Cryptozoology Review - Vol 2 No 1 - 1997

Magazine Overview

The Cryptozoology Review, Vol. 2, No. 1, Summer 1997, published by Ben S. Roesch.

Editor's Page

Ben S. Roesch welcomes readers to the fourth issue and the second year of The Cryptozoology Review. He announces that the editorial and subscription address has changed due to his recent move. Subscribers due for renewal will find a notice enclosed and are urged to send their dues promptly. Roesch reiterates his inquiry from a previous questionnaire regarding reader willingness to pay extra for a magazine/newsletter format (A4 folded, stapled, better picture quality), noting that the majority of responses were positive. He asks subscribers to include their opinion on this matter with their renewals. The issue is dedicated to providing enjoyable content for its readership.

Contents of this Issue

• P 2. The Editor's Page
• P 3. Letters and Communications / Erratum
• P 4. A Compendium of Cryptids™™
• P 17. Two Possible Cryptids from Precolumbian Mesoamerica by Andrew D. Gable
• P 26. Another Caddy Carcass? by Darren Naish
• P 30. Reviews and Resources
• P 32. End Page

Staff and Credits

• Editor/Publisher: Ben S. Roesch
• Associate Editor: John Moore
• Contributing Editors: Bufo Calvin, Darren Naish, Gordon Rutter
• Correspondents: Dr Peter Darben (Australia), Peter Massaro (United Kingdom)
• Artists: Darren Naish, Russ Fletcher
• Editorial Consultants: Ellen D. Timiney, Robert Tuck Jr.

Subscription and Payment Information

The Cryptozoology Review is published three times a year. Subscriptions are priced in Canadian currency: $9.00 in Canada, $11.00 (air mail) in the US, and $14.00 (air mail) in all other countries. Sample copies and back issues cost $3.00 (Canadian) in Canada and $4.00 (Canadian) elsewhere. Payment methods accepted in the US and Canada include personal check, money order, or well-concealed cash. International payments can be made via well-concealed cash or International Money Order (in US or Canadian funds only). All checks and money orders should be made out to "Ben S. Roesch". The publication is open to subscription exchanges with other cryptozoological publications of similar price. Readers interested in contributing artistic, writing, or editing skills are encouraged to contact the editor. Unsolicited manuscripts and artwork are accepted. Payment for contributions is in copies (two for an article, one for a review). All content is copyrighted, and reproduction requires permission.

Letters and Communications

Readers are invited to send letters with their thoughts on TCR or its contents. They are asked to specify if their letters can be published in the "Letters and Communications" section.

Ogopogo Sighting

John Moore reports a possible sighting of Ogopogo on Lake Okanagan in July 1993. While on a hill overlooking the lake, he observed a wake and a horses' head-like object protruding about six feet from the water. He described it as moving slowly in a straight line and not submerging. He ruled out a deadhead (submerged log) due to its speed and disappearance. He also mentions an uncle who claimed to have seen Ogopogo in the 1940s or 50s. Another friend reported seeing a creature fitting an Ogopogo description on Anderson Lake, which he initially thought was a large sturgeon.

Erratum

An erratum is noted for Vol. 1 No. 3, where the researcher's name was incorrectly spelled "Fariley" instead of "Fairley."

Reviews and Resources

• Strange Magazine: Described as an excellent, professionally produced magazine dealing with forteana and cryptozoology. Subscription rates are provided for US, UK, and foreign orders.
• The Bigfoot Recordings: Offers audio evidence of California's Bigfoot, narrated by Jonathan Frakes. Available on CD and cassette, with ordering information provided.

A Compendium of Cryptids™™

This section compiles recent cryptozoological news and findings.

A Russian Lake Monster

Residents of the Tver region in Russia report a Loch Ness monster-type creature in Lake Bronso. The creature, first chronicled in 1854, is described as approximately 5 meters (16 ft) long, with a flat snake- or fish-like head, large eyes, and an enormous tail, resembling a snake. Eyewitness Tanya described it as "not scary" and "on the bottom of the lake, deep." Another resident, Varya, expressed fear of the monster. A panoramic picture taken by tourists allegedly shows the monster, but it is indistinct and could be a log. Lyudmila Bolshakova of the Institute of Paleontology suggests it sounds like a fairy tale, while a local paleontologist proposed it might be an extinct reptile. The author suggests a large sturgeon as a more plausible candidate, explaining the fish-like descriptions and large tail.

Rare Shark Rediscovered in Borneo

A species of river shark, genus Glyphis, feared extinct, has been rediscovered in the Kinabatangan River of Sabah, Northern Borneo, Malaysia. This discovery is part of the Elasmobranch Biodiversity, Conservation and Management project by the IUCN Shark Specialist Group. Previously, only one preserved specimen from over 100 years ago was known. A small shark caught by fishermen was identified as Glyphis species B. The discovery generated excitement among researchers, including Darwin Project officer Mabel Manjaji and UK volunteers Rachel Cavanagh and Scott Mycock. Dr. Leonard Compagno of the South African Museum notes the difficulty in identifying species within the Glyphis genus due to subtle external differences and limited knowledge of their biology and distribution. Sarah Fowler, co-chair of the IUCN Shark Specialist Group, expressed delight at the collaboration with the Department of Fisheries in Sabah.

Further background information details the genus Glyphis as large sharks, possibly reaching 3 meters, with characteristic small eyes and a relatively large second dorsal fin. The juvenile female from Kinabatangan measured 80 cm. The Ganges River Shark (Glyphis gangeticus) is listed as Critically Endangered. The Speartooth Shark (Glyphis glyphis) was originally known from eight specimens, most of which are lost. Two other undescribed species are mentioned: Glyphis species 'A' (Bizant River Shark) from Queensland, Australia, and Glyphis species 'C' (New Guinea River Shark).

The Thylacine - Everywhere but in Tasmania

Two forestry workers in New South Wales, Australia, reported seeing a creature resembling the extinct Tasmanian tiger, or thylacine (Thylacinus cynocephalus). Neville Elphinstone, a skeptic, described the animal as sandy-grey, black-striped, dog-like, walking slowly, and having a stiff tail, being a bit bigger than a cattle dog. This report is considered slim but adds to approximately 500 sightings of alleged mainland thylacines. The article notes that thylacines officially disappeared from Australia between 1000 BC and 1788 AD. It suggests that thylacines might still inhabit Australia, with some researchers suggesting efforts focus on the mainland rather than Tasmania. Recent sightings in Gippsland, Victoria, and reports from Irian Jaya (New Guinea) of a mysterious animal attacking livestock, described as thylacine-like, are also mentioned. Tim Flannery investigated the New Guinea reports without finding new evidence. The article suggests that a possible explanation for mainland sightings is the release of thylacines by amateur naturalists around the turn of the century at Wilson's Promontory.

The Mamlambo - A “Man-Eating” Reptile?

In East Cape, South Africa, villagers in the Transkei region are living in fear of a river monster, the Mamlambo, which has allegedly devoured at least seven people crossing the Mzintlava River. The monster is described as having fish- and horse-like features and is said to suck blood and brains from its victims. It is also associated with Xhosa tribal mythology, where catching it is believed to bring great wealth. Skeptics, like Eddie Trent, compare it to the Loch Ness monster. The author initially theorized that the mamlambo might be an oversized electric catfish (Malapterurus electricus) due to its ability to deliver shocks and its fish-like appearance. However, a recent news report described the mamlambo with short, stumpy legs, a crocodilian body, and the head and neck of a snake, and noted that it "shines at night with a green light." This new description makes the catfish theory less certain, suggesting a reptilian nature. Mount Ayliff police stated that the victims had drowned in the swollen river, and that river crabs may have caused the mutilation, explaining the "sucking blood and brains" accounts. While the author agrees with the drowning explanation, he acknowledges that the villagers interpret the mutilation as proof of the monster's existence. He concludes that while a large, unknown reptile might exist, it has been wrongly accused of the deaths, which were likely due to drowning.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the unknown and the unexplained, focusing on cryptids and mysterious creatures from around the world. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting evidence and theories while also offering skeptical analysis and plausible explanations, such as identifying the Mamlambo as a potential drowning victim scenario rather than a monster attack. The magazine encourages reader participation and aims to provide a platform for sharing information and research within the cryptozoology community.

The Cryptozoology Review, Volume 2, Number 1, Summer 1997, is a quarterly publication dedicated to the study of unknown animals and unexplained phenomena. This issue features a diverse range of articles, from folklore-based cryptid investigations to reports on newly discovered species and ongoing expeditions.

Mamlambo: South African Blood-Sucking Demon?

The issue begins with an examination of the Mamlambo, a mysterious creature from South Africa described as a half-fish, half-horse monster. While local superstitions attribute man-eating capabilities to it, the article suggests that the Mamlambo's reputation may lead locals to assume it killed people, rather than direct evidence. The article cites several news reports from 1997 that fueled public fear and calls for its hunting, while also referencing Bernard Heuvelmans' work on African dragons. Further investigation into this creature is deemed warranted.

Big Black Birds in the Ruwenzori

This section discusses the Ruwenzori Mountains, a range on the border of Zaire and Uganda known for its unique vegetation and high potential for new species discovery. The article highlights an anecdote from John Preston's travelogue, "Touching the Moon," detailing an 1898 report by S. Begge of finding a small lake with black birds the size of sheep that bellowed like bulls. Despite a later extensive expedition by the Duke of Abruzzi in 1906, no evidence of such creatures was found, leaving the report as an interesting but unconfirmed anecdote.

East Coast Caddy?

This article recounts a sighting by fisherman Charles Bungay in Fortune Bay, Newfoundland, on May 4, 1997. Bungay and a companion saw what they initially thought were garbage bags, but which turned out to be a creature with a neck about six feet long, a horse-like head, gray scaly skin, and ears or horns. The estimated overall length was 30-40 feet. Marine biologist John Lien ruled out known large marine animals, suggesting a possible link to *Cadborosaurus willsi*, a famous sea serpent. An archivist at Memorial University preferred the identity of a giant squid. A similar sighting was reported by another fisherman about five years prior, who saw a large tail.

Notes of Various New and Rediscovered Species

This section provides brief updates on several new or rediscovered species:

• Mesoplodon bahamondi: A new species of beaked whale described from a partial skull found off Chile, potentially responsible for unidentified sightings in the eastern tropical Pacific.
• Leopard Cat (*Felis bengalensis*): Rediscovered on Pulau Ubin, Singapore, after being thought extinct since 1968.
• New Mammal Species (*Sus bucculentus*): A new species of wild pig discovered in the Annamite Mountains of Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, described by Dr. Colin P. Groves.
• Lina's Sunbird (*Aethopyga linaraborae*): Recently rediscovered on Mindanao, Philippines. Originally collected in 1965 but misidentified, it was confirmed as a new species in 1993.
• African Reed Frogs: A British amateur scientist discovered four new species of African reed frogs during a 10,000-mile trek across Africa.
• Amazon Fish: An expedition led by Dr. John Lundberg in the Amazon River has discovered 240 species, many new to science, including strange electric fish and armored catfish.
• Bolivian Fish: Five new species of fish, including a "dinosaur-like" armored catfish, were discovered in the Tahuamanu and Manuripi River basins in Bolivia.

Assorted News

This section compiles several brief news items:

• Man-Killer Carnivorans in Egypt: Reports of wolf-like desert creatures attacking people and livestock in the Cairo suburb of Qattamiya, with one creature killed for examination.
• Giant Squid Expedition: An expedition to New Zealand waters to search for the giant squid (*Architeuthis sp.*) ended without encounters, though plans for future expeditions using sperm whale-mounted cameras are mentioned.
• Megamouth Shark: A tenth specimen of megamouth shark (*Megachasma pelagios*), a 5-meter female, was found near Toba, Japan.
• Bigfoot Research Project: Loren Coleman reports that Peter Byrne's Bigfoot Research Project in Oregon has ended due to funding issues, but a new project, the North American Scientific Institute, is being formed to continue the search for sasquatch evidence.
• Lake Van Monster Footage: Video footage surfaced from Turkey allegedly showing the Lake Van monster, described as a large, hump-backed creature approximately 20 meters long.

Two Possible Cryptids from Precolumbian Mesoamerica

This lengthy article by Andrew D. Gable explores two potential cryptids from Mesoamerican mythology:

The Camazotz, or "Death-Bat"

The article delves into the mythology of the Camazotz, a monstrous bat figure venerated by the Zapotec and Maya cultures around 100 B.C. and later. It is described as an anthropomorphic monster with a bat's head, associated with night, death, and sacrifice. The Popol Vuh mentions a cavern called "The House of Bats" home to monstrous bats. The name "Camazotz" is translated as "death bat" or "snatch-bat." The article discusses potential real-world bases for the legend, including the common vampire bat (*Desmodus rotundus*) and the false vampire bat (*Vampyrum spectrum*), as well as the recently extinct fossil bat *D. draculae*. Several other reports of large bat-like creatures and winged humanoids from Latin America are also presented as possible evidence.

The Ahuízotl - An Aztec Enigma

The Ahuízotl, or "water-dog," is presented as another confusing Mesoamerican mythological figure, depicted as a small animal resembling a rodent or dog. The article clarifies that Ahuízotl was also the name of an Aztec ruler, but the water-monster was considered a distinct creature. It is described as a water-beast and a symbol of the king, with its own entry in the Florentine Codex. The article also touches upon other Aztec mythological beings, such as the cuitlamiztli (onza), tlatecuhtli (earth monster), cipactli (crocodile-like monster), and the "feathered serpent" Quetzalcoatl.

The article also addresses controversial Maya glyphs depicting "elephants," which archaeologists generally interpret as stylized macaws, and compares them to known macaw glyphs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unknown, the intersection of folklore and potential biological reality, and the ongoing scientific discovery of new species. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into cryptozoological claims, presenting evidence and theories while acknowledging the speculative nature of the subject. There is a clear emphasis on citing sources and distinguishing between anecdotal reports and scientific findings. The magazine encourages further research and exploration into the mysteries of the natural world.

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 2 No. 1 Summer 1997
Date: Summer 1997
Publisher: The Cryptozoology Review
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review features several articles on cryptids and hominid research. The main articles discuss the ahuizotl, a creature from Mexican folklore, and the 'Camp Fircom object,' a purported sea serpent carcass. Additionally, there is a review of Ian Tattersall's book 'The Last Neanderthal.'

The Ahuizotl: A Mexican Water Monster

The first major section delves into the description and possible identity of the ahuizotl, a creature from Aztec mythology. The ahuizotl is described as a small, smooth, shiny, black, long-tailed animal with hands like a raccoon's or monkey's. It inhabits watery caverns and depths, and is known to drown people, leaving their bodies unblemished but slippery-wet. The text notes that similar creatures appear in the folklore of other indigenous peoples, including the Hopi Indians ('water-dogs' or pavawkyaiva) and the Shasta Indians of Northern California ('water-dog'), as well as the Sumu Indians of Nicaragua ('water-tiger').

The article explores various candidates for the ahuizotl's identity, dismissing the coyote and porcupine due to their nonaquatic habits. It considers the sea cat or marine otter (*Lutra felina*) but notes its primarily marine habitat and range limitations. The river otter (*Lutra canadensis*) is also discussed, but the Aztecs knew this creature as the aitzcuintli, suggesting the ahuizotl was a distinct entity. The author then presents several characteristics from the Florentine Codex that align with otters: small, pointed ears; smooth, black, slippery appearance; long tail; raccoon-like hands; and a sound like a weeping child. The hand-tipped tail remains the most difficult attribute to reconcile, but it is suggested that legends of a prehensile-tailed monster might have influenced the description. The conclusion is that the ahuizotl was very likely a type of otter, possibly an unknown species.

Another Caddy Carcass?

This article, authored by Darren Naish, examines a photograph of a purported Cadborosaurus (sea serpent) carcass found at Camp Fircom, British Columbia, in 1936. The author was initially impressed by the resemblance to other reported cadborosaur sightings and the Naden Harbour specimen. However, upon closer examination, Naish concludes that the 'Camp Fircom object' is a hoax. He identifies the 'long, slim body' as the stem of a large plant, likely kelp, with finger-length projections resembling root-like holdfasts. Raised, parallel lines with small spines are also noted as plant characteristics. The 'skull' is described as an amorphous, vaguely skull-like object, and the 'eye-socket' is interpreted as a mussel shell valve, with incremental growth lines and an umbo visible. Despite his parents' interpretation of the 'eye-socket' as a genuine feature, Naish remains convinced of the hoax. He mentions that Dr. Karl Shuker, who provided the photograph, interprets the dark area as a hole through which seawater can be seen, but Naish is not convinced. The article concludes that the object is a montage of beach debris and that a definitive conclusion cannot be reached without more information, suggesting that perhaps a Caddy is 'in the eye of the beholder.'

Reviews and Resources: Books

This section includes a review by Loren Coleman of Ian Tattersall's book, 'The Last Neanderthal: The Rise, Success, and Mysterious Extinction of Our Closest Human Relatives.' Coleman praises the book for its illustrations of skulls and mandibles and notes that it covers more than just Neanderthals, discussing earlier hominids as well. The review highlights the trend in naming unknown hominids and Tattersall's discussion of *Paranthropus robustus*, which was previously considered a species of *Australopithecus*. It also mentions *Paranthropus boisei* (formerly *Zinjanthropus boisei*) and *Paranthropusaethiopicus*. The book also touches upon *Homo erectus*, comparing specimens from Java and Peking with those from West Turkana, Kenya, noting differences in skull shape and thickness despite similar dating.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around cryptozoology, folklore, and the study of early hominids. The magazine appears to maintain an analytical and critical stance, particularly evident in the examination of the 'Camp Fircom object' as a likely hoax. The exploration of the ahuizotl demonstrates an interest in comparative mythology and the potential identification of legendary creatures with known animals. The book review indicates an engagement with current paleontological research and debates surrounding hominid classification. The overall editorial stance seems to be one of critical inquiry into unexplained phenomena and the scientific study of ancient life forms.

The Cryptozoology Review, Volume 2, Number 1, published in Summer 1997, is a magazine focused on cryptozoology and related fields. The issue features discussions on paleoanthropology, reviews of other cryptozoological publications, and information about its contributors and editorial contact.

Paleoanthropology and Hominid Evolution

The issue begins with a discussion on Asian Homo erectus and its relation to Homo sapiens. It highlights a growing tendency to classify the Kenyan form as a separate species, Homo ergaster, which is proposed as a potential ancestor for both Homo erectus and Homo sapiens, though not in a linear evolutionary sequence. Homo erectus is described as a specialized, extinct Asian offshoot of the human lineage.

The text references Tattersall's presentation of five fossil plates showing craniums and mandibles of Homo heidelbergensis from various locations, including Mauer (Germany), Arago (France), Petralona (Greece), Bodo (Ethiopia), and Kabwe (Zambia). Tattersall describes the European fossils (Arago and Petralona) as revealing a hominid with a more 'inflated' cranium than Homo erectus, featuring prominent brow ridges, large frontal sinuses, and a more rounded skull back, with cheeks somewhat inflated like Neanderthals but a flatter face.

The author emphasizes the importance for researchers in unknown hominid/anthropoid studies to stay updated on paleoanthropology, recommending Tattersall's book as an educational resource and a valuable addition to a cryptozoological library.

Periodicals Review

Bipedia

Reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, Bipedia is a magazine published by C.E.R.B.I. in Nice, France. It is edited by François de Sarre and is published mostly in French, with some articles in English and other languages. The magazine focuses on the theory of Initial Bipedalism, a controversial and little-accepted theory of alternate human evolution, and also covers relict hominid survival. François de Sarre is noted as an active cryptozoologist. While Bipedia appears infrequently, it is praised for its nice format and design, and is recommended for those interested in Initial Bipedalism and who can read French.

Criptozoologia

Criptozoologia is a magazine from Gruppo Criptozoologia Italia, based in Rome, Italy. Edited by Franco Tassi, it is published in Italian or French and includes articles by notable figures such as Bernard Heuvelmans. The magazine is highlighted for its colorful format and great illustrations.

Contributors and Contact Information

The "End Page" section introduces the issue's contributors: Loren Coleman, an experienced cryptozoologist and author; Andrew D. Gable, a freshman interested in cryptozoology, zoology, and mythology; John Moore, a grade 8 student researching cryptozoology and paleontology; Darren Naish, an independent zoological researcher known for his interest in dinosaurs and cryptozoology; and Ben S. Roesch, a grade 11 student with a keen interest in cryptozoological studies, marine biology, and animal behavior.

Contact information for the editor, Ben S. Roesch, is provided, including his address in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, phone number, and email address. Correspondence, manuscripts, and other materials should be directed to him.

Coming Soon

The "Coming Soon" section announces upcoming articles for The Cryptozoology Review, including "Enigmatic beaked whales" by Darren Naish, a review of "sea monster carcasses from around the world" by Ben S. Roesch, and "rediscovered mongooses" by Jon Downes. The next issue is scheduled for release in October.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of paleoanthropology and cryptozoology, using fossil evidence to inform discussions about potential undiscovered or relict hominids. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into cryptozoological subjects, while also maintaining a critical perspective, as noted by Ben S. Roesch's statement that he does not endorse the theory of Initial Bipedalism. The publication aims to educate its readers by staying current with scientific research in related fields like paleoanthropology and by reviewing relevant periodicals.