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Cryptozoology - Vol 01 - 1982
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Title: CRYPTOZOOLOGY Issue: Vol. 1 Date: Winter 1982 Publisher: International Society of Cryptozoology Country: USA ISSN: 0736-7023
Magazine Overview
Title: CRYPTOZOOLOGY
Issue: Vol. 1
Date: Winter 1982
Publisher: International Society of Cryptozoology
Country: USA
ISSN: 0736-7023
This inaugural issue of Cryptozoology, an interdisciplinary journal, sets out to define the scope and methodology of the field. It positions cryptozoology as a scientific endeavor akin to paleontology, focused on discovering and describing unknown animals of the present.
Articles
What is Cryptozoology?
Bernard Heuvelmans, in the lead article, defines cryptozoology as the science of "hidden" animals. He argues that it is a legitimate scientific pursuit, no different in its methods or legitimacy from paleontology. Heuvelmans explains that "hidden animals" are those not yet described by science, often known to local populations but not formally recognized. He draws parallels between cryptozoology and paleontology, noting that both rely on reconstructions from incomplete data (fossil fragments for paleontology, eyewitness testimony and traces for cryptozoology). He emphasizes that while paleontology reconstructs past life, cryptozoology reconstructs living, unknown species. Heuvelmans also addresses the concept of "parataxa"—a proposed classification for fossilized tracks or unidentifiable animal parts—suggesting its application to living animals known only through reports. He advocates for a scientific approach that utilizes all forms of evidence, including testimonial and circumstantial, not solely autoptical proof, and criticizes the overly rigid requirements of modern zoology that exclude potentially valid species.
Heuvelmans further discusses the "snares of mythification," explaining how folklore and imagination can distort accounts of unknown animals. He posits that myths are not pure invention but reflect primordial beliefs and are a way for the human mind to process and neutralize fears associated with the unknown. He argues that while mythification is a factor, it does not negate the potential existence of the animals themselves, citing the unicorn as an example of a creature whose legend evolved significantly from its possible real-world origins.
The Status of Wildman Research in China
Zhou Guoxing provides an overview of "Wildman" research in China. Historical documents from various dynasties mention "Wildman" (also known as "manbear," "hairy man," "shangui," "xingxing," and "feifei"), described as large, unknown primates. Scientific interest began in the late 1950s and intensified in the 1970s with expeditions sponsored by the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Despite extensive fieldwork, no definitive physical evidence has been found, except for purported hands and feet of a large monkey species, possibly a macaque, which might explain sightings of "smaller" Wildmen. The article reviews reported morphological and ecological characteristics and discusses potential affinities with the fossil ape Gigantopithecus. Zhou Guoxing details several investigations:
- 1950s: Investigation of the "Abominable Snowman" (Yeti) in Tibet, which yielded a piece of head hair analyzed microscopically, found to be different from orang-utan, bear, or yak hair. Some believe the Snowman is a large, unknown primate.
- 1960s: Investigation in Xishuang Banna, Yunnan Province, following reports of a killed Wildman. Scientific investigation failed to find direct evidence, with some suggesting it was a gibbon, though a newsman claimed it was an unknown human-shaped animal.
- 1970s: A large-scale investigation in the Shennongjia area of Hubei and southern Shanxi provinces, involving over 100 people. No direct proof was found, but footprints, hair, and feces were recovered. Subsequent investigations in 1979-1980 in the same region and parts of Sichuan yielded a "monkey child" skeleton.
Other Articles and Reports
- The Status of Wildman Research in China: (Detailed above)
- The Ri-Unidentified Aquatic Animals of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea: by Roy Wagner.
- The Loch Ness Monster: Public Perception and the Evidence: by Henry H. Bauer.
- A Note on Folklore in Hominology: by Dmitri Bayanov.
- Mokele-Mbembe: Proximate Analysis of Its Supposed Food Source: by Charles W. Weber, James W. Berry, and J. Richard Greenwell.
- An Estimate of the Dimensions of the Lake Champlain Monster from the Length of Adjacent Wind Waves in the Mansi Photograph: by Paul H. LeBlond.
- The Search for Evidence of Mokele-Mbembe in the People's Republic of the Congo: by Roy P. Mackal, J: Richard Greenwell, and M. Justin Wilkinson.
- LCPI Work at Lake Champlain: 1982: by Joseph W. Zarzynski.
- Investigations at Loch Ness and Seven Other Freshwater Scottish Lakes: by Joseph W. Zarzynski and M. Pat Meaney.
Book Reviews
The issue includes reviews of several books related to cryptozoology:
- *Les Derniers Dragons d'Afrique* (The Last Dragons of Africa) by Bernard Heuvelmans, reviewed by Jean-Francois Trape.
- *Searching for Hidden Animals: An Inquiry Into Zoological Mysteries* by Roy P. Mackal, reviewed by George R. Zug.
- *Sasquatch: The Apes Among Us* by John Green, reviewed by Charles A. Reed.
- *Sasquatch Apparitions: A Critique on the Pacific Northwest Hominoids* by Barbara Wasson, reviewed by F. G. Wood.
- *The Scientist Looks at the Sasquatch (II)* by Roderick Sprague and Grover S. Krantz (Eds.), reviewed by Vladimir Markotic.
- *Bigfoot: A Personal Inquiry Into a Phenomenon* by Kenneth Wylie, reviewed by Ron Westrum.
- *Manlike Monsters on Trial: Early Records and Modern Evidence* by Marjorie Halpin and Michael M. Ames (Eds.), reviewed by Grover S. Krantz.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The primary theme of this issue is the establishment and definition of cryptozoology as a rigorous scientific discipline. The editorial stance, particularly evident in Heuvelmans's article, is one of advocating for a broad, evidence-based approach that embraces testimonial and circumstantial evidence alongside autoptical proof, while maintaining a healthy skepticism to avoid succumbing to mythification or uncritical belief. The journal emphasizes the importance of systematic investigation, the accumulation of data, and the potential for discovering new species, even in a seemingly well-explored world. There is also a clear concern for the preservation of potentially undiscovered or endangered species before they vanish, mirroring the urgency seen in paleontology's study of extinct life.
The journal aims to bridge the gap between folklore and scientific inquiry, treating anecdotal evidence seriously but subjecting it to critical analysis. The recurring mention of "Wildman" in China, the "Loch Ness Monster," and "Mokele-Mbembe" highlights the focus on large, elusive animals that have captured public imagination but remain scientifically unconfirmed.
This issue of "Cryptozoology" (Volume 1, Issue 1, 1982) is dedicated to exploring various cryptid phenomena, featuring three main articles: "Wildman Research in China" by Zhou Guoxing, "A Decade of Underwater Studies at Loch Ness" by Robert H. Rines, and "The Ri-Unidentified Aquatic Animals of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea" by Roy Wagner.
Wildman Research in China
Zhou Guoxing discusses the ongoing research into the existence of "Wildman" in China. He addresses various theories about its origins, including the possibility of it being a deformed human or a large unknown primate. The article details specific investigations, such as reports from Shanxi Province and the analysis of preserved "manbear" hands and feet from Jiolong Mountain in Zhejiang Province. The author concludes that while direct physical evidence is scarce, indirect evidence like folklore and eyewitness accounts, coupled with the consistent ecological and morphological descriptions, suggest these are not mere fictions. He posits that the Chinese Wildman might be a descendant of Gigantopithecus.
The article also outlines the morphological and ecological characteristics of the legendary Wildman, including its height, bipedal locomotion, ape-like features, and diet. It notes that while many scientists remain skeptical, a smaller number believe in its existence, with differing views on its classification.
A Decade of Underwater Studies at Loch Ness
Robert H. Rines summarizes the Academy of Applied Science's part-time studies of Loch Ness from the 1970s. The research primarily involved extensive sonar exploration, including digital sonar tracking and the use of high-definition side-scan sonar. These investigations repeatedly detected large, moving underwater targets, significantly larger than known fish echoes. Simultaneous attempts at underwater strobe photography provided visual confirmation of sizable objects. The article highlights the repeatability of these findings across different researchers and equipment, noting consistent target widths and unique sonar echo characteristics.
Visual observations and surface/subsurface photography also contributed to the research. Investigators filmed moving protuberances and observed what was described as an animate back, approximately 25 feet long. Rare subsurface photographs, some accompanied by sonar tracking, are presented as evidence. The article also touches upon other discoveries, such as circular ring patterns on the loch bottom and the identification of indigenous Loch Ness bottom fish.
The Ri-Unidentified Aquatic Animals of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea
Roy Wagner reports on the "ri," an aquatic creature reportedly known to the natives of Central New Ireland. Described as resembling a mermaid, the ri are sighted by fishermen, sometimes netted, and occasionally eaten. They are characterized as air-breathing mammals with human-like upper torsos, long dark hair, and lighter skin. Females have prominent breasts, and both sexes have human-like genitals. Their lower trunk is legless and terminates in fins.
The article details eyewitness accounts, including the author's own observation of a large, dark object swimming in Ramat Bay. It discusses native traditions and myths surrounding the ri, including their origin from people who transformed into half-fish creatures. The article notes that the ri are considered tutelary spirits by the Nakela clan, and their killing is sometimes followed by mortuary feasts. Despite the natives' familiarity with dugongs and porpoises, they identify the ri as distinct.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue consistently explores the boundaries between folklore, eyewitness testimony, and scientific investigation in the study of cryptids. The articles present evidence, acknowledge skepticism, and advocate for continued research, often highlighting the challenges of obtaining definitive proof. The overall stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into phenomena that defy conventional scientific explanation, while also emphasizing the need for rigorous methodology and critical analysis of evidence.
This issue of Cryptozoology, Volume 1, Issue 1, published in 1982 by the International Society of Cryptozoology, features several articles on cryptids and related phenomena. The cover highlights the main article on the Loch Ness Monster, with page numbers spanning 38-45.
Article: RI-UNIDENTIFIED AQUATIC ANIMALS
This section, authored by Wagner, discusses the 'ri,' an aquatic creature described by informants in New Ireland and surrounding areas. The 'ri' are depicted as having long, sharp fingernails, deeply ridged palms, and strange mouths. They are considered air-breathers living in shallow water, sleeping on beaches, and subsisting on fish. Informants describe them as having a sense of shame, attempting to conceal their genitalia. Their skin is thin and human-like, attracting sharks if injured. Accounts suggest their distribution extends around the central and southern shores of New Ireland and through the waters separating New Ireland from Buka and Bougainville Islands. An anecdote recounts an attempt to capture a 'ri' near Buka Island. Fishermen in Aitape also reported hauling 'ri' in their nets. The author notes that 'ri' are distinct from dugongs, which are well-known and identified by the local Barok people as 'bo narasi.' Despite contradictions and improbabilities in native accounts, including veneration by the Nakela clan alongside reports of them being butchered and sold, the author suggests that the consistent features across descriptions indicate the existence of an unknown creature. The article concludes that a future investigation into the 'ri' could be a worthwhile venture.
Article: THE LOCH NESS MONSTER: PUBLIC PERCEPTION AND THE EVIDENCE
Authored by Henry H. Bauer, this article examines the public's perception of the Loch Ness Monster versus the informed opinion based on evidence. Bauer notes that while the Loch Ness Monster is a widely recognized cliche, only about 13% of adult Americans believe in its existence. The public image often associates it with myths, tourist traps, and hoaxes, similar to ancient astronauts or Atlantis. However, Bauer contrasts this with the literature on the subject, stating that most books (all but one) express belief, and about 45% of articles project belief, with only 35% expressing disbelief. He observes a shift in attitude over time, with belief becoming more prevalent in articles since the 1950s. Bauer highlights that the literature comes from respectable publishers and journals, with less than 5% from untrustworthy sources. He points out that pro-Nessie writings are often more factually accurate than critical ones. The article posits that public opinion has been molded more by newspapers than by books or magazines, and that newspaper attitudes have remained largely unchanged since the 1930s, perpetuating the cliche. Bauer suggests that a similar situation might prevail in other cryptozoological quests until incontrovertible biological evidence is presented.
Article: A NOTE ON FOLKLORE IN HOMINOLOGY
Dmitri Bayanov discusses the interconnectedness of mythology and reality in hominology, the study of Sasquatch-like creatures. He argues that while folklorists may dismiss real hominoids, the existence of mythological hominoids is a necessary, though not sufficient, condition for the existence of real ones. Bayanov uses the example of Troy, where archaeological reality coexisted with mythological depictions. He emphasizes that the term 'hominology' in the Soviet Union refers to the study of real hominoids, distinct from imaginary ones. Bayanov asserts that folklore is a crucial source of information for science and acts as a 'litmus test' for the reality of hominoids; if such beings existed, they would inevitably be reflected in myths and legends. He criticizes the tendency of some scientists to dismiss folklore outright or to project their own ignorance onto informants. Bayanov suggests that 'realists' and 'folklorists' should collaborate to sort through folklore related to hominoids, differentiating between fact and fiction. He references Wayne Suttles' observations that anthropologists may overlook or miscategorize traditions of Sasquatch-like beings, and that the existence of such traditions implies a real basis.
Research Report: MOKELE-MBEMBE: PROXIMATE ANALYSIS OF ITS SUPPOSED FOOD SOURCE
This report by Charles W. Weber, James W. Berry, and J. Richard Greenwell investigates the diet of Mokele-Mbembe, a sauropod-like creature reported in Central African swamps. A 1981 expedition collected 'molombo' fruit, reputedly a staple food. Proximate chemical analysis of the fruit revealed it to be low in fiber (8.5%) and protein (7.9%), with a high carbohydrate content (72.2%). The authors compare this to other food sources like hyacinth, alfalfa, and pear. They conclude that while the fruit could be consumed by a ruminant or non-ruminant animal, its low protein content would be marginal for an adult ruminant and insufficient for a monogastric animal. The report estimates caloric intake based on elephant data and Kleiber's equation, suggesting that Mokele-Mbembe would likely need to consume more than just molombo fruit to meet its nutritional requirements. The authors hope future expeditions will provide more information.
Research Report: AN ESTIMATE OF THE DIMENSIONS OF THE LAKE CHAMPLAIN MONSTER FROM THE LENGTH OF ADJACENT WIND WAVES IN THE MANSI PHOTOGRAPH
Paul H. LeBlond presents a method for estimating the size of aquatic objects in photographs, using the length of wind waves as a scale. Applied to the 'Champ' photograph taken by Sandra Mansi in 1977, LeBlond estimates the water-line dimension of the creature to range from 4.8 m to 17.2 m. The method involves determining the wind speed using the Beaufort scale and estimating fetch, then calculating wave characteristics. The paper discusses potential sources of error, including the variability of wind speeds, fetch estimates, and wave properties. The results are based on the appearance of waves in the photograph, noting that the waves appear to propagate from left to right and that there is no indication of waves produced by Champ itself.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of cryptids (Loch Ness Monster, Mokele-Mbembe, Sasquatch, 'ri', 'Champ'), the interplay between evidence and public perception, the role of folklore and mythology in scientific inquiry, and the application of scientific methods (chemical analysis, wave analysis) to cryptozoological subjects. The journal's stance appears to be one of serious, scientific inquiry into anomalous phenomena, encouraging rigorous investigation and analysis while acknowledging the challenges posed by limited evidence and public skepticism. The articles generally advocate for considering the possibility of unknown animals and exploring the data, even when it is unconventional.
Title: CRYPTOZOOLOGY
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 1
Date: 1982
Publisher: International Society of Cryptozoology
Focus: This issue of Cryptozoology delves into two significant field investigations: the search for the elusive Mokele-Mbembe in the People's Republic of the Congo, and the ongoing efforts to document the 'Champ' or Lake Champlain Monster.
Field Report: The Search for Evidence of Mokele-Mbembe in the People's Republic of the Congo
This extensive report details an expedition conducted between late October and early December 1981, by Roy P. Mackal, J. Richard Greenwell, M. Justin Wilkinson, and others, into the Likouala swamps of the People's Republic of the Congo. The expedition had two primary objectives: to investigate the existence of large, unknown animals known locally as Mokele-Mbembe, believed by some to resemble Mesozoic sauropods, and to study the region's ecological conditions.
The report traces the historical background of Mokele-Mbembe reports, dating back over 200 years to Abbe Proyart's 1776 account of monstrous tracks. It also mentions encounters and reports from Alfred Aloysius Smith ('Trader Horn'), Carl Hagenbeck, Captain Freiherr von Stein zu Lausnitz, and Leo von Boxberger, highlighting the consistent native references to such creatures.
The expedition team, including American Baptist missionary Eugene Thomas as guide, navigated through challenging terrain, including the Ubangi and Likouala rivers, to reach remote villages like Epena and Kinami. Despite extensive efforts, including sonar use and forest forays, no definitive evidence of Mokele-Mbembe was found. Villagers provided anecdotal reports, but were often reluctant to share specific locations with outsiders. The planned continuation of the expedition to Lake Telle was canceled due to impassable swamps and logistical difficulties.
The report also discusses the region's fauna, noting the presence of gorillas and chimpanzees, and expressing concern over the depletion of monkey populations. It suggests that the Likouala region, with its vast, unexplored swamps, could potentially harbor unknown large herbivores, possibly even sauropod-like creatures, given the stable geological and vegetation history of Central Africa.
Ecological considerations suggest that the area's abundant vegetation could support large herbivores. The report notes that while dinosaur fossils are scarce in Central Africa, this is likely due to poor field conditions and lack of research rather than absence of evidence. The Likouala region is described as one of the last untouched natural biopreserves, though large animals like the forest elephant are facing increased hunting pressure.
Future plans for further expeditions into the Likouala swamps are discussed, identifying Lake Telle and the Tebeke River as potential target areas.
Field Report: LCPI Work at Lake Champlain: 1982
This section details the 1982 fieldwork conducted by the Lake Champlain Investigation (LCPI), led by Joseph W. Zarzynski, to identify the presumed colony of large unknown animals in Lake Champlain, popularly known as 'Champ'. The lake, spanning parts of the U.S. and Canada, is described with its dimensions and ecological characteristics.
The 1982 fieldwork involved 31 days of operations, including shoreline and vessel surveillance, sonar searches, and scuba dives. Key personnel included Zarzynski, M. Pat Meaney, and associates from Rochester Engineering Laboratories. The LCPI utilized side-scan sonar and a modified Raytheon sonar unit for underwater monitoring.
Scuba diving teams investigated sonar targets and conducted underwater archaeological projects alongside searches for cryptozoological evidence. While several intriguing surface objects were noted, only one, on July 16, 1982, was tentatively labeled a 'possible' Champ sighting, though deemed inconclusive due to range and lack of features. Sonar expeditions did not track any targets indicative of a Champ animal. However, an interesting sonar anomaly was recorded on May 1, 1982, after an unknown animal submerged.
The LCPI collected seven new Champ sighting reports from 1982, bringing the total cataloged sightings to 168. These reports describe various encounters with creatures ranging from 20 to 50 feet in length, with descriptions including grayish-black bodies, eel-like heads, and humps.
Future plans for the LCPI include continuing similar fieldwork, potentially using enhanced night-vision gear, conducting historical research, interviewing eyewitnesses, and working to identify and protect the 'Champ' animals.
Discussion and Conclusion
The issue includes a discussion on the Mansi photograph, analyzing wave properties to estimate the size of the object depicted. The analysis suggests the object is of considerable size, with estimated wavelengths ranging from 3.2 to 8.6 meters, and the object itself spanning 1.5 to 2 wavelengths at the waterline, indicating a length of 4.8 to 17.2 meters.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently focuses on field research, eyewitness accounts, and the scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly large, unknown animals. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging further investigation into cryptozoological claims while maintaining a degree of scientific rigor in data collection and analysis. The articles highlight the challenges and rewards of cryptozoological fieldwork, emphasizing the importance of both historical records and contemporary evidence.
Title: Cryptozoology
Issue: Volume 1, Issue 1 (1982)
Publisher: International Society of Cryptozoology
Content Focus: This issue features an article detailing investigations at Loch Ness and other Scottish lakes, alongside several book reviews on cryptozoological topics, particularly Sasquatch.
Investigations at Loch Ness and Seven Other Freshwater Scottish Lakes
This article, authored by Joseph W. Zarzynski and M. Pat Meaney, recounts their two-week expedition to Scotland in August 1982. The primary goals were to conduct surface surveillance at Loch Ness and seven other lochs with reported sightings, perform logistical surveys for future expeditions, and foster communication with cryptozoologists. Their strategy involved shoreline vantage points, roadside laybys, and vessel surveillance.
- The article provides physical descriptions and dimensions for several Scottish lochs visited:
- Loch Ness: 22 miles long, 2 miles wide, maximum depth estimated at 975 feet.
- Loch Morar: 11 miles long, 1.5 miles wide, maximum depth of 1,017 feet (possibly the deepest lake in Europe).
- Loch Assynt: 6.5 miles long, maximum depth of 282 feet.
- Loch Arkaig: 12 miles long, 0.5-mile mean breadth, maximum depth of 359 feet.
- Loch Sheil: 17 miles long, maximum depth of 420 feet.
- Loch Quoich: 9 miles long, 1.5 miles wide, maximum depth of 281 feet.
- Loch Oich: 4 miles long, 0.2-mile mean breadth, maximum depth of 133 feet.
- Loch Lochy: 10 miles long, 0.6-mile average width, maximum depth of 531 feet.
The fieldwork logs detail daily activities from August 7 to August 14, 1982. Despite using binoculars, 35mm cameras with various lenses, and a Super 8mm movie camera, no definitive sightings were made. Weather conditions were often poor, with wind and choppy waters. The expedition included a rendezvous with Adrian Shine's team and their sonar vessel, the 'New Atlantis,' and a visit to Lake Bala in Wales, a reputed "monster lake."
The authors mention their prior experience in investigating aquatic environments, with Meaney having worked on Lake Champlain and Zarzynski being the director of the Lake Champlain Investigation (LCPI) since 1974.
Results: The expedition was plagued by poor weather, limiting opportunities for clear observation. While no sightings occurred, the researchers surveyed other Scottish freshwater bodies known for sightings.
Future Plans: The authors express a desire to return to Scotland to further investigate claims of other "freshwater lochs from which sightings on the Loch Ness pattern have been reported."
Book Reviews
The issue includes several book reviews, critically assessing recent publications in cryptozoology:
Les Derniers Dragons d'Afrique [The Last Dragons of Africa] by Bernard Heuvelmans
This review by Jean-Francois Trape discusses Heuvelmans' extensive work on African "dragons," including giant serpents and "amphibious dragons." Trape notes the book's aim to present a comprehensive picture of cryptozoological studies and acknowledges Heuvelmans' meticulous documentation. The review highlights Heuvelmans' identification of four forms of "amphibious dragons" in Africa and his discussion of "flying dragons." Trape suggests that while the book is informative, drawing definitive conclusions from witness statements alone is risky, and that the author's premise of "unswerving certainty" might be challenged. The review concludes that the book is a readable introduction to cryptozoology but advises readers to remain skeptical.
Searching for Hidden Animals: An Inquiry Into Zoological Mysteries by Roy P. Mackal
Reviewed by George R. Zug, this book is described as a journey through various sightings of strange animals worldwide. Zug notes that Mackal mixes confirmed and unconfirmed animals, adding credibility to cryptozoological phenomena. However, Zug cautions against Mackal's "unswerving certainty" and advises readers to remain skeptical, despite admiring the author's fervor in examining data. The review suggests that Mackal's interpretations should be considered tentative hypotheses.
Sasquatch: The Apes Among Us by John Green
Reviewed by Charles A. Reed, this book is considered a thorough update on Sasquatch research. Reed notes Green's statement that he does not "believe" in Sasquatch, framing the book as an "investigation." The review highlights Green's extensive records of footprints and sightings across North America. Reed praises the book's comprehensive data but criticizes two chapters: one on the "Ivan" hoax in Bossburg, which he finds substandard and potentially approving of chicanery, and another that mixes creationism with cryptozoology. Despite these shortcomings, Reed deems it the best book on the subject, though not supplanting older works entirely.
Sasquatch Apparitions: A Critique on the Pacific Northwest Hominoids by Barbara Wasson
Reviewed by F. G. Wood, this book is described as having both useful information and significant flaws. Wood finds the author's approach critical and aimed at promoting critical thinking. However, he notes inconsistencies and a lack of depth, particularly regarding the "Oregon Coast Range" chapter and the discussion of "classic reports." Wood concludes that the book reveals more about its author, a clinical psychologist, than about Sasquatch investigations.
The Scientist Looks at the Sasquatch (II) edited by Roderick Sprague and Grover S. Krantz
Reviewed by Vladimir Markotic, this book is a collection of papers from a conference on "manlike monsters." Markotic notes that the book aims to provide a scientific treatment of the subject and brings scholars together. He observes that while some papers were pertinent, others were not, and that the selection for publication may have favored less controversial material. The review categorizes the papers into favorable, neutral, and skeptical opinions on Sasquatch reality. Markotic highlights specific papers, including those on Sasquatch footprints, names, and potential evolutionary origins (Gigantopithecus, Neanderthals, Australopithecus).
Manlike Monsters on Trial: Early Records and Modern Evidence edited by Marjorie Halpin and Michael M. Ames
Reviewed by Ron Westrum, this book is based on a conference on "manlike monsters." Westrum notes the conference's success in bringing scholars together and moving the topic towards science. He points out that some papers were less relevant and that the inclusion of "true believers" detracted from the scientific rigor. Westrum finds the volume useful for its insights into testimony and fraud but feels a "hard, central core is missing," possibly due to the authors' belief that Bigfoot cannot exist.
Bigfoot: A Personal Inquiry Into a Phenomenon by Kenneth Wylie
Reviewed by Ron Westrum, this book is described as having both useful points and a lack of depth. Westrum notes Wylie's extensive reading and interviews but criticizes the limited fieldwork in key Sasquatch regions and the lack of focus on major case studies. He finds the book's tone "chatty" and its analysis sometimes cursory. Westrum suggests the book is a corrective to overly sanguine views but lacks the depth needed for a comprehensive scientific inquiry.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue of Cryptozoology consistently explores the challenges of cryptozoological research, emphasizing the need for scientific rigor, critical thinking, and skepticism, even when examining evidence for phenomena like lake monsters and Sasquatch. The reviews highlight the difficulties in distinguishing objective fact from myth and legend, the impact of public perception on scientific acceptance, and the ongoing debate within the field regarding the validity of evidence and the nature of potential creatures. The editorial stance appears to favor a cautious, evidence-based approach to cryptozoology, encouraging further investigation while warning against uncritical acceptance of anecdotal accounts.
Title: Cryptozoology
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 1
Date: Winter 1982
Publisher: International Society of Cryptozoology
Focus: The inaugural issue of Cryptozoology, the journal of the International Society of Cryptozoology, features a collection of articles, many stemming from the 'Manlike Monsters on Trial' conference held in Vancouver in Spring 1978. The journal aims to be a focal point for the investigation, analysis, publication, and discussion of animals of unexpected form or size, or unexpected occurrence.
Articles and Content
The issue presents ten articles that form the core of 'Manlike Monsters on Trial,' with a significant emphasis on the Sasquatch.
- Article 1: Discusses the physical characteristics of the Sasquatch, noting its human proportions, bull-necked build, omnivorous diet, nocturnal habits, and swimming ability, while also highlighting absences such as speech, accurate throwing, tool use, and fear of guns. It concludes the Sasquatch is not human, not normally dangerous, and not endangered.
- Article 5 (Wayne Suttles): Examines the 'Testimony of Tradition' among Northwest Coast Indians, suggesting that while myths may not prove physical reality, they are relevant for understanding the origin of Sasquatch stories.
- Article 6 (John Colarusso): Presents 'Ethnographic Information on a Wildman of the Caucasus' from native informants, describing a creature that is half-man, half-animal, distinct from North American Sasquatch reports.
- Article 7 (George Gill): Reports on a possible 'Population Cline' of Sasquatch body sizes correlating with latitude, following Bergmann's Rule, though noting that John Green's data may not support this.
- Article 8 (R. L. Kirlin and Lasse Hertel): Analyzes an Alan Berry sound recording purported to be of Sasquatch origin. They conclude that if legitimate, it contains two voices, one with a vocal tract longer than normal for humans, but do not rule out prerecording.
- Article 9 (Vaughn Bryant and B. Trevor-Deutsch): Discusses analyses of hair and fecal samples, finding them unable to make positive Sasquatch identifications, but deeming hair analysis more promising.
- Article 10: A bibliography by L. G. M. Ruus covers the field of 'manlike monsters,' with an emphasis on Sasquatchery, intended as valuable background material.
Additional Content:
- Comments on the Kirlin-Hertel Analysis: The author notes that the Kirlin-Hertel analysis is based on a tape of questionable origin. He recounts an encounter with individuals who claimed to have taken Alan Berry to a hunting camp in the Sierras of California, where the tape was made. Photographs shown depicted giant footprints that appeared to be a 'blatantly fake design,' leading to a strained and terminated discussion.
- Indirect Bearing Articles: Several articles, including those by Jeffrey, Dickason, Preston, Fogelson, Buckley, and Halpin, deal with human conceptions of monsters and the definition of 'human,' rather than the physical reality of creatures. These articles account for 35% of the text and suggest that 'manlike monsters' help define the human condition by contrasting it with something slightly less than human, thus bridging the gap between humans and animals and emphasizing human distinctiveness.
- Witigo/Windigo: The article discusses the Witigo of the Algonkians, described as men who ate human flesh and became semihuman creatures, serving as a myth to discourage cannibalism.
- Stoneclad Giants: These are described as different, not subhuman, possibly distorted versions of Scandinavian armed men encountered by North American natives.
- General Observation: A common thread in many accounts is the existence of something that fills the intellectual gap between man and animal, potentially reducing feelings of isolation.
- Grover S. Krantz's Review: Krantz reviews the book 'Manlike Monsters on Trial,' noting that it published only part of the Vancouver conference proceedings. He discusses the tendency to attribute human or semihuman characteristics to Sasquatch, suggesting that while direct accounts focus on animal behavior, interpretations add human-like qualities. He highlights the need to establish the true range of the subject and the physical reality of these creatures.
Instructions to Contributors
The 'Instructions to Contributors' section provides detailed guidelines for submitting manuscripts to Cryptozoology. It specifies requirements for:
- General: Double-spaced typing, American spelling and style.
- Articles: Submitted in triplicate, prefaced by a 50-100 word abstract, minimum 1,000 words, topical or theoretical discussions preferred.
- Research Reports: Submitted in triplicate, prefaced by an abstract, detailing specific research findings, with subheadings for Introduction, Method, Results, and Discussion.
- Field Reports: Limited to 2,500 words, describing fieldwork, with subheadings for Introduction, Narrative Description, Results, and Future Plans.
- Book Reviews: Reviews of relevant books, unsolicited submissions encouraged but contact with the editor is recommended.
- Comments and Responses: Critiques or responses to previously published works.
- Referencing: A specific format for in-text citations (author, year) and a References Cited section at the end of the manuscript, alphabetized by author.
Society Information
- Officers: Lists the President (Bernard Heuvelmans), Vice President (Roy P. Mackal), and Secretary-Treasurer (J. Richard Greenwell).
- Board of Directors: Includes a diverse international board with members from the U.S.S.R., France, South Africa, Bulgaria, China, Canada, and the U.S.A.
- Purpose of the Society: To serve as a focal point for investigation, analysis, publication, and discussion of cryptozoological matters and to provide public education.
- Membership and Subscriptions: Details membership fees (US$25/year for individuals, US$30 for couples, US$35 for institutions) and benefits, including the annual journal and quarterly newsletter.
- Honorary Members: Lists notable honorary members from various countries.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of 'manlike monsters,' particularly the Sasquatch, and the broader anthropological implications of such creatures in defining human identity. The editorial stance, as reflected in the articles and the society's purpose, is to provide a serious, scientific forum for the study of cryptozoology, encouraging rigorous analysis of evidence while acknowledging the role of folklore and tradition. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between anecdotal accounts, interpretations, and scientifically verifiable data. The journal also aims to foster public understanding and discussion of these subjects.