BIGFOOT BULLETIN

Magazine Overview

This issue of the BIGFOOT BULLETIN, dated February 28, 1970, is number 14 and published by George F. Haas from Oakland, California. The publication focuses on research and information exchange regarding Sasquatch and related phenomena.

Recommended Equipment

An article by DICK FREY outlines essential equipment for Sasquatch investigators. It emphasizes the importance of adequate gear for documenting physical evidence, even if some items are financially out of reach. The list includes a 35mm camera, epoxy resin for casting tracks, a cassette tape recorder, plastic bags for collecting samples, index cards, binoculars, a tape measure, envelopes for hair specimens, a felt tip pen, a first aid kit, highway flares, a notebook, a guide book to local flora and fauna, a detailed map (specifically recommending the 1969 U.S. Forest Service National Forest Maps), and appropriate camouflage clothing.

Sasquatch Population Density

This section features an excerpt from a 32-page report by George B. (Nick) Carter of Bellevue, Washington, who has been researching the subject since 1941. Carter addresses the frequently asked question about the number of Bigfeet. He notes the lack of census data and relies on estimates. Citing game management principles that suggest a breeding group of large mammals is endangered if numbers drop below 600, he estimates that Sasquatch numbers exceed 600 due to their avoidance of human contact. Generalizing the suitable habitat area to approximately 50,000 square miles, and drawing parallels with the territory of arctic wolves (approximately 35 square miles per adult), Carter estimates the Sasquatch population to be around 1500, with a best guess of 1100.

Bigfoot Reported Killed in Panama in 1920

This article recounts a story told by an American prospector named Shea, who was in Panama in 1920. Shea described ascending the Sambu River in southeastern Darien and becoming separated from his companion. While attempting to cross the 'Andean Range' to the Pacific, he encountered a large, ape-like creature, described as six feet tall, weighing around three hundred pounds, and covered in long black hair. Shea shot the creature, which he measured and noted had parallel big toes, similar to a human. He was too exhausted to bring the body back. The article mentions that many trustworthy men did not share the initial skepticism about such reports, citing a 17th-century Spanish expedition that reportedly shot fourteen 'man-beasts' near Finas Bay. It also notes that Indians from Ecuador to Nicaragua believe these creatures inhabit isolated mountains. The story is cross-referenced with Richard Oglesby Marsh's book 'White Indians Of Darien' (1934) and attributed to Mark Massingill.

Weight of Gigantopithecus

This short piece by JIM MCCLARIN discusses the weight estimate of Gigantopithecus. McClarin questions Elwyn L. Simons' estimate of 600 lbs for a 9 ft tall specimen, suggesting it might be an underestimate. Using a height-weight scale, he calculates that a 9 ft creature would be 3.37 times heavier than a 6 ft replica. He proposes that the actual weight might be between 1,300 and 1,600 lbs, significantly more than Simons' estimate.

Recent Publications

This section lists recent articles and publications related to Sasquatch:

• "Sasquatchery To Date" by Bruce S. Wright, published in THE ATLANTIC ADVOCATE (October 1969) and reprinted in ONE WORLD (December 1969).
• An interview with an 80-year-old Indian woman in the WENATCHEE DAILY WORLD (February 6, 1970), who claims her ancestor was held captive by a Sasquatch about 300 years ago and described their signals as whistling noises.
• "On The Trail Of The Sasquatch, America's Abominable Snowman" by Bryan Stevenson, in MAN'S ACTION Magazine (April 1970).

Monthly Activity Report. Northern California

BOB BETTS reports little recent activity in Northern California. The last track sighting was in August 1969, with two 16-inch prints found near Bull Creek. Betts has been investigating the John W. Smith report and found him to be credible. While Smith's photographs were indistinct, John provided a hair sample, which the Primate Center at UC Davis could not identify but found interesting enough to warrant further testing. Betts has sent out more samples for analysis.

"Leave Bigfoot Alone!"

This section features an excerpt from an editorial by Mr. L.J. Costelloe, Editor of Gun & Creel Magazine. Costelloe argues against the exploitation and study of Bigfoot, drawing parallels to humanity's negative impact on other species and environments. He urges readers to leave Bigfoot's habitat undisturbed, preserving at least one area untouched by human interference.

Editorial Notes

The BIGFOOT BULLETIN is published monthly to facilitate the free exchange of information among researchers. The editor requests concise reports (200-300 words) on local activities, sightings, and research findings, with a deadline of the 25th of each month for the next issue. The editor also notes a $25 reward for fresh Bigfoot tracks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the practical aspects of Bigfoot research (equipment, population estimates), historical accounts and alleged encounters (Panama killing, ancient captivity), scientific considerations (Gigantopithecus), and the ethical debate surrounding human interaction with the creature. The editorial stance, particularly in the "Leave Bigfoot Alone!" piece, advocates for conservation and non-interference, suggesting that humanity's track record with other species is largely destructive. The overall tone is one of dedicated research and a desire to document and understand the phenomenon, while also acknowledging the potential negative impacts of human involvement.