Cryptozoology Review - Vol 1 No 3 - 1997 - LOW RESOLUTION

Magazine Overview

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 3
Date: Winter-Spring 1997
Publisher: Ben S. Roesch

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review marks a shift in publication frequency, moving from quarterly to three times a year (Summer, Autumn, Winter-Spring). This change is accompanied by adjusted subscription rates. The issue features a variety of articles on cryptids and newly discovered species, reflecting the magazine's focus on cryptozoological research and news.

Editor's Page

Ben S. Roesch, the Editor/Publisher, welcomes readers to the third issue and announces the change to a three-times-a-year publication schedule. He apologizes for previous delays due to prior commitments. New subscription prices are detailed: $9.00 in Canada, $11.00 in the US, and $14.00 in all other countries (all including air mail shipping). Roesch also encourages reader contributions, including manuscripts, artwork, and opinions, noting that the publication is non-profit and offers payment in copies for articles and reviews. He also mentions the willingness to exchange subscriptions with other cryptozoological publications.

Letters and Communications

This section includes a response from Dr. Karl P.N. Shuker to a review of his book "In Search of Prehistoric Survivors" by John Moore. Shuker corrects what he perceives as "ill-founded claims" and "zoological errors" made by Moore, particularly regarding the term "aquatic dinosaurs." Shuker defends his use of the term by explaining that "aquatic" does not exclusively mean water-dwelling and cites examples like ducks and geese. He also clarifies that he is aware that plesiosaurs are not dinosaurs, despite their common media appellation. Shuker criticizes Moore's review for being "impertinent" and suggests Moore pay more attention to zoology than cryptozoology. He also defends his use of eyewitness descriptions for cryptids like the Loch Ness Monster and Cadborosaurus, and explains his reasoning for the dating of the Utah Camelops skull, referencing Dr. Adrian Lister. Shuker concludes by emphasizing that cryptozoology needs to gain scientific respectability, not lose it, and expresses delight in the emergence of new enthusiasts.

John Moore responds to Dr. Shuker's letter, expressing high regard for Shuker's work. Moore clarifies that his "zoological errors" were intended to point out instances where the general consensus in the literature does not favor Dr. Shuker's view. He also states that his comment on the Camelops skull was meant to inform readers of additional information, not to criticize the book. Moore apologizes for any confusion caused by his choice of words.

Erratum / Addendum

An erratum corrects the omission of a short segment from Richard Ellis's article "The Longest Fish in the Ocean?" in a previous issue. The omitted text discusses sea serpent stories and ichthyologist J.R. Norman's identification of a creature with sea-serpent stories.

An addendum by Ben S. Roesch revisits his previous article on "Three Recent Sea Monster Carcasses." He provides new information from Richard Ellis's "The Book of Sharks" regarding young basking sharks having an elongated, horn-like snout. This information helps explain the pointed snout on the "Block Island Monster" and the Hendaye carcass, suggesting they were young basking sharks, compatible with their reported lengths.

A Compendium of Cryptids™

This section presents recent news and findings related to cryptids.

The Loch Ness Monster Wakes

Two significant sightings of the Loch Ness Monster in 1996 are detailed. The first, on June 13, involved Kate Munro and guests witnessing a large object moving rapidly across the loch, leaving a substantial wake. The second, on August 11, was documented by Austin Hepburn, who photographed a disturbance and a whitewater wake. Hepburn claimed to see two black humps, though the photocopy quality makes this difficult to confirm. The article notes that while these sightings are strange, they are not conclusive evidence and could be explained by natural phenomena.

Unidentified Egyptian "Beasts"

A Reuters report from October 1996 describes an incident in Cairo, Egypt, where police shot two "unidentified wild animals" that had been terrorizing people. Described as resembling large hyenas or wild dogs, these animals had killed three people and injured dozens. The local name for the creatures is "salaawwa." The article speculates that they might be a canid crossbreed, feral dogs, or even a hoax, as no further information has surfaced.

Expedition News

Plans for two cryptozoological expeditions are mentioned. The first involves Charles Wyckoff and Robert Rines traveling to Loch Ness to obtain photographic and sonar evidence of the monster. They previously led expeditions in 1972 and 1975 that produced controversial underwater photographs. The second expedition focuses on capturing video footage of a giant squid in the Pacific Ocean off New Zealand using remote-control cameras.

Notes of Various New and Rediscovered Species

This section highlights several new species discoveries and rediscoveries:

• A new species of fish (genus Crossocheilus) discovered in the Vu Quang reserve in Vietnam.
• The rediscovery of the Congo bay owl (Phodilus prioginei) on the Itombwe Massif in Zaire.
• The discovery of the cryptic warbler (genus Cryptosyivicola) on Madagascar.
• The discovery of the Pink-legged Graveteiro bird (Acrobatornis fonsecai) in southeastern Brazil, which faces extinction due to habitat loss from a disease affecting cocoa plantations.
• The discovery of a tiny new frog species, Eleutherodactylus iberia (dubbed the "eleuth frog"), in Cuba, noted as the smallest tetrapod in the Northern Hemisphere.
• A survey of Laotian bats uncovered 55 species, including 5 new ones.

Feature Article: The Biology of the Giant Octopus

This article explores the evidence for the existence of a giant octopus. It begins with the widely known 1896 carcass discovered on Anastasia Island, Florida. Initially thought to be a giant octopus by naturalist DeWitt Webb and cephalopod authority A.E. Verrill (who named it Octopus giganteus), later analysis of samples suggested it was a whale, possibly a deformed sperm whale. However, biologist F.G. Wood's later research on preserved fragments from the Smithsonian Institution indicated the connective tissue pattern was consistent with an octopus, not a whale or giant squid. The article also mentions local names like "Lusca" and "Him of the Hairy Hands" from the Bahamas and Caribbean, and an incident in 1984 off Bermuda where a crab fisherman reported damage to his traps and a sonar reading of a large, pyramid-shaped object.

Reviews and Resources

This section is not detailed in the provided pages, but its inclusion is noted in the table of contents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the study of cryptozoology, encouraging scientific rigor and the use of zoological knowledge to analyze reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, while also acknowledging the need for credible evidence and the challenges of gaining scientific acceptance for the field. There is a clear emphasis on contributing to the legitimacy of cryptozoology through professional and well-referenced articles. The magazine also serves as a platform for discussing new discoveries and ongoing research in the field, as well as addressing controversies and debates within the cryptozoological community.

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 3
Date: Winter-Spring 1997

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review delves into two significant cryptozoological mysteries: the existence and nature of the giant octopus, *Octopus giganteus*, and the historical accounts of the Beast of Gévaudan. The magazine presents a multi-part series on the giant octopus, examining historical evidence, scientific analyses, and ongoing debates.

The Giant Octopus (*Octopus giganteus*)

The issue details the history and ongoing controversy surrounding *Octopus giganteus*. It begins by recounting incidents involving a creature that interfered with fishing operations, leading to the relocation of operations to Belize. A significant event was the washing ashore of an 8-foot long carcass in Mangrove Bay, Bermuda, in May 1988, dubbed the "Bermuda Blob."

The most recent development discussed is the analysis of tissue samples from the possible giant octopus specimens, including the 1896 carcass from St. Augustine, Florida, and the 1988 Bermuda specimen. A team led by molecular biologist S.K. Pierce concluded that the 1896 carcass was a whale and the 1988 specimen was a fish. However, the article notes that this study has been argued to be flawed, and its results are not necessarily accurate.

The article, "Censoring Cryptozoology: Background To Part IV" by Gary S. Mangiacopra, discusses the rejection of a final segment of a four-part series by the journal *Of Sea and Shore*. This rejection was influenced by the *Biological Bulletin* article by Pierce et al. The author expresses frustration over the scientific community's skepticism towards giant octopuses and highlights the importance of preserving cryptozoological data, stating, "We are in a race preserving cryptozoological data - and we are losing it!"

Historical Context and Speculation

Parts I, II, and III of the series are referenced, suggesting a comprehensive examination of the creature. The current part (IV) focuses on the 1896 St. Augustine carcass, a 5-ton specimen that has since been reduced to a few ounces of tissue. The possibility of a century-old, gigantic species of octopod is considered, raising questions about whether it was a lingering member of an extinct species or part of a stable breeding population.

The article draws parallels between the mystery of the giant octopus and the historical legends of the Kraken, noting that knowledge of both is based on limited strandings. The geographical range of *O. giganteus* is discussed, extending beyond the Bahamas to include the coasts of Florida, Texas, Mexico, and Belize. Factors influencing population density and predatory habits are explored, with suggestions that they feed on large shrimp and crabs, and possibly even sharks or other large marine animals.

Behavior and Classification

*O. giganteus* is believed to be a deep-water species, inhabiting depths of around 500 fathoms. Occasional surface appearances are attributed to various factors, including sickness or dying states, or possibly a tradition of rising to the surface during a full moon. Unlike giant squids, giant octopods may be able to sustain themselves in brackish waters, as suggested by sightings in inland "Blue Holes."

The article proposes a new scientific name, *Otoctopus* (from the Greek 'oton' meaning ear), for the species, due to lateral fins resembling projecting ears. This feature may also explain the traditional name "Him of the Hairy Hands" given by Andros Islanders, referring to tentacles extending from blue holes.

Present Status and Future Research

As of 1997, *Octopus giganteus* is not fully accepted by the scientific community, remaining in the "shadowlands of zoology." Acceptance hinges on the acquisition of a fresh, large specimen. Plans for obtaining video evidence using underwater cameras have been hampered by financial constraints. The remaining tissue samples from the St. Augustine and Bermuda specimens are in the possession of Dr. Joseph F. Gennaro, Jr., and Dr. Eugenie Clark, respectively, with hopes for further analysis.

The Beast of Gévaudan and Other "Maulers"

This section, authored by Andrew D. Gable, details the terror inflicted by the "Beast of Gévaudan" in 18th-century France. The attacks began in June 1764 in the Margeride Mountains, where a wolf-like animal attacked a young shepherdess and her herd.

Description and Theories

Descriptions of the beast varied, but it was generally agreed to be wolf-like, though nearly the size of a cow. It had a wide chest, a long, thin tail with a lion-like tuft, and a greyhound-like snout with formidable fangs. It was noted for its agility, capable of leaping up to 30 feet. Contemporary accounts described it as reddish in color with a grey chest, and longer hind legs than fore legs. The *Saint James' Chronicle* suggested it might be a "new species."

After three years of terror, the monster was killed in 1767 at Sogne d'Aubert by Jean Chastel. Popular opinion at the time attributed the attacks to divine punishment, a werewolf (*Loup-garou*), or a summoned demon. Other theories included it being a natural creature like a wolf, bear, or baboon. Modern researchers propose it could have been a serial killer exploiting a wolf in the area, or a wolf-dog hybrid.

Similar Creatures and Modern Reports

The article mentions similar creatures in folklore and art, such as the Celtic "Tarasque" sculpture and the medieval "arenoselicon." It also lists modern reports of "maulers" that kill sheep:

• June 1764-June 1767: Gévaudan, France (the Beast of Gévaudan attacks).
• May-September 1810: Ennerdale, England, where a creature killed sheep by tearing open their throats and sucking their blood.
• January-April 1874: County Cavan, Ireland, where an unknown animal killed at least 42 sheep, tearing open throats and consuming small amounts of meat, leaving cat-like footprints with claws.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of cryptids, the challenges of scientific acceptance for unusual creatures, and the importance of historical documentation. The magazine appears to advocate for open-mindedness in cryptozoological research, highlighting cases where scientific consensus has been slow to form or has been challenged. The editorial stance seems to be one of advocating for the preservation of cryptozoological data and encouraging further research into these unexplained phenomena.

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 1 No. 3
Date: Winter-Spring 1997

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review delves into the mysterious world of cryptozoology, with a primary focus on the phenomenon of 'maulers' and a detailed review of Jonathan Downes' book, 'The Smaller Mystery Carnivores of the Westcountry'. The magazine explores various cryptid cases, taxonomic debates surrounding British wildlife, and the challenges of identifying unknown animals.

Maulers: A Cryptozoological Enigma

The issue begins by detailing several historical incidents attributed to 'maulers,' creatures described as wolf-like or cat-like animals responsible for attacking livestock, particularly sheep. Cases from Ireland (1874), Russia (1893), England (1905, 1906), and Bulgaria (1993) are presented, highlighting common characteristics such as a preference for attacking the head or neck, sucking blood, and leaving peculiar tracks. The typical mauler is described as long, dark-colored, sometimes with a lighter chest patch, small ears, short legs, and capable of great speed and agility.

The Pine Marten Hypothesis

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the potential identification of maulers as a subspecies of the pine marten (Martes martes). The pine marten, a small, agile, dark brown animal with a cream-colored throat patch, shares many characteristics with the reported maulers, and many sightings occur within its known range. The article notes that pine martens are unusually agile and live most of their lives in trees, fitting some descriptions of mauler behavior.

Taxonomic Debates: Wildcats, Polecats, and Martens

The review of Jonathan Downes' book, 'The Smaller Mystery Carnivores of the Westcountry,' forms a substantial part of the issue. The book is praised for its comprehensive approach to British crypto-carnivorans, particularly mustelids. However, the reviewer raises several points of contention and criticism.

Wildcats and Feral Cats

The book addresses the confusion surrounding the existence of pure-bred Wildcats (Felis silvestris) in Britain. Downes' work is noted for its discussion of hybrid specimens and the difficulty in distinguishing true wildcats from feral domestic cats. The reviewer points out that Downes' interpretation of a news item suggesting officials were unable to distinguish a shot cat as a true wildcat or not is used to argue that true wildcats are indistinguishable from feral domestics, a conclusion the reviewer finds problematic.

The issue of large feral domestic cats resembling wildcats is also highlighted, with an example of a cat named Toby, whose measurements are comparable to known British wildcats. The review also touches upon the controversial Irish wildcat, with Downes accepting the possibility of its existence based on subfossil jaw fragments, though the reviewer suggests these are more likely to be Bronze Age domestic cats.

Polecats and Hybridization

Downes' argument that the Eurasian polecat (Mustela putorius) and its relatives may have hybridized extensively with gone-wild domestic ferrets is discussed. Downes suggests that the two types are not truly distinguishable, leading to questions about whether current 'polecat' sightings are of true polecats or hybrids. The reviewer agrees with the idea that hybridization complicates identification and notes that polecats are reportedly expanding their range.

Pine Martens and Reintroduction

The book's chapter on pine martens is described as fascinating, with Downes suggesting that the late H.G. Hurrell may have undertaken a secret reintroduction program of martens in Devon. This hypothesis is presented as an explanation for the apparent presence of pine martens long after their supposed extinction in the area. The reviewer, initially skeptical, reconsiders the possibility.

Beech Martens in Britain?

Chapter four of Downes' book presents a more controversial claim: that the Beech marten (Martes foina) may be part of the modern, native British fauna. This hypothesis is based on anecdotal evidence from the late 1800s. However, the reviewer expresses strong doubt, noting that historical workers' beliefs have often been proven erroneous and that a retrieved specimen was identified as an American marten. The reviewer also questions Downes' reliance on older texts and his interpretation of taxonomic classifications.

The reviewer is particularly critical of Downes' assertion that Martes foina was a British denizen during the Pleistocene, citing a lack of paleontological literature to support this claim. While acknowledging that pine and beech marten bones are difficult to distinguish, the reviewer concludes that Downes' hypothesis requires more concrete evidence.

Critiques and Technical Errors

The review points out several technical issues with Downes' book, including unattractive maps lacking scales, numerous typographical errors, and an inconsistent bibliography with missing citations. Specific errors noted include misattributions of terms and incorrect population figures for British mammals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the challenges of identifying and classifying unknown or rare animals, particularly within the context of British fauna. It highlights the complexities introduced by hybridization, historical taxonomic debates, and the potential for misinterpretation of evidence. The magazine appears to adopt a critical yet open-minded stance towards cryptozoological claims, valuing rigorous research while also acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the possibility of undiscovered species or subspecies.

The Cryptozoology Review, Vol. 1, No. 3, Winter-Spring 1997, is a publication focused on the study of unknown animals. This issue appears to be primarily a compilation of references and contributor information, with a preview of future content.

References

The first page is dominated by a numbered list of references, primarily academic publications and books, dating from 1885 to 1996. These references cover a range of zoological topics, with a significant focus on mammals, particularly those found in Ireland and Britain. Specific topics include the "former occurrence of the African wildcat (Felis orreata) in Ireland," "mystery cats of the wild," "Irish wild cat," "Irish beast book," "pine martens," "weasel," and "pleistocene mammals of Europe." The list also includes general works on mammals and zoology, such as "All the World's Animals: Carnivores" and "Mammals of the World."

One reference (26) notes that "incidentally, the Irish mammalogist R.M. Barrington (1849-1915) did attempt an (unsuccessful) introduction of dormace to Ireland."

Contributors for this Issue

The second page introduces the contributors to this issue:

• Dr. David F. Avery: Affiliated with Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven.
• Andrew D. Gable: A 19-year-old freshman at Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania, with interests in cryptozoology, conventional zoology, and mythology. Reachable by email at [email protected].
• Gary S. Mangiacopra: A well-known cryptozoologist from Milford, Connecticut, with extensive research and publications on topics like the giant octopus, sea serpents, and lake monsters.
• Darren Naish: An independent zoological researcher specializing in dinosaurs, the fauna of New Zealand, cetaceans, and cryptozoology. He also advises on the vertebrate fossil record and lives in Southampton (U.K.). Reachable by email at [email protected].
• Michel Raynal: Born in 1955, a former physics and chemistry technician and now a senior manager at France Telecom. He has been interested in cryptozoology for 20 years and has published about 30 scientific papers on unknown animals. Reachable by email at [email protected].
• Ben S. Roesch: A grade 11 student from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, with a keen interest in cryptozoological studies and research, marine biology, animal predatory behaviour, and general zoology. He also enjoys punk rock, mountain biking, and surfing.
• Dr. Dwight Smith: An instructor of biology at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, with numerous publications and field experience, particularly in ornithology.

How to Contact Us

All correspondence, manuscripts, etc., should be directed to the editor, Ben S. Roesch, at The Cryptozoology Review, 137 Atlas Ave., Toronto ON, Canada M6C 3P4. His phone number is (416) 653-4955, and his email is [email protected].

Coming Soon in TCR

The next issue of The Cryptozoology Review is scheduled to be out in late May or June and will feature:

• Enigmatic beaked whales (by Darren Naish)
• A review of sea monster carcasses from around the world (by Ben S. Roesch)
• Ancient mesoamerican cryptozoology (by Andrew Gable)
• Rediscovered mongooses (by Jon Downes)
• Mysterious tracks in a Mexican cave (by Ben S. Roesch)
• Great news coverage and much more.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review highlights the ongoing research and interest in cryptozoology, particularly concerning mammals and their historical presence or potential existence in various regions. The publication serves as a platform for researchers and students to share their work and interests. The editorial stance appears to be one of academic inquiry into unexplained zoological phenomena, evidenced by the scholarly references and the diverse backgrounds of its contributors. The preview of upcoming articles suggests a continued focus on a wide array of cryptids and mysteries from around the globe.