Animals and Men - No 43

Magazine Overview

Animals & Men, Issue 43, is the quarterly journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ), a non-profit organisation. The issue features a striking cover image of a thylacine (Tasmanian tiger) and a headline focusing on "THYLACINE RESEARCH PROJECTS," alongside other prominent topics such as "New Zealand lake and sea monsters," the "2008 BCIB conference," the "Trinidad lake monster," the retirement of "Robert Rines," the death of "Scott Norman," and "News, reviews and more

Editorial

The editorial, written by Jonathan Downes, reflects on the magazine's fourteen-year history and the CFZ's achievements. Downes discusses the process of remastering early issues for "collected editions" and acknowledges the amateur production values of the early days, which were created on an Amiga 500+ computer. He highlights the transition to PC production and the ongoing effort to correct historical typos and formatting errors. The editorial also addresses recent criticisms leveled against the CFZ, including accusations of self-aggrandisement, using the organisation for foreign holidays, bringing the subject into disrepute, and being motivated by money. Despite these challenges, Downes expresses optimism for the CFZ's future, mentioning strong links with a zoo and important conservation projects. He also touches upon his personal struggles with bipolar disorder and his belief that the CFZ is on the side of "the angels."

Faculty and Staff

Page 4 details "THE FACULTY OF THE CENTRE FOR FORTEAN ZOOLOGY," listing the permanent directorate and the board of consultants. Key figures 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 includes various consultants 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. The issue also lists regional representatives for England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, USA, and internationally.

Newsfile: Great Snakes and Foja Finds

Compiled and edited by Jonathan Downes with Oll Lewis, the "Newsfile" section reports on a "glut of new animal species reported, and old ones thought extinct rediscovered" between December 2007 and March 2008. It features "GREAT SNAKES," introducing Naja ashei, the world's newest snake species and largest spitting cobra, named after James Ashe. The "FOJA FINDS" section describes the discovery of a "giant rat" and a "pygmy possum" in a remote area of Indonesia, described as a "lost world."

New Newts (not)

This section details an expedition organised by the Natural History Museum that discovered three new species of salamander in Costa Rica's La Amistad National Park. These discoveries increase the known salamander species in Costa Rica to 43. The new species include two from the Bolitoglossa genus and one from the Nototriton genus.

Fluttering By

A new butterfly species, Idioneurula donegani, discovered in the high Andes of South America by Blanca Huertas of the Natural History Museum, London, is featured. This small to medium-sized butterfly has eyespots on its hind wings and was found in the Colombian Andes.

Finding Froggies

Two new species of frog, Ranitomeya tolimense and Ranitomeya doriswansoni, were discovered in Colombia by Alonso Quevedo and Oscar Gallego. The frogs were found during a research expedition for endangered bird species.

Five Star Petrels

This article discusses the rediscovery of the New Zealand storm petrel, thought extinct for 150 years until 2003, and the sighting and capture of several individuals. It also covers the rediscovery of Beck's petrel, a bird not seen for 80 years, with recent sightings and photographic evidence suggesting a breeding site nearby.

Nepalese Newcomer

A previously unknown sub-species of bird, the Nepal rufous-vented prinia, has been discovered in Nepal. This warbler is noted for its long tail and slender beak and is considered endangered due to its small population.

Israeli Eel

Gymnothorax Baranesi, a new moray eel, was discovered by Shai Einbinder and described by Shai and Eran Brokovich, with assistance from fish taxonomist David Smith. The discovery in a well-studied area highlights how much remains unknown about marine habitats.

Nothing Says 'I Love You' Like a Dead Fish

This short piece mentions Dr Nikki King naming a newly discovered species of fish after her fiancé during a deep-sea research expedition in the Southern Indian Ocean.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently focuses on the discovery and study of new and rediscovered species, cryptozoology, and Fortean phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed by Jonathan Downes, is one of continuous progress, a commitment to scientific inquiry, and a defense against criticism, emphasizing the importance of exploring the unknown and proving the truth of assertions made by figures like Bernard Heuvelmans. There is a strong emphasis on conservation efforts and the ongoing exploration of the natural world, suggesting that "THE GREAT DAYS OF ZOOLOGY ARE NOT DONE."

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 43
Date: January 25

This issue of "Animals & Men" is a diverse collection of articles focusing on new species discoveries, notable individuals in exploration and science, and obituaries of prominent figures. The magazine covers a range of topics from marine biology and herpetology to mountaineering and cryptozoology, showcasing recent findings and celebrating the lives of those who have made significant contributions in their fields.

New Species Discoveries

Marine Biodiversity in the Crozet Islands

Dr. King, a marine biologist from the University of Aberdeen, was part of a research initiative investigating biodiversity off the Crozet Islands. During a trawl, she identified six unusual fish species. Unable to identify them to species level with limited facilities, she preserved them for further study. With the assistance of taxonomy experts Dr. Peter Møller and Professor Jørgen Nielsen from the Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, and Professor Guy Duhamel from the Paris Natural History Museum, her instincts were confirmed: these were six species previously unknown to science. This discovery fulfilled a lifelong ambition for Dr. King.

The Grey-Faced Sengi of Tanzania

In March 2006, Galen Rathbun of the California Academy of Sciences and a team of collaborators confirmed the existence of a new species of elephant-shrew living in high-altitude forest blocks in south-central Tanzania. This discovery, published in "The Journal of Zoology," marks the first new species of giant elephant-shrew discovered in over 126 years. The new species, named the grey-faced sengi (*Rhynochocyon udzungwensis*), weighs approximately 700 grams, making it 25 percent larger than any other known sengi.

Endemic Anoles of the Panamanian Highlands

A biological research expedition at 6000 feet in the Serranía de Tabasara of the Panamanian Highlands led to the discovery of four new species of endemic anoles. Described in "Herpetologia" by Dr. Gunther Köhler and his colleagues, these anoles are believed to be endemic to the cloud forest of the Serrania de Tabasara mountain chain due to their isolated habitat. This marks the first discovery of endemic reptiles in this poorly explored region. Herpetologist Koehler described the experience of discovering all four species in a single day as "incredible."

The Antioquia Brush-Finch

A new bird species, the Antioquia brush-finch (*Atlapetes blancae*), has been described based on studies supported by Fundación ProAves in Colombia. Ornithologists are concerned about its conservation status as its existence is uncertain. The species was recognized from three skins collected over 50 years, initially thought to belong to another species. No live specimens have been seen, and their exact location is unknown due to poorly labelled skins. The description was published in the "Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club" by Thomas Donegan of ProAves. Three mid-20th Century specimens were found in Colombian university natural history museums.

New Wobbegong Shark Species

Two new wobbegong shark species have been discovered off the South West coast of Western Australia. Details of these discoveries were published in the taxonomic journal "Zootaxa," resulting from a collaborative project by CSIRO taxonomist Dr. Peter Last and WA Department of Fisheries shark researcher Justin Chidlow. The floral banded wobbegong was identified as distinct from the cobbler wobbegong (*Sutorectus tentaculatus*). The dwarf spotted wobbegong, initially thought to be juveniles of the spotted wobbegong (*Orectolobus maculatus*), were identified as a separate species due to distinct size differences at maturity. Its name, *parvimaculatus*, derives from the Latin word 'parvi' for small.

Rediscovery of the Carrikeri Harlequin Frog

After 14 years without being seen, the Carrikeri harlequin frog (*Atelopus carrikeri*) has been rediscovered by the Project Atelopus team in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains in Colombia. Colombia is noted for its rich amphibian diversity, with over 583 species. However, amphibian populations have declined in recent years. Luis Alberto Rueda, a scientist with Project Atelopus, expressed hope that this discovery would highlight the importance of conservation efforts.

New Monkey Species in the Philippines?

Reports suggest a new species of red-faced monkey, known locally as the Uma-ay, has been sighted in the mountain ranges of Sal-dab, Northern Mindanao, Philippines. According to "The Philippines Star," the monkey mimics human laughter and is believed by natives to bring misfortune. The monkey is not yet included in the DENR's list of newly discovered animals. Tribal folklore describes the Uma-ay as human-like in appearance, capable of mimicking human voices, and living in high trees. The locals also mentioned an unnamed feathered bird that mimics human voices and the cry of a newborn baby.

Uakari Monkey Discovery

Jean-Phillipe Boubli of the University of Auckland announced the discovery of a previously unknown species of uakari monkey found during hunting trips in the Amazon. Boubli followed native Yanomamo Indians on their hunts along the Rio Aracá, a tributary of the Rio Negro in Brazil. He had been searching for this monkey for at least five years, finding it in an unexpected mountainous region on the Brazil-Venezuela border, far from where uakaris typically live in flooded river forests.

Obituaries

Sir Edmund Hillary (1919-2008)

Sir Edmund Percival Hillary KG, ONZ, KBE, was a celebrated explorer and mountaineer, famous for being the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest with Tenzing Norgay. Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Hillary developed a passion for exploration through his childhood daydreams and adventure books. His interest in mountaineering was sparked by a school trip to Mount Ruapehu. He was part of Eric Shipton's 1951 Everest reconnaissance expedition and later participated in an attempt on Cho Oyu in 1952. The successful 1953 Everest expedition, led by John Hunt, saw Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reach the summit. Hillary continued his adventurous life by climbing ten other Himalayan peaks, leading the second expedition to the South Pole, and undertaking a jet boat expedition. He also served as New Zealand's High Commissioner to India and founded the Himalayan trust. Hillary was critical of modern climbers' attitudes, particularly after the alleged abandonment of David Sharp on Everest in 2006. He also had an interest in the yeti, leading an expedition in 1960, which concluded the supposed yeti scalp was a fake.

Verity Lambert (1935-2007)

Verity Lambert was a pioneering television producer, instrumental in the science fiction genre. In 1963, she co-created "Doctor Who" with Sidney Newman and others, a show that blended H.G. Wells's influences with British eccentricity and educational elements. "Doctor Who" became a massive hit, influencing subsequent sci-fi productions. Lambert also produced the 1966-67 series "Adam Adamant Lives!" and later founded her own production company, Cinema Verity. She was executive producer for "Jonathan Creek" and "Love Soup."

Steve Fossett (1944-2007, declared legally dead 2008)

James Stephen Fossett was an American adventurer and aviator known for his record-breaking achievements. After making his fortune in the stock exchange, he pursued adventure, including sailing and aviation. His most notable achievement was circumnavigating the world non-stop in a hot air balloon in 2002. Fossett set 93 aviation records and 23 world sailing records. He also completed numerous marathons, triathlons, and the Iron Man Triathalon. Fossett is presumed dead after his biplane crashed in September 2007 in the Nevada/California border region.

Scott Norman (1964-2008)

Scott T. Norman was a cryptozoologist with a childhood interest in dinosaurs that evolved into a lifelong passion. He created a website about Mokele-mbembe and became involved in the cryptozoological community. Norman co-founded Cryptosafari and led an expedition to Cameroon to investigate Mokele-mbembe sightings. He was later featured on "Penn and Teller Bullshit" for his interest in cryptozoology. Norman was also a religious man and a member of a Community Emergency Response Team.

Jeremy Beadle (1948-2008)

Jeremy James Anthony Gibson Beadle MBE was a British media personality known for his television shows, particularly "Beadle's About," which featured elaborate practical jokes. Born with Poland syndrome, which affected his right hand, Beadle embarked on a media career in 1974. He was also a fortean with a vast collection of books and a supporter of many fortean groups. Beadle was a dedicated charity fundraiser, personally raising over £100,000,000 for various causes, including children with leukaemia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently celebrates the spirit of discovery, highlighting the scientific pursuit of new knowledge across various disciplines. There is a strong emphasis on exploration, both in the natural world and in extreme environments like high mountains. The obituaries section underscores the magazine's admiration for individuals who push boundaries and contribute significantly to science, adventure, and media. The inclusion of cryptozoology suggests an open-minded approach to unexplained phenomena, balanced with a critical perspective as seen in the discussion of the yeti scalp and the "Penn and Teller Bullshit" critique. The editorial stance appears to be one of appreciation for scientific endeavor, human achievement, and the wonders of the natural world, while also acknowledging the passing of influential figures.

This issue of ANIMALS & MEN, Issue 43, is dedicated to exploring a range of mysterious phenomena, from the legacy of science fiction icon Sir Arthur C. Clarke to reports on cryptozoological creatures and unexplained animal encounters.

Sir Arthur C. Clarke (1917-2008)

The issue opens with an obituary for Sir Arthur C. Clarke, a celebrated science fiction author, inventor, and futurist. Born in Minehead, Somerset, UK, Clarke was a prolific writer whose works, including "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Rendezvous With Rama," explored space exploration and technology. He is credited with suggesting the concept of geo-stationary satellites for telecommunications, leading to the "Clarke Orbit." His non-fiction works often delved into Fortean topics, such as the Ninki-nanka of Gambia featured in "Arthur C. Clarke's Mysterious World." The obituary notes his later life in Sri Lanka, his struggles with post-polio syndrome, and a false accusation of paedophilia by the Sunday Mirror newspaper, which led him to postpone his knighthood ceremony. Clarke passed away on March 19, 2008, at the age of 90.

A Wizard's Bestiary Review

Nick Redfern reviews "A Wizard's Bestiary" by Oberon Zell-Ravenheart, published by New Page Books. Redfern describes the 360-page book as magical, fascinating, informative, and thought-provoking, predicting it will be a significant cryptozoological work. The book is packed with illustrations, averaging five per page, and covers a wide array of creatures, from Bigfoot and Yetis to sea-serpents, lake monsters, mystery big-cats, flying winged things, Black Dogs, and even living dinosaurs. It also delves into magical entities like Unicorns, Basilisks, Gryphons, and Centaurs, and includes descriptions of 'plantimals' that create Lovecraftian imagery.

An Atypical American Bigfoot Hunt

The article discusses the forthcoming film "Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie," which is presented as a human-interest story about two amateur Bigfoot researchers, Dallas and Wayne, in southern Ohio. The film aims to show how a dream can foster friendship and provide meaning in a challenging environment. The author expresses a preference for this type of approach over formula-driven TV shows.

Texas Wild Men

This section references an article by Nick Redfern in "Fortean Times" (Issue 233) about the "Wild Man of the Navidad," a Texan monster legend. Debate exists on whether this entity was a feral person, a Bigfoot-like creature, or something else. The legend is the subject of a new fictional film, "The Wild Man of the Navidad," which the author recently viewed and found to be a 'mighty fine time.' The film is expected to be released in cinemas soon.

Mystery Cats Diary

Corinna Downes reports on the third Big Cats in Britain (BCIB) Conference held at Tropiquaria near Minehead, Somerset, on March 7-9, 2008. The event featured talks on big cats and other mystery cats worldwide. Speakers included Chris Moiser, Jane Bassett, Jonathan (compere), Mark Fraser (organiser, absent due to back problems), Jon McGowan (evidence of big cats in Dorset), Darren Naish (big cats in Europe), Nigel Brierly (melanism in pumas), and Marcus Matthews (who was inspired to record big cat sightings). Talks also covered sightings in Teesside, mystery cats globally, and the 'cigau' of Sumatra. The conference included a tour of Tropiquaria's facilities, including the Tropical Hall and aquarium.

Aquatic Monsters Log Book

This section details several aquatic encounters. It reports on a large freshwater stingray caught in Thailand in December 2007, identified as a Himantura chaophraya, with a wingspan of 2.4m and an estimated weight of 200kg. Other large freshwater whiprays caught in the same area are mentioned, including one weighing 130kg in February 2008 and the largest rod-caught whipray in 2005, weighing 230kg. The section also discusses a media hoax involving photos of a great white shark in Cornish waters, which were actually taken in South Africa. A recent discovery in Sheringham, Norfolk, involved a grey seal with a large bite mark, suggesting an attack by a large shark, possibly a great white, due to the serrated tooth marks and the bite's position from underneath. Dr. Ken Collins of the National Oceanography Centre confirmed the bite was likely from a large shark.

The 'Thing' of St Charles

Local tales from St Charles, Trinidad, warn of a creature known as the 'Thing' inhabiting local marshes and ponds. Elvis Foster reported an encounter in 2007 with a large, snake-like creature with a smooth black head and white eyes. Rumours suggest it might be an anaconda kept as a pet or a creature that grew to gargantuan size after feeding on local poultry.

A Crocodile Sandwich and Make It Snappy

This brief report mentions a crocodile or alligator sighted in the Northern United States in July 2007, estimated to be around 7ft long. Efforts to trap it were unsuccessful, and it is presumed dead due to the cold winter. In contrast, a crocodile that escaped from a circus in Ukraine in May 2007 was recaptured in November after six months at large, having been spotted near industrial sites.

Whale Meet Again

On November 14, a minke whale beached itself in the River Amazon, 1600km from the ocean. The 12-ton endangered animal was given water by locals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained and the unusual, focusing on cryptozoology, Fortean phenomena, and eyewitness accounts of mysterious creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into subjects often dismissed by mainstream science, presenting evidence and reports from various sources, including scientific researchers and amateur enthusiasts. There is a clear interest in big cats, aquatic monsters, and legendary creatures, often linking them to recent events, films, or conferences.

This issue of Animals & Men, titled ISSUE 43, is published by CFZ Press and focuses on a variety of cryptozoological and unexplained phenomena. The cover prominently features 'THE THYLASCENE', indicating a significant focus on the thylacine.

Articles and Features

Turtle or Seamonster?

The issue reports on two sightings that could be interpreted as sea monsters. In August, Argentine fishermen photographed an animal they believe to be a sea monster off the coast of Bahia de los Vientos. This sighting is linked to a 1994 encounter with a creature named 'Joselito', described by witnesses Juan Iniguez, Carlos Miño, and his son Fabián, as a black object 10-12 metres long with 'staggered fins like a dinosaur'. The 2007 sighting, which resulted in a photograph, shows an animal approximately 2 metres long, with only its back visible. Local reports suggest this is likely a leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), a species rarely found in Argentinian waters. The article notes that the 1994 'Joselito' sighting might also have been a leatherback turtle, which fishermen may not have recognized.

Robert Rines Retires

This section details the retirement of Robert H. Rines, a key figure in Loch Ness Monster research. Rines, born in Boston, USA, had a diverse career including physics, engineering, law, and directing stage productions. He is known for his 1971 sighting of a 'hump' on Loch Ness and his 1972 investigation using an ultra-sound radar system, which produced the famous flipper photograph. The article mentions the controversy surrounding the photograph's retouching and the anagram 'Monster hoax by Sir Peter S' derived from the binomial classification Sir Peter Scott gave the creature, Nessiteras Rhombopteryx. Rines remains convinced of Nessie's existence and is retiring due to age.

Kicking Up a Skink

This article discusses a photograph received from Dr David Conway of the Malaria Council Research Laboratories in Banjul, Gambia. The photograph, taken on October 24, 2007, shows an animal that Dr Conway believes to be an Armitage's skink. However, the article notes that this animal is fatter and morphologically different from museum specimens of the Armitage's skink, which are described as long and snake-like. The authors speculate that either their knowledge of the Armitage's skink is wrong, or the animal is something else entirely. They plan further investigation in Gambia with Tropiquaria.

Weird Weekend 2008

This section announces the 'Weird Weekend' event scheduled for August 15-17 in Woolfardisworthy, North Devon. The event promises to be bigger and better than previous years, with nearly 20 guest speakers and various activities for all ages, including a special range for younger generations. The ticket price is twenty pounds in advance, and attendees are advised to book accommodation early.

The Thylascene

This is a substantial section dedicated to the thylacine, the emblem of the CFZ. It covers recent news and investigations into the supposed extinction of the species.

#### Thylacine Road Kill?

On April 28, 2007, Maddy Livingstone reported seeing a road-killed animal between Warwick and Stanthorpe, Australia. She described it as two to three feet long, tawny-colored, with a canine shape, triangular ears, and blacky-brown stripes. A friend of hers has reported seeing possible thylacine tracks in the area. Chris Rehberg, who runs 'Where Light meets Dark', has created an interactive map of alleged thylacine sightings.

#### Smiling Faeces

Zoologist Jeremy Austin of the Australian Center for Ancient DNA and his colleagues are analyzing DNA from thylacine and Tasmanian Devil scats found in Tasmania in the 1950s and 1960s. Eric Guiler, a thylacine expert, believes the scats likely came from a Tasmanian tiger rather than a dog or quoll. Austin states that finding thylacine DNA would prove its presence, either directly or indirectly through a Tasmanian devil consuming one. If evidence of thylacines in the 1950s is found, it would mean they survived hidden for 20-30 years, offering hope for their continued survival. DNA analysis is also being conducted on thylacine and devil bones from mainland Australia, with scientists believing the tiger lived there 2000 years ago and the devil 500 years ago. Differences in size between mainland and Tasmanian tigers are attributed to climate.

#### A Romantic Lexilink

This piece connects the name 'Corinna', the wife of CFZ Director Jonathan Downes, to a young thylacine in the Native Australian language. 'Corinna' is also the name of an old gold-mining town in Tasmania, located in the Tarkine wilderness, an area known for its rainforest. The article details the transformation of Corinna Wilderness Experience cabins and guesthouse into a getaway destination.

Hunting Cryptids With Theoretical Economics

This article discusses a study by Dutch and U.S. environmental economists who combined biology and economics to model the extinction of the thylacine. Their mathematical model suggests that economic forces, such as bounties paid for scalps from the 1830s to 1909, were not the sole cause of the thylacine's demise. The study, published in the journal Ecological Economics, indicates that a significant wild population may have existed until the 1920s, and their model suggests that the species could still exist in Tasmania today. Dr Erwin Bulte of Tilburg University, the lead author, explains that their hunting model simulates harvest levels and abundance. The model indicates that even with the bounty system, the population was likely never reduced to a level where recovery was impossible. They estimate a 'steady state' of 779 animals after hunting ceased in 1909. The study suggests that a much higher bounty or a significant reduction in labor wage rates would have been needed to drive the population below its minimum viable level. Tasmania's carrying capacity is estimated between 2,000 and 4,000 animals. Records show one tannery exported 3,482 skins between 1878 and 1896.

Dr Stephen Wroe, a palaeontologist from the University of Sydney, disagrees with the model, arguing it oversimplifies the thylacine's world and the complex forces of extinction, particularly the role of European Australians. He states, "But one thing is absolutely indisputable - European Australians drove it [to extinction]. The way in which this paper is crafted appears to suggest that this is not the case." The article notes that some staff within Animals & Men agree with Wroe, viewing the economic model as an attempt to apologize for 19th-century market forces, likening it to economic 'holocaust denial'. The authors of the economic model conclude that more spatial population data and knowledge of migratory movements are needed for better modeling, acknowledging that such data is virtually impossible to obtain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena (cryptozoology, UFOs) with scientific investigation and, in the case of the thylacine, economic modeling. There is a clear interest in evidence-based research, even when it challenges popular beliefs (e.g., the thylacine's extinction). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting different viewpoints and ongoing research, while also acknowledging skepticism and potential biases. The inclusion of events like 'Weird Weekend' suggests a broader interest in the unusual and unexplained.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 43
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Dingo Ate My Baby: The Thylacine's Demise

The lead article, "DINGO ATE MY BABY (OK, it didn't, but we couldn't resist the headline)," explores new research suggesting that the extinction of the thylacine (Tasmanian tiger) may have been driven by its inability to kill large prey, leading to direct competition with the dingo. An Australian team, led by palaeontologist Dr. Stephen Wroe from the University of New South Wales, used computer simulations of bite forces and stress patterns on dingo and thylacine skulls. The findings, published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society, indicate that while the thylacine had a more powerful bite, its skull anatomy restricted it to eating smaller prey. Co-author Colin McHenry of the University of Newcastle explained that body size alone doesn't tell the whole story, and there was significant prey overlap with the dingo. The demise of the thylacine is linked to the arrival of the dingo around 4000 years ago, combined with climate change and shifts in Aboriginal land-use patterns. McHenry likens the situation to Africa, where large predators have less prey overlap to co-exist. The introduction of the dingo to Australia meant the thylacine competed with a more 'sophisticated predator' that hunted in packs for the same food, leading to a situation where "there wasn't room for both types of predators."

Cryptid Sightings in New Zealand

The magazine features a significant section on "NEW ZEALAND SERPENTS OF LAKE AND SEA" by Tony Lucas, detailing numerous reports of mysterious creatures.

Lake Monsters and Giant Eels

Despite New Zealand having many deep lakes, reports of lake monsters are rare. However, tales of gigantic eels are not uncommon, with exceptional beasts described as thick as a man's thigh and eight to ten feet in length. While anecdotal reports exist from places like Lake Rotoiti, New Zealand authority on eels Don Jellyman stated that extensive fishing in Rotoiti yielded no exceptionally large specimens, though he confirmed a 59lb beast caught in Otago. An 80 lb creature was also caught in the Karamu stream. A Wairarapa sheep farmer reported seeing two monstrous eels in a creek, engaged in a tug-of-war over a sheep's intestines. These giant eels are believed to be sterile females that stay behind to feed. There are also accounts of elusive claims of attacks by Mosasaur-like beasts damaging boats.

Sea Serpent Sightings

Several sea serpent sightings are documented:

• August 1, 1889: Alexander Kerr, chief officer of the Rotomahana, witnessed a huge "conger eel" with two 10ft fins, rising 30ft out of the water off the Portland light, with a crocodilian-like head.
• July 24, 1891: The steamer Manapouri encountered a similar beast north of East Cape, described as black with a white underbelly, two 10ft flippers, and a flat head.
• October 20th, 1893: A sea serpent was seen south of Timaru, lifting its serpent-like head 14 ft out of the water.
• December 15, 1911: The ship Stathardle reported a sea serpent in the Tasman Sea, described as 200ft long with a crocodile-like head, a large fin, and brightly coloured.
• May, 1906: The officers of the Taviun reported a sea serpent off the Kermadec Islands, described as reddish, about 60ft long, with a head resembling a gurnard.

Other sightings include a creature seen at Wellington Harbour in 1926 with a long, thin neck and fangs, and a "bug-eyed monster" encountered by the crew of the Kompira Maru in 1971. Three women in 1972 described a huge, dark grey lizard-like animal about 15ft long. A superficially plesiosaur-like carcass dredged up by the trawler Zuiyo Maru in 1977 was later suggested to be a decaying basking shark. In 1983, a woman was allegedly harassed by a 20ft long Mosasaur-like creature near Picton. In 1990, two women at Lake Taupo saw a large green lizard-like creature about 20ft long. In 2001, teenagers at Paekakariki witnessed an enormous creature matching a Mosasaur's description. In 2006, a boat owned by Ian Levy was attacked by two 18ft long lizard-like creatures with fins.

The "Momori" and Mosasaur Theories

Hawkes Bay is said to have a resident sea monster known as "Momori." Many encounters are theorized to be with a small version of the mosasaur, possibly using New Zealand waters as a breeding area. The possibility of these being juveniles or a breeding pair is raised.

Cave Creatures and Globsters

The magazine also mentions mysterious creatures lurking in New Zealand caves. One account describes a man entering Cathedral Caves who was attacked by a vine-like appendage. A "globster," a mass of flesh washed ashore, was found at Muriwai in 1968, described as 30ft long and 8ft high with tough hide and hair.

The Giant Squid and Taniwha

Creatures in the cryptozoological category include the giant squid and the Colossal Squid, estimated at 12-14 metres, inhabiting deep canyons off the East Coast. The Taniwha, creatures acting as guardians in Maori legends, are also discussed. Tales of water Taniwha sometimes describe crocodile-like behaviour, and paleontological evidence of a fossilized crocodile tooth from the Miocene period in New Zealand adds credence to these legends.

Other Articles and Letters

"UP THE CREEK"

This section details a sighting by farmer Harry Cook in Victoria, Australia, of a mysterious four-legged animal with a dirty grey coat and white stripes, described as about 1m tall with a slim build and hairless tail. Liz Wylie also reported a similar sighting. Big cat researcher Simon Townsend suggested it might be a mangy fox, but locals hinted at other sightings.

"AND FINALLY FOLKS"

This section includes a report from researcher Gary Opit about a sighting in Byron Bay, Australia, of a creature described as having sandy coloured fur, a snubby muzzle, long tail, and a dog-like gait, possibly a Tasmanian tiger.

Letters to the Editor

• "TOGETHER WE'RE HEAVY": A letter discusses a congenital deformity in North Sea white beaked dolphins and explains how decomposing whale carcasses can form "globster" masses, potentially explaining some sea monster sightings.
• Matt Salusbury, London: Mentions an entry in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year award showing a huge shoal of fish that, from a distance, resembled a huge serpent or eel.
• "GET UP AND GO": A letter from "Jon" recounts a visit to Cornwall, England, following mentions in "The Owlman and Others," and describes the dilapidated state of a pub called The Seven Stars.

CFZ News

This section provides an update on the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ) grounds, showing improvements including a replaced roof, rendered walls, and a new aviary block. The conservatory, currently housing CFZ menagerie, will be rehoused, and the area designated 'Graham's Lurkery' will serve as a workshop and service area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and unusual animal reports, with a focus on both scientific investigation and anecdotal evidence. The editorial stance appears open to investigating and reporting on a wide range of mysterious occurrences, from the extinction of known species to the possibility of unknown creatures inhabiting remote areas. There is a clear interest in cryptozoological reports, particularly those from Australia and New Zealand, and a willingness to present various theories and eyewitness accounts, even if some are dismissed by experts.

Title: ANIMALS & MEN
Issue: 43
Publisher: CFZ COMMUNICATIONS
Date: MMVIII (2008)
Country: UK
ISSN: 1354 0647

This issue of Animals & Men delves into a variety of subjects, from personal anecdotes and local news to in-depth book reviews on cryptozoology, evolution, and natural history. The magazine maintains a tone that blends serious inquiry with a touch of humor and personal reflection.

Contents

Personal Anecdotes and Local News

The issue opens with a humorous account from Dave Curtis about a visit to a dilapidated but characterful pub called The Seven Stars in Falmouth, highlighting its unique atmosphere and the colorful patrons. Following this, Jonny reports on Mawnan Parish Council's agreement to manage a new graveyard extension at St Mawnan Church, detailing the legal and planning procedures involved. Nick Redfern contributes by sharing photos from a German friend depicting unusual footprints found in a garden, which he asks readers to help identify.

Wildlife and Biological Discussions

Chris M. Moiser writes a letter to the editor regarding the potential for Bengal cats to become feral in the UK. He discusses their hybrid nature, propensity to survive in the wild, and the implications for native wildlife, particularly ground-living birds. The letter also touches upon regulations concerning crossbred wildcats and the need for Dangerous Wild Animal Act licenses.

Colin Higgins shares an anecdote about Fred Buller's book on pike fishing, recounting a story of an osprey drowning in a battle with a pike, leaving its skeleton attached to the fish, which locals mistook for a 'Sjo-troll'.

Bryan B. reports an intriguing discovery while mountain biking near Blue Springs, Missouri. He found a path of pushed gravel, approximately 6 inches wide, leading towards a river, suggesting something large and heavy was dragged across the trail. He suspects this might be related to sightings of large snakes and offers to guide a Missouri representative to the location.

Book Reviews

The "REVIEWS" section features several book critiques:

• Cryptid Hunters by Roland Smith: Reviewed by JD, this young adult novel follows twins who become involved in a cryptozoological quest to find the last clutch of mokele-mbembe eggs. The reviewer praises the book as "MAGNIFICENT" and a "veritable tour de force," appreciating the disabled protagonist and the avoidance of overly PC themes.
• The Making of the Fittest: DNA and the Ultimate Forensic Record of Evolution by Sean B. Carroll: This review discusses the book's examination of evolutionary progress through the human genome project. The reviewer finds the explanation of genetic mutation mathematics accessible and commends Carroll for not falling into the anti-evolutionist bandwagon or promoting atheism.
• Your Inner Fish: A Journey into the 3.5 Billion-Year History of the Human Body by Neil Shubin: Described as complementary to Carroll's book, Shubin's work is praised for its approachable, first-person narrative style, detailing the author's journey across the globe in search of fossil fish to understand vertebrate evolution.
• Memoirs of a Monster Hunter: A Five Year Journey in Search of the Unknown by Nick Redfern: This review highlights Redfern's sequel to "Three men seeking Monsters," detailing his five-year cryptozoological explorations in the US. The reviewer notes Redfern's evolution into a "gonzo journalist" and finds his personal journey as interesting as the quests themselves. The reviewer also mentions a minor role he played in the book.
• In the Wake of Bernard Heuvelmans by Michael A Woodley: This book is presented as a re-examination of Bernard Heuvelmans' classification model for sea serpents, incorporating new discoveries in paleontology and ichthyology. The reviewer praises Woodley's meticulous work and his contribution to cryptozoology, noting the foreword by Dr. Karl Shuker.

CFZ Activities and Media Interactions

Under the heading "THE SYCOPHANT," the magazine discusses interactions with media companies. The "TRIGGERCAM TESTS" section describes the purchase of two infra-red trigger cameras for investigating big cat sightings, which have already captured images of a mystery felid and a "sub-human figure." The "THAT'S SHOWBIZ" section recounts a frustrating experience with a US television company seeking to make documentaries about cryptozoology. The CFZ team declined to provide information or access for free, especially after the company's pushy demands regarding a sheep carcass. The magazine also notes the growing audience of their own CFZtv documentaries, suggesting a reduced reliance on mainstream media.

Conference and Humorous Contributions

"BIFFO-BEASTS" reports on the presence of "Biffo" and his associates at the BCIB conference. Biffo's "surreally stupid take" on discussions, including a joke that won a prize, is highlighted. The section also mentions a discussion workshop on British big cat research.

Editorial Notes and Closing

The issue concludes with a humorous piece about a disastrous cream tea, featuring a Pterodactyl and a woman on the phone, illustrated by Owler. The ISSN and copyright information are also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Animals & Men consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, scientific inquiry, and personal experience. The magazine champions rigorous research, particularly in the field of cryptozoology, while also embracing skepticism and critical re-examination of established theories, as seen in the review of Woodley's book. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based investigation, but also an appreciation for anecdotal accounts and the human element in these pursuits. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, critical thinking, and a healthy dose of skepticism, often delivered with a wry sense of humor. The magazine also seems to promote its own media channels (CFZtv) as an alternative to traditional media outlets, reflecting a growing independence and a desire to control their narrative. The recurring theme of challenging conventional wisdom and exploring the fringes of science and folklore is evident throughout the issue.