Animals and Men - No 32

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #32
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ)
Country: England
Language: English
Price: £2.50/$US4.00

This issue of Animals & Men, the quarterly journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, presents a diverse range of topics, from "Rods" sightings in Iraq to new species discoveries and cryptozoological news. The cover prominently features a news report from Baghdad about a "WAR ALERT" and "Rods" sightings, alongside other headlines about unusually coloured frogs, Bigfoot activity in Arkansas, and the first pictures of a living giant squid.

Editorial

In the editorial, Director Jonathan Downes reflects on a busy period for the CFZ, including the successful 4th Weird Weekend and a trip to the United States. He announces plans for the next year's event, which will coincide with his 45th birthday. Downes also mentions meeting Chester Moore in Texas and promises a full account of his transatlantic sojourn in the next issue. He highlights the milestone of publishing four issues and a Yearbook in a single year, attributing this success to John Fuller's work in the administration department. Downes extends New Year wishes and thanks supporters. He also apologizes to Paul Vella for not including his article on the Willow Creek Bigfoot conference in this issue, suggesting it will be published in the 2004 Yearbook.

The Faculty of the Centre for Fortean Zoology

Page 4 lists the Permanent Directorate and Board of Consultants for the Centre for Fortean Zoology. Key figures include Hon. Life President Colonel John Blashford-Snell, Director Jonathan Downes, Deputy Director Graham Inglis, and Zoological Director Richard Freeman. The Board of Consultants features specialists in various fields, such as 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

Page 5 details the Regional Representatives for England, USA, and International locations. This extensive list includes individuals covering various counties in England, states in the USA, and countries worldwide, indicating the global reach of the CFZ.

Message from the President

John Blashford-Snell, the President of the CFZ, shares his thoughts on the organization's mission. He expresses pleasure in meeting members at Exeter and highlights the CFZ's eagerness to scientifically investigate mysteries and puzzles, undeterred by skepticism. He emphasizes the importance of seeking solutions and encourages a productive and enjoyable New Year.

Newsfile: New and Rediscovered

This section, compiled by Jon and Richard, covers several exciting developments in cryptozoology and biology:

Weekly Maritime Hat-Trick

An international marine census, involving 300 scientists from 50 countries, aims to catalogue all life forms in the world's oceans over seven years. The project has already catalogued over 15,000 species of fish and nearly 200,000 species of animals and plants, estimating this to be only 10 percent of the total. Scientists believe there could be up to 20,000 fish species and nearly 2 million animal and plant species in the oceans. Jesse Ausubel of The Rockefeller University highlights the importance of small, often overlooked, marine life. Ronald O'Dor of Dalhousie University states the goal is to know as much about ocean life as land life by 2010.

The CFZ agrees with the importance of this census but stresses that many more animals await discovery on land. The project was initiated due to concerns about human population growth impacting marine biodiversity.

Hello/Goodbye

This segment discusses a disturbing pattern where newly discovered species face immediate environmental threats or disappear altogether. Birdlife International announced the discovery of the blue flecked Carrizal Seedeater in Venezuela, but its habitat on Carrizal Island had already been destroyed by a hydroelectric dam construction. The discovery was made in July 2001, but it took two years for the bird to be recognized as a new species, by which time its habitat was gone.

UK-based charity Birdlife International

Birdlife International also reported on a new species of finch discovered in Venezuela. The bird's habitat, thickets of spiny bamboo on Carrizal Island, was razed for a hydroelectric dam. Robin Restall, one of the discoverers, expressed disappointment that the habitat was destroyed soon after the discovery.

New Lizard Discovery

PhD student Conrad Hoskin from the University of Queensland discovered a new lizard species, the Gulbaru gecko (Phyllurus gulbaru), in a small area of Northern Queensland. This species is considered endangered as it occupies less than 500 square kilometres. Hoskin notes that these geckos are part of an ancient lineage and may be related to those in New Zealand and New Caledonia. He had previously discovered the Mt Elliot gecko in the same region.

Sub-continental slitherings

Excitement in the herpetological community arose in early October with the discovery of a remarkable new species of frog in India. This bright purple frog, with tiny eyes and a protruding snout, represents a new family of frogs, thought to have been extinct for millions of years. Franky Bossuyt, an evolutionary biologist, described it as an important discovery that sheds light on the early evolution of advanced frogs. Its closest living relatives are found in the Seychelles. The frog was discovered in the Western Ghats Mountains of India. Additionally, the Barkudia skink, a rare limbless lizard resembling an earthworm, was sighted in Orissa, India, after an 87-year absence. This lizard, Barkudia insularis, was found on Badakuda island and had not been seen since its discovery in 1917.

Cumberland Blues

In herpetology news, a new Salamander species has been discovered on the highly populated east coast of North America.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing exploration and discovery of new species in both marine and terrestrial environments, often highlighting the precariousness of these species' habitats due to human activity. The magazine also continues its focus on Fortean phenomena, such as the "Rods" sightings. The editorial stance, as expressed by Jonathan Downes and John Blashford-Snell, is one of scientific curiosity, a commitment to investigating mysteries, and a dedication to the field of cryptozoology, encouraging readers to engage with these subjects despite potential skepticism from the wider public.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #32
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Animals & Men" delves into a variety of zoological discoveries, rediscoveries, and cryptozoological mysteries from around the globe.

New Species and Rediscoveries

Cumberland Dusky Salamander The issue highlights the discovery and naming of the Cumberland Dusky Salamander (*Desmognathus abditus*) found in the Cumberland Plateau of eastern Tennessee. Herpetologists Jennifer A. Anderson and Stephen G. Tilley of Smith College, Massachusetts, named the species 'abditus' from Latin, meaning hidden, because it had remained undiscovered in an area where new vertebrate species were not expected.

Dusky Hopping Mouse In Australia, the dusky hopping mouse, a native rodent, has been rediscovered after being presumed extinct for 150 years. Explorer Charles Sturt first described the tiny animal in 1854. Ingrid Witte, a National Parks and Wildlife Service manager, confirmed the find after a 180km trip in Tibooburra, New South Wales, noting the excitement of the discovery and the fact that two lactating females were found, indicating breeding.

Borneo Elephants Elephants in Borneo, believed to be the smallest in the world, have been reclassified as a distinct subspecies following new genetic tests. The Malaysian chapter of the WWF reported that these Borneo elephants, called Pygmy Elephants, are smaller with larger ears, longer tails, and straighter tusks than typical Asian elephants. Genetic testing revealed they separated from their Asian cousins 300,000 years ago.

European Green Lizard and British Wildlife Jon Downes, the editor, presents his hypothesis that the European green lizard (*Lacerta viridis*) is a British resident, challenging the accepted belief of only three lizard species in mainland Britain. The article also touches upon claims made over a decade ago regarding British martens and the probability of pine martens in southern England, suggesting new evidence may bolster these claims.

Nubian Cobra A new species of cobra, *Naja nubiae* (the Nubian cobra), has been identified from snakes brought to London Zoo as part of a Customs seizure from Egypt. Dr. Wolfgang Wûster of the University of Wales confirmed it is closely related to the spitting cobra (*Naja pallida*) but differs in throat and neck pattern and overall body colour.

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in Kansas Concerns are raised about the western diamondback rattlesnake expanding its range north into Kansas, possibly due to climate change. Hikers discovered a specimen in Horsethief Canyon, Kanopolis State Park, marking the eighth such snake found there since 1991. Travis Taggart, curator of herpetology at Sternberg Museum, suspects they may have been introduced, possibly as escaped pets. Despite this, the number of human snakebite cases in Kansas remains low.

Cryptozoological Investigations and Sightings

Muckross Lake Monster Reports have emerged of a 'monster' in Muckross Lake, Killarney, Republic of Ireland. Hydroacoustic sonar gear detected an object the size of a two-story house in 20-25m of water. While visual sightings are unconfirmed, the lake's ancient fish fauna, including Arctic char, ferox trout, and Atlantic salmon, attests to its ancient origins. The discovery is being investigated by the Irish Char Conservation Group, with caution against premature claims of a prehistoric monster.

Gasparilla Lake Dolphin Residents of Boca Grande, Florida, have reported seeing what some describe as a lake monster in Gasparilla Lake. Tom Farrish believes the creature is a dolphin, describing it as small (2-4 feet long) with a smooth grey body. Kristine Barr also reported seeing it chase fish. However, Lyman Randall, a former homeowners' association president, disagrees, having never seen anything resembling a large mammal, reptile, or fish in the landlocked lake. The article suggests it might be a misidentified otter or an introduced small cetacean, noting that true freshwater dolphins are found in Asia and South America.

Thylacine and Big Cat Sightings Thylacines, or Tasmanian tigers, have been in the news, with reports of sightings in the Northern Territories, Australia. Dale Bennett described seeing an animal that looked exactly like a thylacine. Wildlife management officer Nic Mooney likens these sightings to reports of Elvis sightings, cautioning about misidentification. Additionally, two of three Tasmanian tiger skulls are unaccounted for at the Australian Museum. Freedom of Information requests revealed 63 possible sightings of thylacines and big cats in Victoria, with local residents reporting striped dog-like animals and sightings while driving.

'Rods' - A New Life Form? Jose Escamilla, a filmmaker and author, presents evidence of 'Rods', thin, cigar-like objects with projections, captured on high-speed video from various locations worldwide, including Mexico and the southern USA. Escamilla and colleague Jim Peters believe these objects, which appear to travel at extremely high velocities, are not insects, birds, or jets, but an entirely new form of soft-bodied animal, dubbed 'sky fish'. They have conducted tests to rule out misidentification and plan further investigation with funding from the CFZ.

Giant Turtle of Lake Hoan Kiem The giant turtle of Lake Hoan Kiem in Hanoi, Vietnam, has been featured previously. Despite being filmed and photographed, its exact nature remains unknown, with speculation as to whether it is a single individual or part of a population of an unknown species. Anders Rhodin of the World Conservation Union emphasizes its endangered status and cultural importance. Conservationists plan to scout other lakes in Thanh Hoa province for sightings of similar giant turtles. Legend attributes the turtle's presence to King Le Loi's victory over Chinese invaders with a magic sword.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of zoology, cryptozoology, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging the scientific establishment to consider claims beyond conventional understanding, as exemplified by the 'Rods' investigation and the persistent interest in cryptids like the thylacine and lake monsters. There's a recurring theme of challenging established scientific beliefs and highlighting discoveries that rewrite natural history. The publication seems to advocate for a broader acceptance of the unknown and a more thorough investigation of anomalous findings.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #32
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Animals & Men" (#32) delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena and intriguing animal encounters, with a striking cover featuring the "FIRST EVER PHOTOGRAPHS OF A LIVING GIANT SQUID."

The Living Giant Squid

The lead story focuses on the remarkable achievement of capturing the first photographs of a live Giant Squid (Architeuthis dux). The article notes that while the species has been known to science since the mid-19th century, and large specimens can exceed 18 meters, very little is known about its biology or habits. The photographs, which surfaced on a Japanese website, are considered highly important because they depict a living specimen, even though it appears unwell. The author expresses frustration at the inability to provide information about the photographs' provenance.

The Sevenoaks Jackal

A historical account details an incident in Sevenoaks on March 1st, 1905, involving a male Jackal that had been infesting the neighborhood and causing damage to local game. After evading capture for some weeks, the animal was eventually shot by Mr. Willis during a large hunt. The Jackal was then stuffed by Mr. Hutchinson, a naturalist from Derby, and photographed by Essenhigh Corke & Co. The photograph was taken at Mr. Hutchinson's premises and the stuffed animal was in the possession of Mr. Pocock. The article highlights the unusual nature of this event and notes that another copy of the postcard featuring the Jackal was found by Martin Cotterill, a UK Big Cat Researcher, on the same day. This coincidence is linked to the Fortean concept that "there's no such thing as a coincidence."

Primates on the Prowl: Bigfoot and Other Hairy Men

This section, presented as "NICK REDFERN'S Letters From America," reports on a rash of sightings of "Big Hairy Men" (BHMs) and unidentified primates in the US during September and October of the current year. Decatur, Arkansas, was a focal point for these incidents.

Police Chief Coy Hendrix of Decatur reported receiving calls about a primate sighting on Hill Street, with another witness seeing the creature heading towards Crystal Lake. An employee at the Wild Wilderness Drive-Thru Safari in Gentry stated that no animal matching the description had escaped from their park, but conceded that such a creature would likely seek a food source. Hendrix described the creature as a "small brown monkey about a foot and a half tall," clarifying it was "not Bigfoot." Local residents, including Ike Owens and David Cook, expressed their views on the sightings, with some finding it "freaky" and others dismissing it as media hype.

Interest in the Decatur events escalated, with Chief Hendrix fielding calls from major news networks like CNN, CBS, and ABC. He maintained that the media was blowing the situation out of proportion, suggesting they were "hurting for news."

Jacqlin Castillo, associated with the Bigfoot Field Research Organization, expressed interest in investigating the Decatur sightings, emphasizing that Bigfoot is a "fascinating species" and that people need to be educated about them. Castillo also noted that this was not the first alleged sighting of a mystery man-beast in northwest Arkansas, referencing a sighting near Siloam Springs two years prior and another report from the Elm Springs area.

The article also touches upon previous primate-related incidents in the area, including a primate shot by Gentry police in 1995 and a Rhesus macaque that lived on the Alsup's farm near Centerton in 1999, known for its human-like behaviors.

Separately, the article details sightings in Vermont. Ray Dufresne reported spotting a Bigfoot-type creature on Route 7 between Bennington and Manchester. Doug Dorst, a writer, described seeing a creature he initially mistook for a "homeless dude with a war wound in a snowsuit" on Route 7, which he later described as a "big somebody" with a light brown face and dark brown or black body, speculating it might be a "mask" or a "stunt."

Sadelle Wiltshire and Ann Mrowicki also reported seeing a creature described as "like a guy in a gorilla suit, but it looked like it had a tail," about 6 feet tall, with dark brown hair and jointed knees. They concluded it was "definitely not a bear" and possibly a "strange big person in a costume."

Local speculation in Bennington pointed to Michael Greene, known for practical jokes, but he denied involvement. Gale Greene was also mentioned. The article notes that Michael Greene is only 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs 160 pounds, which is inconsistent with some descriptions.

Further reports emerged of two "huge, wild boars" seen near the Skene Valley Country Club, with one witness claiming to see a tusk. Local authorities, including the State Police and the Department of Environmental Conservation, were involved but had not seen the animal, theorizing it might have escaped from a pig farm.

Intriguingly, Cliff Sparks reported seeing a "hairy, 7-foot-tall Bigfoot-style creature, with glowing red eyes" on the same golf course about 30 years prior. The course now features a Bigfoot logo.

The section concludes by questioning whether these sightings can be explained by out-of-place animals or hoaxes, or if something stranger is occurring.

Wiltshire Wildcats: Big Cats in the UK

This section, written by Marcus Matthews, explores the phenomenon of "big cat" sightings in the UK, focusing on Wiltshire.

Matthews recounts his own interest sparked by a booklet about the "Beast Of Exmoor" at age 14. He corresponded with Trevor Beer, author of the booklet, and later met Nigel Brierly, a retired biologist and author of "They Stalk By Night, The Big Cats of The South-West." Brierly's work on identifying cat pawprints and kills inspired Matthews to investigate big cat sightings.

The popular theory for these sightings is that the animals escaped from private menageries, circuses, or zoos, particularly before and after the Dangerous Animals Act of 1976. Dr. Karl Shuker supports this in "Mystery Cats of The World, From Blue Tigers To Exmoor Beasts." Journalist Di Francis, author of "Cat Country, The Quest For the British Big-Cat," "The Beast Of Exmoor," and "My Highland Kellas Cats," champions the theory of a native species of prehistoric big cat. Jon Downes has chronicled cryptozoology in the area in "Smaller Mystery Carnivores of the Westcountry." Ufologists, like the late Mrs. Joan Amos, suggest that mystery cats might emerge from UFOs or be teleported.

The article also mentions the tradition of the "ghost Black Dog or Hound" in the westcountry and notes that "Fortean Times" collects reports of mystery cats and other strange phenomena. Historical records from the 1500s to 1700s indicate private menageries at Longleat, Wilton House, and Bowood.

Horncastle, Lincolnshire: A Large Black Cat Sighting

Mark Fraser recounts an investigation into a reported sighting of a large black cat near the sewage works on the outskirts of Horncastle, Lincolnshire, on November 19th, 2003.

Fraser and his companions, Chris Mullins, Brian Murphy, and Terry Dye, were alerted by a phone call about a sighting of a "very large black cat" at around 22:00 hrs. The cat was described as being as big as a fully grown Labrador with a long, sweeping 'S' shaped tail. Fraser personally observed the cat, describing it as "black almost fluffy or long coat" and about the size of a fully grown Alsatian. He estimated the distance to be further than 20 feet.

Fraser pursued the animal into a field. He later turned and saw two dull green/yellowy eyes belonging to the cat, which was sat on its haunches, appearing amused or bemused. The cat was about 15-20 feet away, partially obscured by foliage.

Terry Dye provides his account, stating that he saw a "Big Black Cat" in the field at about 20 feet away in the headlights. Mark Fraser then pursued the animal. Dye, along with Mullins and Murphy, also joined the pursuit. They noted the ground was dirt and flat, with no visible prints. They lost sight of the cat, which they believe ducked under a fence into the sewage works.

Fraser notes that he had lost sight of the cat and returned to the cars. He later went back into the field alone to look for tracks but found none in the darkness. He also mentions that the previous evening, Sandy and Julie Richardson, who had recently taken footage of a large cat in a caravan in Hemingsby, Lincolnshire, had received the call about the Horncastle sighting.

Fraser mentions that the cat was seen at least three times that evening. He also notes that it was bin night, with many black bags lining the roads and streets, which might have obscured tracks.

Terry Dye's account further details the sighting, emphasizing the "Take care and take a camera" slogan. He describes seeing the cat as they were turning onto the road near the sewage works. He believes it was the "panther of the Wolds" or the "Lindsey leopard," and not a mutant domestic or feral cat. He states this is the second time they have been in the area and that it is a "hotbed of activity for this mystery feline."

Dye also mentions that while they had been walking around with cameras, he did not think of taking a photo at the moment of the sighting.

Fraser concludes by stating that he believes the cat looked like the one in the caravan footage, describing it as "black almost fluffy or long coat but as big as an Alsatian dog." He is certain it was a "BIG BLACK CAT."

Wiltshire Wildcats: Further Investigations

Marcus Matthews continues his exploration of big cat sightings, discussing the challenges of obtaining photographic evidence and the ongoing investigation into these phenomena. He mentions a previous sighting where he had his hands full of steering wheel, preventing him from taking a photo. He expresses a desire to be better prepared for future encounters.

Matthews also mentions meeting Nigel Brierly, a retired biologist, and his work on identifying big cat pawprints and kills, which inspired Matthews' own investigations. He reiterates the popular theories about escaped exotic animals versus a native prehistoric species and touches upon ufologists' suggestions of extraterrestrial origins for these creatures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Animals & Men" include the unexplained and the mysterious, particularly concerning unusual animal sightings and phenomena. The magazine presents a range of accounts, from the scientifically significant (giant squid photographs) to the anecdotal (Bigfoot and big cat sightings). There is a clear interest in cryptozoology and fortean events, with a willingness to explore various theories, including those that border on the paranormal or extraterrestrial. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and witness accounts while acknowledging the lack of definitive explanations and encouraging further investigation. The issue highlights the enduring human fascination with the unknown and the creatures that may inhabit the fringes of our understanding.

This issue, "Animals & Men #32", delves into a variety of animal-related stories, historical accounts, and reported sightings. It covers historical menageries, notable animal incidents, and a significant number of alleged big cat sightings across Britain, particularly in Wiltshire.

Historical Menageries and Animal Incidents

The issue begins by referencing the menagerie owned by the Marquis of Landsdowne, which contained lions, tigers, bears, and wolves. Thomas Thynne, the 1st Viscount Weymouth, briefly owned two Bustards, while his great-nephew, Thomas Thynne, the 2nd Viscount Weymouth, expanded the collection. Papers preserved in Longleat's Muniment Room reveal payments to house carpenters for constructing enclosures for various animals, including a perch for a parrot, a house for a leopard, a house for a bear, and houses for wolves. The 2nd Viscount also kept lions and had the aviary rebuilt to house two vultures and an eagle, and a cage built for a bear in the cellars.

A poignant account is given of Hannah Twynnoy, a maid who died on October 23rd, 1703, at the age of 33, after being mauled by a tiger while visiting a travelling menagerie in Malmesbury. Her grave bears an inscription lamenting her fate.

Chris Moiser, a cryptozoologist, is mentioned as being unable to pinpoint the origin of the tiger involved in Hannah Twynnoy's death.

A significant incident occurred on October 20th, 1816, involving the "Quicksilver" mail coach. Near the Pheasant Inn in Winterslow, a lioness escaped from a travelling menagerie and attacked a horse named Pomegranate. The horse, an ex-racehorse, put up a spirited defense but became entangled. Passengers fled into the inn, and the mail guard, Joseph Pike, was threatened by the menagerie proprietor. An ostler intervened, and the proprietor's dog, possibly a Newfoundland or mastiff, seized the lioness by the hind leg. The lioness, alarmed, brushed against the man who had recovered from the initial attack, leading to his eventual collapse and confinement in an asylum.

The incident gained considerable public attention, resulting in paintings and painted trays depicting the event. An illustration by A. Sauerweid is described as theatrical, showing the lioness attacking the horse. The Pheasant Inn reportedly collected numerous prints of this event.

Big Cat Sightings in Britain

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to reported sightings of big cats across Britain, particularly in Wiltshire, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2000s.

• Early Reports: In February 1965, large footprints, thought to be from a puma, were found at Farley, near Salisbury. In the 1970s, a rumour circulated about a train crash and a black panther escaping in the Wylye Valley.
• Codford Incident (1980): An article from the Warminster Journal reported a search for a wandering lion and a rogue kangaroo in Codford, which proved to be a false alarm.
• Wiltshire Sightings: Numerous sightings are detailed, including:
• A large black cat seen by a shooting party in Hetyesbury (1984).
• A large black cat crossing the road near Bratton and Earlstoke (1987).
• A black panther-type cat seen by James Barrett-Gray in Edington (date not specified).
• A black cat described as "longer in the body than a labrador" seen by Mr. John Hutton and his family near Salisbury (1996).
• A large black cat spotted by Barry Payne near the English China Clay site (1996).
• A black leopard observed in a field at Thoulstone (summer 1999).
• Multiple sightings of large black cats crossing roads in Longleat Woods (summer 1999).
• A large black cat stalking in a paddock near Crockerton (summer 1999).
• A large sandy cat, like a lioness, seen near Warminster Bypass (2001).
• A Lynx crossing the road at night near Corsley (2001).
• Reports of 40 sightings of large black cats in North Wiltshire between 1991-2001, with police logging 30 sightings.
• Livestock kills and pawprints found at Coulston (2001).
• Sightings at Wingfield, Edington, Castle Eaton, Great Bedwyn, Shalboure, Rowden Hill, Battlesbury Hill, and Southwick between 2001 and 2002.
• Specific Encounters:
• The vicar of Upavon described an encounter his twin sons had with a large black cat on March 17th, 1996. The cat was described as broad at the front, sleek at the rear, with a long thick tail, moving quickly and quietly, and emitting a metallic smell.
• Jonathan and Matthew had a close encounter with a large black cat on March 17th, 1996, which they initially thought was playing with twine. The cat had large teeth, bad breath, and turty hair.
• Mr. Roger Cawley of Longleat Safari Park noted in February 1987 that there were no official records of incidents, but ex-police officers mentioned wild animal sightings.
• Maureen Pickup reported seeing a large, jet-black cat, about six feet long, lying by the side of a road, which she believed was a big cat from her experience in Africa.
• Colonel Conrad Freeman described seeing a big cat with mottled markings, bigger than an Alsatian, near Battlesbury Hill, expressing fear of it attacking.
• Mr. Brian Licence and his wife reported a large black cat crossing a field near Warminster in March 2002.
• Mr. Deane, a farmworker, reported a large black cat climbing a sapling tree.
• A gamekeeper from Kingston Deverill reported seeing a large black cat twice in the Tytherington and Great Ridge areas.
• Mr. Chinchen reported two plastercasts of pawprints consistent with a leopard or puma.

Other Animal Accounts

• The Lion and the Kangaroo: An article from the Warminster Journal on February 8th, 1980, details a police search in Codford for a wandering lion and a rogue kangaroo, which turned out to be a false alarm.
• Unusually Coloured Frogs: An article by Richard Muirhead and Darren Naish discusses the Common Frog (Rana temporaria) appearing in unusual colours such as white, pink, yellow, gold, and orange, which are considered variants of albinism. It notes that recent publicity may have increased reporting of these colour variations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of "Animals & Men," focusing on both domestic and wild creatures, their interactions with humans, and the folklore and mystery surrounding them. There is a clear interest in unexplained phenomena, particularly the persistent reports of big cat sightings in Britain, which the editorial stance seems to acknowledge as more than mere imagination, while also cautioning against panic. The magazine presents these accounts as fascinating additions to British wildlife, suggesting they should be left in peace rather than hunted. The recurring theme is the presence of the unknown and the extraordinary within the seemingly ordinary landscape of Britain, often drawing on historical records and contemporary eyewitness testimony.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #32
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Aberrant-Colored Frogs

The issue begins by addressing the phenomenon of aberrant-colored frogs, noting that it is not a new occurrence. Historical references include a report from 1891 and Malcolm Smith's 1951 classic, 'The British Amphibians and Reptiles,' which mentioned red frogs from Scotland. A medieval legend from Bovey Tracey, Devon, is retold, describing a miraculous spring with golden frogs.

The distribution of these frogs is highlighted, with south-west England, specifically Devon and Cornwall, reporting the majority of specimens. As of 1997, 47% of 124 ponds with aberrant-colored frogs were in these regions. Northern Britain had fewer reports until more recently, with a notable finding of 150 yellow froglets in Hebburn, Tyne and Wear, in June 2000.

There's a discussion on whether the increase in reports is due to more occurrences or simply increased awareness, partly attributed to Nicholson's work generating media interest. Various explanations for aberrant coloration are proposed, including pollution, increased UV radiation, global warming, and radon gas, though the mechanisms are not always clear. Population isolation and inbreeding are also suggested as potential factors.

Specific sightings include yellow and mustard-colored frogs in Exeter in 2000. The article notes that albinos lack pigmentation for UV protection, and electromagnetic radiation could potentially cause genetic defects leading to albinism. Ernest Ibbetson suggested weedkillers might be responsible for genetic changes.

The genetic makeup of the Common Frog (Rana temporaria) is questioned, with defects potentially caused by spontaneous DNA changes. Other animals have also displayed unusual coloration, such as orange snakes, raccoons, and an injured orange blackbird in Devon.

The phenomenon can originate from the tadpole stage, with an albino female producing albino spawn. White spawn takes longer to hatch. Aberrant coloration in males is passed to offspring, and albinism can be associated with pelvic girdle distortion. Environmental factors like lack of light can affect pigmentation, as seen with white frogs found in a Derbyshire air raid shelter in the 1950s. Inbreeding due to population isolation is also cited as a factor in albinism. Brightly colored frogs may be more susceptible to predation, and lack of pigmentation is a greater disadvantage in colder climates as it offers less protection from UV rays.

The Raven Mythos

The second major section focuses on the raven, exploring its historical and cultural significance. Throughout history, ravens have instilled strong feelings, often seen as symbols of pestilence, evil, and doom, exemplified by Edgar Allen Poe's 'The Raven' and Joan Aiken's 'Arabel's Raven.' The article questions whether this negative portrayal is fair and explores positive traits.

Ravens and crows are part of the Corvid family, known predators that also scavenge carrion, leading to their association with battlefields and burial grounds. The collective noun for crows is 'Murder,' and for ravens, 'Unkindness.' Instances of birds, including ravens, encircling and pecking another bird to death are recorded, with possible explanations ranging from 'raven justice' to mercy killings.

Historically, old English gravestones known as 'Ravenstones' and German 'Rabenstein' (stone gibbets) strengthen the association with human suffering. The Biblical tale of Noah's Raven, which abandoned its task of finding land, is recounted. The Tower of London has a strong link with ravens, with a legend stating that their departure would lead to the fall of England or the Monarchy. A Royal Charter from 1662 mandated six ravens be kept there.

An anecdote from 1996 details a raven named Hugine escaping from the Tower of London, only to be recaptured the next day. Huginn (thought) and Muninn (memory) are the ravens associated with the Norse God Odin, who would report all they observed to him.

The article delves into Welsh legends, specifically the Mabinogion, concerning Bendigeid Vran (Bran the Blessed). Bran's sister, Branwen, married Matholwch of Ireland, leading to conflict. Bran, a powerful warrior, is said to have waded across the Irish Sea and acted as a bridge. After a fierce battle, Bran was fatally wounded and instructed his head be buried on White Hill in London, facing France, to protect Britain from invasion.

The choice of White Hill for Bran's burial is significant, as 'white' can translate to 'holy,' and it was traditionally the resting place of Brutus, who founded Britain. William the Conqueror's choice to build the Tower of London on White Hill is seen as a strategic move to subjugate the populace by building on a spiritual bastion.

Ravens are also potent symbols in Scandinavia and beyond, with stories from North America and Australia depicting them as shape-shifters and tricksters. Positive images include the biblical story of ravens feeding the prophet Ezekiel, and their association with saints like Oswald, Paul the Hermit, and Benedict.

Roman legend suggests ravens were once the size and color of swans. The raven reportedly told Apollo of Coronis's infidelity, leading to Apollo killing Coronis, and the raven bearing the brunt of his wrath, resulting in its smaller, black form.

In alchemy, the raven and swan represent 'the integration, purification and transmutation of the soul,' with the raven signifying 'withdrawal from dependence on the physical senses.' Other bird totems include the Swan (etheric body), Peacock (astral body), Pelican (conscious use of etheric body forces), Phoenix (freeing of the spirit), and Penguin (essence of a chocolate biscuit).

Contemporary culture features ravens in characters like Morpheus in 'The Sandman' and 'Night Raven.' The article humorously notes the Cleveland Browns football team becoming the Ravens and winning the Super Bowl within five years.

Letters to the Editor and Other Contributions

The magazine includes a 'Letters to the Editor' section, welcoming correspondence on any subject of interest. The editor reserves the right to edit letters and clarifies that opinions expressed are those of the correspondents.

One letter from Lt. Col. Armitage Shanks (retd.) recounts an incident on the Firth of Forth, Scotland, where men were seen hauling a large shark ashore, with one man battering it with a crowbar. The letter humorously concludes with a rescuer's comment about only catching one shark that day.

Another letter from Silvia Wilson in Seoul, Korea, discusses 'Cannibal Cats,' detailing how male cats kill and sometimes eat the kittens of rivals, and her observations of a black tom cat killing yellow kittens in her neighborhood.

A letter from Lars Thomas in Copenhagen describes an amusing incident in Denmark involving a raccoon that repeatedly escaped from captivity, eventually destroying a priest's robes, with the robes costing £1000.

Davey Curtis from Seaham-on-Sea requests a photo change on the website.

The 'CFZ People' section thanks Paul Vella and Mark Martin for donations and sends well wishes to Joanne Curtis. It also congratulates Chester Moore Jnr on his rediscovery of the Red Wolf and his new CD, and the Editor's Brother and Sister-in-Law on the birth of their fourth child, Timothy. A photograph shows the CFZ Permanent Directorate at the 'Weird Weekend.'

Further Reading and Websites

The issue provides a 'Further reading' list, including 'The Bible,' 'The Mabinogion,' 'The Folklore of Birds' by Laura C Martin and Edward A Armstrong, and 'Albion: A Guide to legendary Britain' by Jennifer Westwood. It also lists websites related to crows and ravens, mythology, and aviary information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unusual animal phenomena (aberrant frogs, cannibal cats, rampaging raccoons) and the deep dive into folklore, mythology, and symbolism, particularly concerning the raven. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into Fortean topics, presenting various theories and historical accounts without necessarily endorsing any single explanation. The magazine encourages reader participation through letters and highlights community involvement within the CFZ organization.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: #32
Date: MMIII (2003)
Publisher: CFZ COMMUNICATIONS
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 1354 0647

This issue of Animals & Men delves into the world of cryptozoology and mystery animals, featuring a mix of reader contributions and extensive book reviews. The cover headline is 'WILD HORSES', suggesting a theme that is explored in one of the reader letters.

Reader Contributions

The issue opens with a renewal subscription letter from Gerard van Leusden in Holland, who finds the magazine useful for staying up-to-date with cryptozoology, particularly after purchasing books by George Eberhart.

A letter from Sally Parsons in Sussex mentions rumours of wild boars reaching Ashdown Forest and a potential encounter with one in a new soak-away pit.

Under the heading 'IN MY HOUR OF DARKNESS', a reader named Kav recounts a terrifying experience at Bolam Lake. While fishing early one morning, they heard a loud noise and saw a huge, dark creature approximately 8-10ft in height. The creature threw a large stick at them, then seemed drawn to their caught fish, prompting the witnesses to flee and abandon their equipment. This is the first time they have shared this experience due to fear of ridicule.

Another reader from the Dallington area reports potential big cat activity, with a lady who sees the creature being reluctant to divulge its whereabouts. A friend, Charlie, who works in farming and timber, has noted two instances of dead ewes on his land with their udders eaten off in a pattern not typical of foxes. He plans to investigate further.

Book Reviews

The magazine features a significant number of book reviews, covering a wide range of cryptozoological and natural history topics:

• The Field Guide to Lake Monsters, Sea Serpents and Other Mystery Denizens of the Deep by Loren Coleman & Patrick Huyghe (Tarcher/Penguin Books, 2003): Reviewed by Richard Freeman, this book is described as a scholarly yet accessible work that proposes a classification of elusive animals to explain mysteries like sea serpents and lake monsters. It includes sections on giant octopuses, 'Mystery Saurians', dinosaurs, and giant beavers, along with accounts, sightings, and locations. Freeman highly recommends it, calling it definitive and surpassing Bernard Heuvelmans' work.

• The Beasts That Hide From Man by Karl Shuker (Paraview, 2003): Reviewed by Nick Redfern, this book is praised as a noteworthy addition to monster hunting literature. It covers topics like 'hairy reptiles', 'terror birds', 'living unicorns', and 'crypto-bats'. Shuker, a scientific fellow of the Zoological Society of London, is noted for his extensive work on oddities and unknown animals. Redfern finds the book a first-class look at monstrous oddities.

• Caribbean Amphibians and Reptiles edited by Brian I Crother (Academic Press ISBN 0-12-197955-5): This book is a comprehensive overview of the reptiles and amphibians of the Caribbean, featuring papers from 14 herpetologists. It covers evolutionary relationships, island faunas (Jamaica, Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Lesser Antilles), endemic species like the Cuban crocodile and boa, and the impact of natural barriers and human introduction of species. Its only fault noted is the lack of colour photographs.

• The Mammoth Book of Maneaters by Alex McCormick (editor) (Robinson ISBN 1-84119-603-7): Reviewed by Nick Redfern, this book is criticized for its quantity over quality. It cobbles together accounts of rogue elephants, spiders, rhinos, and killer bees, many of which are not man-eaters, making the title misleading. The reviewer suggests 'Man Killers' would be a more appropriate title. Despite this, the section on man-eating crocodiles is highlighted as interesting, including accounts of the Bujang Senang and the Wyabba monster.

• In Search of Ogopogo: The Sacred Creature of the Okanagan Waters by Arlene Gaal (Hancock House ISBN 0-88839-482-9): This is Arlene Gaal's third book on the Ogopogo monster. The review describes Ogopogo as an 80-foot long, brownish-green creature with a lizard-like head and humped back. Two theories on its identity are presented: one as an elongate fresh water whale, and the other as a descendant of Mesozoic marine reptiles. The book traces the monster's history back to indigenous sacrifices and examines sightings, sonar, and moving film evidence. The review notes the massive fish stocks in Lake Okanagan and the resemblance to 'Caddy', a sea serpent.

• Clandestine Creatures: Anomalous Animals, Manimals and Monsters of the Mind by Neil Arnold (privately published): This book is described as focusing more on 'boogey men' and ethereal creatures than true mystery animals. It covers figures like the Monkey Man of India and the Spring Heeled Jack. The reviewer notes that some of these creatures have a slender foothold in reality.

• Monsters: Evil Beings, Mythical Beasts and All Manner of Imaginary Terrors by David D Gilmore (University of Pennsylvania Press ISBN 0-8122-3702-1): The reviewer initially found the first chapter, which takes a psychological view of monsters, to be 'gobbledygook'. However, the book improves by offering a tour of continents and cultures, with a particular focus on the Wendigo of Canada. Wendigo psychosis is discussed as a recognized condition. The book also mentions other cryptids like the yeti, Ogopogo, and Sasquatch.

• Thylacoleo Lives by Dennis A Wright (Privately Published): This booklet focuses on the Thylacoleo carnifex, a marsupial 'big cat' thought to be extinct for 10,000 years, but for which there are reportedly five sightings per day. The author, Dennis Wright, has seen a specimen himself. The reviewer disagrees with Wright's interpretation of the Rilla Martin photograph of 1964, believing it shows a thylacine rather than a thylacoleo.

• A Fish Caught in Time: the Search for the Coelacanth by Samantha Weinberg (Fourth Estate; ISBN: 1857029070): This book commemorates the 65th anniversary of the coelacanth's discovery. It details the initial discovery by Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer and more recent findings that the fish is still alive in multiple locations. The book also explores the background of its discoverer.

• The Kraken and the Colossal Octopus by Bernard Heuvelmans (Kegan Paul; ISBN: 0710308701): Reviewed by Jon Downes and Richard Freeman, this is an English edition of Heuvelmans' work. The review notes that Heuvelmans, the 'father of cryptozoology', wrote extensively on mystery animals, but most of his books were only published in French. This volume covers Giant Squid and giant octopuses. The review criticizes the high price and poor quality of illustrations in this edition, suggesting the publishers should be ashamed.

• Close to Shore: The Terrifying Shark Attacks of 1916 by Mike Capuzzo (Broadway Books; ISBN: 0767904141): This book details the real-life shark attacks that inspired Peter Benchley's 'Jaws'. The attacks occurred in Matawan Creek, New Jersey, in the summer of 1916, resulting in four deaths and one maiming. The shark was identified as a Great White or Bull shark. The review praises the book's gripping narrative but notes the lack of illustrations beyond the cover.

• The Mythology of the Mermaid and her Kin by Marc Potts (Capall Bann ISBN 186163 0395): This book is described as a study of mermaids that moves beyond typical 'new age' interpretations to offer a 'grim vision of implacable beings'. It covers merfolk from various cultures, including Russian and Japanese traditions.

Other Features

• THE SYCOPHANT: A satirical piece about a figure who steals ideas from other magazines and ridicules the world of Fortean Zoology.

• FUN IN THE FUNERAL PARLOUR: A brief mention of Welsh researcher Matthew Williams, known for his involvement with the CFZ and crop circles.

• LIFE'S A RIOT WITH SPY vs SPY: This section discusses the increasingly 'crazy' fortean universe, with mentions of 'Government Assets' and state-controlled individuals within ufology circles. It includes a photograph of Jon and Nick looking 'shifty' at an airport.

• MEET THE TEN FATHOM PIRATES: This humorous piece questions how the CFZ finances its operations, humorously suggesting income from a children's serial for 'Tropical Fish' magazine featuring monkeys.

• THE CRYPTOZOOLOGY FILES BY MARK NORTH: This section features a case from Baghdad, Iraq, concerning 'Mysterious Flying Rods' or 'Sky Fish' captured on television, with their abundance remaining a mystery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes cryptozoology, mystery animals, and the review of related literature. The editorial stance appears to be one of enthusiastic engagement with the unexplained, often with a touch of humor and skepticism towards sensationalism, while still championing the pursuit of knowledge in these fields. The reviews are generally thorough, offering both praise and constructive criticism. There's a clear appreciation for well-researched works and a critical eye towards those perceived as lacking in substance or quality. The inclusion of reader accounts adds a personal and anecdotal dimension to the magazine's exploration of the unknown.