BioFortean Notes - No 07

Magazine Overview

Title: BIOFORTEAN NOTES
Volume: 7
Issue: 7
Editor: Chad Arment
Publisher: COACHWHIP PUBLICATIONS
Location: Greenville, Ohio
Publication Year: 2020

This issue of Biofortean Notes, Volume 7, edited by Chad Arment and published by Coachwhip Publications, explores a range of cryptid and zoological topics. The content includes detailed articles on the 'Jhoor of Gir' in India, the history and potential rediscovery of red wolves in North America, and a book review concerning Bigfoot in the 1970s.

Articles

Notes on the Jhoor of Gir

This article by Tony Gerard investigates the legend of the 'Jhoor of Gir,' a cryptid associated with the Hiran reservoir and Kameleswar dam in India. The author recounts his experience working on the History Channel series 'MonsterQuest' and consulting with Indian herpetologist Rom Whittaker. Whittaker shared accounts from Maldharis in 1975 describing the Jhoor as a mythical monster that emerges from deep water at night to catch people and animals, drinking their blood. Local descriptions suggest it is distinct from a crocodile, though Whittaker initially suspected it might be a mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris).

A field investigation by Rupali Ghosh in May 2009 sought to find evidence of the Jhoor. She reported that locals in the Gir region were familiar with the creature, which they said stays in water. Sanctuary staff indicated 'jhoor' might mean crocodile, but a Maldhari named Ismailbhai from Lakkad-vera village described seeing one in 1965-66 during a drought. He recounted an incident where a calf was killed by a Jhoor, leaving only skin and bones. When villagers threw stones into the water, a strange animal emerged briefly, described as having strong claws, long legs, a head, and a body resembling an elongated turtle with a hard upper part. Ismailbhai and other Maldharis, including Khim-bhai and Lalbhai, referred to Punabhai of Kameleswar dam as knowledgeable about the Jhoor. They noted that the creature primarily targets domestic cattle, which are more cautiously guarded than wild animals. The Jhoor is said to have a strong grip like lizards. Despite the investigation, obtaining official permission to enter the sanctuary proved difficult, and the author notes that follow-up on the 'MonsterQuest' project was canceled.

Evidence of Red Wolves in the Ouachita Mountains

Brandon Lentz's article traces the history and classification of the red wolf (Canis rufus). The narrative begins with naturalist William Bartram's observations in the 1770s of wolves in Florida with color variations, which he initially dubbed 'Canis lupus niger.' In 1851, James Audubon and John Bachman proposed the 'Canis rufus' classification for wolves in Texas exhibiting red coloration, possibly due to interbreeding with Bartram's black wolves. Over decades, taxonomists debated its classification, with Edward Goldman eventually assigning Florida and Texas wolves under the 'Canis rufus' designation by 1945. The article highlights the severe population decline of red wolves due to habitat loss and predator control programs, leading to their virtual disappearance from the Southeast by 1920 and official extinction in the wild by 1980, with only captive populations remaining.

The piece then discusses the possibility of rediscovery for species thought extinct, citing examples like the Kashmir musk deer, Vanzolini's bald-faced saki, and the New Guinea singing dog. It posits that such rediscoveries often occur in remote, undeveloped areas. The Ouachita Mountain ecoregion in Oklahoma/Arkansas is presented as such a location. A group of citizen scientists from the North American Wood Ape Conservancy (NAWAC) are conducting observational expeditions there, hypothesizing the presence of an unrecognized species of bipedal primate. In 2018, NAWAC deployed recording units that captured seven 'canid-like deep, moaning howls' on September 19th. The author, present during the expedition, describes these sounds as too sustained and deep for a coyote. A spectrogram analysis indicated the vocal range and duration were consistent with 'Canis rufus' and significantly longer than 'Canis lupus.'

Other Content

Chad Arment contributes two articles: 'Notes on Intergeneric Hybridization in Snakes' and 'Facial Displays: A Spider Gallery.' Tony Gerard also authored 'The Smokey Cat of India.'

The issue includes a book review section with reviews of 'Beyond the Secret Elephants' and 'Black Panthers: Little Known North American Treasure.'

Book Review: Far-Out, Shaggy, Funky Monsters: A What-it-is History of Bigfoot in the 1970s

This section features a description of Daniel S. Green's book, which offers an engaging look at the 1970s, a period when Bigfoot became more entrenched in the North American cultural landscape. The book reportedly reviews researchers, sightings, and theories that dominated the media and public interest during that decade.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Biofortean Notes revolve around the investigation of cryptids and unexplained animal phenomena, the history and conservation of lesser-known or potentially extinct species, and the exploration of fringe zoological topics. The editorial stance, as suggested by the content, appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting research, historical accounts, and anecdotal evidence for consideration by the reader. The inclusion of both detailed field reports and historical reviews indicates a commitment to exploring diverse aspects of cryptozoology and natural history mysteries.

This document appears to be a compilation of articles, likely from a publication focused on cryptozoology and zoology, featuring two main topics: the potential survival of red wolves in the Ouachita Mountains and an extensive review of intergeneric snake hybridization.

Ouachita Canid vs. Red Wolf Vocalizations

The first section presents a "visual hertz comparison" of the vocalizations of an unknown Ouachita canid with those of wild red wolves captured in the 1970s by Professor Howard McCarley. A table compares the start frequency, highest frequency, and duration of howls from coyotes, red wolves, and the "unknown canid." The data for the unknown canid shows a start frequency of 562 Hz (range 492-632 Hz), a highest frequency of 709 Hz (range 632-767 Hz), and a duration of 3.7 seconds (range 2.1-4.3 seconds). These characteristics are presented as having "close parallels" to red wolves. The text notes that red wolves were believed to have disappeared from the Ouachita Mountain Ecoregion nearly eighty years prior, and the captured howls "may suggest otherwise." It posits the possibility that a wild pack of *C. rufus* (red wolves), long thought extinct west of North Carolina, might be persisting undetected. Habitat conservation in the Ouachita biome is highlighted as paramount, with ongoing research in the area.

References cited for this section include works by William Bartram, M. K. Phillips et al. on red wolf restoration, Audubon & Bachman on North American Quadrupeds, and H. McCarley's 1978 publication on red wolf vocalizations.

The Historical Bigfoot

This section appears to be an advertisement or description for a book titled "The Historical Bigfoot" by Chad Arment, Second Edition. The cover art is described with various headlines such as "'WILD GORILLA' IS SEEN IN COUNTY," "The Wild Man," "DEAD GIANT," "GORILLA (?) ROAMS SNYDER COUNTY," "MONSTER MONKEY, ROAMING WOODS, ALARMS COUNTY," and "MIFFLIN COUNTY ON HUNT FOR 'MYSTERY ANIMAL' IN WOODS." The book's description states that "Hairy wild men, wandering yahoos, what-is-it's, gorillas in the woods, and more manlike beasts roamed the newsprint of North America long before the word 'Bigfoot' became cemented in popular culture." This updated and expanded edition is presented as laying "a groundwork for understanding the folkloric variation in Bigfoot stories, necessary for any critical cryptozoological investigation."

Notes on Intergeneric Hybridization in Snakes

This is the most substantial part of the document, authored by Chad Arment. It delves into the topic of intergeneric hybridization in snakes, which involves the crossbreeding of snakes from different genera.

Interspecific vs. Intergeneric Hybrids

The article begins by explaining that snake hybridization usually involves two species within the same genus (interspecific hybrids), often occurring naturally in hybrid zones or accidentally in captivity. Intergeneric hybrids, however, are less likely but present interesting subjects for study. The best-known examples are in North American colubrids, with genera like *Pantherophis* (rat snakes), *Lampropeltis* (king and milk snakes), and *Pituophis* (bull and pine snakes) readily hybridizing in captivity. Examples from the wild are also mentioned.

Professional vs. Hobbyist Approaches

Deliberate hybridization is generally discouraged in the professional, conservation-minded zoo trade and by serious herpetoculturists who focus on natural lineages. However, some hobbyists engage in these attempts out of curiosity or for the unique patterns and colorations produced.

Reported Cases of Intergeneric Hybridization

The author aims to document reported cases, including some not previously published.

#### The Timber Rattlesnake-Copperhead Hybrid

In the early 2000s, rumors emerged of a rattlesnake-copperhead hybrid produced by a zoo. This was later confirmed by a former keeper at the Knoxville Zoo and information shared on a Facebook group. The hybrid was a cross between a copperhead (*Agkistrodon contortrix*) and a timber rattlesnake (*Crotalus horridus*). It was one of about six born alive. The senior herpetologist at the Tennessee Aquarium at the time, Timothy J. Walsh, provided details and images. Dr. Harry Greene also confirmed the existence of these hybrids, having kept one in his lab. The disposition of the siblings is unknown. The article notes that *Agkistrodon* hybrids and *Crotalus* hybrids are known, and a *Sistrurus-Crotalus* hybrid was found in the wild (Bailey 1942), but this *Agkistrodon-Crotalus* cross is presented as the first known case. The author questions why wild hybrids haven't been found, suggesting a potential pre-mating barrier and proposing it as a research project.

#### Old World, New World Rat Snakes

Crosses between *Pantherophis*, *Pituophis*, and *Lampropeltis* are common in captivity. Less publicized are crosses between *Pantherophis* and Old World rat snakes, sometimes noted on defunct forums. These include:

• Eastern Rat Snake (*Pantherophis alleghaniensis*) x Beauty Rat Snake (*Elaphe [Orthriophis] taeniura*): An accidental cross by a South African keeper.
• Corn Snake (*Pantherophis guttatus*) x Japanese Rat Snake (*Elaphe climacophora*): Multiple cases known.
• Corn Snake (*Pantherophis guttatus*) x Radiated Rat Snake (*Coelognathus radiata*): An accidental cross that was put down by the owner.
• Corn Snake (*Pantherophis guttatus*) x Ladder Snake (*Rhinechis scalaris*): No details provided beyond the pairing.
• Twin-Spotted Rat Snake (*Elaphe bimaculata*) x Imperial Milk Snake (*Lampropeltis getula californiae* x *Lampropeltis triangulum campbelli*): A deliberate hybridization resulting in six offspring.

#### Pythons and Boas

Many crosses involving pythons and boas are deliberate herpetocultural crosses, often driven by enthusiasts seeking spectacular animals.

• Burmese Python (*Python molurus*) x Reticulated Python (*Malayopython reticulatus*): Trade name is "bateater python."
• Ball Python (*Python regius*) x Reticulated Python (*Malayopython reticulatus*): Trade name is "baltic python."
• Ball Python (*Python regius*) x Woma (*Aspidites ramsayi*): Trade name is "wall python."
• Ball Python (*Python regius*) x Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota*): Trade name is "carpall python."
• Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota*) x Black-Headed Python (*Aspidites melanocephalus*): No further details provided.
• Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota*) x Woma (*Aspidites ramsayi*): Trade name is "coma python."
• Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota*) x Macklot's Python (*Liasis mackloti*): Banks and Schwaner (1984) reported a male carpet python successfully bred with a Macklot's python and an amethystine python at the Royal Melbourne Zoo. Trade name is "carplot python."
• Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota*) x Amethystine Python (*Simalia amethistina*): Referenced as "See above."
• Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota*) x Blood Python (*Python curtus*): No further details provided.
• Yellow Anaconda (*Eunectes notaeus*) x Boa constrictor: Ernst et al. (2014) reported a viable offspring from a female boa constrictor and a male anaconda at the Paris Natural History Museum. Hybrid "boacondas" were also produced by a UK breeder.
• Yellow Anaconda (*Eunectes notaeus*) x Rainbow Boa (*Epicrates cenchria*): Tom Crutchfield noted purchasing an accidental clutch of hybrids from an Ohio breeder.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The document touches upon themes of wildlife persistence and conservation (regarding red wolves) and the scientific and hobbyist exploration of genetic boundaries in reptiles through hybridization. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and presenting information on these topics, with a particular focus on detailed case studies of snake hybridization, acknowledging both scientific and popular interest in these phenomena. The inclusion of references suggests a basis in research and published literature, while the discussion of online forums and hobbyist reports indicates an engagement with contemporary information sharing within these communities.

This document contains content from a publication, likely a magazine or journal, focusing on cryptozoology and natural history. It includes a book review for "Mystery Creatures of China" by David C. Xu, an article detailing the discovery of a potential new spider species in the Philippines, and a gallery of spiders with facial patterns.

Mystery Creatures of China by David C. Xu

The book "Mystery Creatures of China: The Complete Cryptozoological Guide" by David C. Xu is presented as an enthralling introduction to the cryptozoological folklore of China. It is described as a template for mystery animal books worldwide, with the author having compiled sighting reports and folkloric animals from across China, spanning historical and contemporary accounts. The book is recommended for every cryptozoological library. A quote from Dr. Karl Shuker describes the book as "quite simply, unique, one of a kind, a cryptozoological sui generis."

"Jabba the Hut”: An Undescribed Cyrtarachne Spider Species from the Philippines?

This article by Tony Gerard discusses the genus *Cyrtarachne*, a group of nocturnal orb-weaving spiders common in South Asia, known for their elaborate abdominal patterns that can mimic other objects or creatures. As of April 2019, there were fifty-five scientifically described species, with *Cyrtarachne tuladepilachna* being the only one previously described from the Philippines, found in 1989.

The author notes that biological survey work in the Philippines is limited, especially for invertebrates, and that natural areas are rapidly being destroyed by agricultural expansion, herbicides, and insecticides. Gerard recounts a personal experience during a trip to Luzon, Philippines, in the summer of 2017, where he photographed an orb-weaving spider near Tinoc, Nieva Vizcaya. Upon inverting the image, the spider's abdomen pattern resembled a cartoon-like face with nostrils, eyebrows, and three teeth, leading his wife to compare it to "Jabba the Hut" from Star Wars. The spider was observed in the same location for three nights.

He posted the observation on iNaturalist, and a colleague suggested it might be an undescribed species within the *Cyrtarachne* genus. In July 2019, during a return trip to the Tinoc area, despite increased habitat conversion to vegetable farms and the presence of agricultural chemicals, Gerard and his wife managed to find a second specimen in a nearby watercourse. This second specimen's abdominal "face" appeared more sinister but was clearly the same species. Gerard concludes that this is a very interesting species, possibly surviving for a limited time.

Facial Displays: A Spider Gallery

Authored by Chad Arment, this section explores spiders and other invertebrates that exhibit facial patterns or eyespots on their abdomens or other body parts. These patterns are generally thought to serve as anti-predator threat displays, although this aspect is not well-studied in all species. In some instances, these perceived faces might be a result of pareidolia, where the human brain interprets random shapes as familiar patterns. The article presents several examples of spiders with such patterns, inviting readers to consider these "faces" when encountering webs in nature.

The gallery includes images of eight different spiders, numbered 1 through 8, showcasing various abdominal patterns that can be interpreted as faces. The article references Ernst et al. (2014) regarding *Acrantophis x Boa*, noting that a post on HybridHerps.com about this hybrid is no longer accessible, but archived discussions suggest it has been done, though details are scarce. The references section also lists several other publications related to snake hybrids and spider taxonomy.

References

The document includes a list of references, primarily related to snake hybridization and taxonomy, and spider species. Notable references include:

• Bailey, Reeve M. 1942. An intergeneric hybrid rattlesnake. *The American Naturalist*.
• Banks, Chris, and Terry D. Schwaner. 1984. Two cases of interspecific hybridization among captive Australia boid snakes. *Zoo Biology*.
• Ernst, Nicole, et al. 2014. An unexpected occurrence – a case study on an intergeneric hybrid in giant snakes. *Revue Suisse de Zoologie*.
• Fankhauser, Glenn. 1996. Snake hybrids. *Reptiles Magazine*.
• Utiger, Urs, Beat Schätti, and Notker Helfenberger. 2005. The oriental colubrine genus *Coelognathus* Fitzinger, 1843 and classification of Old and New World racers and ratsnakes. *Russian Journal of Herpetology*.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are cryptozoology, the discovery of new or rare species, and the study of animal morphology and behavior, particularly in spiders and snakes. There is also an underlying concern for habitat loss and its impact on biodiversity, especially in the context of the Philippines. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific curiosity, encouraging the documentation and study of unusual natural phenomena, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by environmental degradation.

This document appears to be an excerpt from a publication, likely a magazine or book, focusing on Fortean phenomena and unexplained animal encounters. The primary content includes a section on 'Flesh Falls & Blood Rains' by John Hairr and a detailed article titled 'Panther Hunt: When a Black Panther is Killed' by Chad Arment. The publication is associated with COACHWHIPBOOKS.COM.

Flesh Falls & Blood Rains by John Hairr

This section introduces the concept of 'flesh falls' and 'blood rains' as Fortean phenomena. Author John Hairr examines historical cases and discusses what is known and unknown about their causes. The text suggests that these events, often viewed as omens, can be linked to climatological factors that originate far from where the phenomena are observed.

Panther Hunt: When a Black Panther is Killed by Chad Arment

This extensive article chronicles various incidents involving black panthers in North America, primarily from the early 1900s through the 1960s. Chad Arment details several cases where black panthers were sighted, hunted, or killed.

1921: Matt Todd's Panther

The narrative begins near Independence, Missouri, with the escape of an eighty-pound black leopard from Horne's Zoological Arena Co. in October 1921. The escaped animal was the subject of a large-scale search. Subsequent sightings and captures of black panthers were reported in nearby counties. A farmer named Edward Cummings captured a black leopard in Bates County after it killed a chicken, noting it had also killed two of his dogs. Later, in December 1921, Matt Todd, a farmer in Houston, Texas County, shot a black feline weighing 65 pounds and measuring six feet long. Initially, it was suggested this might be the escaped leopard from Independence, despite the significant distance. However, questions were raised about whether it was the same animal, with some suggesting it was a different cat.

Sightings and Reports (1950s-1960s)

The article mentions sightings in the Licking area, near Caney Mountain, and Mountain View. Descriptions included a black creature about five feet long with a three-foot tail. Other sightings involved a panther-sized animal observed briefly before disappearing. A 1965 report described a creature wandering across a field. The text also discusses whether Matt Todd's panther was a leopard, noting its description as dark, almost black, with spots visible in sunlight.

1958: The Tallabogue Panther

This section details an incident in early January in the 'Talleybo swamp' area of Mississippi. Otis Chapman, a hunter, reported shooting a large, six-foot-long black panther. Despite reporting the kill and the presence of blood at the scene, no body was ever found. The location, 'Talleybo swamp,' is identified as being along the Tallabogue Creek, north of Forest, Mississippi.

1963: The Jungleland Panther

Two significant incidents occurred in 1963. The first involved a 140-pound melanistic leopard named Jet at the San Diego Zoo, which attacked and killed keeper James Tuttle. Shortly after, a two-year-old, sixty-pound female black leopard escaped from Jungleland, a private zoo in Thousand Oaks, California. This leopard was the subject of a 36-hour hunt and was eventually killed by Stuart Hamblen, an actor and singer, and his friend Ronnie Page. The leopard had been recently imported from Thailand and was described as extremely dangerous.

Credits

The document also includes a 'Credits' section listing individuals and organizations associated with the identification or documentation of various spider species, including the Hawaiian happy-faced spider, Orchard web spider, Crab spider, Kidney garden spider, Cat-faced spider, Araneus sp., Adanson's house jumper, and Lynx spider. Contributors include Melissa McMasters, Gail Hampshire, Ryszard, Azhar Ismail, Canton Becker, Peter Pearsall (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), Bill & Mark Bell, and Chun Xing Wong.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are Fortean phenomena (unexplained events) and cryptozoology, specifically focusing on sightings and encounters with large, elusive felines like black panthers. The editorial stance appears to be one of historical documentation and investigation, presenting accounts of these phenomena with a degree of skepticism or an emphasis on the lack of definitive proof, as seen in the 'no body found' cases. The articles aim to explore the historical context and details of these unusual events, often referencing newspaper accounts and witness testimonies.

This issue of "Strange Creatures Seldom Seen" focuses on the phenomenon of black panther sightings, primarily in Florida during the mid-20th century. It presents anecdotal evidence, eyewitness accounts, and the challenges of scientific verification in the field of cryptozoology.

The 'Black Panther' Hunt of 1963

The issue begins by recounting an event where a black panther was tracked for 36 hours in a compound, culminating in its capture and the statement, "I hated to shoot him." The author reflects on the public's fascination with such stories and the ease with which they are disseminated, suggesting that confirmed evidence of a new species would likely receive widespread attention.

Grandpa Wall's Black Panther (1965)

This section details the experiences of Clarence T. “Grandpa” Wall, a homesteader in Orange County, Florida. In early 1965, Wall reported a panther preying on his ducks. He described seeing a large panther near a lake, which he shot at with a 16-gauge shotgun. He described the animal as "tabbit" (possibly tabby) with grey and brownish spots, with its eyes about 30 inches off the ground. Later, he killed what he claimed was a "big cat's cub" in his chicken coop, measuring 35 1/2 inches from nose to tail. The skin was preserved and nailed to his shed wall. The article notes that Wall had a history of encounters, including killing panthers during the Depression. Skepticism from local game wardens and a sports columnist is mentioned, with suggestions that the sightings might be of foxes or bobcats. Other reports from Orange County include Air Force Sgt. Jack Coffey seeing a dark animal in his yard and G. C. Powers hearing and seeing eyes belonging to a large black animal. Mrs. Lois Eads reported knowing of a black male and brown female panther pair in the area for years, suggesting they had cubs and that Wall might have shot the female. She also mentioned a buffalo and a calf killed by a panther on a nearby ranch.

Grandpa Wall's Later Years and Legal Troubles

The narrative continues with Grandpa Wall's later life, including his arrest in 1967 for contributing to the delinquency of minors and an incident where he held a teenager at gunpoint for trespassing. He eventually died in Apopka in August 1968.

A Black Panther Skin in the Charleston Museum?

This section shifts focus to Alexander Sprunt, Jr., an ornithologist and writer. It details his background and career, including his work with the National Audubon Society. Sprunt recounts an encounter in the winter of 1937 (or January 1937) in the Florida Keys where he saw a large black animal leap across the road, which he identified as a black (melanistic) panther. More significantly, in 1936, Sprunt acquired a skin of an alleged black panther from a trapper for five dollars and donated it to the Charleston Museum. The mammologist at the museum, Burnham Chamberlain, was pleased but regretted that the skull was not secured. Sprunt later found the skull, which was also deposited with the skin. The skin was described as "as black as a coal." Sprunt speculated it might be a distinct race of Florida panther.

Scientific Scrutiny and Feral Cats

The issue notes that while the skin was mentioned in Dr. Thomas Barbour's "That Vanishing Eden," there appears to be no published scientific examination of it. Another alleged black panther was reportedly killed in the Keys in January 1937 by James S. Harris and others, measuring 3 feet 10 inches. The article reveals that the Charleston Museum's Curator of Natural History, Matthew Gibson, recalled that a specimen believed to be a black panther had been examined and determined to be a large feral cat. The author emphasizes that for cat-sized skins, a feral cat is a probable culprit, but more testable specimens are always beneficial.

The State of Black Panther Investigation

The author observes that there are few serious investigators of black panther sightings, as the subject lacks the popular appeal of Bigfoot research. This often leads to a lack of critical examination of evidence and zoological analysis. The author suggests that while there might be a biological mystery, it may not involve an unknown species, referencing alternative ideas discussed in his book "Varmints." The lack of funding for scientific examination of suspect feline hair samples is highlighted as a barrier to research.

Featured Books

The issue concludes by featuring two books: "The Spotted Lion" by Kenneth Gandar Dower and "Strange Creatures Seldom Seen" by John Warms. The latter is described as a detailed look at cryptozoological sightings from Manitoba, including Sasquatch, lake monsters, and giant beavers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are the persistent reports of black panther sightings, the challenges of verifying such claims, the role of misidentification (especially with feral cats), and the public's enduring fascination with mystery animals. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging the possibility of unknown species or subspecies while emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific evidence and critical analysis, and highlighting the practical difficulties in obtaining such evidence due to funding limitations.

This document is a magazine issue featuring an article titled "The Smokey Cat of India" by Tony Gerard. It delves into the reported sightings and characteristics of a mysterious feline species allegedly inhabiting the Western Ghats region of India. The issue also includes a book review of "Beyond the Secret Elephants" by Gareth Patterson.

The Smokey Cat of India

The article begins with the author, Tony Gerard, recounting a conversation with renowned herpetologist Rom Whitaker about the possibility of undescribed species in India. Whitaker mentioned a "Smokey Cat," a feline described as leopard-sized but lacking any discernible pattern. Whitaker's assertion was based on personal accounts from individuals, including biologists, who had observed it and noted physical characteristics distinct from leopards.

Janaki Lenin, Rom Whitaker's wife and an author of books on Indian wildlife, has dedicated a section in her book "My Husband and Other Animals" to the Smokey Cat. She first heard of it from Santosh Mani, a former tea plantation manager in Munnar, Kerala, who claimed to have seen it twice over a five-year period. Mani's sightings were corroborated by the local Mudhuvans tribe, who called it "Pogeyan Puli," translating to "smokey cat," and distinguished it from leopards, tigers, or jungle cats.

Further accounts include a Kerala Forest Department official who saw a Smokey Cat on a ledge in Eravikulam National Park, and wildlife photographer Sandesh Kadur, who also sighted one in the same park. Kadur described it as a "jungle cat on steroids" calmly crossing a grassland, but was too afraid to photograph it.

Years later, Sandesh Mani contacted Janaki Lenin, suggesting the Smokey Cat might be an Asiatic golden cat (Catopuma temminckii). However, the current known range of the Asiatic golden cat is Southeast Asia, with only a few occurrences noted on the eastern edges of India. Mohan Alembath, a former forestry official, also agreed with the Asiatic golden cat identification after seeing a video from Indonesia, stating he was "100 per cent sure Smokey exists."

The author, Tony Gerard, visited India in the summer of 2019 and stayed at the Agumbi Rainforest Research Station, founded by Rom Whitaker. The site manager, Kumar Sringera, reported multiple sightings of a creature referred to as "Hulikurka" in the Agumbi area. Sringera described it as chestnut brown with a black-tipped tail and a ruff under its chin, resembling "an old tomcat." He noted that the Hulikurka posed no danger to humans but disliked dogs. Sringera also recounted an incident around 2013 where two teenage boys captured a young Hulikurka that had been chased by their dogs. The cat, though injured, was captured but later released by village elders.

Despite Sringera's conviction, other biologists at Agumbi were not entirely certain about the Hulikurka's distinctiveness. Yatin Kalki, a friend of Gerard's and a king cobra researcher, found the Hulikurka intriguing but noted discrepancies in witness descriptions. A landowner claimed his dogs were killed by a Hulikurka and described it as brown with black mottling and a dog-like snout.

Wildlife photographer Vipul Ramanuj and others noted that despite numerous camera traps deployed by the forestry department and various biologists, no Hulikurka has been photographed, unlike leopards, tigers, and other wildlife.

Gerard offers a personal opinion that cryptids often appear in areas where natural predators have been diminished, suggesting a human psychological need for mystery. However, he concludes that the "particular cryptid stands a fair chance to be a real animal," given the presence of other dangerous wildlife in the Western Ghats.

The article includes a map showing locations of Asiatic golden cat confirmations (red points) and Smokey Cat sightings (blue points), including Neora Valley National Park, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Dampa Tiger Reserve, Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, and Eravikulam National Park.

References are provided for scientific papers on the Asiatic golden cat and Janaki Lenin's book.

Book Reviews

Beyond the Secret Elephants by Gareth Patterson

This section reviews Gareth Patterson's book, which focuses on the cryptozoological subject of the "Otang," a creature reported by local forest-dwelling people in South Africa's Knysna Forest. The reviewer, Chad Arment, notes that Patterson spent his life studying the fauna of South Africa and his research confirmed a viable population of Knysna elephants, contrary to government claims of extinction. While studying elephants, Patterson became aware of the Otang, described as a relict hominoid. The book details sightings and personal encounters with the creature. The review highlights that the Otang is similar to "man ape" accounts elsewhere and that while footprints are occasionally found, other physical evidence is scarce. The review also touches upon the local myth of the Knysna elephants being extinct, suggesting it might be perpetuated for tourism. The reviewer mentions the scarcity of English-language literature on African mystery apes and points to European colonial influences and the need for translation of data. It also references an investigation into the "waterbobbejaan" or "water baboon" by Dr. C. K. Brain and suggests looking into works by Bernard Heuvelmans and Jacqueline for further information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the exploration of cryptids and unknown animal species, particularly "The Smokey Cat" of India and the "Otang" of South Africa. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into these phenomena, acknowledging the possibility of their existence while also considering scientific explanations and the potential for misidentification or folklore. The article on the Smokey Cat balances anecdotal evidence with scientific references and the author's personal reflections on the nature of cryptid reports. The book review of "Beyond the Secret Elephants" also engages with cryptozoological subjects, highlighting the importance of continued research and the potential for undiscovered species. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in mysteries of the natural world and cryptozoology.

Title: BioFortean Notes
Issue: 1
Date: October 29, 1939 (based on the date of the historical clipping, though the magazine itself is likely more recent given the book reviews).
Publisher: Coachwhip Publications

This issue of BioFortean Notes focuses on cryptozoology, featuring reviews of several books and a historical news report. The content highlights the efforts of Coachwhip Publications and the StrangeArk group in promoting research and discussion within the field.

Book Reviews

Beyond the Secret Elephants

The first item discusses "Roumeguère-Eberhardt's Dossier X: Les Hominidés Non Identifiés des Forêts d'Afrique," noting it is available on Kindle and in French. It then mentions "Beyond the Secret Elephants" by Gareth Patterson, available as an ebook from online booksellers, with a print version currently only in South Africa.

Black Panthers: Little Known North American Treasure by Alfred Willis

Reviewed by Chad Arment, this book is described as a "gem" focusing on the mystery of the black panther, an animal that receives little attention. Arment discovered the book while working on a black panther article for the same issue. He notes that while there are few books on the subject, his own "Varmints" and Michael Mayes' "Shadow Cats" also cover related territory. The book primarily consists of sighting reports gathered by Willis, mainly from Virginia but also from other states. Arment acknowledges that sighting reports are folklore but can be used to develop research strategies. He expresses less optimism than the author regarding a single solution to the black panther mystery, suggesting multiple factors contribute to its folklore, possibly including an unrecognized biological species. The book's descriptive accounts of the cats are praised as better than typical small press publications. Arment finds the discussion on the disparity between historical published accounts and oral history interesting, though he is cautious about linguistic interpretations. He suggests building a historical repository of such accounts, noting the potential lack of 18th-century records might indicate a 19th-century introduction of black felines. The book is recommended for mystery cat enthusiasts, especially if found in a used bookstore.

Still in Search of Prehistoric Survivors by Dr. Karl Shuker

This is an expanded update of Dr. Shuker's classic book. It is described as well worth obtaining, filling the cryptozoological literature with reports of creatures thought long extinct. Dr. Shuker examines these reports with an eye toward likely explanations and potential areas for new discoveries. The cover art features illustrations by William M. Rebsamen.

The Encyclopaedia of New and Rediscovered Animals by Dr. Karl Shuker

Another updated edition by Dr. Karl Shuker, this encyclopedia covers zoological discoveries and rediscoveries. It is presented as fascinating reading for wildlife lovers and cryptozoology fans, detailing new and entrancing species throughout the animal kingdom.

Historical News Report

STRANGE ANIMAL KILLED

A news clipping from the Scranton, PA, Scrantonian, dated October 29, 1939, reports on a "strange animal" killed in a chickencoop in Nicholson. The animal, identified as a South American "paca" by William Stanaka, assistant to Elizabeth Taylor (director of the Everhart Museum), was exhibited at the Tom Taylor Store. It is believed to have escaped from a carnival or circus. The report notes that pacas were considered strange enough to impress visitors and were easily acquired from animal importers, serving as an example of an "out-of-place animal" sourced from a traveling menagerie.

Support and Community

Support Coachwhip and StrangeArk

StrangeArk and BioFortean Notes are supported by Coachwhip Publications' cryptozoology publishing efforts. Readers are encouraged to support these efforts by signing up for the Coachwhip Books email list. This allows subscribers to be the first to know about new books and reduces the need for expensive social media advertising.

StrangeArk Group

For cryptozoology researchers and field investigators focused on biological-folkloric analysis (excluding paranormal explanations), the StrangeArk group on Facebook is recommended. This group aims to promote discussion on strategies and resources for legitimate cryptozoological research, with the specific goal of providing evidence for the description of new species when corroborating evidence exists. Interested individuals can contact the organizers through the StrangeArk page.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around cryptozoology, mystery animals, and the review of relevant literature. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious, evidence-based research into unexplained animal phenomena, as evidenced by the focus on biological-folkloric analysis and the encouragement of building historical repositories of data. The publication also serves as a platform for promoting books and initiatives within the cryptozoology community.