Cryptozoology Review - Vol 1 No 2 - 1996

Magazine Overview

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 2
Date: Autumn 1996
Publisher: Ben S. Roesch and John Moore
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review, dated Autumn 1996, announces changes to subscription costs due to underestimation in the previous issue. The new rates are $12.00 CAD in Canada, $14.00 USD (air mail) in the USA, and $18.00 USD (air mail) overseas. Back issues of Vol. 1 No. 1 are available for $3.00 CAD. The publication is seeking contributing editors, correspondents, artists, and editorial consultants, offering payment in copies for unsolicited contributions. It also highlights the need for translations of German cryptozoological articles.

Contents and Key Articles

The issue features a diverse range of topics within cryptozoology:

• The Editor's Page: Ben S. Roesch addresses subscription cost adjustments and expresses gratitude for feedback. He also previews upcoming features like 'Research Requests' and 'From the Archives.'
• Letters and Communications: This section includes comments and feedback from readers such as Gary Mangiacopra, Richard Ellis, Mark Chorvinsky, Peter Massaro, Jonathan Downes, Peter V. O'Shea, Dr. Bernard Heuvelmans, and Dr. Karl Shuker, congratulating the publication and commenting on its content.
• Errata / Research Requests: Corrections are noted for previous issues, including an apology to Jeff Meldrum and Dr. Joan Marsden. A 'Research Request' is made for someone capable of translating German articles.
• A Compendium of Cryptids: This section, compiled by Ben S. Roesch, includes several entries:
• De Loys's Ape: Racist Hoax? This article critically examines the famous photograph of 'de Loys's Ape,' suggesting it is a hoax likely perpetrated by Professor George Montandon to support his racist evolutionary theories. The author posits that the image is of a spider monkey and that Montandon used it to create a supposed ancestor for Native Americans.
• The Mohan: This entry discusses legends of a 'wild man' or spirit called the Mohan in rural parts of Colombia. The Mohan is described as being fond of alcohol and capable of staying underwater for extended periods, with tales of it raping young girls.
• Of Ducks and Plesiosaurs: Howick Falls' Monster: This article investigates reports of a monster inhabiting Howick Falls in South Africa. While local accounts and alleged photos suggest a plesiosaur, anthropologist Sian Hall dismisses these as myth or misidentification, suggesting giant eels or otters as more plausible explanations.
• The Spokane Lion: This report details sightings of a maned lion in Spokane, Washington. Theories range from an escaped pet to a relict population of the prehistoric American lion, Pantheraleo atrox, as proposed by Loren Coleman.
• **Three Recent “Sea Monster

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 2
Date: Autumn 1996

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review delves into various unexplained phenomena and newly discovered species, blending scientific reporting with cryptozoological speculation.

Scottish Big Cat

The issue opens with a report of a big cat sighting in Scotland. On January 18, 1996, a motorist in Broughty Ferry witnessed a creature fitting the description of previously reported Scottish big cats. The animal, illuminated by headlights as it crossed the road towards a railway line, was described as the size of a big dog with a cat's body, a huge grey bushy tail, and pointed ears. The witness heard it moving through the undergrowth and saw its tail as it disappeared. The article notes that this was not the first such sighting in Broughty Ferry, mentioning a similar incident the previous year involving a puma-like beast.

"Big Boy," "Wide Boy" and "Mono Brow"

This section introduces three new species of deep-sea isopods discovered in the Pacific Ocean off Australia's east coast. These creatures, related to woodlice, were found at a depth of 1 km. "Big Boy," a species of the genus Bathynomus, can grow up to 30 cm (1 ft) and is described as a voracious scavenger. Jim Lowry of the Australia Museum noted that these isopods will eat anything, alive or dead, and even bit his hand. "Mono Brow" and "Wide Boy" are similar but smaller species. The discovery was part of a larger expedition that identified over 200 species of marine invertebrates, including more than 120 previously unknown species, and over 100 new species of ostracods. Lowry emphasizes that "Big Boy" dominates this deep-sea community, and notes the absence of fish in areas where these crustaceans are abundant, citing depths of 7,000 m off the coast of South America.

The Seychelles Tortoise Rediscovered

An article reports on the rediscovery of a Seychelles tortoise species, believed to be extinct since the mid-1800s, with the exception of the Aldabra tortoise. In January 1995, the Nature Protection Trust located two captive giant tortoises belonging to this species. Their identity was confirmed by comparing them to the skeleton of a third dead specimen. The Trust is developing a conservation plan but faces the obstacle that both specimens are male. They hope to find more specimens and plan to use DNA fingerprinting for identification. The Latin name of this tortoise is revealed as *Geochelone arnoldi*.

Notes of Various New and Rediscovered Species

This section provides brief updates on several other discoveries:

• Jasus caveorum: A new species of crayfish, or rock lobster, discovered in the summer of 1995 near Easter Island. It is the first new species in its genus in a century.
• New Moray Eel: Off the coast of Oman and Somalia, a new moray eel species was discovered, growing up to 60 cm with a large black spot near its gill opening, named *megaspilus* by its discoverers, Drs. John Randall and Eugenia Böhlke.
• Madagascar Amphibians and Reptiles: A four-year survey in eastern Madagascar rainforests led to the discovery of 106 new frog species and 26 new reptiles by Prof. Ronald Nussbaum and colleagues.
• Edwards Pheasant: This species was rediscovered in the wild in Vietnam in September 1996, the first time it had been found and captured since 1928.
• Central Rock-Rat: An extinct rodent was found living in a remote, arid region of central Australian plains, last recorded over 35 years ago.
• New Hong Kong Rat: A new, unclassified species of rat, described as "cute," was discovered on Hong Kong's outlying islands, with fifteen specimens caught in February 1996.
• Tarsius syrichta: A new species of tarsier was reported in January 1996 from Sulawesi Archipelago, Indonesia. There is debate whether it is a distinct species or a hybrid.
• Brazilian Amazon Marmoset: A new species of marmoset, named the Satere marmoset (*Callithrix saterei*), was discovered in the Brazilian Amazon in June 1996, the sixth new species found in the region since 1990.

Cryptozoology on TV

The article discusses the recent portrayal of cryptozoology on television. "The X-Files" featured an episode about a lake monster in the Carolinas, which turned out to be an alligator, though a long-necked lake monster briefly appeared at the end. The episode mentioned cryptozoologists and a lake named "Lake Heuvelmans." Another episode of "The X-Files" briefly discussed bigfoot. A made-for-TV movie called "Beast," based on Peter Benchley's book, depicted a giant squid attacking a seaside town, though noted for its "teuthological errors."

Three Recent "Sea Monster" Carcasses

This feature article by Ben S. Roesch examines three alleged sea monster carcasses reported in the summer of 1996.

• The Malaysian "Sea Monster" Carcass: Skeletal remains of a 25 ft creature caught off Langkawi, Malaysia, were initially described as shark-like or reptilian with carnivorous teeth. However, upon examination, it was identified as a well-decayed orca (killer whale) by Fishery taxonomist Dr Mohamed Azmi Ambak. This is noted as the second time a "sea monster" carcass has been identified as an orca, the first being in 1946 on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska.
• The Block Ness Monster: On June 20, 1996, a 14 ft long carcass was netted on Block Island, Rhode Island, USA, and nicknamed the "Block Ness Monster." Photos showed a pointed head and a long spinal cord. The skeleton was to be examined by scientists but was stolen en route. The article suggests the culprit is likely a basking shark, similar to other "sea monster" carcasses, noting the vertebrae and rostrum characteristics.
• The "Sandcastle" Monster?: The Hancock Museum in Newcastle upon Tyne is exhibiting photos of an alleged sea monster carcass stranded in Scotland. The carcass appears artificial, possibly built from sand, and its identification is pending further investigation.

Analysing Video Footage Purporting to show the "Migo" - A Lake Monster from Lake Dakataua, New Britain

This feature article by Darren Naish analyzes video footage of a large swimming animal filmed in Lake Dakataua, New Britain, in Jan/Feb 1994. Lake Dakataua is known for sightings of the "migo" or "migaua." Postulated identities have included mosasaurs and protocetid cetaceans. The author had a private screening of the footage, which is described as amorphous, out of focus, and highly "pixelized" due to digital enhancement, making movements jerky and smooth surfaces appear as "staircase" outlines.

The animal is dark, low-lying, with only dorsal extremities visible for much of the time. Naish estimates its length at not more than 6 m (20 ft), rejecting the 10 m estimate given by Roy Mackal. The animal moves as a continuous mass, with a discernible head-body-tail structure. The head has a distinctive profile with a low anterior area and a raised, flat-topped posterior area. Two vertical spines are seen behind the head, possibly on the neck. The back has at least four dark nodules. The tail hump has triangular vertical spines. The tail's apparent vertical movement is attributed to digital artifacts.

Naish addresses the confusion with dolphins, noting that some footage interpreted as whale-like fins and flukes was actually filmed separately from a boat at sea and was of dolphins. He concludes that the diagnostic features are insufficient to classify the animal as mammalian and suggests the "migo" is likely a basking shark, similar to other "sea monster" carcasses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the boundaries between known science and unexplained phenomena, with a focus on cryptozoology. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, seeking scientific explanations for purported mysteries while acknowledging the possibility of undiscovered species. There is a clear emphasis on analyzing evidence, debunking hoaxes or misidentifications (such as the "sea monster" carcasses and the "Migo" footage), and reporting on new discoveries in zoology. The inclusion of "Cryptozoology on TV" highlights the growing public interest in these subjects and their representation in popular media. The magazine aims to inform readers about both established scientific findings and ongoing cryptozoological research.

The Cryptozoology Review, Vol. 1 No. 2, Autumn 1996, is a magazine dedicated to the study of unknown animals and unexplained phenomena. This issue features articles on sea serpents, Yowies, and reviews of relevant books and publications.

Article: The Longest Fish in the Ocean?

This article by Richard Ellis explores the oarfish (Regalecus glesne), a rarely seen, laterally flattened fish that can grow up to 26 feet long. Ellis suggests that the oarfish, with its distinctive coral-red crest and dorsal fin, may be the source of many sea-serpent sightings. He notes that while some sources cite lengths of 45-50 feet, documented records do not exceed 26.5 feet. The article recounts a recent encounter in July 1996 where William Shachtman, an ophthalmologist, snorkeled near a live oarfish measuring 18 1/2 feet in the Sea of Cortez. The fish was described as having a strange red crest, a long thin body, a large saucer-shaped eye, and long, lucent red fins. It was later found dead on the beach. The article also touches upon Jacques Cousteau's description of 'regalacs' in Santorini, which Ellis dismisses as fabricated due to Cousteau's history of exaggerations.

Article: Two Yowie Reports

Authored by Paul Cropper, this section presents two reports concerning the Yowie, an Australian cryptid. The first report details a recent investigation in Kempsey, New South Wales, in February 1995. The investigation stemmed from a sighting by two boys, Romney (11) and James (10), on January 22, 1995. The boys described an 8-9 ft tall, hairy creature, dark brown or black, with scraggly hair, appearing 'in between a human and a gorilla' and 'massive.' They heard heavy footfalls and the creature seemed to be sniffing. An on-site investigation by Cropper found 16 impressions, roughly oval and 30 cm long by 18 cm wide, with no distinct toes. The depth of the prints (3-4 cm) was noted as significant. A reaction test with a dog showed it to be unusually agitated by plaster casts of the prints. A second part of the article presents a 19th-century report from the diary of a North South Wales drover, describing encounters with a 'hairy man' or 'yahoo,' supporting the idea that the Yowie existed prior to aboriginal colonization. The drover's account describes the creature as fast and elusive, and the article also mentions a 1990 sighting of a fast-moving Yowie near Oberon, New South Wales, by five hunters.

Feature Review: In Search of Prehistoric Survivors

Reviewed by John Moore, this section covers Karl P.N. Shuker's book, 'In Search of Prehistoric Survivors: Do Giant "Extinct" Creatures Still Exist?' (1995). The book examines the possibility of surviving extinct species, with chapters on reptiles, amphibians, water monsters, flying cryptids, and mammals. Moore notes that the book covers topics such as the mokele-mbembe, living pterosaurs, giant vampire bats, lake monsters like the Loch Ness Monster and Ogopogo, sea serpents, giant sea turtles, coelacanths, placoderms, giant sharks, eurypterids, and the leviathan. It also discusses surviving mammals like the Queensland marsupial tiger, Nandi bear, mammoths, and Bornean tapirs. Moore points out several zoological errors in Shuker's book, including the classification of dinosaurs as 'aquatic' and inaccuracies in depictions of dinosaur posture. He also critiques Shuker's logic in interpreting witness accounts, such as the Spicers' description of the Loch Ness Monster. Despite these shortcomings, Moore considers the book a useful reference for cryptozoology enthusiasts.

Mini-Review: Centre for Fortean Zoology 1996 Yearbook

This brief review highlights the Centre for Fortean Zoology's 1996 Yearbook, edited by Jonathan Downes. The yearbook is described as a compilation of articles that did not fit into the 'Animals and Men' magazine, covering topics such as living dinosaurs, mysterious birds, Nessie, mystery hominids, flying snakes, and sky beasts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of zoology and unexplained phenomena, focusing on cryptids and anecdotal evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting evidence and witness accounts while also acknowledging potential inaccuracies and the need for rigorous scientific proof, as seen in the critiques of Cousteau's accounts and Shuker's book. The inclusion of an 'Editor's Comment' and a preview of a forthcoming critical viewpoint suggests a commitment to ongoing debate and analysis within the field of cryptozoology.

The Cryptozoology Review, Vol. 1 No. 2, published in Autumn 1996, is a magazine dedicated to the study of cryptozoology. This issue features a "Periodicals" section, reviewed by Ben S. Roesch and John Moore, which highlights several newsletters and journals focused on cryptids.

Periodicals Reviewed

The issue provides detailed reviews of the following periodicals:

• The Bigfoot Record: Edited by Bill Green, this free newsletter is published every few months and presents newsclippings, short articles, and reviews related to bigfoot in the US. Green is the director of the New England Bigfoot Info Research Center and welcomes new sightings and information.

• Bigfoot Co-Op: Organized by Constance Cameron, Rich Grumley, Peter Gutilla, Tom Muzila, Dennis R. Ruminer, and George R. Turner, this publication comes out six times a year with approximately 10 pages per issue. It costs $8 in the US and $12 elsewhere. The content primarily consists of summaries of newspaper and magazine articles about bigfoot, along with editorials and articles by experts like Dmitri Bayanov, Ray Crowe, and John Green.

• BILK: Edited by Ulrich Magin and published bimonthly in Germany, this 2-page publication costs 15 DM in Europe and 20 DM elsewhere. It focuses almost exclusively on water monsters, with occasional news on other fortean matters. It is published in English and is recommended.

• Cryptozoologia: Published by the Association Belge d'Etude et de Protection des Animaux Rares in Belgium, this monthly publication costs 1500 FB in Belgium, 1700 FB or 280 FF in Europe, and $50 US elsewhere. It features articles by individuals like Michel Raynal and includes interesting news bits. While subscription is steep and it is published exclusively in French, it is illustrated and recommended for those who can read French.

• Nessletter: Published by Ness Information Service in the UK, edited by Rip Hepple, this newsletter comes out six times a year, with each issue being four pages long. It costs £2.75 UK or $10 US funds. The content primarily focuses on the Loch Ness Monster, but also includes news on other water monsters. It is recommended for those interested in water monsters.

• Track Record: Published by the Western Bigfoot Society in Portland, OR, and edited by Ray Crowe, this sasquatch newsletter comes out 10 times a year and costs $20 in the US and $30 elsewhere. It contains extensive information on recent and older sasquatch sightings, summaries of Western Bigfoot Society meetings, and an article in every issue by Peter Byrne, director of the Bigfoot Research Project. Each issue is typically 15 pages long.

Contributors and Contact Information

The issue also provides brief biographies of the contributors:

• Paul Cropper: A Marketing Manager from Australia, interested in Australian mystery animals since 1977, co-author of "Out of The Shadows."

• Richard Ellis: An authority on marine life, author of several books including "The Book of Sharks" and "Great White Shark."

• John Moore: An 8th-grade student from Utah researching cryptozoology and paleontology.

• Darren Naish: An independent zoological researcher known for his interest in dinosaurs, New Zealand fauna, cetaceans, and cryptozoology.

• Ben S. Roesch: A 11th-grade student from Toronto, Canada, with a keen interest in cryptozoological studies, marine biology, and zoology.

Contact information for the editor, Ben S. Roesch, is provided, including his address in Toronto, Canada, phone number, and email address.

Coming Soon

The "Coming Soon" section previews future articles, including "The case for the giant great white shark" and "mysterious tracks in a Mexican cave" by Darren Naish and Ben S. Roesch, respectively. The next issue is expected in December/January.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue's primary focus is on reviewing periodicals relevant to cryptozoology, particularly those concerning bigfoot and water monsters. The editorial stance appears to be one of enthusiastic support for these niche publications, recommending them to readers with an interest in the subject matter. The inclusion of detailed contact information and contributor biographies suggests an effort to foster community and engagement within the cryptozoology field.