Animals and Men - No 45

Magazine Overview

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 45
Date: November 27th, 2008
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ)
Description: This issue of 'Animals & Men' is the quarterly journal of the Centre for Fortean Zoology, a non-profit organisation. It is edited by Jonathan Downes and features a wide array of articles on zoological discoveries, mysteries, and conservation efforts.

Editorial

Jonathan Downes, the Director of the CFZ, reflects on his 15 years of editing the magazine, expressing pride in its unique 'idiosyncratic furrow'. He welcomes new readers, likening the experience to entering a party where they don't know anyone, and aims to make them feel at home. Downes notes that the CFZ is undergoing positive changes, becoming a more community-based organisation with a duty to future generations. He states the CFZ's belief in the importance and relevance of its work to society, and that the organisation will become more 'militant' and involved in events outside the 'fortean ghetto' in the coming year. He hopes that new members, including those drawn from his articles in the relaunched 'Paranormal' magazine, will be impressed and join the CFZ. The editorial concludes with the quote, "THE GREAT DAYS OF ZOOLOGY ARE NOT DONE".

The Faculty of the Centre for Fortean Zoology

This section details the structure and personnel of the CFZ. It lists the Permanent Directorate, including Hon. Life President Colonel John Blashford-Snell, Director Jonathan Downes, Deputy Director Graham Inglis, Zoological Director Richard Freeman, Administrative Director Corinna Downes, Ecologist Oll Lewis, Technical David Braund-Phillips, Fundraiser Suzi Marsh, Charity consultant Matt Osborne, and Trainee Ross Braund-Phillips. The Board of Consultants includes various specialists such as Zoological Consultants Chris Moiser and Dr Lars Thomas, Palaentological Consultant Dr Darren Naish, Ichthylogical Consultant Dr Charles Paxton, Cryptozoology Consultants Dr Karl Shuker and Loren Coleman, Consultant Art Historian Dr Gail-Nina Anderson, Folklorist Jeremy Harte, American Office representative Nick Redfern, and Diving Consultant Kevin Boyd. Regional Representatives are listed for England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, USA, and internationally.

Contents

The issue's contents are listed, including: Editorial, Faculty of the CFZ, Newsfile, Newsfile Xtra: Siberian vampire moths, Obituaries, Mystery cats diary: Max in Somerset, Letter from America: What's new, Happy Birthday Nessie, Aquatic monster log book, The Oz Factor: A fake zookeeper, Bigfoot notebook, London Bear Scare, The Wanstead Ewok, Vietnamese forest man, Vietnamese turtle rescue, 2009 Yearbook, Weird Weekend 2008, CFZ People: Jordan Warner, Letters, Book reviews, The sycophant, and Agitprop.

Newsfile: A Classier Tarsier

A team led by a Texas A&M University anthropologist has discovered a group of primates not seen alive in 85 years: pygmy tarsiers. These nocturnal primates, also known as the Mountain Tarsier or Lesser Spectral Tarsier, are found on central Sulawesi, Indonesia. They are about the size of a small mouse and weigh less than 2 ounces. Previously believed extinct since 1921, one was accidentally trapped and killed by Indonesian scientists in 2000. Sharon Gursky-Doyen and her team successfully trapped three of these creatures in August. A distinguishing feature of pygmy tarsiers is their fingers with claws instead of nails, which sets them apart from most other primates.

Dolphins Down-Under

Researchers from Macquarie and Monash universities in Australia have identified a new species of bottlenose dolphin. Previously, only two species were thought to exist: the Common Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and the Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin (T. Aduncus). DNA testing of approximately 200 coastal dolphins off Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania revealed a genetically distinct population. Luciana Möller of Macquarie University expressed surprise at the find, noting that large mammals are rarely discovered and that this discovery highlights how much there is still to learn about marine species, especially during the current biodiversity crisis. The new species is believed to have separated from its closest relatives in the past few million years. The article congratulates Dr. Möller on her work, while cautioning against the idea that large mammals are rarely discovered, citing previous articles in the magazine.

Geckos Ahoy!

French scientists have successfully hatched a new gecko species from an egg collected in the South Pacific and transported to Paris. The gecko, catalogued with the Latin name Lepidodactylus buleli, is native to the treetops of Espiritu Santo, an island in the Vanuatu archipelago. The discovery was made during a 2006 expedition to study forest canopy ecosystems. The gecko is described as 3-inch-long.

P-P-P-P-P-PPICK UP A PENGUIN

Australian and New Zealand researchers have uncovered evidence of a previously unknown penguin species, the 'Waitaha' penguin, which disappeared about 500 years ago. This species became extinct after Polynesian settlement of New Zealand but before A.D. 1500. The find was made while investigating changes in the endangered New Zealand yellow-eyed penguin population since human settlement around A.D. 1200-1300.

Anuran Kristallnacht in Ecuador

Ecuadorian researchers have discovered seven previously unknown species of frog in the past two years, but these are already under threat from habitat loss. These frogs belong to the Glassfrog family, endemic to tropical America, with 40% of its 140 species threatened. A study predicts that deforestation may have already reduced the distribution ranges of studied species by up to 40%, particularly affecting eastern Andean foothills and montane forests. Several species are reported as largely absent from historical localities and are considered threatened.

Release the Bats

A previously undescribed, cold-loving fungus has been linked to white-nose syndrome, a condition responsible for the deaths of over 100,000 hibernating bats in the northeastern United States since the winter of 2006-07. Bat declines at surveyed hibernation caves have exceeded 75 percent. The fungus is commonly found on afflicted bats, though its exact role is still being determined. Affected species include little brown bats, northern bats, tricolored bats, Indiana bats, small-footed myotis, and big brown bats. The article draws parallels between white-nose syndrome and chytridiomycosis, a fungal skin infection that has caused precipitous global amphibian population declines. Researchers are concerned about the long-term effects on bat populations worldwide.

Quoll Queries

Two eastern quolls have been found as roadkill on the Australian mainland, despite being considered extinct there since 1963. These carnivorous marsupials are abundant in Tasmania. It is likely that the mainland quolls are descendants of escapees from captive breeding programs, such as the one at Mount Rothwell Conservation and Research Center. Australian biologists are studying how these quolls survived in an area populated by introduced foxes and cats, which are blamed for the extinction of eastern quolls. The article lists six species of quolls (genus Dasyurus) and notes their role as examples of convergent evolution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'Animals & Men' strongly emphasizes the discovery of new species and the ongoing mysteries within zoology and cryptozoology. There is a clear focus on conservation, highlighting threats to various species, including frogs in Ecuador and bats in the US, as well as the potential for rediscovery of seemingly extinct animals like the eastern quoll. The editorial stance, as articulated by Jonathan Downes, is one of proactive engagement and a commitment to making the CFZ and its journal more relevant and impactful, even adopting a more 'militant' approach to address these issues. The magazine positions itself as a platform for exploring the unusual and the unexplained, while also acknowledging scientific research and conservation concerns.

Title: Animals & Men
Issue: 45
Date: October 27, 2008

This issue of Animals & Men delves into a variety of cryptozoological and scientific topics, ranging from the rediscovery of seemingly extinct species to debates on evolution and creationism, and reports on mysterious animal encounters.

Rediscovery of Lost Species

Sumatran Muntjac Found in Indonesia

The magazine reports on the discovery of a "lost" type of deer, the Sumatran muntjac, in Indonesia's Sumatra island. Debbie Martyr, known for her work with cryptozoologists, and a colleague rescued the deer from a tiger hunter's snare in the Kerinci-Seblat National Park. This species was originally discovered in 1914 but had not been seen since 1930. Flora & Fauna International confirmed that the snared deer, photographed in 2002, was recognized as a distinct species from the related red muntjac in a 2008 international "Red List" of endangered species. Two more deer of this species were later photographed in the park.

Desert Mouse Rediscovered in Australia

In New South Wales, Australia, a mouse species thought to have been extinct for 150 years has been found living in the Sturt National Park. This is the first sighting of the desert mouse in this area since 1857. Ingrid Witte, manager of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, noted that Ulrike Kloecker, a PhD student at the University of New South Wales, made the discovery. Kloecker had to consult historical records to identify the species. Further investigations are planned to find more of these mice, with Ms. Witte expressing excitement that the park can still yield new mammal discoveries despite a prolonged drought. She described the mouse as having a buff-orange ring around its eyes and being an attractive creature.

Mystery Feline in the Andes

Potential New Cat Species in Ecuador

A photograph taken by Aldo Somoza of Fundación Jocotoco in Ecuador may depict a new species of cat, or the rare Andean Cat (Oreailurus jacobita). The cat was spotted near the Jorupe Reserve, close to the border with Peru, where it was first seen two years prior. The Andean Cat is described as being about the size of a domestic cat but appearing larger due to its long tail and silvery-gray fur. It inhabits the high Andes mountains of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, and has been sighted at elevations up to 5,100 meters. The article notes that human-inhabited valleys act as barriers, fragmenting its population and making it vulnerable to poaching. Lou Jost, of Fundación EcoMinga, has seen the Andean Cat twice and commented that the photographed animal's ground color was similar, though he did not see strong leg patterns. He suggested the possibility of a new species endemic to the Tumbesian zone of SW Ecuador and NW Peru.

The Vampire Moth of Siberia

Evolutionary Trajectory of Blood-Feeding Moths

An article discusses the discovery of a previously unknown population of vampire moths in Siberia. Entomologists suggest these moths may have evolved from purely fruit-eating species. The moths, identified as Calyptra thalictri, possess hook-and-barb-lined tongues that can pierce human skin and suck blood. Jennifer Zaspel, an entomologist at the University of Florida, stated that this discovery suggests the moth population could be on an "evolutionary trajectory" away from other C. thalictri populations. This is the second such population found, with the first discovered in Russia in 2006. Zaspel plans to compare DNA from the Russian moths with other populations to confirm her findings. The article posits that such adaptations might be driven by environmental conditions, including those created by human activity. It also touches on the broader concept of cryptozoology, suggesting that many creatures of interest are newly evolved rather than prehistoric survivors.

Political and Scientific Debate

Critique of Creationism and Fundamentalism

The magazine expresses a militant stance against what it terms "stupidity, prejudice, and ignorance." It criticizes fundamentalism, particularly Young Earth Creationism, and links it to political figures like Sarah Palin, whom it describes as a "military target" due to her perceived lack of ecological conscience and fundamentalist beliefs. The article contrasts this with the CFZ's acceptance of scientific theories like evolution and the Big Bang, citing CFZ Director Jonathan Downes's view that one can accept God while also accepting scientific explanations for the universe. The piece argues that evolution is an ongoing process and that understanding this is crucial when encountering stories where "forte an zoology meets evolution in action."

Ken Campbell Tribute

An Obituary for a Fortean Enthusiast

This section is an obituary for Ken Campbell (1941-2008), described as a generous man and a significant figure in fortean circles. The author recounts meeting Campbell in Cornwall in 1977, where they discussed ideas for a show based on "Fortean stuff, wizardry, and more than a hint of freaky theatricality." The piece mentions Campbell's involvement in the "Illuminatus thing" and his marriage to Prunella Gee. It also touches on an incident involving an actor, Christopher Fairbank, and a disagreement over script changes. The author highlights Campbell's collaborative spirit and his encouragement of creative projects. The obituary also briefly mentions Michael Crichton, noting his contributions to science fiction and his later views on climate change.

Tessie the CFZ Dog

A Fond Farewell to a Beloved Pet

This is an obituary for Tessie, the CFZ dog, who lived from approximately 1991 to 2008. The author, Richard Freeman, recounts how Tess came to live with him after her previous owners could no longer care for her. He describes Tess as a unique, active, and playful dog who made friends easily. The piece details Tess's declining health, including a condition that caused blindness and subsequent frailty, leading to her being put to sleep on September 16, 2008. Freeman expresses his deep affection for dogs, stating he prefers them to people due to their unconditional love.

Mystery Cats Diary

Livestock Predation in Somerset

Max Blake reports on a series of livestock killings in Somerset, UK, attributed to a large, unidentified animal. A farmer, John Chislett, described seeing a black puma-like creature calmly observing him. Three farmers have lost dozens of sheep to mutilation, with deep rips, pulled-out guts, and torn ears. Mr. Chislett insists the damage is not the work of a dog. Blake, who lives nearby and has an interest in cryptozoology, is investigating the incidents. He notes that other locals have reported sightings of similar creatures, including "black panthers" and "a lynx with a long tail." Photographs of the damaged sheep carcasses are included. The article suggests that secondary predation by foxes might have exacerbated the damage to the carcasses. Max Blake is collecting reports and setting up CFZ trigger cameras to gather more information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Animals & Men strongly advocates for scientific inquiry and critical thinking, actively opposing what it perceives as "mindless fundamentalism" and ignorance, particularly in the context of creationism and its perceived influence on politics. The magazine champions cryptozoology and the exploration of unexplained phenomena, presenting discoveries of new or rediscovered species as evidence of the ongoing wonders of the natural world and the potential for evolution. There is a clear editorial stance against anti-intellectualism and a promotion of scientific understanding, even while exploring fringe topics. The inclusion of obituaries for both a prominent fortean figure and a beloved pet dog highlights a personal and passionate approach to the subjects covered.

This issue of Animals & Men, identified as Issue 45, delves into a variety of cryptozoological and paranormal phenomena, with a strong focus on reported monster sightings and unusual creatures from around the world. The magazine features several book reviews and detailed accounts of specific cases.

Letters from America with Nick Redfern

Nick Redfern opens the issue with his "Letters from America," highlighting new products in the worlds of cryptozoology and monstrous subjects. He discusses the re-release of Gray Barker's book, The Silver Bridge, which focuses on the Mothman phenomenon and the events surrounding the collapse of the Silver Bridge in Pt. Pleasant, West Virginia, in 1967. Redfern notes that the book is multi-layered, with potential interpretations ranging from deep psychological content to social commentary. He also mentions Woody Derenberger's encounter with 'Indrid Cold' and the 'interplanetary' interview, suggesting these events are grounded in newspaper reports.

Redfern also introduces Andrew Crosse: Mad Scientist Diary of a Monster Maker!, a new title from Timothy Green Beckley's Global Communications. He notes that Crosse was known as "The Thunder And Lightning Man" and explores the controversy surrounding his experiments, which led to accusations of blasphemy and death threats. The book, updated by Nick Redfern, promises to reveal Crosse's relationship with Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein.

Another book featured is The Wildman of Kentucky by Philip Spencer, which explores the enduring curiosity surrounding Bigfoot and Sasquatch. The article mentions the ancient and sacred ground of Panther Rock in Kentucky, where tales of strange events have been reported.

Bigfoot in Print

A new book from Chelsea House, Bigfoot, Yeti and Other Ape-Men, is highlighted. The publisher's blurb describes these creatures as taller than humans, stronger than bears, and smellier than skunks, with reports spanning North America, Asia, India, and Tibet. The book covers historical and modern cases, scientific evidence, and famous hoaxes.

Happy Birthday Nessie

This section commemorates the 75th anniversary of the first photograph of the Loch Ness Monster (Nessie), taken by Hugh Gray on November 12, 1933. Despite criticisms that the photograph might be of a dog with a stick, it provided the press with significant evidence and has cemented Nessie's place in popular culture.

Aquatic Monsters Log Book: Sweeded Movie

Oll Lewis reports on a film crew's claim to have captured the monster of Storsjön Lake in Sweden on film. The footage shows a long, thin, eel-like creature with a slightly bulbous head. However, the low resolution of the infrared camera and the lack of any size reference in the film make it difficult to draw definitive conclusions, with possibilities ranging from a sperm cell to a hoax.

A 'Haven for Manatees?'

This article explores a sighting in Milford Haven, UK, where Carol Morgan reported seeing a creature resembling a pot-bellied pig or a cow. Local marine biologist Francis Bunker suggested it might be a manatee, but manatees do not forage on land. The creature is also compared to a sea serpent sighted and photographed in 2003, which was described as large with a black fin and a snake-like head.

West Hartford, Wishful Thinking

A headline from NBC reports a sighting in a West Hartford, Connecticut reservoir of what appeared to be a spiky-backed monster. Barbara Blanchfield photographed the creature, and officials are investigating. Opinions are divided, with some suggesting it might be a snapping turtle or rotten wood, while others remain intrigued.

That Funny Little Ogopogo

The History Channel's 'Monster Quest' programme conducted an ambitious search for the Ogopogo in Lake Okanagan. While they did not film the creature itself, they claimed to have discovered a baby Ogopogo, about six to eight inches long, retrieved from an underwater cave. This specimen has been sent for DNA testing. However, consultant Arlene Gaal expressed skepticism, comparing the findings to a decomposing ling cod.

What Is It? Hang On Alaska.

Residents of Nunivak Island, Alaska, discovered an unusual corpse on a beach. Barry and Lisa Whitman initially thought it was a walrus but soon realized it was something else. The creature was described as having a diamond-shaped tail and a fur-covered body. Locals identified it as 'qaqrat,' a beast walrus. Scientists, including Mike Castellini from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, were unable to identify the animal, with some suggesting it could be a mangled beluga whale.

Inside Story: The Tale of the Fake Zookeeper

This investigative piece details an encounter with Adrian Simpson and Amy Turner, who claimed to be zookeepers at Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, NSW. They offered a behind-the-scenes tour, but their story unraveled when the authors contacted the zoo directly. It was discovered that Adrian Simpson had impersonated a zoo employee, charging the zoo for equipment and uniforms, and leading tours, while being investigated by the police for fraud.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of the unexplained, focusing on cryptids, paranormal events, and unusual animal sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various accounts and investigations, while also maintaining a critical perspective, as seen in the skepticism towards the Ogopogo findings and the debunking of the fake zookeeper.

This issue of CFZ Australia, a publication focused on cryptozoology and unexplained phenomena, features a variety of articles covering recent events, ongoing mysteries, and historical cases. The cover story, "The London Bear Scare," investigates reports of a bear-like creature in Hackney Marshes. Other prominent sections include a "Bigfoot Notebook" by Paul Vella, detailing recent developments in Bigfoot research, and an article titled "'NGUOI RUNG' THE FOREST MAN OF VIETNAM" by Richard Freeman, which explores sightings of ape-like creatures during the Vietnam War.

Adrian Simpson Case

The issue opens with an account of Adrian Simpson, a 19-year-old from Mudgee, Australia, who was cleared of fraud charges after impersonating zoo employees. Simpson, diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome and Narcissistic Personality Disorder, had a reputation for convincing impersonations, even creating a Wikipedia entry that falsely announced his death. The authors express their experience was worth recounting due to the number of people attracted to fringe areas of interest and to safeguard the credibility of fields like cryptozoology.

Bigfoot Notebook by Paul Vella

Paul Vella's "Bigfoot Notebook" provides a roundup of recent news and discussions in the Bigfoot community. He apologizes for his absence due to his work as a Forensic Examiner. Vella mentions a new podcast called "The Bigfoot Show" and highlights Scott Herriott's Bigfoot sighting in Washington, recommending his DVDs. The 40th anniversary of the Patterson-Gimlin Film is noted as a milestone, suggesting current research methods may be insufficient. Vella also discusses game cam footage, including photos from Rick Jacob that were initially thought to be a juvenile Sasquatch but later identified as a bear with mange. He also reviews a game cam video that appears to show a man in a ghillie suit. A significant portion is dedicated to debunking the "Georgia Hoax," where Matt Whitton and Ric Dyer purported to have a Bigfoot body, which was revealed to be a costume. Vella expresses frustration with media reports that suggested Bigfoot believers were duped, asserting that genuine researchers did not take the hoax seriously. He draws parallels to the Ray Wallace case and its impact on the field's credibility. The section also touches upon the "Minnesota Iceman" and the passing of Tim Cullen, a respected member of the Bigfoot community. Finally, Vella mentions J. Robert Swain's "Laughsquatch" cartoons and Kathy Moskowitz Strain's book "Giants, Cannibals & Monsters: Bigfoot in Native Culture."

The London Bear Scare

This feature article delves into the "London Bear Scare," focusing on a sighting in Hackney Marshes on December 27, 1981. Despite media and BBC investigations often misplacing the event in the 1970s, the article clarifies its 1981 occurrence. Thirteen-year-old Tommy Murray and his friends reported seeing a large, hairy, bear-like creature in the snow. A police search ensued, but no definitive evidence was found. The article notes that the possibility of a hoax was considered but deemed unlikely. Intriguingly, information surfaced about the discovery of two headless, mutilated, and skinned bear corpses in the River Lea the previous December, raising questions about their origin. The article also references other phantom bear sightings in London, including a case from the Tower of London in 1815 and reports from Chelsea. It explores the history of bear baiting in London and speculates whether the discovery of slain bears at Hackney Marsh could be linked to illegal bear baiting activities.

The Wansted Ewok

This section reports on recent sightings of a bear-like creature in Epping Forest near Wansted, described as being only 4-foot tall, leading to comparisons with an "ewok." Michael Kent, an 18-year-old trainee fitness instructor, reported seeing a strange, hunched, hairy figure resembling a bear. This sighting was followed by another from pensioner Irene Dainty, who described a 4ft tall creature with big feet. The article notes that park rangers are skeptical, insisting no animals larger than a fox inhabit the area.

'NGUOI RUNG' THE FOREST MAN OF VIETNAM

Richard Freeman's article details sightings of what GIs dubbed "rock apes" during the Vietnam War. These creatures were described as ape-like beasts larger than a man, known for hurling rocks at soldiers. Accounts include an incident where a creature beat a native guide to death and reports from Marines in the Monkey Mountain area who observed apes throwing rocks. In 1969, soldiers near Hue City encountered about eight apes, and the alpha creature was described as almost black. The article also mentions Lt. Alan Szpila spotting exceptionally large footprints, estimated to be 18 inches long and 8 inches wide, with a stride of about four feet. Warrant Officer Darryl Santella estimated the wearer to be about eight feet tall. A 1970 encounter with "apes" by GI Steve Canyon is also briefly mentioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained animal sightings, particularly of bear-like and ape-like creatures, and the persistent issue of hoaxes within the cryptozoology field. The magazine adopts a critical yet open-minded stance, aiming to present evidence, debunk falsehoods, and encourage vigilance among researchers and the public to maintain the credibility of the field. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing genuine phenomena from fabricated events, as seen in the detailed analysis of the Adrian Simpson case and the Georgia Hoax. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, acknowledging the possibility of unknown animals while strongly advocating for critical thinking and evidence-based analysis.

Title: Fortean Times
Issue: 129
Date: January 2009
Publisher: Fortean Times
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £4.50

This issue of Fortean Times, dated January 2009, features a cover story on the 'Eleventh Edition of the World's Premier Cryptozoological Publication' ready for New Year's Day, likely referring to the 2009 Yearbook from the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ).

Reports from the Frontline: Unknown Hominids in Vietnam

The magazine details numerous accounts of unknown hominids, often referred to as 'rock apes' or 'forest men', primarily from Vietnam. One incident describes Marines on Hill 868 in Quang Nam Province being attacked by a tribe of these creatures, resulting in significant casualties among the apes and unconsciousness among the Marines. The creatures are described as hairy, bipedal, and capable of hurling rocks with considerable force.

Further accounts trace back to 1950, when Ngo Hoang, an agent of the Ministry of Propaganda, discovered large footprints and later encountered a grey-haired, hairy, bipedal creature. In 1974, General Hoang Minh Thao, commander of Northern forces in the Central Highlands, requested a scientific survey for 'Nguoi Rung' due to prevalent reports. Scientists like Professors Vo Quy and Le Vu Khoi from Hanoi University were involved in these expeditions.

Stories include the capture of an ape-like creature by guerrillas in Dak Min, Gia Lai province, which died before release, and Prof. Vo Quy's investigation of footprints near Moong Ray Mountain in 1975. Tran Hong Viet's research in the 1970s and 80s also uncovered local knowledge and footprints in the Tay Nguyen region. Professor Dao Van Tien reported on a 'wildman' called 'Pi'Cang Co' in the Black Tai dialect in Son La in 1963, and later encountered reports of a taller, more ferocious wildman in Sa Thay in 1979.

The article draws parallels between these 'Nguoi Rung' and the 'almasty' reported in Russia, noting that while the almasty has not been reported to kill, the forest man seems more aggressive. The author speculates that the 'Nguoi Rung' might be a surviving form of *Homo erectus* or a closely allied hominid, suggesting many encounters during the Vietnam War went unreported.

Minnesota Ice Man and Rare Turtle

The issue briefly touches upon the Minnesota Ice Man, with showman Frank Hanson suggesting it was a wildman shot in Vietnam. The author expresses skepticism about this origin, implying the Ice Man's origins are likely artificial.

A separate report details the rescue of one of the world's rarest turtles, Swinhoe's soft-shelled turtle (*Rafetus swinhoei*), in Vietnam. The turtle, one of only four known living individuals, was saved from being sold to a restaurant owner thanks to the intervention of conservationists.

The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ) and the Weird Weekend 2008

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the CFZ and its annual 'Weird Weekend' event, held in Woolsery, North Devon. The event is described as a gathering for 'monster hunters' and experts in Forteana, cryptozoology, paranormalia, folklore, and ufology.

The articles detail various aspects of the 2008 Weird Weekend, including:

• The Venue: Woolsery Community Centre, described as a first-class facility with a bar, lecture theatre, and ecological considerations, powered in part by a wind turbine.
• Attendees: A diverse crowd, including families and teenagers, indicating the CFZ's integration into the local community.
• Talks and Events: Highlights include talks on paranormal encounters in crop formations by Matthew Williams, who arrived by his own plane; lectures by Fortean experts like Dr. Mike Dash, Tim Matthews, and Ronan Coghlan; and a 'BugFest' with displays of insects.
• CFZ Publications: The quality of CFZ publications, including books and magazines, is praised, with a mention of the 2008 CFZ Catalogue being comparable to professional publishing houses.
• Personal Accounts: Several contributors share their experiences, such as Mike Hallowell discussing his research into 'imaginary friends' and Dr. Karl Shuker releasing his new book, 'Dr. Shuker's Casebook'.
• CFZ's Mission: The CFZ is commended for its dedication to investigating reports of mystery animals and monsters, often in difficult and dangerous conditions, and for spending its funds on research.

CFZ People: Never Underestimate the Power of Human Stupidity

This section features an article by Jon Downes (presumably the editor) discussing the challenges of dealing with certain individuals within the cryptozoological community. He contrasts the 'finest people' with those he finds 'inane, superficial, and irritating'.

Downes recounts the story of Jordan Warner, a talented young lad making a webTV series on cryptozoology called 'Cryptid Hunt'. Despite Jordan's impressive work produced on a low budget, he faced sarcasm and derision from some members of the community. Downes expresses admiration for Jordan and criticizes those who failed to offer support.

Other Content

• 2009 Yearbook: An advertisement for the upcoming 'Eleventh Edition of the World's Premier Cryptozoological Publication', the 2009 CFZ Yearbook, listing various contributors and topics.
• Fortean Times Website: Mention of cfztv.com for filmed content of the Weird Weekend.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the dedication and often underappreciated work of the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ) in pursuing cryptozoological research. There is a clear stance supporting independent researchers and investigative journalism in the face of skepticism and internal community politics. The magazine highlights the importance of field research, the reporting of anomalous phenomena, and the exploration of unknown hominids and other cryptids, particularly within the context of Vietnam and the CFZ's annual 'Weird Weekend' event. The editorial tone is one of advocacy for the field of Forteana and cryptozoology, celebrating those who 'put their money where their mouth is'.

This issue of Fortean Times, identified as Volume XV, Issue 50, and dated MMVIII (2008), is published by CFZ Communications. The cover headline is "WHICH SIDE ARE YOU ON?" and features a statue of Gerald Durrell, a proponent of modern conservation who believed children should grow up surrounded by animals and books. The magazine's ISSN is 1354 0647.

Editorial and Letters

The editorial section begins with a reflection on the achievements of the CFZ over two decades, with the author noting his own age and ill health, but expressing pride in the organization's ability to inspire young people and push the boundaries of human knowledge. A concern is raised about the longevity of fortean organizations after the death of their founders, with notable exceptions being the SPR and the Ghost Club. The CFZ is launching outreach projects, including educational and political initiatives, to promote zoology and forteanism. Zoology is presented as the study of animals, aiming to counter the decline of Natural History as a hobby. Forteanism is described as a mindset that encourages questioning and testing intellectual boundaries. The editorial expresses a desire to change the world and foster a society that appreciates individuals like Jordan, who created a webTV series.

There are several letters to the editor. One correspondent, John Blashford-Snell, writes about seeing pink dolphins in Ecuador and mentions rumors of 'monsters' in Lake Roja Aguado, Bolivia. Another letter discusses an expedition to Bolam Lake in Northumberland to research an unclassified primate, and shares a story about a similar creature seen in Long Eaton in the 1980s. The correspondent notes the prevalence of such reports globally and suggests that some creatures may exist but lack scientific proof. Dr. Frances Green submits a poem titled "The Cryptids' Delight." A letter from David Pritchett inquires about the Bolam Lake expedition and shares a poem. Another correspondent, Davy C, writes about the discovery of otter tracks on the Farne Islands, Northumberland, noting it as the first recorded sighting there. The letter discusses the otter's remarkable ability to travel to islands and expresses concern that otters might harm the bird populations for which the islands are known.

Articles and Reviews

The Sycophant

This section discusses Tim Matthews, a long-time member of the CFZ team, whose recent behavior at an Unconvention, including hugging a Methodist Lay Preacher, has caused consternation. The article humorously frames this as a 'revolution' and poses a riddle on how to cause consternation at a fortean convention: "INVITE TIM MATTHEWS." It also touches on rumors about Tim's past involvement with the BNP and his support for the CFZ's outreach projects.

Welcome Back My Friends to the Dog That Never Ends...

This piece bids farewell to Tessie, the second CFZ dog, and welcomes the new CFZ Dog Mk3, a border collie pup named 'Biggles'. Biggles has already accompanied the CFZ on a visit to Mawnan Old Church.

Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• Shadows Over New England by David Goudsward and Scott T. Goudsward: Described as a guide to weird, haunted, and Fortean areas, focusing on haunted places in fiction and real locations in New England, with mentions of authors like H.P. Lovecraft.
• It Happened to Me! Real Life Tales of the Paranormal Volume 1 by Paul Sieveking and Jen Ogilvie: A collection of stories from the letters pages of Fortean Times, featuring accounts of monsters, ghosts, doppelgangers, and time slips, including a particularly bizarre case of a woman dying from a ruptured stomach filled with slime. It also notes reports of '2-d, man-shaped and black' creatures similar to one seen at Bolam Lake.
• The Barnsley Whale by Steve Deput: This book investigates the story of a badly embalmed whale exhibited in Barnsley, uncovering the tale of Norwegian businessmen and a questionable marketing campaign.
• Ghostly Northumberland by Rob Kirkup: A guide to the ghosts of Northumberland, featuring illustrated accounts of haunted castles and countryside, with practical information for ghost hunters. It includes tales of a 13th-century hermit, two vampire stories in Berwick, and a 1900s incident involving a 'man' with bite marks.
• The British Museum Elephants by Sarah Longair: A book featuring photographs and accompanying text about elephants, including elephant-shaped coffins, bronze coins, tusks, seals, and porcelain elephants.
• Haunted Theatres of East Sussex by Tina Lakin: This book examines theatres, opera houses, piers, music halls, and pubs, with stories of ghosts, spontaneous human combustion, and a limbless man haunting a former pub.
• The Sign of the Witch: Modernity and the Rise of the Pagan Revival by Dr David Waldron: This book traces the evolution of the witch symbol from the 16th century to modern times, covering figures like Gerald Gardener, Madam Blavatsky, Alistair Crowley, and the 1960s counter-culture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity and a love for knowledge, particularly among young people, in contrast to purely exam-focused education. There is a strong focus on cryptozoology and fortean phenomena, with numerous book reviews and reader contributions detailing sightings and unexplained events. The CFZ's role in promoting zoology and forteanism, and their outreach efforts, are highlighted. The magazine appears to champion the unconventional and the pursuit of unexplained mysteries, encouraging readers to question and explore beyond established boundaries. The editorial stance is one of enthusiastic engagement with the paranormal and the unusual, while also advocating for conservation and the appreciation of the natural world.