Animals and Men - No 36

Magazine Overview

Title: animals&men
Issue: 36
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ)
Price: £3.00

This issue of *animals&men*, the journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, presents a diverse range of articles covering expeditions, cryptids, and newly discovered species. The cover features a dramatic illustration related to a Mongolia Expedition.

Editorial

In the editorial, Jonathan Downes, Director of the CFZ, reflects on the magazine's chequered history and the personal circumstances that led to the CFZ office relocating to North Devon. He announces plans for a proper Visitor's Centre, museum, and library for the CFZ. Downes also addresses the necessity of raising subscription rates due to increased page count and postage costs, and discusses a potential change in format to three perfect-bound issues of 80 pages per year. He notes a significant increase in female membership, rising from 7% to 37%, and mentions the acquisition of a pet magpie named 'Keith'.

Faculty of the CFZ

The magazine 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 zoology, palaentology, ichthyology, cryptozoology, art history, and photography, including Dr. Karl Shuker and Loren Coleman.

Regional Representatives

A comprehensive list of regional representatives across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the USA, and internationally is provided, indicating the CFZ's widespread network.

Newsfile

New and Rediscovered

A report details the photography of an unidentified canid in the Danakil Desert of Eritrea in December 2002. This animal, described as having a greyish coat, thin long tail, long legs, and extremely large ears, does not match known local canid species and is suggested to be a new species of desert wolf. Locals have reported predation on sheep and goats by a similar canid.

Catfish Capers

Researchers from Mexico and the United States have identified a new family of catfish in Chiapas, Mexico, named Lacantuniidae, with the species Lacantunia enigmatica. This discovery is significant as new vertebrate families are rare, with only two new catfish families discovered in the past 60 years. The research involved scanning the fish's skeleton using high-resolution computer tomographic equipment.

Those Crazy Frogs

Researchers have confirmed the discovery of 35 new frog species in Sri Lanka's dwindling rainforests over the past decade. However, 17 frog species have disappeared, and 11 others face imminent extinction. Researcher Rohan Pethiyagoda emphasizes the need for concerted conservation efforts. His team also found 50 previously unknown species of snails, 17 new crabs, seven new lizards, and a mysterious new species of mouse deer.

New Species Roundup

Two new stingrays from Brazil

Two new species of stingrays from Brazil, *Dasyatis colarensis* and *Dasyatis hypostigma*, are mentioned, though detailed information is scarce. *Dasyatis hypostigma* was previously confused with the closely related species *D. say*.

New Species of Salamander

A new species of salamander, classified as *Plethodon asupak* (the Scott Bar salamander), has been identified in the Siskiyou Mountains of southern Oregon and Northern California. Genetic analysis confirmed it as a distinct evolutionary line.

Arboreal Monkey Species

A previously unknown arboreal monkey species, the highland mangabey, has been discovered in the mountains of southern Tanzania and is believed to be critically endangered.

New Species of Fox in Borneo

A new species of fox has been photographed in Borneo using an automatic infra-red camera. The animal is foxy red with no white markings and a bushy tail, with slightly extended back legs suggesting arboreal habits.

New Rodent Species

A long-whiskered rodent with stubby legs and a dense tail, locally called the kha-nyou, has been discovered in Laos. It represents an entirely new family of wildlife and was found in a hunter's market. DNA analysis suggests it diverged from other rodents millions of years ago.

New Panda Species

Chinese scientists have claimed the discovery of two previously unknown species of Panda in Shaanxi province. These pandas have fur that is either gray or white, unlike the typical black and white coloration.

New Subspecies of Amazon River Manatee

It is reported that Dr. Marc van Roosmalen and a German scientist have discovered a new subspecies of the Amazon river manatee. This dwarf animal measures 1.30m and weighs about 60kg.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the discovery of new species across various animal groups and geographical locations, highlighting the ongoing exploration and cataloging of Earth's biodiversity. The magazine also features reports on expeditions and investigations into anomalous zoological phenomena, consistent with the Fortean focus of the Centre for Fortean Zoology. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of cryptozoological research, the growth of the organization, and its ambition to establish a more formal research and public resource center.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 36
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Animals & Men" focuses on recent discoveries and intriguing mysteries surrounding wildlife and unexplained phenomena. It features reports on the rediscovery of a long-lost bird species, the identification of new marine life, and alleged sightings of lake monsters.

The Ivory-Billed Woodpecker: A Stunning Rediscovery

The cover story, accompanied by the bold headline "GOTCHA!", announces the spectacular rediscovery of the ivory-billed woodpecker, a bird long believed to be extinct since 1920. The news has stunned ornithologists worldwide. The article highlights the significance of this find, with Alistair Gammell of the RSPB comparing it to finding the dodo, and Frank Gill of the National Audubon Society calling it "huge, just huge. It is kind of like finding Elvis."

The woodpecker, known for its striking red, white, and black plumage, was once distributed across the southeastern United States and Cuba. Its decline was attributed to logging and forest clearance impacting its habitat in mature trees. By 1920, it was presumed extinct, with only one unconfirmed sighting of a lone female reported later. The rediscovery was initiated by Gene Sparling of Hot Springs, Arkansas, who, on February 11, 2004, while kayaking in the Big Woods, observed an unusually large red-crested woodpecker. His contact with Cornell University's Living Bird magazine led to a team of experts, including John Fitzpatrick and Tim Gallagher, investigating the sighting. Within a month, Dr. Gallagher confirmed the presence of the ivory-billed woodpecker. The team successfully captured video footage, providing conclusive proof of its survival. This discovery offers hope for other species classified as potentially extinct and emphasizes the importance of protecting habitats.

New Dolphin Species Identified in Australian Waters

Two researchers from North Queensland have identified a new species of dolphin in Australian waters, named the Australian snubfin dolphin. This species inhabits shallow coastal waters in northern Australia and possibly Papua New Guinea. Initially mistaken for the Irrawaddy dolphin, DNA samples and skull measurements, conducted by PhD student Isabel Beasley from James Cook University, proved otherwise. Beasley noted that the Australian snubfin has three colors, unlike the uniform slate grey of the Asian dolphin, and also differs in dorsal fin height and flipper shapes. This marks the first discovery of a new dolphin species in over 50 years. The snubfin is described as shy and distinct from bottlenose dolphins, often being confused with a dugong due to its rounded forehead and small dorsal fin.

Undersea Discoveries Off the Philippines

An international team of researchers, trawling the ocean's depths off the Philippines, has discovered at least 12 new species of sea creatures. The expedition, which dredged hundreds of prawns, crabs, lobsters, and fish from depths between 100m and 2300m in the Bohol and Sulu seas, provided a comprehensive picture of marine biodiversity. Associate Professor Peter Ng of the National University of Singapore described the findings as providing a "detailed archive," with some creatures being photographed live for the first time. The team, including about 20 researchers, faced challenges with debris damaging their nets. Ng noted that the creatures found were significantly different from those found on a previous, shallower trip in the same area. This follows a similar international team's discovery of 1200 kinds of crustaceans the previous year.

Lake and Sea Monsters: Tales from Around the World

The issue features several accounts of alleged lake monster sightings:

Tessie of Lake Tahoe

"Tessie," the purported monster of Lake Tahoe, California, has reportedly made another appearance. Beth Douglas and Ron Talmage described seeing a shape with three to five humps undulating on the lake's surface. This phenomenon was linked to a talk by Dr. Charles Goldman of the U.C. Davis Tahoe Research Group on "USOs: Unidentified Swimming Objects." Goldman's research suggests that these sightings often involve dark objects in the water, with the head or tail rarely being seen, and that humps are often just waves.

Eel Meat Again: A Giant Eel in Warburton

Operators of a trout farm in Warburton, Australia, are offering a $1000 reward for the capture of a giant eel, estimated to be around four meters long with a head the size of a football. The eel is believed to have entered the farm's ponds during recent storms. Farm manager Gary Wales expressed a desire to catch the eel alive for the Melbourne Aquarium, noting it is likely around 30 years old and has found a good habitat.

Chinese Rocks: The Tianchi Lake Monster

A local tourist, Zheng Changchun, claims to have seen and videotaped the "Tianchi Lake monster" in Changbai Mountain, Jilin Province, China. Zheng described a strange, black object emerging from the water. His video footage, lasting a few seconds each time, shows the object appearing multiple times before vanishing. Zheng estimated the visible part of the object to be about the size of an adult ox's head, noting significant ripples in the water. The news of this sighting has led to speculation about "lake monsters" resurfacing in the region.

Kanas Lake Encounters

On June 7, seven tourists sailing on Kanas Lake in Xinjiang, China, reported seeing two large, dark objects, approximately 10 meters long, emerge from the water and disappear. These sightings have led to speculation that they might be giant taimen, also known as "Giant Red Fish," which have been reported in the lake since 1985. A scientific research team in 1987 concluded that large taimen were responsible for previous "lake monster" reports. Further investigation is scheduled for September, involving scientists, divers, and experts.

Loch Morar Expedition: Investigating 'Morag'

Beyond the famous Loch Ness, Loch Morar in Scotland is known for its resident monster, "Morag." Morar is Europe's deepest lake, with exceptionally clear waters. Historically, Morag was believed to appear only before the death of a member of a certain Scottish clan. The article details a dramatic encounter on August 16, 1969, involving Duncan McDonnell and William Simpson. While returning in a boat, they reported a creature that grazed their boat, causing a splash and disturbance. McDonnell described a snake-like head about a foot across, held 18 inches out of the water, with three humps protruding. John MacVarish, a barman at the Morar Hotel, also reported a sighting on August 27, 1968, describing a long neck with a small, dark head. The Centre for Fortean Zoology, represented by David Curtis, Lisa Dowley, and the author, conducted a fact-finding trip to Loch Morar, testing bait-holding floatation devices. They also heard an unrecorded sighting from Julia Moore about two youths who mistook a "tree" approaching their boat for a monster.

Theories on Morag and Eel Sightings

The article explores theories about the nature of these creatures. For "Tessie" and "Morag," the best bet is suggested to be giant sterile eels. These eels, unlike common eels that migrate to the Sargasso Sea to breed, remain in freshwater and grow indefinitely. The article mentions other sightings of large eels, including a 25-foot eel in Loch Ness and a 20-foot eel in the Birmingham Ship Canal. It is speculated that pollution from chemicals like PCBs and Beta Blockers might be contributing to an increase in these sterile eels in deep lakes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Animals & Men" consistently explores the intersection of zoology, cryptozoology, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting eyewitness accounts and scientific findings without definitive conclusions, encouraging further research into these mysteries. Recurring themes include the rediscovery of supposedly extinct species, the discovery of new species in marine environments, and the enduring fascination with lake monsters and unexplained creatures. The magazine highlights the ongoing human quest to understand the natural world and its hidden wonders.

This issue of Animals & Men, number 36, delves into various cryptozoological and unexplained phenomena. It features a prominent "Letter From America" by Nick Redfern, alongside reports on Bigfoot, mystery cats, and an expedition to Mongolia.

Nick Redfern's Letter From America: Bigfoot, Goatman, and Ghost Lights

Nick Redfern recounts the 36th anniversary of a significant monster hunt in Texas, stemming from a 1969 incident near Lake Worth. Two couples claimed a "scaly goat-man" jumped onto their car. The following night, over 30 people searched the area, with some reportedly seeing the creature. Descriptions varied, but one witness described a 7-foot tall, several hundred pound, white ape-like creature that threw a tyre at the crowd. Theories ranged from Bigfoot to an escaped circus ape or a prank. A particularly strange report involved the creature stealing and eating fried chicken before swimming across the lake. The events were documented in a book by Sallie Ann Clark. Cryptozoologist Chester Moore concluded the habitat was no longer suitable. Nick Redfern and Ken Gerhard are planning a new expedition to the area.

Redfern also discusses a recent lecture in Austin, Texas, on "Ghost Lights," including the Marfa Lights, alongside Bigfoot researcher Rob Riggs and Paul Devereux. Following the conference, Redfern, Riggs, Devereux, and others visited the Big Thicket in South Texas, an area known for both Bigfoot and Ghost Light sightings, with some suggesting a link between the two phenomena. During an overnight stay, Redfern captured film of a Ghost Light near the top of the trees, which moved slowly and disappeared quickly.

Redfern plans to publish an in-depth report on the Big Thicket excursion and lecture on Bigfoot in Texas.

Bigfoot Notebook

Paul Vella provides an update on the administration of the world's largest Bigfoot-related internet forum, www.bigfootforums.com, which was established in 2002. The forum receives over half a million page hits monthly and includes notable participants like John Green, Rick Noll, and Daniel Perez. Brian Brown, the founder, is scaling back his involvement, leading Vella to step in. Vella notes the challenge of managing a forum of independent thinkers.

An initiative called the "Orang-utan Fund" has been set up by Bigfootforums.com to raise $560 by December 31, 2005, to fund guards for the Tanjung Puting National Park in Indonesia to combat poaching and illegal logging.

The section also addresses issues concerning Kal Korff, Greg Long, and Bob Heironimus. Following an article highlighting problems with Greg Long's book, Korff reportedly ceased contact with Long. Both Korff's and Long's websites were subsequently closed down, suspected to be due to a dispute over money and Korff's potential use of Long's book to promote his documentary. Bob Heironimus is reportedly siding with Korff, and they plan a reconstruction with TV producer Kiviat, using a suit made by Philip Morris. Greg Long claims Korff never listened to his interview tapes, contrary to Korff's statements at UnCon in 2003.

A new movie, "Primeval," distributed by Sony as "Sasquatch Hunters," is mentioned.

Bigfoot Sightings and Organizations

Several Bigfoot sightings are detailed:

• Manitoba, Canada: Bobby Clarke, a ferry operator, recorded video of a large, black, fur-covered figure, described as 8-10 feet tall, walking along the river's edge. The video quality is poor, making identification difficult.
• BFRO.net: A statement on the BFRO.net website requested $3,000,000 for close-range footage of a Sasquatch family, claiming they possessed language and communication abilities. The statement was later revised.
• Georgetown, California (Winter 2004): A local man reported hearing growls and rocks being thrown at his hunting party.
• Carroll County, Ohio (May 2005): A young man saw a large creature cross the road in front of his jeep.
• Union County, Arkansas (May 2005): A small (4'-5.5'), upright, fur-covered animal was seen crossing a road.
• Polk County, Texas (March 2005): A teenager saw something "big, black, hairy" through a bedroom window.
• Montrail County, North Dakota (February 2004): Four witnesses reported sightings over three days, suggesting a creature traveling south for about 35 miles.
• Sagit County, Washington (June 2004): A large animal was seen crouching near Baker Lake.

An organization called "Single Bigfoot Organisation" is seeking a wealthy businessman for a "Meaningful Relationship," interpreted as a call for funds.

Mystery Cats Diary

Mark Fraser contributes a monthly list of British Big Cat sightings. This issue includes:

• Somerset/England (1st May): Farmer Mark Penfold believes a large cat attacked and killed one of his calves. He also reported seeing unusual eyes in the dark and found a large print.
• Yorkshire/England (2nd May): Mr. Athey reported seeing a lynx-like creature, 3-4 times the size of a domestic cat, near Wharfedale. The creature was reddish-brown, had rough hair, and no obvious tail. It entered a pit, and the witness believes it may be a bob-cat's habitat.
• Gloucestershire/England (Approx. 9th May): A large black cat, about a meter long with a long tail, was spotted. It is suspected of decapitating a pet cat. Local investigator Frank Tunbridge estimates there are 500 big cats in the British countryside.
• Surrey/England (15th May): Video footage captured a Labrador-sized, sandy-coloured animal walking near Winkerton Arboretum. The witness described it as "gingery-brown" and "definitely not a fox."
• Bexley/England (19th May): Jim Hornby reported seeing a large black cat, bigger than an ordinary cat, fox, or dog, creeping along the ground near Bexley Heath. Large prints, 5 inches across, were found the next morning.

Expedition Report: Men and Monsters in Mongolia

Richard Freeman details a four-man expedition to the Gobi Desert in May 2005 to search for the Mongolian deathworm, known as "allghoi-khorkoi." The creature is described as vermiform, desert-dwelling, and capable of spitting corrosive yellow venom.

The team, including Jon Hare, Dr Chris Clark, and Dave Churchill, planned to dam streams to create localized floods and use bucket traps to force the worms to the surface. They also brought small mammal traps.

Freeman describes Ulaan Baatar as having functional, grey buildings and a skyline dominated by a power plant. He notes the presence of gurs (traditional tents) on the outskirts, contrasting with the nomadic heritage of the people.

They were met by Byamba from e-mongol.com and introduced to drivers Togoo and Davaa. They also met Boldbaatar, who had been researching the deathworm, and Damdin, who shared stories of a dragon seen in a river in the 1940s (described as long, scaly, and about 100 feet long, found dead in a frozen river) and a yeti-like creature that turned out to be an escaped monkey.

The expedition encountered various sites, including an "ovoo" (a cairn of stones with a branch tied with blue cloth, used by travellers for safe return) and a well where a dragon was said to have entered, leading to its being locked.

Freeman describes camping in dark, twisted mountains and the feeling of being watched. The journey continued south through monotonous terrain known as "The Mirror" due to its flatness. They stayed with Davaa's family in Dalanzagad.

Historical Article: 'Artificial' Wild Men

An article from 1896 describes the alleged "artificial manufacture of wild men" for carnival shows. It details a process involving kidnapping Chinese children, mutilating them, grafting animal skin, destroying vocal cords to make them dumb, and keeping them in darkness for years to degrade their mental faculties. These individuals were then exhibited as wild men.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of the unexplained, with a strong focus on cryptozoology, particularly Bigfoot and related phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting various accounts and theories while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for evidence. There's a clear interest in documenting sightings, expeditions, and the broader cultural impact of these mysteries. The inclusion of historical accounts and international reports (Mongolia) broadens the scope beyond typical North American Bigfoot coverage. The magazine also touches upon the business and media aspects surrounding these topics, such as book publications, documentaries, and online forums.

This issue of "Animals & Men," Issue 36, focuses on two main topics: the search for the legendary Mongolian deathworm and the historical presence of lynx in Britain. The magazine details an expedition to Mongolia in 2005, gathering eyewitness accounts and exploring the Gobi Desert for evidence of the elusive creature.

The Mongolian Deathworm

The issue chronicles the "Operation Death Worm, Mongolia 2005 Expedition," which involved extensive travel through the Gobi Desert. The team, including Jon, Dave, and Byamba, interviewed numerous individuals who claimed to have seen the deathworm.

Luvsandorj, a 90-year-old former policeman, recounted seeing a two-foot long, reddish-brown, sausage-shaped creature in 1930. Juuraidor, a camel herd, described a similar brown, two-foot long creature with snake-like scales seen in the 1950s. Nyama, a park ranger, claimed to have seen the deathworm on three occasions, including one instance in 1972 where he saw it swallowing a mouse and another where he killed one. He described the creature as grey, between 18 inches and two feet long, and moving with a caterpillar-like motion. His wife also reported a sighting three years prior near the Chinese border.

Other witnesses included a man who put a deathworm on an iron plate that turned green, and another who wrapped a dead one in felt. The governor of Noyon Sum reported a 1955 sighting of a two-foot long, grey creature with no discernible head or tail. Damdin described seeing a brown, two-foot long, two-inch thick deathworm that made no movement in May 1955. His family was so frightened they moved their dwelling.

Colonel Hurvoo, a retired Mongolian Army Colonel, reported seeing a coiled-up, brown, two-foot long, scaly, sausage-shaped animal in 1973, noting light playing across it. He believed the worm emerged after rainfall. In Gurantes Sum, a witness named Khuuhengaa described a 40cm long, brown worm with no clear head or tail seen in the 1980s.

The magazine also discusses two types of worms: the allghoi-khorkoi (intestine worm) and the temrenii suhl (camel's tail), which is smaller and grey. The expedition visited the Gobi Museum, which featured a carving of the deathworm.

Possible explanations for the deathworm include it being a worm lizard, an amphisbaena, or an undiscovered species of sand boa. The issue also touches upon beliefs about dragons in wells being metaphors for poisoned water.

The British Lynx

The second major section, authored by Chris Moiser, delves into the history of the lynx in Britain. It notes that alleged sightings of alien big cats in the UK place the lynx type third after black panthers and pumas.

Conventional wisdom suggests the lynx died out in Britain around 1,000 BC, but a 1997 paper dated lynx bones found in Scotland to 180 AD. This suggests the species may have persisted into a period when historical records were being made.

The article references writings by the Venerable Bede (circa 673-735) and Raphael Holinshead (died circa 1580), who both mention "lions" in Britain, which could have referred to lynx. King Henry I is noted to have kept a menagerie at Woodstock, possibly including lynx. Edward I is also mentioned as importing a lion and a lynx from Gascony in 1288.

Another literary suggestion comes from the Welsh poem Pa Gur, which mentions Cai fighting "Ilcuon," possibly lions or wild-cats, and preparing for a battle with Cath Palug, which might have been a leopard. The poem's archaic style suggests a date before 1000 AD.

The article also discusses a sighting by William Cobbett in the late 1760s of a cat as big as a middle-sized spaniel dog near Farnham, Surrey. Later in life, Cobbett saw a "lucifee" (North American Lynx) in New Brunswick.

A report from the Daily Express on January 14, 1927, details the killing of three lynx in Scotland due to sheep kills. One body was sent to the Zoological Society of London for identification, though London Zoo records do not confirm its receipt. These sightings are speculated to be from escaped animals from travelling menageries.

Cover Painting

The cover painting by Mongolian artist Jargalan Nergui depicts the legendary Allghoi Khorkhoi attacking Mongolian horsemen, commissioned for the Operation Death Worm expedition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into cryptozoological phenomena, presenting eyewitness accounts and historical data without definitive conclusions. The recurring themes are the exploration of the unknown, the intersection of folklore and potential reality, and the documentation of unusual animal sightings and historical records. The editorial approach is to gather information from various sources, including local populations and historical texts, to piece together the puzzle of these mysterious creatures.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: ISSUE 36
Date: May 2005
Type: Magazine

This issue of "Animals & Men" delves into a variety of intriguing and often bizarre topics, ranging from the reclusive lives of lynx in the UK to the mysterious "Starchild skull" and the folklore surrounding the "Beast of Green Drive."

Lynx Incidents and Legislation

The magazine begins by recounting several incidents involving lynx in the United Kingdom. In 1991, a Eurasian Lynx was shot near Beccles, Suffolk, after reportedly killing sheep. The individual responsible was allegedly asked to destroy the animal and any photographs, but instead had the lynx mounted. A more positive outcome occurred in May 2001 in Cricklewood, where a female Eurasian Lynx was captured after a six-hour chase. This animal, found to have a minor leg fracture and be underweight, was transferred to Amneville Zoo in France for a breeding program.

Further incidents include two lynx found in a shed in Yorkshire during a joint police and RSPCA raid, with the owner claiming they were intended for hunting. One of these animals died, while the other was transferred to the Cat Survival Trust. In the West of Cornwall during the 1990s, two allegedly illegally kept lynx were reported; one escaped and was hit by a car, dying en route to Newquay Zoo. A personal account from Mick Cole in Gravesend, Kent, describes an encounter in January 2002 where he was attacked by an animal he initially mistook for a fox but later identified as a lynx, which slashed his hand.

The issue also touches upon the legal framework for keeping wild animals, specifically the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. It notes the lack of a central registry for licensed animals and mentions reviews of the Act, including one in 1988 that identified a single license for a lynx, and a 2001 review that identified 125 "small felids." The article highlights concerns about unlicensed animals and potential illegal imports.

The Starchild Skull: A Postmortem Distortion Theory

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Starchild skull," a malformed skull discovered in Mexico. The leading proponent of an extraterrestrial origin theory for the skull is Lloyd Pye. However, the author, Oll Lewis, presents an alternative explanation: a postmortem distortion theory. Lewis recounts the discovery story, emphasizing the skull's unusual thinness and strength, which he believes can be explained by natural processes. He suggests that the skull, found buried in a cave with another skeleton, may have been subjected to water saturation and subsequent drying over a long period. This process, he argues, could have caused the bone to become thin and strong, and the shape to distort, accounting for the peculiar features without resorting to paranormal explanations.

The Beast of Green Drive and Local Folklore

The magazine also investigates the phenomenon of the "Beast of Green Drive" in Lytham, Lancashire. Multiple sightings of a creature described as dog-like and goat-like have been reported, leading to speculation and local folklore. The article connects these sightings to local legends, including the story of Meg Shelton, a Lytham witch known for her alleged shape-shifting abilities. The author explores the possibility that the "Beast" could be a manifestation of this folklore, possibly a muntjac or a shape-shifted entity. The investigation involves exploring local areas, talking to residents, and considering historical accounts of witchcraft in the region.

Editor's Note and References

The "Editor's Note" section welcomes back "The Wizard of the Western World" (presumably the author of the "What's Up Doc?" column) and mentions that the article on the Green Drive beastie was culled from letters sent in May and June. It also notes the artist Sam Shearon's involvement with the famous image of the beastie. The editor reflects on personal events, including his father's illness and the support received from the CFZ community.

A "References" section lists several sources, including books and newspaper articles, related to the topics discussed, such as the history of British mammals, carbon dating of extinct mammals, and newspaper reports on lynx.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of the natural world with the unexplained, folklore, and scientific inquiry. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open-minded investigation, presenting various theories and accounts, from the biological and legal aspects of animal encounters to more speculative and folkloric explanations. There is a clear interest in exploring the boundaries between the known and the unknown, and in questioning conventional explanations for unusual phenomena. The editorial tone suggests a fascination with high strangeness, even when offering rational explanations.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 36
Publisher: CFZ COMMUNICATIONS
Country: United Kingdom
Date: MMV (likely a Roman numeral for 2005)

This issue of Animals & Men delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, cryptozoological reports, and reader experiences. The magazine maintains an open exchange of correspondence, welcoming diverse opinions and accounts from its readership.

Letters to the Editor

The editorial team welcomes correspondence and reserves the right to edit letters, emphasizing that published opinions are those of the individual correspondent. They strive to avoid infringing on moral rights or copyright.

BABY LEMONADE

Amy Butler from Springfield, Illinois, USA, writes about black panther sightings in Southern Illinois, recalling a personal encounter from her childhood. She notes that such sightings have been reported in the Decatur and Sangamon River areas since the 1800s.

MAISIE

Chris M. Moiser reports a sighting of a prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) at Talland Bay in Cornwall, United Kingdom. The animal was observed for a few seconds, with its light color, body shape, and black-tipped tail being diagnostic. The local cafe owner was unaware of any exotic wildlife in the area, and exploration did not reveal typical prairie dog mounds.

RATS

Dick Raynor from Loch Ness expresses interest in eel stories but notes they have not "solidified." He is developing new infra-red TV cameras for studying bottom-dwelling fish. His local investigation found no witnesses of exceptionally large eels at the Foyers Aluminium Works, which ceased production in 1967. He clarifies that the Foyers Hydro Electric Power Station uses a pumped storage system, not a cooling system. He also addresses a Canadian tourist episode as a misidentification of pipework from a derelict fish farm near Dorcs, referencing "Ness Information Service, NessLetter 148, ISSN 0204-7001" from April 2005. Raynor suggests that flotation devices might not be useful for eels, as they are bottom feeders, and notes that Loch Morar has minimal domestic input compared to Loch Ness. He offers assistance for future work.

SCREAM THY LAST SCREAM

A correspondent shares an experience from around March 2000, where his sister reported seeing something like a "witch on a broom." Later, in May 2000, he observed a large black shape on his house corner, which he describes as having a human head (no beak), a wingspan of about 6 feet, rodenty back legs, and clawed feet. He experienced goosebumps, indicating it was not a bird. This creature would appear for two months, hanging around his property, and he would speak to it, warning it not to harm his animals.

LONG GONE

Georges Masscy from Switzerland inquires about the information presented in a previous issue regarding the Caspian Tiger supposedly captured in NE Afghanistan in 1997 and tiger tracks/sightings on the Turkey/Iran border. He cites information from the Ex-Ministry of Natural Parks and Wildlife in Iran, stating that tigers disappeared from the region between the mid-1950s and early 1960s, with the last one shot in 1962. He also mentions that the last lion in the Iraq-Iran border area was shot in the 1870s, with possible sightings up to the 1940s. Masscy also notes the existence of dwarf species of primitive hominids in Indonesia.

OPEL

Mary Green writes from Tennessee, responding to an article about the Shawnee National Forest. She confirms that the forest spans multiple states, including Ohio, Kentucky, and Illinois. She shares her husband's experiences with large black cats in Putnam County, Tennessee, describing an incident where one of these cats challenged him. She also notes that such sightings are reported in Southern Kentucky and that these types of cats, along with western cougars, are becoming more common.

CLOWNS AND JUGGLERS

Phil, via email, comments on the Loch Ness sceptic's views. He suggests that a photo on the CFZ website likely showed Goosanders, and that a 'Nessie's tooth' photo is a shed roe deer antler. He also comments on track footage, finding it difficult to discern details but noting "cel-shaped furrows" reminiscent of otter slides.

REVIEWS

Beasts that hide from man by Dr Karl Shuker: This book is a collection of Shuker's writings from magazines on both sides of the Atlantic. It covers cryptids including giant flightless birds in Australia, undiscovered bats, the Mongolian deathworm, and the Japanese tzuchinoko. The reviewer praises Shuker's informative and entertaining style, comparing it to Victorian naturalists.

Dragons in the Dust; the paeleobiology of the giant monitor lizard Megalania by Dr Ralph Molnar: This book examines Megalania prisca, a giant monitor lizard from Ice Age Australia. Despite its known existence since Victorian times, little is known about it, with evidence limited to a few fossils. The reviewer notes that much of Molnar's analysis is educated guesswork, often based on the Komodo dragon. The book covers Megalania's evolution, its relation to other monitors, and the history of its fossil discovery. Molnar believes Megalania may have lingered until relatively recently and also considers the possibility of larger Salvadori dragons in New Guinea.

Encyclopaedia of Cryptozoology: A global guide by Michael Newton: This book is described as a rival to Eberhart's 'Mysterious Creatures', offering 576 pages with 2744 entries, including organizations and people. It covers legendary beasts and individual creatures or cases, such as the Beast of Exmoor and the Tresco sea serpent. The reviewer recommends it alongside Eberhart's work.

WEB REVIEWS BY OLL LEWIS

Oll Lewis introduces a new website reviews section for Animals & Men, aiming to highlight the best cryptozoology sites. He encourages readers to submit website addresses for review.

Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ) website: Recent updates include photos and videos from Mongolia, an interview about the Mongolian deathworm, footage of the CFZ team in Mongolia, and new computer wallpapers by Mark North. The CFZ also offers merchandise and a micro-site for the Weird Weekend.

British Big Cat Research Group: This website is praised as a professional and non-sensationalist resource for investigating Alien Big Cats (ABCs), featuring a large archive of ABC reports dating back to 1927.

Loch Ness And Morar Project: Run by Adrian Shine, this site contains scientific research on Loch Ness and its environs. While informative, it is noted as being difficult to navigate.

THE SYCOPHANT

This section features a cartoon titled "THE CRYPTOZOOLOGY FILES" by Mark North, depicting a character searching for a "GIANT GREEN CONEY." The case details describe the "Beast of Green Drive" in Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire, as a peculiar animal causing a stir.

There is also a humorous anecdote about a Mongolian child named "Starlight" who was revealed to be a boy during a ritual transition into manhood. The narrative recounts four men spending a night in a ger with the child, leading to a reflection on how tabloids might have reported it.

COMMERCIAL BREAK

This section humorously discusses the cryptozoological community's priorities. During a trip to Mongolia, the most discussed item on the CFZ forum was not the exploits of the team but rather a novelty item of ladies' underwear sold on the CFZ Café Press shop for $99. The section also mentions the sale of a "Graham Inglis Multipurpose Drinking Utensil."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features reader-submitted accounts of unusual animal sightings and unexplained phenomena, reflecting a strong interest in cryptozoology and Fortean topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the sharing of diverse experiences while maintaining a critical yet receptive approach to evidence. The inclusion of book and website reviews suggests a commitment to informing readers about ongoing research and resources within the field. The blend of serious reports with humorous anecdotes, such as the "Commercial Break" and "The Sycophant" sections, indicates a desire to engage readers on multiple levels.