Animals and Men - No 31

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 31
Date: 2003
Publisher: Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: England
Language: English
Cover Headline: On the track of an Ape-man

This issue of Animals & Men, the journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, presents a diverse collection of articles focusing on zoological discoveries, expeditions, and research into mysterious creatures. The cover prominently features an "Expedition Report" from Sumatra in 2003, investigating the possibility of an "Ape-man," alongside other intriguing topics such as "Bolam BHM Hair analysis," "Sabre tooth survival," "Big Cat research," and the discovery of "new monkey species in Guyana?"

Editorial

In the editorial, Jonathan Downes welcomes readers to issue 31, apologizing for a delay due to technical problems. He highlights the growth of the CFZ, with a significant increase in new members and regional representatives following the "Unconvention" in April. The organization is investing in software development, with member Partha Lal working on new CFZ software. The upcoming "Weird Weekend," the fourth annual convention, is announced, to be held in Exeter in October, costing fifteen pounds and open to all members. Readers are encouraged to visit the website to explore projects and volunteer, and to consider becoming regional representatives.

The Faculty of the Centre for Fortean Zoology

Page 4 lists the "Permanent Directorate" and "Board of Consultants" for the Centre for Fortean Zoology in 2003. Key figures include Hon. Life President Colonel John Blashford-Snell, Director Jonathan Downes, Deputy Director Graham Inglis, Zoological Director Richard Freeman, and Art Director Mark North. The Board of Consultants features specialists in various fields, including cryptozoology (Dr Karl Shuker, Loren Coleman), zoology (Chris Moiser, Dr Lars Thomas), palaeontology (Darren Naish), ichthyology (Charles Paxton), art history (Dr Gail-Nina Anderson), ufology (Nigel Wright), and surrealism (Tony "Doc" Shiels).

Regional Representatives

Pages 5 details the "Regional Representatives (UK)," "Regional Representatives (USA)," and "International Representatives." This extensive list includes individuals covering various regions within the UK, USA, Ireland, Switzerland, Germany, France, Denmark, Mexico, New Zealand, and Australia, indicating the global reach of the CFZ.

News File

The "News File" section compiles several short reports on recent discoveries:

Swimming Horses

Scientists have discovered the world's smallest seahorse, averaging 0.64 inches, which has survived due to its camouflage. The discovery adds to the known species count, with potential for more to be found. The main threat to these seahorses is underwater tourism.

Kamikaze Kourtship

A bizarre species of octopus captured off the Great Barrier Reef is highlighted. The male is 100 times smaller than the female and possesses sting cells. Its life cycle involves the male's arm being severed after mating to fertilize the female's eggs, after which the male dies.

California Uber Alles

A new species of jellyfish, "Big Red" (Tiburonia granrojo), has been discovered off the Californian coast. It is over a meter in diameter, deep maroon, and unique enough to warrant its own subfamily, notably lacking tentacles but possessing four to seven fleshy arms.

Myriad Marine Maoris

An expedition by New Zealand and Australian scientists aboard RV Tangaroa discovered over 400 new species of marine life, including fish, squid, corals, and sponges, from the Norfolk Ridge and Lord Howe Rise. This extensive collection includes numerous new species and over 1100 invertebrate species.

Thing on the Doorstep

A new species of freshwater snail, measuring 1.5 millimeters, has been discovered in Switzerland. This finding underscores that new species discoveries are not limited to exotic locales but can occur in unexpected places.

Pitta Bred

An exciting ornithological rediscovery in Burma reports the sighting of Gurney's pitta, a species thought to be on the brink of extinction, seen for the first time in nearly 90 years. The last confirmed sighting in Burma was in 1914. The long-term prospects for the Burmese group are threatened by forest clearance.

Less is Moore

A newly described and critically endangered pygmy-owl species discovered in Brazil has been named *Glaucidium mooreorum* in honor of Gordon and Betty Moore, recognizing their contributions to biodiversity conservation. The owl is tiny, measuring 6 inches and weighing 2 ounces. The Moore Foundation has made significant contributions to conservation efforts.

Bottoms Up

Lavarack's turtle, previously known only from fossils dating back to the last ice age, has been found alive. This unique turtle possesses a cloaca that houses reproductive organs and gill-like sacs, allowing it to "breathe through its bum."

Scales of Justice

Brazilian scientists have discovered a new fish species so unusual that it requires a new genus and family to be created. The "mystery fish" has a long body, eel-like fins, and a tail similar to the Pirarucu. It possesses up to 10 air chambers, suggesting it can breathe at the surface, and feeds on small shrimps and aquatic insects.

Chinese Crackers

A Chinese man, identified as Yu, is building a home-made helicopter to search for the "Wild Man of Shennongjia" (yeren) in Hubei Province. The contraption is made of iron bars, an old sofa, and propellers from second-hand wood, powered by a car engine. The article expresses doubt about its functionality but applauds the effort.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the discovery of new species, the exploration of remote and mysterious environments, and the ongoing efforts in cryptozoological research. The Centre for Fortean Zoology actively promotes the investigation of the unknown, encouraging member participation and highlighting the importance of biodiversity conservation. The editorial stance is one of enthusiastic engagement with the natural world, celebrating discoveries and encouraging further research into the unexplained aspects of zoology.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #31
Publisher: CFZ Press
Country: United Kingdom
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Animals & Men delves into various unexplained phenomena and cryptozoological reports from around the world, with a particular focus on sightings of unknown creatures and related investigations.

Shennongjia Ape-Beast Sighting

The issue opens with a report from China about an ape-like beast, nearly 1.65 meters tall with shoulder-length black hair, sighted in the Shennongjia forests. Chinese wildlife officials launched an investigation after multiple reports, including one from a local TV reporter. Witnesses found 30 cm long footprints, broken branches, and a three-meter-long patch of foul-smelling urine-like liquid.

The Gripes of Rath

This section discusses political arguments in Northern Ireland concerning Sinn Fein councillors' claims about sightings of Irish leprechauns near an ancient earthwork called a 'rath' in Rathenraw. SDLP councillor Donovan McClelland called these claims embarrassing. Councillor Martin McManus, a local historian, called for an official archeological investigation of the rath, which is reputedly haunted by the 'Shee'. The author expresses skepticism about UK and European sightings of 'man beasts', classifying them as 'zooform phenomena of a non corporeal nature', and relates a personal experience at Bolam Lake.

Going to Montana Soon

A report details a sighting by Debi Beach and her husband Alan in Martin City, Montana, of a tall, dark, humanlike creature crossing grassland. They found flattened grass and heard barking dogs. The local media and the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks investigated, noting it was the first sighting for Flathead County and the fifteenth in Montana, with descriptions ranging from a 'naked man in the forest' to a being 'far too hairy to be a naked man'.

Ecuador's Green Man

In Ecuador, police in Quininde were investigating reports of a small, green, ugly creature seen walking down the street. Witnesses described it as less than three feet tall, and one witness, Cecilia Cedeno, stated it appeared in front of her shop, laughed loudly, and ran away.

Lake and Sea Monsters: Turtl-ey Amazing

This section discusses the presence of alligator snapping turtles at the CFZ, noting their cryptozoological connection and a potentially more northerly range than generally accepted. The common snapping turtle is listed as globally endangered, and the possibility of extensive new populations is considered a good thing.

Champing at the Bit

A recent article in The Skeptical Enquirer questioned the 1977 Sandra Mansi photograph of the Loch Champlain monster, 'Champ'. However, Champ Quest Director Dennis Hall remains convinced of the monster's existence, stating, "I'm certain something is out there... There are just too many sightings to dismiss it. Champ exists."

Highland Things: Loch Ness Fossil

The Daily Record reported that a fossil plesiosaur vertebrae block found by pensioner Gerald McSorley in Loch Ness had been confirmed. This news generated significant media attention. Charles Paxton, CFZ Consultant Ichthyologist, noted that the block showed evidence of 'marine' bio-erosion and had an odd provenance. Karl Shuker, a cryptozoological consultant, suggested the item might have been purchased from a fossil shop for around £400. Darren Naish, Zoological Consultant for the CFZ, noted that fossil plesiosaur bones have been found elsewhere in Scotland. Three possibilities are presented: accidental placement, a hoax by someone knowledgeable, or a deliberate hoax by someone with a vested interest in increasing media interest in Loch Ness.

Visions of China: Lake Tianchi Monster

The Lake Tianchi monster was reportedly seen again by five hundred simultaneous observers. Local government cadres and Chinese soldiers sighted mysterious creatures in the lake, appearing as white or black spots, but determined to be 'living beings' from the ripples they caused.

I Am the Slime

A mass of decaying flesh washed up on a beach in Chile was initially speculated to be a second specimen of Verril's giant octopus, but was later identified as rotting whale meat.

The Moon Bog

CBC News reported on a snake-like creature with a fish-like head in Newfoundland's Crescent Lake. Vivian Short described it as large enough to eat several people. Ada Roswell, the town's clerk, also confirmed multiple reports of a huge monster or sea serpent.

Overnite Sensation

Wallace Cartwright, a lobsterman from Cape Breton Island, reported seeing a sea serpent with a turtle-like head and a snake-like body, which he trailed for about 45 minutes. The curator of zoology at the Nova Scotia Museum suggested it might have been an oarfish, but the description does not match.

Conjoined Caudates

This brief section includes a photograph of a double-yolked newt egg.

Nick Redfern's Letters America: Conferences and Critters

Nick Redfern discusses his recent meetings and events. He met with Rob Riggs, author of 'In the Big Thicket: On the Trail of the Wild Man,' which details investigations into Bigfoot and 'Wild Men of the Woods' encounters in Texas, linking them to UFOs and other phenomena. Redfern also attended the Second Annual Southern Crypto Conference in Conroe, Texas, organized by Chester Moore, which raised funds for research equipment.

Bigfoot and Cryptozoology in Texas

Chester Moore, a cryptozoologist, is highlighted for his work and upcoming Cryptozoology Field Clinics. These clinics offer training in track casting, wildlife identification, and setting up motion-sensing cameras. Presentations at the Southern Crypto Conference included Jim Chilcutt on Bigfoot track 'fingerprints,' M.K. Davis on the Patterson film, and awards for 'Crypto Steward of the Year' and 'Youth Cryptozoologist of the Year'.

Centre for Fortean Zoology News

The CFZ has several new projects underway and is seeking volunteers. They are also compiling a wish list of equipment. The Shapwick Project, started in July, is mentioned as a significant undertaking.

Highland Things: Loch Ness Documentary

The BBC broadcast an expensive documentary by TV Vet Steve Leonard arguing against the existence of a plesiosaur in Loch Ness. The magazine criticizes this as a waste of money, noting that the cryptozoological community has long favored the 'giant eel' theory. Eccentric German film director Werner Herzog is also making a documentary about Nessie, which involved a boat emitting smoke generators that caused a stir.

And Finally Richard....: The Suicide-Bombing Chicken

In Christchurch, New Zealand, a 'suicide-bombing chicken' wearing canisters and wires caused a public scare, leading to police intervention and the safe 'putting down' of the bird. While considered a prank, authorities emphasized the need for precautions.

For Sale: The Phenomenon Board Game

An advertisement for 'The Phenomenon,' a board game developed by the co-founder of the official Loch Ness Visitor's Centre, is included. It is described as fun and educational, featuring real sighting reports and photographic evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are diverse cryptozoological sightings and investigations, ranging from ape-like creatures and lake monsters to Bigfoot and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, often presenting multiple perspectives and skepticism where appropriate, particularly regarding hoaxes and sensationalism. The magazine seems to champion the pursuit of unexplained mysteries while maintaining a critical eye on the evidence presented.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #31
Date: January 4th, 2003 (with content spanning into May 2003 and beyond)
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ)
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of "Animals & Men" delves into the realm of cryptozoology, with a strong emphasis on reports of "big cat" sightings across the United Kingdom. It also touches upon the investigation of unusual marine life and includes a historical anecdote.

Cryptozoology and Big Cat Sightings

The magazine presents a compilation of numerous sightings of large feline creatures, often described as black panthers, leopards, or cougars, reported throughout 2003. The reports are geographically diverse, with a significant number originating from Scotland (Ayrshire, East Ayrshire, North Ayrshire) and England (Kent, Sussex).

**Key Reports and Incidents:

• Shapwick Crab Incident (1706): An amusing historical account from October 12th, 1706, details how villagers in Shapwick, mistaking a dropped crab for a monster, armed themselves with sticks and pitchforks to drive it away.
• Marine Crustacean Research: The CFZ is initiating a project to study and potentially breed unknown species of crabs found in coastal areas, appealing to personnel in coastal regions for assistance.
• **Ayrshire Sightings (January 2003):
• A large black cat was seen on a golf course in Troon.
• A black cat was observed in Fullerton Woods, with a dog giving chase.
• A woman in Troon reported seeing a cat-like creature twice, described as black, five feet long with a long tail.
• In Stewarton, a muscular black cat with a long tail was sighted.
• Screams, identified as possibly from a puma, were heard in Irvine, with dogs behaving irrationally.
• An off-duty police officer reported a large dark-coloured cat in Dalry.
• A hunter in Stewarton reported an unusual smell and the flushing of an animal described as larger than a springer spaniel.
• A sheep carcass was found in East Ayrshire, suggesting a large predator.
• Large prints were found on gardens and roofs in Irvine.
• **Kent and Sussex Reports (2002-2003):
• Neil Arnold discusses inaccurate press reports regarding exotic cat sightings in Sussex and Kent, contrasting them with higher numbers reported by Kent Big Cat Research.
• Reports include a milkman seeing a panther-like cat in Sussex and a "7ft Panther at seaside" headline.
• Kent Big Cat Research received numerous eyewitness reports, with sightings increasing in 2003.
• A mystery skull found near Ashford was initially thought to be from a wild cat but was later identified as a badger.
• A film obtained by KBCR shows four different species of cat inhabiting Kent.
• A possible Golden Cat was sighted by KBCR.
• A large, beige-coloured cougar was filmed walking up a road in the early hours of a February morning.
• **West Country Sighting (August 2003):
• Nigel Wright recounts a lifelong ambition fulfilled by seeing a large, jet-black cat with bright orange eyes on a road near Exmouth. The cat was described as having a "slow-motion" leap into the hedge.
• **Leicestershire Reports (2000-2002):
• Mike Playfair notes Leicestershire becoming a hotspot for large mystery cat sightings, with 110 sightings in the first nine months of 2000.
• He describes his own encounter with a large black cat, estimated to be 45 inches long including the tail, which he identified as definitively feline.

Witness Descriptions and Characteristics:

Reported animals are often described as:

• Color: Jet-black, black, beige-coloured, fawn-buff.
• Size: Ranging from five feet in length to much larger, with descriptions like "larger than springer spaniel," "six feet in length," and "4ft in body length."
• Features: Long tails, muscular build, squat type face, pointed ears, bright orange eyes.
• Behavior: Wandering, looking for food, running, leaping, stalking, moving with agility, and sometimes exhibiting unusual speed.
• Physical Evidence: Prints (some identified as fox prints, others inconclusive), fang marks, and fleece have been noted.

CFZ People and Donations

The "CFZ People" section highlights recent donations to the Centre for Fortean Zoology, including funds for replacing a van, supporting an expedition to Sumatra, and acquiring a new laptop computer and PA amplifier. Special thanks are given to Toby Henry, Dave Curtis, Paul Vella, and Elliot Saunders for their contributions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the idea that "living fossils" and undiscovered animals can be found close to home, challenging mainstream scientific skepticism towards anecdotal evidence and native testimony. The editorial stance supports the investigation of cryptozoological phenomena, encouraging public participation in data collection and specimen reporting. There's a clear passion for uncovering the unknown, with a belief that many sightings are dismissed too readily. The publication aims to document and validate these experiences, fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #31
Date: June/July 2003

This issue of "Animals & Men" features two main articles. The primary focus is on the palaeontology of the extinct sabre-toothed cat, *Homotherium*, detailing its late survival in Europe and exploring its morphology and lifestyle. The second article is a report on a 2003 expedition to Sumatra to investigate the cryptid known as the orang-pendek.

The Late Survival of Homotherium in Europe Confirmed

This extensive article by Darren Naish delves into the history and evidence surrounding *Homotherium*, a genus of sabre-toothed cat belonging to the Machairodontinae subfamily. These cats diverged from other felids about 20 million years ago and inhabited Eurasia, Africa, and the Americas, with some surviving until as recently as 10,000 years ago.

Discovering and Identifying Homotheres

The article traces the scientific discovery and classification of *Homotherium*. The first fossils were described by Richard Owen in 1846. Earlier finds from France, described by Baron George Cuvier in 1824, were initially misidentified as bear teeth. Material from Kent's Cavern in Devon, UK, discovered by Rev. J. McEnery, provided crucial early evidence. However, McEnery's conclusions about the coexistence of humans and these extinct mammals were initially rejected, notably by William Buckland.

Taxonomy and Species

*Homotherium* was initially classified under *Machairodus*, but E. Fabrini proposed the new genus name *Homotherium* in 1890. The article discusses various European and American species, including *H. latidens*, *H. nestianus*, and *H. crenatidens*. Bjorn Kurten was influential in consolidating European species, proposing two main ones: the Greater scimitar cat (*H. sainzelli*) and the Lesser scimitar cat (*H. latidens*). More recent research, such as that by Turner and Antón (1997), suggests that many European and Asian species might be synonymous with *H. latidens*. East African species like *H. hadarensis* and *H. ethiopicum* are also mentioned.

American Homotheres

Edward Drinker Cope described the first American homothere, *Dinobastis serus*, in 1893. While some researchers maintain the distinction of *Dinobastis*, most consider it a junior synonym of *Homotherium*. Fossils of *H. serum* are found across North America, notably at Freisenhahn Cave, Texas, where remains of 33 individuals were found with over 70 young mammoths, suggesting they were dismembered and brought to the cave for cubs to feed on. *H. serum* is also found at the Rancho La Brea tar pits.

Morphology and Lifestyle

*Homotherium* is described as lion-sized, likely evolving from *Machairodus*. Unlike the more famous *Smilodon*, *Homotherium*'s upper canines did not protrude far below the mandible, and the chin region was notably deepened. The canines were serrated, though often worn down. The article contrasts the long-tailed *Machairodus* with *Homotherium*, which had proportionally longer forelimbs and neck, possibly giving it a hyaena-like profile suited for cantering. Features like long, gracile limbs, a large nasal opening for oxygen intake, and a complex visual cortex suggest adaptations for running and good daytime vision. Unlike cheetahs, their claws were likely not fully retractable.

Evidence for Late Survival

The article highlights several pieces of evidence for *Homotherium*'s late survival. Cave paintings, such as one from Brackfontein Ridge, South Africa, have been interpreted as depicting *Homotherium*, though resemblance to felids is debated. A 16cm statuette found in the Isturitz cave in France, initially thought to be a cave lion, was reinterpreted by Vratislav Mazak as likely depicting *Homotherium latidens*. Radiocarbon dating of this statuette and other evidence suggests a survival date of around 28,000 years BP in Europe.

Further evidence comes from a partial felid lower jaw trawled from the North Sea in March 2000, identified as *H. latidens* and dated to the late Pleistocene. The article also discusses potential British homothere fossils from late glacial deposits (around 13,000-11,000 years BP), including a canine from Robin Hood Cave. While some of this evidence has been questioned due to potential hoaxing or misinterpretation, recent work suggests the Robin Hood Cave tooth may have been altered by humans and traded.

Climate and Adaptability

During the Devensian Glaciation, northern Europe experienced harsh, cold conditions with ice sheets and tundra. *Homotherium* species, however, are known from both cold-tolerant environments and temperate/tropical regions in Asia, indicating significant adaptability.

References

The article includes an extensive list of references, citing numerous scientific papers and books related to paleontology, mammalogy, and archaeology.

Sumatra Expedition Report: June/July 2003

This section, authored by Richard Freeman, details a three-person expedition to Sumatra with Dr. Chris Clark and Jon Hare, focused on investigating the existence of the orang-pendek, a cryptid described as a small, bipedal ape-like creature.

The Expedition's Genesis and Team

The expedition was conceived by Dr. Chris Clark, an engineer with an interest in solar astronomy, who had long wanted to investigate the orang-pendek. Richard Freeman joined as a zoologist, and Jon Hare, a Cambridge graduate and science writer, completed the team. They were assisted by Debbie Martyr, a conservationist and former journalist who had lived in Sumatra and investigated orang-pendek sightings.

Journey to Sungai Penuh and Gunung Tuju

After initial misadventures, the team arrived in Padang, Western Sumatra, and then traveled to Sungai Penuh. They met Debbie Martyr, who provided maps and information about potential orang-pendek habitats, including a 'lost valley' near Gunung Tuju, a large volcanic lake.

Trekking and Evidence Gathering

The expedition, guided by local guides Sahar, John, and Anhur, trekked through the jungle. They encountered challenging terrain, including steep slopes and moss-covered roots. During their trek, they observed signs of potential orang-pendek activity, including damaged plants (pohur, a favorite food), flattened moss on a tree stump where the creature might have sat, and hair samples. One hair sample was dark grey and about an inch long, found a meter above the ground. Another sample, found later, was lighter in color. They also found a stick with tooth marks approximately four inches across.

Footprints and Other Observations

The team found three-toed footprints, suggesting a bipedal gait. One possible orang-pendek footprint was found, though damaged by rain. Seven similar prints were found crossing a muddy puddle. They also observed pugmarks of a golden cat and the carcass of a shrew-like lesser gymnure. The jungle environment was rich with sounds of siamang gibbons and various plants, including pitcher plants.

The 'Lost Valley' and Interview with Debbie Martyr

The team did not reach the 'lost valley' due to time constraints but expressed a desire to return. The article includes an interview with Debbie Martyr, who recounted her own experiences and interest in the orang-pendek, which she initially dismissed as a legend before encountering evidence herself.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Animals & Men" consistently explores the intersection of scientific discovery and the unexplained or legendary. The *Homotherium* article showcases rigorous paleontological research, piecing together evidence from fossils and ancient art to reconstruct the history of an extinct species. It emphasizes the scientific process of re-evaluation and the confirmation of long-held hypotheses. The Sumatra expedition report, conversely, delves into the realm of cryptozoology, investigating a creature that straddles the line between myth and potential biological reality. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded yet evidence-based approach, presenting both established scientific findings and intriguing reports from the fringes of exploration and discovery.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (#31) focuses on cryptid investigations and unexplained animal encounters, featuring reports from Sumatra, the UK, and Guyana. The content includes interviews, eyewitness accounts, and scientific analysis of physical evidence.

Orang-Pendek Investigations in Sumatra

The issue features a detailed interview with 'Debbie', who recounts her experiences and theories regarding the orang-pendek, a bipedal primate allegedly inhabiting Sumatra. Debbie describes her first sighting in September, where she was 90 percent certain of its existence, noting it was not an orang-utan but moved bipedally. She was shocked by its appearance, which did not match any known primate in books, films, or zoos. She describes it as a relatively small, immensely strong, yet gracile non-human primate, built like a boxer with immense upper body strength. Its colour was described as gorgeous, and it was moving bipedally and trying to avoid being seen.

Debbie recounts two significant sightings. The first occurred in September, where the creature moved bipedally down a path, concentrating on avoiding a guide. Debbie, holding a camera, was so shocked she dropped it, unable to process what she was seeing.

About three weeks later, she saw it again on Mount Tuju. The animal froze on the trail, and through binoculars, Debbie noticed something unusual in the landscape before the animal disappeared. She states these were the only times she could have potentially photographed it, having seen it only fleetingly since.

Debbie theorizes that the orang-pendek's bipedal locomotion might be an adaptation to environmental changes, possibly linked to the volcanic event that created Lake Toba around fifty thousand years ago. This event caused massive habitat destruction, forcing surviving animals to become terrestrial. She suggests that while skeletal changes might be minimal, muscular adaptations for bipedalism could have occurred, similar to how gibbons can walk erect. She also presented a cast of an orang-pendek footprint, approximately 8 inches long, with four longish toes and a back-placed big toe, appearing more prehensile than a human's but less so than an ape's.

The issue also includes accounts from Sahar, whose father encountered both the orang-pendek and the 'cigau'. Sahar's father and a friend reportedly saw a bipedal ape in the 1980s near Polompek, Sumatra, described as covered in blackish brown hair, about five feet tall, with short legs and long arms.

The 'Cigau' Legends of Sumatra

Sahar's father also shared an encounter with the 'cigau'. In the 1960s, while travelling with four other men, one man committed a taboo by eating rice directly from the pot. That night, a 'cigau' emerged from the jungle, dragged the man away, and disembowelled him. The creature was described as smaller but stockier than a tiger, with a silvery lion-like mane, golden fur, longer forelegs than hind legs (like a hyena), and a short, tufted, cow-like tail. The article notes that while the 'cigau' could be dismissed as folklore, similar attributes are given to the real tiger. Sahar's father also spoke of a 'cigau' that laired near a fallen tree over a river, swimming out to devour those who fell in.

Debbie also mentioned recent reports of the 'cigau' in water, often seen flinging back its mane to shake off water. The article speculates that the 'cigau' might be related to the Asian golden cat but larger and more powerfully built, intermediate in size between a leopard and a tiger.

Hair Analysis from Bolam Lake, UK

The magazine details an investigation by the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ) into various phenomena at Bolam Lake, Northumberland. During a visit, team members found matted hair caught on a barbed wire fence and collected samples. Despite finding the idea of unknown higher primates in the area absurd, the CFZ sent samples to three academic institutions for analysis. One sample sent to Dr Lars Thomas at Copenhagen University was lost in the post. However, analyses from Darren Naish at the University of Portsmouth and Chris Moiser at Plymouth College of Further Education yielded surprising results. Both analysts reportedly stated they could not identify the hairs, describing them as belonging to an unknown species of giant primate, possibly over eight feet in height. However, the article humorously reveals that this was a prank, and the hairs were later identified as belonging to a cat.

Detailed reports from the University of Portsmouth and Plymouth College are included. The Portsmouth analysis, conducted by Robert Loveridge, focused on microscopic examination. It noted the absence of hair bulbs, suggesting the hairs were plucked, and a slight bifurcation at one end. The scale patterns of the cortex and the medulla were visible, with the medulla being ladder-like. Based on scale size and distance, the best matches were to carnivorans of the cat and dog groups, with a dog being the most likely identity. Three kinds of hairs were represented: coarse guard hairs, fine undercoat hairs, and a third unidentified type. The presence of a fine powder, possibly dandruff, was noted.

The Plymouth College report by C.M.Moiser examined nine hairs and a small amount of lichen. The hairs, 5-6cm long, showed no hair bulb, suggesting they were plucked. The analysis revealed a two-coloured hair, dark at the top half and colourless at the lower half. The conclusion was that the hair's appearance was consistent with that of a cat, not hominid in origin. The presence of lichen suggested the hair had been in situ for some time.

The 'Beast' of Walsall Mystery Solved

Jonathan Downes writes about a mystery in Walsall where a creature was allegedly attacking koi carp in garden ponds. Janet and John Newell complained that dozens of their fish, including a prized 24-inch koi carp worth £300, were being eaten. They initially suspected a feral cat but believed it looked like an otter due to its brown and cream colour and short legs. Officials from the Countryside Rangers and British Waterways suggested a mink might be responsible.

Investigating the Newells' claim, Downes found that their house backed onto the Birmingham Canal. The creature was seen diving into the pond and taking fish. The Newells had filmed the creature, and upon viewing the video, it was confirmed to be an otter. The article concludes that otters had recolonised that part of Staffordshire, and the mystery was solved, with the Newells being overawed by the beautiful and graceful animal in their city garden.

Unknown Primate in Guyana

Cot. John Blashford-Snell, Hon. Life-President, sent correspondence regarding an unknown species of monkey sighted in Guyana in June 2002. He described it as a large animal, to his inexpert eye, looking like a buff/pale yellow coloured adult woolly monkey with a brown dorsal stripe from the nape of its neck to its tail. Jeremy Mallinson, from Jersey Zoo and the Durrell Wildlife Preservation Trust, suggested it might be *Lagothrix lagothricha*, the woolly monkey.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of cryptids and unexplained animal phenomena. The magazine maintains a stance of rigorous scientific inquiry, even when dealing with seemingly outlandish claims, as demonstrated by the detailed hair analysis and the debunking of the 'Beast of Walsall' mystery. There is a clear interest in documenting eyewitness accounts, local folklore, and pursuing physical evidence, while also acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes or misidentifications. The editorial concern for the preservation of wilderness and habitats is also evident, particularly in the context of the orang-pendek and cigau potentially facing extinction due to deforestation.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #31
Publisher: CFZ Communications
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of "Animals & Men" #31 features a diverse range of articles, from cryptozoological sightings to critiques of popular science documentaries and reviews of relevant books. The issue opens with a report of an unidentified primate sighting in Guyana, where a creature described as a "woolly" monkey with a dorsal stripe was observed. Dr. Rylands notes that none of the known primates from the region closely match the description, though the weeper capuchin (Cebus olivaceus) shares some characteristics, being buffy grey and of a certain size, with a distinctive black cap.

The magazine then shifts to a critique of a BBC documentary about the Loch Ness Monster, presented by Steve Leonard. The author expresses disappointment with the documentary's approach, particularly its use of unrealistic computer graphics for a plesiosaur and its assumption that the monster must be a plesiosaur, thereby ignoring other theories and misrepresenting the views of many researchers. The article questions the documentary's scientific objectivity, suggesting it prioritizes entertainment over accuracy.

Further content includes a discussion on the possibility of plesiosaurs being cold-tolerant, examining theories of gigantothermy and the evidence for Cretaceous plesiosaurs inhabiting cold waters. The article refutes the gigantothermy theory, citing retractions of supporting data and the lack of evidence for endothermy in plesiosaurs.

The issue also touches upon the CFZ's activities, including an expedition to Sumatra to investigate the Orang Pendek. A comic strip, "The Cryptozoology Files" by Mark North, depicts the CFZ adventurers in Sumatra encountering strange happenings. There are also reports on CFZ members, including a humorous mention of Jon Hare's fashion choices and a note about the imminent launch of "The Thylacine Pups," a junior branch of the CFZ.

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a review of George M. Eberhart's "Mysterious Creatures: A Guide to Cryptozoology." The reviewer hails the two-volume work as a stunning achievement, praising its comprehensive listing of over 1100 cryptids, detailed entries, and clear, concise writing. The book is recommended for both experienced cryptozoologists and newcomers to the field.

Letters to the editor include a discussion about the wallaby beheadings in Skinningrove, with a correspondent suggesting a local individual was responsible. Another letter discusses the BBC's documentary approach, comparing it to "docu-dramas."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a Fortean perspective, focusing on unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and alternative scientific viewpoints. There is a critical stance towards mainstream media, particularly television documentaries, which are often portrayed as sensationalized and lacking in genuine scientific rigor. The CFZ appears to be a central organization, with its activities, members, and expeditions frequently featured. The editorial stance seems to favor in-depth research and a skeptical but open-minded approach to unusual claims, while also embracing a sense of humor and camaraderie among its readership.