature. There is a strong emphasis on reporting new discoveries, rediscoveries of potentially extinct species, and eyewitness accounts of mysterious creatures. The Centre for Fortean Zoology positions itself as a dedicated organisation for investigating these phenomena, actively seeking information and support from its readership. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and reports for readers to consider, while also acknowledging the scientific process and the need for further research.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #28
Date: August 13, 2002 (cover date)
Publisher: CFZ
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of 'Animals & Men' delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena and cryptid reports from around the globe, with a particular focus on aquatic mysteries and primate-like creatures.

Shades of Shiels and the Loch Ness Monster

The issue opens with a piece titled "SHADES OF SHIELS," referencing Tony 'Doc' Shiels and his presentation of "extraordinary images" of the Loch Ness beastie twenty-five years prior. A flash bulletin from August 13, 2002, announced that Kevin Carlyon, a witch from Hastings, planned to visit Loch Ness on September 2nd to perform a ritual to "raise Nessie from her watery hide-out." The magazine expresses mild skepticism, noting the lack of reports on Carlyon's success and deeming recent "Nessie pix" to be "spectacularly unimpressive." They question whether these images have any connection to Carlyon's "quasi-magickal prestidigitations." The article also features underwater webcam pictures taken by Andrew Whyley, which the magazine believes show a large salmon afflicted with a fungus growth, particularly highlighting the characteristic pattern of a parasitic fungus in one image.

'Champ' Hoax and Other Aquatic Mysteries

Pages 12-15 address images related to "Champ," the alleged monster of Lake Champlain. A picture circulated on the internet in August 2002, purporting to be a dead specimen, is presented. However, the magazine reveals this to be a doctored version of a photograph of a megamouth shark that washed ashore in South Africa. The perpetrator of this hoax is unknown but is complimented for a "neatly executed deception."

Encounter with a Deep One

Page 16 details an incident reported by the Rhode Island Herald on August 2nd, involving Dennis Vasconcellos, Rachel Carney, and others at Teddy's Beach in Portsmouth. While swimming, Carney screamed as an "unknown ominous sea creature" appeared. Described as about 15-feet long with four-inch teeth, greenish-black skin, and a white belly, the creature was seen popping its head out of the water, hissing, and rolling. Vasconcellos described its head as "almost the size of a basketball." The creature was seen "looking and hissing" at him as he backed away.

Sasquatch and Hominoid Reports

Several articles focus on Sasquatch and related hominoid sightings.

Mr. Sasquatch Goes to Washington

An uncredited report from April 2002 claimed Sasquatch sightings on the north side of Fort Lewis US Army Base in Tacoma, Washington, in an area known as Cat Lake. The report suggests that Army Rangers have encountered Sasquatch in this area for years and use it for night maneuvers. Retired Rangers reportedly confirmed the presence of Sasquatch, noting its inclusion in a handbook of Northwest animals since the 1950s.

Seed from the Sepulchre

At the 2002 Unconvention, cryptozoologist Adam Davies lectured on his expedition searching for the "orang-pendek," a mysterious hominoid from Indonesia. Ananova reported in August 2002 that Hans Brunner analyzed two hairs found by Davies' team in Western Sumatra. These hairs did not match known species like orang-utans, chimpanzees, or gorillas, leading Brunner to suggest the possibility of an unknown animal. Davies privately indicated that early findings suggested a relation to the orang-utan. A footprint analysis was also sent to Dr. Colin Groves, who withheld his findings pending Brunner's scientific paper.

Sasquatch Told Me to Do It...

This section discusses Cary Stayner, who was convicted of murder in Yosemite National Park. Stayner was reportedly fixated with Bigfoot and believed he had encountered a large, hairy, human-like creature in the Foresta area. His defense cited his belief in Bigfoot as an example of his mental unrest.

One Million Years B.C.

Robert Jones reported finding five-toed, one-inch deep tracks in the snow in Yono National Park, British Columbia, in 2000. He described them as belonging to a sasquatch, noting they were clearly five-toed and about half the size of his size 11 shoe. Jones and a co-worker named Kelly experienced fear and anxiety, feeling watched in the quiet forest.

Wisconsin Death Trip and Bigfoot

An article from the Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter on August 11th describes Dennis Murphy, a Minnesota hunter searching for Bigfoot in northwestern Wisconsin. Murphy claims to have spotted two aging "Bigfoots" 30 years prior but kept it secret for fear of ridicule. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources officials are skeptical, suggesting the tracks could be from bears, which are common in the area and can weigh over 500 pounds. Murphy, however, has a plaster cast of a 17-inch footprint he insists was not made by a bear.

School's Out 4 Summer: Tokoloshe Mania

This section covers incidents involving "Tokoloshe," described as semi-legendary beings in southern Africa. One report from July 30th details the CFZ Team's experience chasing giant fish in a lake in southern Africa, where "Tokoloshe mania" gripped the region. Another report from the African Eye News Service on July 4, 2002, describes a girls' boarding school in Botswana forced to seek church help after mysterious fires and harassment by a "tokoloshe" (goblin). Girls complained of an invisible man caressing them, slapping them, or pulling their hair. The Zion Christian Church performed an exorcism.

Other Reports

Eastern Cougar

A spate of puma sightings in Connecticut is mentioned, with Dale W. May of the state Department of Environmental Protection suggesting they are "phantoms" and possibly misidentified, though acknowledging some cases might involve illegal possession. DNA testing of scat in Massachusetts confirmed cougar presence.

Skunk Ape Fever

David Shealy of Ochopee sought funding from the Tourist Development Council for a Skunk Ape Expedition but was denied. The Collier County Commission cited that the usage of funds for "capital expenditures was inappropriate." Shealy expressed disappointment, criticizing the officials' "irresponsible ignorance" and their failure to see the "big picture."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a tone of cautious skepticism mixed with a willingness to report on unusual phenomena. While presenting various accounts of cryptids and unexplained events, there is an underlying implication that many of these reports may be hoaxes, misidentifications, or simply unverified claims. The editorial comments, such as the one regarding the army "handbook" for Sasquatch, suggest a critical but open-minded approach. The publication seems to aim at documenting these reports for the "CFZ record" while maintaining a degree of detachment and encouraging reader participation in verifying claims.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (#28) presents a collection of intriguing and often bizarre reports on unexplained animal phenomena, cryptozoology, and unusual occurrences from around the globe. The magazine covers a wide range of topics, from alleged sightings of cryptids and escaped exotic animals to folklore and the obituary of a prominent researcher in the field.

Unexplained Sightings and Escaped Animals

The issue opens with reports of a mountain lion sightings in Somers, Connecticut, USA. Jennifer Rose, the town's animal control officer, received three unconfirmed sightings, prompting her to seek confirmation. Despite the proximity of the sightings, she remains unconcerned about a roaming mountain lion, stating, "If it's here, it's here."

An unusual report from Romania details a Japanese macaque named Miki that escaped from the zoo at Tirgu Mures. Miki returns nightly to visit his family, spending his days in a nearby cemetery. The zoo manager is attempting to catch him during his evening visits, and the graveyard caretakers describe Miki as not aggressive.

Other out-of-place animals include a rhea named Stretch that returned to its rural roost near Forfar, UK, after escaping from Kookaburra's restaurant. A deer hunter in Ardnamurchan, UK, found a stranded sheep 10 feet up a tree. In Japan, a bearded seal, an Arctic species, has made an unlikely home in the Tamagawa river in Tokyo. Bee-eaters have been spotted displaying courtship displays in Bishop Middleham, UK, prompting the Durham Wildlife Trust to appoint a warden. North Germany is experiencing a plague of North American bullfrogs, released by a pet owner, causing havoc for residents and motorists. In South Yorkshire, UK, thousands of Amazonian freshwater jellyfish have been found in a former sand quarry. A hamster nicknamed Speedy was found driving a toy racing car in Cleveleys, UK.

Lake Monsters and Cryptids

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to lake monster sightings. The "Monster of Tianchi Lake" in Jilin Province, Northeast China, is back in the news with multiple recent sightings reported by hundreds of people. Descriptions vary, with some witnesses claiming it has a horse-like head and a turtle-like body, while others describe it as a large, black object. The legend of this creature dates back about 100 years, and a Tianchi Monster Society has been formed, with a model on display at the Changbai Mountain Natural History Museum. Scientists remain skeptical.

Similar reports emerge from Songhua Lake in China's Jilin province, where an animal resembling Scotland's Loch Ness monster was sighted. Eyewitnesses describe a black-skinned object, some eighty to ninety meters long, swimming or drifting. A speedboat driver reported seeing a large, black thing moving fast towards him. Despite these reports, scientists are largely skeptical.

The magazine also touches upon the legend of "wild women" in Texas. These tales speak of "feral women" living in remote areas. One account, from Barry Lopez's "Of Wolves and Men," describes a "wolf girl" from the 19th century whose fate remains unknown. Another story recounts a "wild woman" encountered in 1845, who was seen with wolves and later captured, only to escape and reunite with the wolves. Later investigations suggested this might have been an escaped slave living in the wild.

Obituary: Peter Chapple

The issue features an obituary for Peter Chapple (1954-2002), a well-known Australian cryptozoologist. Chapple was the President of the Australian Rare Fauna Research Association (ARFRA) and dedicated 18 years to researching Victoria's Big Cat and mainland Thylacine incidents. He compiled a large database on unidentified animals and contributed significantly to the field of Australian cryptozoology. The obituary highlights his research, his lectures, and his multi-talented achievements, including his background as a singer and tennis player. His colleagues express that his work will be continued.

Other Notable Items

An amusing anecdote recounts a man in Bor, Yugoslavia, who ended up with a barnacle stuck to his penis after sleeping on a beach. Hospital staff eventually managed to remove it when the man experienced an unplanned erection.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained, the unusual, and the cryptid. The magazine appears to have an open-minded stance towards these phenomena, presenting various reports and legends without immediate dismissal, while also acknowledging scientific skepticism. The editorial tone seems to be one of fascination and curiosity regarding the mysteries of the natural world and the potential existence of unknown creatures and phenomena.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #28
Publisher: CFZ Publications
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Animals & Men delves into two distinct and intriguing subjects: the potential existence of a giant freshwater fish in England and the unsettling urban legend of the Bunnyman. The magazine features investigative reports, interviews, and historical context for both phenomena.

Catfish Rising: The Biggest Freshwater Fish in England?

The lead story focuses on the mystery of a large creature lurking in Martin Mere, West Lancashire. Reserve manager Chris Tomlinson is convinced something large is dragging fully grown swans into the water. Several visitors witnessed swans trying to escape a giant underwater predator, and on two occasions, large numbers of swans disappeared from the lake.

Centre manager Pat Wisniewski describes the creature as potentially large enough to pull a swan, weighing up to 13 kilos, back into the water. While initially suggesting it could be an extremely large pike, the possibility of a Wels catfish is also raised. The magazine notes that Wels catfish can survive in murky, de-oxygenated water and grow to significant sizes.

Four years prior, Pat had spotted something the size of a small car circling the mere. The article explores the theory that something may have entered the mere through its drainage system years ago and grown to an immense size. The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ), under its new guise as an official non-profit trust, launched a 'Big Fish Project' to investigate. Investigators Richard and Jon spent a week in West Lancashire.

Their investigation revealed that Martin Mere has a history of 'high strangeness,' with stories of dragons, merfolk, and marsh spirits. They met with Pat, who was sympathetic to their cause and a devotee of Bernard Heuvelmans' work. Pat described incidents where birds were attacked by an unknown creature. He clarified that his earlier quote about the creature being the size of a car was hyperbole, comparing it to the size of a sofa, approximately six and a half feet long. He believes it was likely a Wels catfish, noting that some have been caught in the area.

The CFZ team outlined a plan of action to Pat and Chris, including using an echo sounder to map the lake floor, dividing the lake into transects, using a sonar fish finder, and attempting to bait the fish with fish heads and offal for photographic identification. They assured the reserve staff that their intention was not to harm the creature, but to measure and weigh it if possible, before releasing it. Pat agreed to the plan, stating, "Yeah, why not? It sounds like fun."

The investigation involved a four-man expedition in July, using extensive mapping and sonar tracking equipment. Richard's log details a sighting of a large fish, approximately a foot in length and six inches wide, basking in the shallows. The creature dived swiftly, and later, a large disturbance was observed in the water, indicating a substantial presence.

The Wels catfish (Siluris glanis) is described as indigenous to continental Europe, particularly common in eastern Europe and the Danube basin. It has a slimy, scaleless, elongated body, a broad flat head, and a wide mouth. Sir Christopher Lever notes its "distinctly sinister appearance." The description includes greenish-black coloration, yellowy-white underside, and long barbels. The largest authenticated Wels measured over 16 ft and weighed 675 lb. The article notes that Wels are solitary, nocturnal predators, tolerating industrial pollution and saltwater, and their diet includes a variety of aquatic life.

Historical accounts suggest Wels have been reported as man-eaters, with one instance in 1700 involving a countryman finding an infant's body in its stomach. The name 'sheetfish' is thought to be a corruption of 'Shit-fish' due to their voracious appetite. Attempts were made to naturalize Wels into British waters, and evidence suggests 'Marty' might have been introduced in Lancashire in the 1870s by Frank Buckland of the Acclimatisation Society.

The full story of the investigation is available in Jonathan Downes' book, "The Monster of The Mere."

Bunnyman, Myth or Monster?

This section, authored by Neil Arnold, explores the legend of the Bunnyman, a figure associated with the railroad overpass in Fairfax Station, Virginia. The legend is described as straddling the line between urban myth and zooform phenomenon.

Since the 1970s, Bunnyman has haunted the area, sharing local folklore with Goatman, Bigfoot, and the Mothman. Unlike Bigfoot, which is often perceived as more flesh-and-blood, Bunnyman, Goatman, and Mothman are described as phantoms or 'weird anti-heroes.' Maryland's Goatman is presented as a composite of campus legend and other folklore.

The article suggests that these figures are named and molded by society to exist as spooks and monsters. Bunnyman is no exception, with many attributing sightings to misinterpretations of natural phenomena or drunken youths at 'Bunnyman Bridge.' The tales have become distorted over time, often rendering factual evidence debatable.

Several possible origins for the Bunnyman legend are presented:

a. A satanic recluse who performed sacrifices and escaped from a psychiatric ward.

b. The eldest son of a family who dressed as a rabbit, slaughtered his kin, and hanged himself from the bridge. This is said to originate from the early 1900s.

c. A local hermit who killed children for trespassing and left their corpses hanging from the bridge.

d. An escaped inmate who committed murders while dressed as a rabbit.

It is suggested that Bunnyman may have been a (ether)real, unidentified monster that plagued the area before fading into obscurity.

The article highlights actual recorded evidence, citing reports from The Washington Post around Autumn 1970. One headline reads: "MAN IN BUNNY SUIT SOUGHT IN FAIRFAX." The story details a man in a white bunny costume throwing hatchets at cars. Another report, "THE RABBIT REAPPEARS," describes a man in a furry rabbit suit wielding an axe.

Historian Brian A. Conley suggests the legend may have been bolstered by such appearances or spawned from them. Folklore papers from the time suggest fifty-four variations of the story, with elements that could have been original. The mystery rabbit-man was known to vandalize property and scare people, often running off into the woods.

The article notes that grisly murders have occurred in the area, but there is no direct evidence linking them to Bunnyman. The author posits that Bunnyman and Goatman likely stem from the same source: a small event that has been exaggerated into a spook story.

Compared to other surreal creatures, Bunnyman is considered unrealistic by some, pictured as a hairy, rabbit-like monster. However, the article also connects such legends to portents of doom or symbols of upheaval, citing examples like the Goatsucker of Puerto Rico and Mothman appearing before a bridge collapse.

The author concludes that these legends, like "The Hook," "The Killer In The Backseat," and others, are often rooted in serial killer psychosis or hysteria, and that society has a desire for these beings to be real, despite their often ludicrous nature.

Letters to the Editor

The magazine welcomes correspondence from readers. A letter from Lake Winnebago mentions the presence of fresh-water lake sturgeon in their area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Animals & Men consistently explores the intersection of folklore, eyewitness accounts, and the potential for real-world phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into cryptozoological and Fortean subjects, presenting evidence and theories without definitive conclusions, but with a clear interest in the unexplained. The magazine encourages reader participation through letters and subscriptions, indicating a community-focused approach to exploring mysteries. Themes of misinterpretation, exaggeration, and the human need for mystery are recurrent throughout the articles.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #28
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Animals & Men" delves into a variety of topics, ranging from wildlife and natural history to cryptozoology, fortean phenomena, and reviews of books and films. The magazine maintains a critical and often skeptical tone, particularly when discussing research and accuracy in popular media.

Articles and Features

Sturgeon and Lake Flies

The issue begins with a piece on the wild sturgeon of Lake Winnebago, highlighting their size, lifespan, and the annual spear fishing event. It also describes the annoying annual hatch of lake flies in May, which covers the shores of Lake Winnebago and requires people to take precautions to avoid inhaling them. The author recounts a local scientist's failed experiment to use these flies as food for the Lake Sturgeon, resulting in an alien insect infestation.

Wolf Encounters and Other Wildlife

One contributor shares an experience in the Pyrenees mountains where they were confronted by aggressive wolves, forcing them to defend themselves with a knife. The article also mentions the reintroduction of wolves by the French government and potential problems caused by husky dogs. Other wildlife mentions include fluorescent birds, a creature described as a mix between a scorpion and a snail, and a possible Wels catfish in British waters, reportedly attacking swans.

Film Reviews

Reign of Fire: This film is heavily criticized for its inaccuracies, particularly in its depiction of dragons versus wyverns. The reviewer questions the filmmakers' research and finds the plot predictable and the special effects unable to compensate for the lack of substance. The reviewer suggests that cryptozoologists should write the scripts for dragon films.

Brotherhood of the Wolf: This film adaptation of the beast of le Gevaudan is praised as a great idea and a refreshing antidote to "Hollywood crap." The film is described as beautifully shot, splendidly acted, and full of twists and surprises, with a well-crafted plot.

Book Reviews

Dark Dorset: This book is recommended for its scholarly and intelligent approach to regional mysteries and fortean zoology. It offers analysis and new interpretations of legends, including spectral black dogs, mermaids, and big cats. The illustrations by Mark North are also highlighted.

The Dragon Hunter's Handbook: This book for young teenagers is criticized for its lack of research and factual inaccuracies, such as misplacing the Komodo dragon on the Galapagos Islands and incorrectly stating that sharks are not fish.

Periodical Exchange

• The magazine includes a section reviewing various publications received, including:
• British Columbia Scientific Cryptozoology Club: Noted for its newsletter containing news and expedition reports.
• 'DEAD OF NIGHT': Praised as a favorite paranormal publication with high standards of writing.
• TEMS News: Described as an amusing and fascinating miscellany of quasi-fortean odds and sods.
• 'Fortean Times': Acknowledged as a long-standing publication in the field.
• Essex Reptiles & Amphibians Society: Appreciated for its humorous and stylish magazine that dispenses news and advice.
• Porcupine!: The journal of the Hong Kong and South China Biodiversity and Ecology survey, noted for its readable style and relevance to fortean zoologists.
• Touchstone: Publications dealing with Earth Mysteries and the mystical edge of UFOs.
• WYRD: A sister magazine to Animals & Men, focusing on the non-zoological aspects of the fortean universe, described as scholarly and intelligent.
• The Anomalist: Considered the best forum for academic fortean discussion, stylish, witty, literate, and intelligent.
• Bite Me: A magazine for Goths and vampire fanatics, featuring information on vampires in folklore, TV, books, and film.

CD-ROM Reviews

• Mariposas de Nicaragua: A CD-ROM on Nicaraguan butterflies, presented in HTML with clickable links and Spanish text.
• Lucanidae of Thailand: A CD-ROM on Thai stag beetles, written primarily in English and considered easy to use.

Editor's Notes and Correspondence

The issue includes correspondence from readers, such as Felinda Bullock and Tom, who share anecdotes and opinions. The editor's notes address specific points, including the 'Monster of Martin Mere' and the potential for cryptozoology to learn from softshell turtles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the intersection of wildlife and cryptozoology, the critical examination of research and accuracy in popular media (especially films and books), and the exploration of fortean phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, a demand for rigorous research, and an appreciation for well-crafted and informative content, whether in journalism, books, or films. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of scientific accuracy and a critique of sensationalism.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #28
Publisher: CFZ COMMUNICATIONS
ISSN: 1354 0647
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Animals & Men, number 28, features a variety of eclectic content, touching upon pop culture figures, cryptozoological investigations, and unusual family connections.

Content Analysis

The issue opens with a discussion of a hallowe'en fish costume, noting its resemblance to Captain Beefheart and the Magic Band. The text then shifts to compare a CFZ publicity photograph to Captain Beefheart and the Magic Band from circa 1969, with the author suggesting that newer CFZ publicity images are more reminiscent of the band Public Enemy. This section highlights the subjective nature of visual comparisons and the evolution of a group's public image.

A significant portion of the content focuses on the CFZ (presumably the Centre for Fortean Zoology) and its members. The article introduces "New boy, John Fuller," who is noted to be a distant relative of the late Emperor of Ethiopia. It elaborates on the Rastafarian belief that Haile Selassie was a living God, and speculates on the implications if this deification extends to his family, suggesting the CFZ has a "Godhead making their tea." The text humorously implies that "Agent Hepple has successfully infiltrated the Ethiopian Royal Family."

The second page presents "The Cryptozoology Files by Mark North." This section features a comic strip depicting a humorous scenario at Martin Mere, Lancashire, England. The illustration shows a CFZ team attempting to lure out a "Monster Fish" or "Water Horse" using unconventional methods, such as flapping like a distressed swan. The dialogue includes characters named Richard, Graham, and Jon, with Graham tasked with filming the event. The accompanying text confirms the location as Martin Mere, Lancashire, England, and the case as "Monster Fish." It further details that "After discovering the Martin Mere Monster's secret hiding place the boys from the C.F.Z use the latest scientific methods in luring the creature out."

The issue also includes a quote: "Everything you can think of is true. The baby's asleep in the SHOE," attributed to a typesetter named "Dorrrrrty Mon-Keeey."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to cover a broad spectrum of unusual phenomena, from pop culture references and alleged cryptid sightings to genealogical curiosities and the activities of cryptozoological organizations like the CFZ. The tone is often informal, humorous, and speculative, embracing the idea that "Everything you can think of is true." The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded exploration of the strange and unexplained, often with a lighthearted and engaging approach.