Animals and Men - No 42

Magazine Overview

Title: animals&men
Subtitle: THE JOURNAL OF THE CENTRE FOR FORTEAN ZOOLOGY
Issue: 42
Date: 2007
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: England
Price: £3.00/$US5.00

This issue of Animals & Men, the quarterly journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, presents a diverse range of articles focusing on expeditions, new species discoveries, and scientific research. The cover prominently features a "GUYANA EXPEDITION REPORT" and teases other topics such as "The Bennington Triangle," "Chinese lake monsters," "big cats in Devon," "Weird Weekend report," and a "new owlman sighting."

Editorial

In his editorial, Jon Downes, Director of the CFZ, reflects on the organization's recent Guyana expedition, emphasizing the team's dedication to advancing human knowledge despite facing hardships. He defends the CFZ against accusations of being a "big fraud" and mounting expeditions solely for "free foreign holidays," asserting that the organization operates without a financial agenda, unlike mainstream scientific endeavors often funded by the "Military-Industrial complex." Downes also highlights the CFZ's "2008 CFZ Yearbook" and their new monthly web TV show, "On the Track," which features recent discoveries and exclusive video content, including from the Guyana expedition.

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 in the directorate include Hon. Life President Colonel John Blashford-Snell, Director Jonathan Downes, Deputy Director Graham Inglis, Zoological Director Richard Freeman, and Administrative Director Corinna Downes. The Board of Consultants comprises specialists in various fields, such as Zoological Consultant Chris Moiser, Palaentological Consultant Dr Darren Naish, Ichthylogical Consultant Dr Charles Paxton, and Cryptozoology Consultants Dr Karl Shuker and Loren Coleman.

Regional Representatives

Page 5 details the "REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES" for England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, USA, and internationally. These representatives serve as contacts for the organization across different geographical areas.

Newsfile

New Shark Comes Though the Keahole

This section reports on the discovery of a new shark species in the deep-sea filtration systems off Keahole point, Hawaii. The shark, described as looking similar to an alligator, was sucked up from seawater 1km below the surface into a tank. It survived for five days, an unusual occurrence as many other animals caught in the system die from pressure changes. The shark has similarities to the sponge-head cat shark (Apristurus spongiceps) but has a shorter snout and different fins. Experts believe it may be an undocumented species.

Keep Your Peccary Up

Biologist Marc van Roosmalen has discovered a new species of peccary in the Amazon, named Pecari maximus. Van Roosmalen, who was researching monkeys, spotted the animals and noted their silent, elusive nature. Local Indians call the animal "Caitetu Munde," meaning "great peccary which lives in pairs." Genetic analysis confirmed it as a new species, distinguished by longer legs and different fur markings. P. maximus lives in small family groups, eats fruit, and does not root for food, which Van Roosmalen suggests helps it avoid predators. Unfortunately, Van Roosmalen faces legal issues in Brazil, including a 16-year prison sentence, allegedly due to pressure from logging companies and rival scientists, with accusations of misappropriation of funds and unlicensed export of biological specimens.

You Are Entering the Twilight Zone

This segment reports on a deep-sea diving expedition to uncharted areas of Palau in the Pacific Ocean, funded by the British Broadcasting Corporation for the series 'Pacific Abyss'. Divers explored cave systems and wrecks between 50m and 150m deep, discovering over 20 new species of fish. One diver described the finds as "a new species" for every fish, a remarkable occurrence.

Titanic Team's Celebes Sea Finds

Scientists from the Woods Hole Oceanographic institution in Massachusetts have discovered several new species in the Celebes Sea, south of the Philippines, an area known for its high biodiversity. Using a remotely operated camera vehicle, they explored depths up to 2,730km. Discoveries included a black jellyfish, a transparent sea cucumber, and a new species of worm. The worm is described as orange, spiny, and having 10 tentacles, similar to a squid. Dr Larry Madin believes many more new species are yet to be found in this geographically isolated area, suggesting it may be an evolutionary cradle.

Back-teria from the Dead in Antarctica

This article discusses bacteria found dormant in Antarctic ice for thousands, and in some cases, millions of years. Captain Scott described Antarctica's freeze-dried deserts as "valleys of the dead." A research team from Rutgers University revived and cultured these bacteria, obtaining DNA samples that are the oldest ever recorded. Bacteria from 100,000-year-old ice doubled in numbers within seven days, while bacteria from 8,000,000-year-old ice took around two months to double, indicating a significant slowdown in reproduction over time due to dormancy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unknown, the discovery of new species in diverse environments (from rainforests to deep oceans and icy terrains), and the dedication of researchers and organizations like the CFZ to expanding scientific knowledge. The editorial stance, as articulated by Jon Downes, is one of passionate advocacy for unconventional research, defense against skepticism, and a belief in the ongoing importance of zoological discovery. There is a clear emphasis on the value of field research and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, contrasting with financially driven scientific endeavors. The journal also highlights the international scope of its contributors and research interests.

This issue of "Animals & Men," number 42, delves into a variety of intriguing topics, ranging from scientific discoveries in genetics and zoology to reports on cryptids and notable figures in British culture. The magazine features articles on DNA research, the rediscovery and discovery of new species of amphibians and bats, a marine biologist's identification of a new fish species, and extensive coverage of big cat sightings.

DNA Research and Extraterrestrial Life

The issue begins with a report on research into bacterial DNA, indicating that it had become damaged according to researchers like Dr. Kay Bidle. The study determined the half-life of bacterial DNA to be approximately 1.1 million years. This research also challenges the theory that life on Earth originated from bacteria seeded by comets, suggesting that cosmic radiation would degrade DNA on a comet to the point of sterility long before it reached Earth. Dr. Bidle expressed optimism that bacteria trapped in Martian ice could potentially be revived using similar techniques. However, Russell Vreeland of West Chester University remained unimpressed, citing potential flaws and contamination issues in the experiment. The oldest DNA previously recovered was from 800,000-year-old microbes from an ice sheet in Greenland.

Zoological Discoveries: Frogs, Toads, and Bats

"Never a Frown with Golden Anuran" highlights recent scientific headlines concerning anuran species. In Costa Rica, a tree frog, *Isthomhyla rivularis*, believed extinct, was rediscovered, offering hope for the survival of the golden toad. Zoologist Andrew Grey found a metallic brown-green tree frog that matched this species, which was thought to have been lost due to global warming. Grey described the discovery, noting he recognized the unfamiliar call of the frog. *Isthomhyla rivularis* was last seen in the 1980s, with its decline attributed to climate change and fungal population explosions. Grey plans to establish a breeding program. Additionally, a new species of poison dart frog, named 'the golden frog of Supatá,' has been identified in Colombia.

In a separate article, "It Doesn't Exist! Oh Wait There It Is," biologist Jake Esselstyn of the University of Kansas recounts his discovery of a new species of bat on the island of Mindoro in the Philippines. Initially dismissing a local guide's description of a strange bat, Esselstyn later encountered the creature himself. He named it the 'Mindoro stripe-faced fruit bat,' characterized by orange fur and distinctive white stripes on its brow and jaw. Esselstyn speculates that other similar undiscovered bat species may exist on islands between the Philippines and Indonesia, where the closest known related species is found.

Marine Discoveries: The Elusive Fish and Giant Eels

"Find the Fish" details marine biologist Marc Hughes's nine-year quest to identify a six-inch brown fish he first spotted in an underwater cave in South Kona, Hawaii. Despite taking photographs, he found no records matching the description. His findings were presented to tropical fish expert John E. Randall, who confirmed it as a new species of the genus *Grammonus*, though further classification was needed without a type specimen. Hughes later obtained a second specimen. Separately, a reader named John Weatherly recounts an experience from July 1969 during a voyage through the Panama Canal. He and other passengers observed numerous large eels, estimated at 15 feet long and 1.5 feet in diameter, swimming in pairs near the surface. These eels were described as khaki or olive in color, with smooth bodies, pronounced snouts, and rounded noses, differing from typical moray eels. Weatherly, a retired communications engineer, speculates they may have been surfacing for mating.

Obituaries: Phil Drabble and Tony Wilson

The issue includes obituaries for two notable British figures. Phil Drabble OBE (1914-2007), a naturalist, writer, and broadcaster, was best known as the presenter of the BBC's "One Man and His Dog." The article highlights his love for the countryside, his work on wildlife reserves, and his books. Drabble's commentary on "One Man and His Dog" is quoted, emphasizing its wholesome appeal and connection to traditional values. The obituary also touches upon his early medical studies at Oxford and his subsequent career switch to engineering before pursuing broadcasting full-time.

Tony Wilson (1950-2007), co-founder of Factory Records and owner of Manchester's Hacienda nightclub, is also remembered. Wilson's contributions to the 'Madchester' music scene, including bands like Joy Division and The Happy Mondays, are noted. Despite the success of his ventures, he reportedly made little money due to high production costs. The article mentions Factory Records' practice of assigning catalogue numbers to all its productions, including releases, the Hacienda itself, and even a lawsuit. Wilson's friends financed his renal cancer treatment after he was denied drugs by the NHS. His funeral in Manchester was marked by the lowering of the Union Flag to half-mast.

Mystery Cats Diary: Big Cat Sightings in Devon

"Mystery Cats Diary" by Corinna Downes details an ongoing investigation into big cat sightings in Huddisford Woods, North Devon. Jon, who has visited the area for over thirty-five years, has been involved in documenting these sightings. Most reports describe black, stocky beasts, but a brown animal with a pug-like face has also been reported, possibly indicating a female. The article recounts a specific incident where Mr. Harris reported seeing a large black cat, estimated at 8 feet in length, bounding across a field. Tracks were found, approximately 12 feet apart, suggesting a large animal. Hairs found on a bramble were collected for analysis. However, in late October, news arrived that the hairs were from a dog, a disappointing but not entirely unexpected result given the area's animal traffic. The article emphasizes that the creature's impression in the grass was significantly larger than a domestic cat's and notes the frequency of sightings in the area. The Centre for Fortean Zoology is conducting an in-depth research project and is seeking information from witnesses.

Nick Redfern's Letters from America: Eels and Chupacabras

Nick Redfern's "Letters from America" column features reader contributions. John Weatherly's account of the giant eels in the Panama Canal is detailed. Another reader, Mac, shares his experience during the 2001 Florida drought, where he encountered two creatures emerging from a tree cavity. These creatures were described as approximately three feet long, primate-like, with flat faces and bat-like membranes stretching from their arms to their legs. Redfern connects this to his previous blog post on the Chupacabras of Puerto Rico, a creature described as a glowing-eyed monkey with razor-sharp claws and fangs, and possibly bat-like wings. Redfern had previously traveled to Puerto Rico to investigate Chupacabras attacks and was convinced of the existence of a winged monster in El Yunque rainforest. Mac's sighting suggests the Chupacabras might be roaming parts of the United States mainland.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the natural world and the unexplained. There is a clear interest in scientific discovery, particularly in zoology and genetics, but also a strong focus on anecdotal evidence and eyewitness accounts of unusual phenomena, such as big cat sightings and cryptids. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting findings and reader experiences without immediate dismissal, while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for rigorous scientific analysis where possible. The inclusion of obituaries for prominent figures suggests a broader interest in individuals who have contributed to the understanding or popularization of nature and culture.

This issue of 'Animals & Men', titled 'GUYANA: THE SAVAGE LAND' and identified as Issue 42, is a collection of articles detailing various unexplained phenomena, cryptid sightings, and expeditions from around the world. The magazine features a mix of eyewitness accounts, scientific speculation, and reports on ongoing research.

Eyewitness Accounts and Sightings

The issue begins with several eyewitness accounts. One witness describes seeing what they initially thought were large albino bats, but the size and movement suggested something more unusual, possibly a Chupacabras. Another account details a startling encounter with a 'werewolf-style' creature in central England in 1970, described as muscular, thin, with a flat snout and large eyes, approximately five feet tall and weighing 200 pounds. The creature ran on hind legs and disappeared into dense woods.

Aquatic Monsters and Lake Mysteries

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to aquatic mysteries. The article 'Nessie Pining for the Fjords?' discusses the recent media proclamation of the Loch Ness Monster's death, arguing that it is premature and that a lack of newspaper coverage does not equate to non-existence. It suggests factors like fear of ridicule and better education might influence reporting. The article also mentions other lake monsters, including the Lake Windermere monster and sightings at Llangorse Lake.

A 'Pike-a-Chew' section reports on a series of attacks by a large pike, nicknamed 'Jaws', in Lake Wildenau, Austria, which injured a swimmer. The pike is estimated to be around 1.50m (5ft) long, with speculation that it might be a zander.

'Cameron Lake Monster' details a sighting by Bridgette Horvath in Ontario, Canada, of large wakes in the water not caused by boats, which she described as similar to how whales school fish. Local resident Louis Verheyen has documented similar sightings for decades. The article also notes that muskellunge pike, which can grow over 5 feet, are present in the lake and could potentially cause such disturbances.

'Chinese Monster Movies' covers recent videos surfacing from Lake Kanasi and Lake Tianchi in China. The Lake Kanasi video shows a swarm of objects making V-shaped wakes, appearing like a large fish surfacing. The Lake Tianchi video shows five seal-like animals creating V-shaped wakes, though the article suggests they might be waterfowl.

'Close the Gators!' reports on an escaped 5-7 foot alligator that caused the temporary closure of Jayhawker ponds in Loveland, Colorado, USA.

'Monster Rumours Sent Down the Drain' recounts an incident in Hongxian, China, where nocturnal 'mooing' sounds from a new reservoir led to fears of a lake monster. Chinese officials drained the reservoir, but found nothing, attributing the sounds to the hydroelectric power plant machinery.

Notable Wildlife and Expeditions

'Good News for World's Largest Soft-Shell Turtle' highlights a clean-up project in Hoan Kiem Lake, Vietnam, to protect the world's largest soft-shell turtle, whose carapace is 6 feet long and is believed by some locals to be over 600 years old.

The main feature, 'Guyana: The Savage Land', details an expedition by the Centre for Fortean Zoology. The expedition was inspired by Michael Newton's 'Encyclopaedia of Cryptozoology' and focused on crypto-tourism. The company 'Guided Cultural Tours', run by Damon Corrie, a chief of the Eagle Clan of the Arawak Amerindians, offers expeditions in search of giant anacondas and other creatures.

Damon Corrie reported a sighting of a gigantic anaconda near Corona Falls, estimated to be around 40 feet long. He also mentioned the 'dl-dl', a large hairy creature akin to the yeti or sasquatch, and vague stories of dragons.

The expedition team, including the author, Dr Chris Clark, Jon Hare, Lisa Dowley, and Paul Rose, traveled to Guyana. They met Damon Corrie in his native village of Pakuri. The journey involved a long, bumpy truck ride and later a bus trip that broke down. In Pakuri, they learned of a 'di-di' encounter from two years prior, where a 'huge hairy man' reportedly abducted a girl who was never seen again. Another man from Pakuri had also seen a 'di-di' walking away.

The expedition visited the village of Taushida, enduring extreme heat and sunstroke. During the journey, they saw various birds and termite mounds. A guide named Joseph mentioned a 'di-di' sighting in the area, described as a huge white man covered in hair.

On Makuzi Mountain, the expedition discovered a cave containing human remains: a skull of a boy aged 9-12, an adult man's skull, jaws, and ribs, along with beads and a peccary tooth. Damon Corrie estimated the remains could be pre-Columbian (over 500 years old) or from around 100 years ago.

Moses Iza, a hunter, had previously stumbled upon the cave. The article also recounts a story from the 1950s about a man who saw a huge hairy man asleep in the trees on the mountain, who then fell ill, believing the creature had put a spell on him.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unknown, the documentation of unexplained phenomena, and the pursuit of cryptids and mysterious creatures. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages investigation and reporting of such phenomena, often presenting eyewitness accounts with a degree of seriousness while also acknowledging potential natural explanations or the need for further evidence. The editorial tone is one of curiosity and a desire to document the fringes of the natural world, with a particular focus on expeditions and fieldwork, as exemplified by the extensive coverage of the Guyana expedition. The publication seems to champion the idea that many unexplained events and creatures may indeed exist, challenging conventional skepticism.

This issue of "Animals & Men" (Issue 42) features two main sections: an expedition report from Guyana and an exploration of the mysteries surrounding the Bennington Triangle in Vermont. The cover prominently displays the title "LOST HORIZON: THE BENNINGTON TRIANGLE" by Neil Arnold, with assistance from Joe Durwin, and includes musical credits for "These Green Mountains" by Diane Martin and Rita Buglass. A map of Vermont is also featured.

Guyana Expedition

The expedition in Guyana, led by the narrator and guided by Kenard, encountered a variety of unusual creatures and phenomena. They learned about the "di-di," a creature living on the mountain, described as hairless, naked, brown-skinned, and about 3 to 3.5 feet tall, with a red painted face and a strange grin. This creature was known to leap out and scare people but was not harmful, and would even ride on Kenard's uncle's motorbike.

The expedition's food was generally good, with cassava being a staple. Cassava is a root known as yucca, which is a major source of carbohydrates. It is prepared by shredding, soaking to remove toxins, squeezing through a wickerwork tube, drying, and pounding into a granulated form. While filling, cassava bread has the taste and texture of chipboard.

They visited Tebang's Rock, a 30-foot pillar of rock where Tebang, a little man, was said to walk at night touching children to transmit disease, fashioning flutes from their bones. Tebang was described as similar to the African goblin, Tokoloshe.

During their treks, they experienced intense heat and sunstroke. One night, the narrator was badly bitten by insects. They went in search of anaconda, finding large furrows indicating snakes of 15-17 feet, and Kenard saw a baby anaconda. Kenard later killed a small spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus) with an iron-tipped arrow, noting its tough hide.

Later, at Point Ranch, an old man named Elmo described "water tigers" that were spotted like jaguars, hunted in packs, and possibly led by a "master." Elmo was adamant they were not giant otters. Joseph, another guide, saw the hide of a water tiger in the 1970s, described as 10 feet long, white with black spots and a striped head.

Lisa suggested the water tiger might be a form of giant mustelid. The expedition also learned about eleven skeletons found inside termite mounds during airstrip construction, suggesting a possible ancient burial practice.

Ernest, a former tribal chief, shared information on Guyana's monsters. He had seen a 30-foot anaconda shot by an Englishman. He also knew of the di-di, with a friend having seen a female and infant. Ernest described the di-di's voice as a loud human shout. He also knew of the red-faced pygmies, describing them as naked, brown-skinned, with red faces, liking tobacco, and not dangerous unless angered.

Ernest recounted an encounter with a water tiger where something seized their boat from beneath, causing it to shake violently.

Ernest also described a tiny caiman seen in a cave at Wa-sa-roo, smaller than known species, brown with a red strip and two tails, making a loud bellowing noise. This could be a new species.

Foster recalled a story of a man-like creature with webbed digits resembling 'the Creature from the Black Lagoon' swept into a village during a flood.

The Bennington Triangle

The article then shifts focus to Vermont, known as the Green Mountain State. It details the history and geography of Vermont, mentioning Jacques Cartier and its establishment as a state in 1791. The population is estimated at 609,000.

Key locations in Vermont include the two biggest lakes, Memphremagog and Champlain, said to be inhabited by creatures like 'Champ'. Glastenbury Mountain in Bennington County is highlighted as a particularly strange and eerie location, with dense foliage and a history of its mature trees being destroyed for charcoal trade. The area has a low human population.

The Bennington Triangle, named by researcher Joseph A. Citro, is associated with bizarre human disappearances and monster legends. Ghost towns like Somerset, Woodford, and Shaftsbury are mentioned as being entangled in this legend.

An 1879 New York Times report describes a "WILD MAN OF THE MOUNTAINS" seen near Williamstown. The creature was described as about five feet high, resembling a man, covered in bright red hair, with a long beard and wild eyes. It attacked the men who fired at it.

Samuel de Champlain spoke of a similar creature in the 1600s called the Abenaki and Wejuk. Marion Daley's 1815 History Of Lemington mentions "Slippery Skin," a hairy humanoid.

A peculiar incident in Bennington around 1850 involved a stagecoach. The horses became agitated, and a hulking creature with glowing green eyes crashed into the coach, toppling it.

Freelance writer Joe Durwin has collected reports of sightings across Vermont, with many in Bennington County. The article questions whether the stagecoach attack involved a cougar or a humanoid, noting the glowing eyes and ability to topple the coach suggest the latter.

Eastern "panthers" (cougars, pumas, mountain lions) were nearing extinction in 1881. The Cherokees called the cat the 'lord of the forest'. Mr. Durwin states there have been over 30 sightings of panther in Bennington County, with 20 logged by the VT Fish & Wildlife Department, suggesting a breeding population.

The article discusses the difficulty in officially registering animals like the puma due to their elusive nature and vast territories, referring to them as 'ghost cats' and 'shadow cats'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly focuses on the exploration of cryptids and unexplained phenomena, presenting a blend of expeditionary accounts and historical folklore. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into the existence of unknown creatures, from the small and unusual (tiny caiman) to the potentially large and humanoid (di-di, sasquatch-like beings, wild men). The narrative encourages further research and the gathering of eyewitness accounts, positioning "Animals & Men" as a platform for such discoveries. The magazine seems to embrace the idea that there are still many undiscovered species and phenomena in remote parts of the world, particularly in Guyana and the mysterious regions of Vermont.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 42
Volume: 2007
Date: 2007
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of "Animals & Men" delves into the persistent mysteries surrounding the "Bennington Triangle" in Vermont, a region notorious for unexplained disappearances and sightings of unusual creatures. The magazine explores various cases and theories, attempting to piece together the puzzle of this eerie locale.

The Bennington Triangle: A History of Mystery

The article begins by addressing local beliefs about large cats in the U.S.A., with some suggesting panthers migrating from North America, while others believe the eastern variety never went extinct. However, the main focus shifts to the "triangle" and its most intriguing aspect: disappearances. Between 1945 and 1950, five people vanished within a five-mile radius in the Bennington area.

Key Disappearances and Cases:

• Middie Rivers (November 12, 1945): A 74-year-old experienced woodsman, Rivers vanished without a trace in Hell Hollow at Bickford Hollow while traveling with four other hunters. The only trace found was a bullet from his belt. Extensive searches yielded no sign of him or a struggle.
• Melvin Hills (October 1942): A 13-year-old boy disappeared in the vicinity of Bennington while playing near his home. This case, along with that of four hunters in 1949, is noted as not being as widely connected to the main Bennington mystery.
• Paula Welden (December 1, 1946): An 18-year-old student vanished while hiking the Long Trail towards Glastenbury Mountain. Her disappearance is described as Bennington's most baffling mystery, leading to the formation of the Vermont State Police in 1947 due to public outcry.
• Paula was described as shy, keen on art, and loved the outdoors. She was last seen at approximately 4:00 pm heading north on the trail. Her roommate reported her missing the next morning.
• A massive search involving helicopters and over 400 volunteers was conducted, but yielded no results. Even psychic investigators could not locate her.
• A curious connection emerged when Mrs. Champaign of South Hero reported a dream in February 1947 about Paula being attacked by a man in a black car and buried under a camp floor. This mirrored an account given by inmate Lloyd Wilkins, who claimed prisoner Terrance Stone bragged about murdering a girl on the Long Trail and burying her under a camp floor. Investigators initially dismissed Wilkins' story, and neither account was made public, making the similarity striking.
• Mary Findley, a researcher, believes this connection could be the solution to the mystery.
• Other theories for Paula's disappearance include an accident in the woods, becoming lost, or taking a fall. Another suggests she ran away with a boyfriend, though this is considered unlikely given her career aspirations. The most sinister theory is murder, as suggested by Mrs. Champaign's dream.
• James Tedford (December 1, 1949): Three years to the day of Paula Welden's disappearance, 68-year-old James Tedford vanished under bizarre circumstances. He boarded a bus from St. Albans but never arrived home, despite being seen on the bus and witnesses claiming he was on it at the stop before his destination. His bus schedule was the only trace left.

Theories and Explanations:

The article explores various explanations for the Bennington Triangle phenomena:

• Serial Killer: The possibility of a serial killer is considered, particularly in relation to the Frieda Langer case, but the lack of an autopsy on Langer makes definitive investigation difficult.
• Accident or Misadventure: For some cases, like Paula Welden possibly getting lost or falling, or Frieda Langer's body being missed by search parties, simple accidents are proposed.
• Alien Abduction/Interdimensional Trapdoor: Some theories suggest victims were abducted by alien craft or slipped through an "interdimensional trapdoor" in the atmosphere.
• **Large Cats (Cryptozoology):
• Sightings of large cats, including "black panthers," are discussed. The article clarifies the distinction between black leopards (melanistic) and pumas (fawn-tan colored), noting that black pumas do not exist. The term "black panther" often refers to a melanistic leopard.
• The presence of exotic felids, like pumas and black leopards, in areas where they are not indigenous is attributed to past imports by Romans, menagerie escapes, and circus escapees. The 1960s and '70s saw black leopards as trendy pets, and those released or escaped could have established populations.
• A 1976 law in the UK requiring licenses for exotic animals led owners to release them, potentially explaining abundant populations. In the U.S., residents might confuse sightings of black leopards with the native catamount (puma/mountain lion).
• A specific incident in Berlin, Vermont, involved a sighting of a large, black cat resembling something from a zoo.
• A Sunday Mirror article from January 11, 2004, reported a mountain lion killing a cyclist, Mark Reynolds, and attacking fitness instructor Anne Hjelle in Los Angeles.
• Hairy Humanoids/Sasquatch: Several sightings of hairy, man-like creatures are detailed:
• A creature seen on Route 7 near Bennington was described as man-like, dark, covered in hair, with long arms.
• Another similar humanoid was seen on the same stretch of road three weeks later.
• In 2005, a couple camping in Bennington County heard strange screams and noises from the woods, and their dog became terrified.
• In 1990, campers in Green Mountain National Forest heard horrifying screams.
• In 1994, a hairy humanoid creature was seen speeding across a field in Essex Junction.
• In 1999, a young man in Rutland County described a tall, gorilla-like figure walking like a man.
• Winged Creature ('The Awful'): In 1925, horror author H.P. Lovecraft allegedly traveled to Richmond, Vermont, due to sightings of a terrifying winged creature. Described as having a serpent's tail, grey wings, and huge claws, it was dubbed 'the awful'. Legend has it that one man died of a heart attack upon seeing it. A similar creature was reportedly seen in Berkshire shortly after.
• Cougar Attacks: A Rutland Herald report in April 2006 mentioned a cougar sighting in Pittsford, Vermont, one of over twenty reported that year. The article notes that while cougar attacks are possible, they don't explain all the Bennington mysteries, such as Tedford's vanishing.

The Frieda Langer Case:

• Disappearance (October 1956): Frieda Langer vanished at Devil's Gate Reservoir in Pasadena, California, while camping with her husband Max Langer and Herbert Elsner. She slipped on wet rocks and was last seen by Elsner about 150 yards from camp. Searches by woodsmen and forestry officials were unsuccessful.
• Discovery (May 1951): Frieda Langer's partially decomposed body was discovered in a swampy spot three miles downstream from the reservoir. Her body was waterlogged, with one hand missing and only a skull remaining. Heavy clothing aided identification.
• Official Verdict: Authorities concluded Frieda died of accidental drowning, possibly related to a past brain tumor. However, the tumor had been removed two years prior, and the stream was not deep, raising questions about how the body was missed during the extensive search.
• Unanswered Questions: The case remains mysterious, particularly the resemblance of a bloated Frieda Langer seen by a cab driver, and the fact that no foul play was suspected, meaning no autopsy was performed.

Other Mysterious Locations:

The article notes that other locations across the United States, such as West Virginia, Ohio, Illinois, and Wisconsin, are also considered "window areas" for strange phenomena, including creatures, apparitions, and UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are unexplained disappearances, the presence of unusual or cryptid animals, and the enduring power of local folklore and mystery. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and witness accounts without definitively concluding any single explanation. The magazine acknowledges the difficulty in deciphering the core elements that make places like the Bennington Triangle so eerie, highlighting the balance between skepticism and the acceptance of unexplained events. The article emphasizes that while some disappearances might have mundane explanations, others, like James Tedford vanishing on a bus, defy easy answers, suggesting something more profound is at play in these mysterious locations.

This issue of the magazine, identified by its cover as 'expedition report 2007 guyana' and published by CFZ COMMUNICATIONS, details events surrounding the Centre for Fortean Zoology's 'Weird Weekend'. The publication date is indicated as MMVII, corresponding to 2007. The magazine covers a range of activities, personal anecdotes, and reports related to fortean phenomena and events.

Weird Weekend Event Coverage

The core of the magazine focuses on the 'Weird Weekend' event. The narrative details the arrival of guests, including Grigoriy Panchenko from Ukraine, whose journey was fraught with difficulties. He missed his connecting flight in Zurich and faced a delay at Birmingham Airport due to a security alert triggered by metal hand exercisers he was carrying. The author recounts the efforts made to locate him, involving calls to airlines and airport staff, highlighting the complexities of data protection laws.

Other key figures involved in the event include Jon McGowan, Richard, Peter Robbins, Larry Warren, Matt Osbourne (acting as first aider), Ronan Coghlan, and Nick Redfern. The event involved a cocktail party where Jon McGowan sustained an ankle injury. The weekend featured an Open Day with a barbeque, and various talks and activities. A special dragon dance was performed by local children, and a Mad Hatter's tea party was held for children, followed by a UFO talk by Peter Robbins.

Nick Redfern gave a talk on his new book, 'Man-Monkey', which was launched at the event. The issue notes that the event ran slightly over schedule but concluded successfully, with attendees dispersing to local lodgings and a traditional end-of-event dinner at The Farmer's Arms pub. The author describes the event as the best yet, based on feedback from veterans.

Personal Anecdotes and Sightings

Beyond the event coverage, the magazine includes personal reflections and reports of unusual phenomena. The author reflects on the transition from a larger home to a cottage, emphasizing the collaborative spirit within the 'rum lot' during times of pressure. There's a humorous, self-deprecating interlude about avoiding cheesiness.

Letters to the Editor

The 'Letters to the Editor' section features a correspondent named 'Anny' who reports a previously undocumented 'Owlman' sighting. Anny recounts a childhood experience from around the year 2000 in Cornwall, where she and her best friend saw glowing red eyes and a dark, animal-like figure in a field and later in a tree. She expresses being freaked out by the memory, particularly when she discovered the location of the sighting was in Cornwall, a place she had lived. The editor notes the intriguing timing of this report, coinciding with a cartoon from Peter Heasman, a new member of the A&M team, and quotes Tony Shiels on the nature of coincidence.

Back Cover Advertisement

The back cover advertises the 'expedition report 2007 guyana' for pre-order, priced at $10.99/$24 post free, typeset by Scranton K. It also displays the ISSN number 1354 0647 and copyright information for CFZ COMMUNICATIONS MMVII.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on fortean phenomena, cryptids, and unusual events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained occurrences, while also maintaining a sense of community and shared experience among enthusiasts, as evidenced by the detailed reporting of the 'Weird Weekend' and the inclusion of reader contributions. There's a blend of serious reporting on potential sightings and events with lighthearted personal anecdotes and humor.