Cryptozoology Review - Vol 3 No 2 - 1998

Magazine Overview

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 3, No. 2
Date: Autumn 1998
Publisher: Ben S. Roesch

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review delves into various intriguing topics within the field of cryptozoology, featuring articles on newly discovered species, re-examinations of classic mysteries, and critical analyses of evidence. The cover art depicts a dramatic scene of a shark attacking a seal, hinting at the marine and predatory themes explored within.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Editor/Publisher Ben S. Roesch, addresses the perceived need for specialization in cryptozoology. Roesch argues that while traditional zoology often requires deep specialization, cryptozoology benefits more from researchers possessing excellent comprehensive research skills and critical thinking abilities. He contends that fundamental errors in reasoning and fact-finding by some cryptozoologists damage the field's credibility with mainstream scientists. Roesch emphasizes the importance of rigorous library research, meticulous evidence gathering, and the ability to synthesize information into a logical framework. He uses the example of the supposed sauropod dinosaur in the Congo, contrasting anecdotal evidence with hard scientific data, and critiques the common coelacanth analogy used to support such claims. The editorial concludes by stating that until critical thought and good research become commonplace, cryptozoology will justifiably remain disrespected by traditional zoology.

Letters

This section features correspondence from readers. Nick Molloy of Croydon, England, writes about Richard White's alleged Loch Ness monster photos, referencing comments from Rip Hepple of Nessletter. Molloy, like Hepple, believes the photos likely show a decaying boat wake, with a small dark object possibly being a water bird or flotsam, and expresses surprise that White won the William Hill award.

Exchange

This section provides contact information and subscription details for other publications in the fortean and cryptozoology realm, including Strange Magazine and Exotic Zoology.

About The Cryptozoology Review

Information is provided on subscriptions, back issues, and how to contribute to the publication. The review is published three times a year by Ben S. Roesch, with various subscription rates for different regions. It welcomes unsolicited manuscripts and artwork, offering payment in copies of the publication.

A Compendium of Cryptids

Coelacanths Found off Indonesia

This article by Ben S. Roesch reports on the significant discovery of a population of coelacanths (Latimeria chalumnae) in the waters off northern Sulawesi, Indonesia. Previously, the coelacanth was thought to exist only near the Comoros Islands off Africa. The discovery was made by Dr. Mark Erdmann and his wife, Arnaz Mehta Erdmann, who identified a fish in a market in Manado. Subsequent expeditions confirmed the presence of the species, locally known as 'raja laut' ('king of the sea'). One specimen, measuring 4 ft (1.2 m) and weighing 64 lb (29 kg), was caught and filmed by Erdmann before it died. The article notes that the Indonesian coelacanths are brown, unlike the blue ones from the Comoros, and discusses the possibility of them being a distinct species. The discovery highlights the importance of conservation for this ancient lineage and provides supporting evidence for cryptozoological theories about the coelacanth's wider distribution. The article also mentions a report by Michel Raynal of a coelacanth caught off Java in 1995.

Sources Cited: Anon. 1998. Biologist finds second population of primitive fish. Associated Press, September 24. // Bille, Matt. 1995. Rumors of Existence. // Browne, Malcom W. 1998. Second Home of Fish From Dinosaur Age Is Found. New York Times, September 24. // Ellis, Richard. 1994. Monsters of the Sea. // Forey, Peter. 1998. A home from home for coelacanths. Nature 395 (September 24), 319-320. // Greenwell, J. Richard. 1994. Prehistoric Fishing. BBC Wildlife 12 (3): 33. // Oguro, Jodi. 1998. UC Berkeley biologists find fish species not unique to Africa. University Wire, September 24. // Raynal, Michel. 1998a. An unknown species of coelacanth in the Gulf of Mexico? // Raynal, Michel. 1998b. Posting to the Cryptozoology mailing list, October 1. // Raynal, Michel, & Mangiacopra, Gary S. 1995. Out-of-Place Coelacanths. Fortean Studies 2: 153-65. // Shuker, Karl. 1995. In Search of Prehistoric Survivors.

More on Messner and the Yeti

This article revisits the claims of mountaineer Reinhold Messner regarding the Yeti, which were previously discussed in The Cryptozoology Review Vol. 2 No. 3. Messner's new book, 'Yeti-Legende und Wirklichkeit', expounds his findings. Contrary to popular belief and previous theories suggesting the Yeti is an ape-like creature, Messner is convinced it is a bear, likely the Himalayan red bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus). He cites the bear's size (up to 3.4 m or 11 ft), its ability to walk bipedally, human-like feces, nocturnal habits, and distribution as supporting evidence. The article also mentions an encounter reported by American climber Craig Calonica on the Chinese side of Mount Everest, who described seeing two hairy, man-like figures. Despite Calonica's description, some, like BBC's Toby Murcott, suggested altitude sickness as a possible explanation.

Sources Cited: Anon. 1998. American climber says he has seen the "Yeti". Reuters, October 13. // Bille, Matt. 1998. Posting to the Cryptozoology Mailing List, October 11. // Coleman, Loren. 1998. Posting to the Cryptozoology Mailing List, October 11. // Crossland, David. 1998. Mountaineer destroys myth of the "Yeti." Reuters, October 6. // Heuvelmans, Bernard. 1958. On the Track of Unknown Animals. // Lawson, Alastair. 1998. Himalayan climber's abominable sighting. BBC News, October 17.

Gigantic Fish or Just Whales?

This piece debunks a news item from the July 23, 1969, Baltimore Sun newspaper, which reported that the crew of the research submarine Ben Franklin had spotted "eight blackfish 30 feet [9 m] long" in the Gulf Stream. The article explains that "blackfish" is a common name for pilot whales (Globicephala spp.), which can reach lengths of up to 6.2 m (20 ft). The crew's estimate of 30 feet is attributed to an incorrect measurement or exaggeration. The article emphasizes the importance of thorough research in cryptozoology and cautions against accepting sightings without substantial supporting evidence.

Sources Cited: Anon. 1969. Gigantic Fish Are Spotted Under Sea. Baltimore Sun, July 23. // Leatherwood, Stephen and Randall R. Reeves. 1983. The Sierra Club Handbook of Whales and Dolphins. // Piccard, Jacques. 1971. The Sun Beneath the Sea.

Loch Ness: Film, Sonar and a Submarine

This section covers recent developments concerning the Loch Ness Monster. It discusses a 20-second video filmed by Geoff Mitchison, which Gary Campbell of the Loch Ness Monster Fan Club considers the best footage yet. While Campbell believes it shows a monster, Chris Packham of the BBC's "X-Creatures" and other researchers suggest it is likely a seal, noting that seals have been recorded in Loch Ness before. The article also mentions sonar contact made in Urquhart Bay with an unusual object, described by Gary Campbell as "very exciting." Finally, it details plans for a deep-water minisub expedition in June 1999, led by former U.S. Navy submariner Dan Taylor, who has built a minisub named 'Nessa' to search for the creature.

Sources Cited: Anon. 1998. New Nessie spotting. Scottish Daily Record, July 31. // Anon. 1998. Nessie lies very low on sonar. The Herald, July 31. // Anon. 1998. Homing in on Nessie. Sunday Mail, August 2. // Bauer, Henry H. 1986. The Enigma of Loch Ness. // Campbell, Steuart. 1986. The Evidence about the Loch Ness Monster. // Coleman, Loren. 1998. Loch Ness minisub expedition picks a passenger. Informational notice, October 3. // Denholm, Andrew. 1998. Nessie spotters call film most exciting breakthrough in years. The Scotsman, September 10. // Fulton, Rick. 1998. GMTV give Loch Ness the Seal of Approval. Scottish Daily Record, September 10.

Notes on Various New and Rediscovered Species

This section provides brief reports on newly discovered or rediscovered species:

• Navassa Island: A biological survey of this small island west of Haiti revealed 800 animal and plant species, with about 250 being new to science. Many are endemic, and the island's isolation has allowed flora and fauna to flourish.
• Three Gorges Area, China: A survey by China's State Environmental Protection Administration found about 44 new species of tetrapods, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
• Dwarf Marmoset: A tiny new monkey, *Callithrix humilis*, has been described from Brazil. It is the smallest primate in the Amazon and inhabits a limited area along the Aripuana and Madeira Rivers.
• Leaf Muntjac: The fourth muntjac deer discovered this decade in Southeast Asia is described as small and has been dubbed the "leaf muntjac." It is from Myanmar.
• *Chibchanomys orcesi*: A new species of mouse discovered on the Cajas Plateau in Ecuador, which feeds on fish and uses its whiskers to detect prey.
• New Robin Species: American ornithologists announced the discovery of a new species of robin from the Central African Republic, distinguished by its bright yellow-red throat and upper breast.
• Mosquito Evolution: Mosquitoes of the species *Culex pipiens* that entered the London Underground system 100 years ago are evolving into a new species, *C. molestus*. These mosquitoes have adapted to feed on underground animals and show significant genetic differences from their aboveground counterparts.

Sources Cited: Anon. 1998. Treasure trove of species found on Caribbean isle. Reuters News Service, August 3. // Warrick, Joby. 1998. Unsullied by Humans, U.S. Island Is Biological Motherlode. Washington Post, August 17. // Anon. 1998. New animal species discovered in Three Gorges Area. Xinhua News Agency News Bulletin, June 18. // Bowen, Lisa. 1998. Brazil adds new primate to world record. http://www.conservation.org/web/news/pressrel/98-0630.htm, June 30. // Bille, Matt. 1998. News and Comment. Exotic Zoology 5 (6): 6. // Bille, Matt. 1998. More News. Exotic Zoology 5 (5): 7. // Astor, Michael. 1998. New robin species found in Africa. Associated Press, August 21. // Anon. 1998. Report claims London Underground home to new species of mosquito. http://www.nandotimes.com, August 25. // Holden, Constance. 1998. Dead Medium: Mutant Mosquitoes in Subway Tunnels. Science 281: 1443.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the discovery and study of cryptids and new species, the critical evaluation of evidence within cryptozoology, and the ongoing debate about the scientific legitimacy of the field. The editorial stance, as articulated by Ben S. Roesch, strongly advocates for rigorous scientific methodology, critical thinking, and thorough research as essential components for cryptozoology to gain respect from the mainstream scientific community. The issue highlights both the excitement of new discoveries, such as the coelacanth population, and the need for skepticism and careful analysis when evaluating claims, as seen in the discussions on the Yeti and the Loch Ness Monster.

The Cryptozoology Review, Vol. 3 No. 2, Autumn 1998, is a magazine dedicated to the study of unknown or legendary creatures. This issue features several news items and a detailed article evaluating the possibility of the existence of the extinct shark, Carcharodon megalodon, in contemporary oceans.

Other Cryptozoology News

Puma Sightings in Maine

Unconfirmed sightings of pumas in the Fryeburg area of Maine, near the New Hampshire border, have prompted the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to issue a warning to residents. While officially declared extinct in Maine in the late 1930s, sightings have become more frequent. In 1996, fur found on a tree was analyzed and confirmed to be from a puma. Wildlife researchers generally believe pumas are present but may be individuals released by humans rather than a native population.

Search for the Storsjoe Lake Monster

An expedition led by Loch Ness monster researcher Adrian Shine searched Sweden's Storsjoe Lake for its resident monster, the Storsjoeodjuret. Despite using 15 boats, sonar, and divers in a 3 km² area, the effort yielded only inconclusive sonar contacts. The creature has been described variously over 400 years as 5 to 15 meters long, serpent-like or plump, and colored grey, green, or red, sometimes making a wailing or rattling noise. The expedition speculated that the monster might be a variation of the giant European catfish or wels (Silurus glanis).

Big Cat Evidence in Scotland Analyzed

A roe deer carcass found stripped in a manner similar to alleged big cat kills in the UK was accompanied by large droppings in Durris, Scotland. A veterinarian collected the feces for analysis. Dr. Martyn Gorman, a carnivore expert, found the droppings unusually large, even compared to leopard droppings. DNA analysis by Dr. John Dallas revealed the droppings were undoubtedly those of a fox. The conclusion is that while foxes may be responsible for some incidents, they are unlikely to be responsible for all.

Fossilized Swan-Necked Seal

Darren Naish reports on a fossilized Pliocene swan-necked seal, Acrophoca longirostris, from Peru. This phocid seal, about 2.5 to 3 meters long with a pointed skull and elongated neck, brings to mind hypothetical long-necked pinnipeds like Oudemans' "Megophias" and Heuvelmans' "Megalotaria" associated with sea serpent sightings. However, there is no evidence linking these fossil seals to modern sea serpent or lake monster reports.

The Skunk Ape Photographed?

Dave Shealy, owner of the Florida Panther Gift Shop, claims to have photographed a 7-foot-tall 'Skunk Ape' in the Florida Everglades. Shealy, who runs a skunk ape research center, took 27 photographs after spending eight months sitting in a tree lookout. He described the creature approaching him from about 50 yards away. Shealy believes there are nine to twelve skunk apes in the Everglades and that they are skilled at hiding their dead. His claims have led to media attention, including interviews and participation in television programs and an expedition with 'Unsolved Mysteries'. Shealy estimates the media attention has generated significant free advertising for his shop, though he claims to have made no money from the sightings.

Bigfoot Sighting in California

A screaming, hairy, 9-foot-tall man-like beast with yellow eyes was reportedly seen near Hayfork, California. Tim Ford and a friend observed the creature from about 45 meters away during a camping trip. They described it as leaving tracks 6 inches wide and 20 inches long, and stated it was not a bear. California Department of Fish and Game spokesman Paul Wertz acknowledged that sasquatch sightings are not unusual in the area but indicated the agency would likely refrain from investigating.

South Island Kokako Survival?

Following previous mentions of new evidence suggesting the survival of the supposedly extinct South Island kokako (Callaeas cinerea cinerea) in New Zealand, two hunters reported hearing and spotting what they believed to be the bird in a Buller forest. Local ornithologist Rhys Buckingham was involved in previous efforts and planned to return for a bird survey.

Flathead Lake Monster Sighting

After a five-year hiatus, the Flathead Lake monster in Montana was reportedly seen again. An angler fishing in Gravel Bay observed a large shape, 'several feet long', with a tail fin characteristic of a sturgeon, tracking a small lake trout. The Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks has recorded 78 sightings since 1889, with 25 fitting the description of a large fish like a white sturgeon, and the remaining 53 describing creatures over 10 feet long with humps and smooth skin, or an eel-like shape. Regional fisheries manager Jim Vashro noted that while he doesn't claim credence, something is occurring, and the sightings could be caused by white sturgeon.

A Critical Evaluation of the Supposed Contemporary Existence of Carcharodon megalodon

This article by Ben S. Roesch critically examines the evidence for the survival of Carcharodon megalodon, the extinct giant shark.

Background on C. megalodon

Carcharodon carcharias, the white shark, can grow up to 6 meters (20 ft) and weigh over 3,000 kg (7,500 lb). C. megalodon, which existed around 16 million years ago during the Miocene, is estimated to have reached lengths of 15 meters (50 ft) and weighed up to 50 tonnes (55 tons). Its teeth were much larger than those of the white shark, up to 17 cm (7 inches) high. C. megalodon likely fed on primitive whales and other large marine mammals, possibly also scavenging. There is debate about its phylogeny, with some placing it in the genus Carcharodon and others in Carcharocles.

Eyewitness Accounts of Modern Megalodon Sightings

The article reviews several eyewitness accounts presented as evidence for C. megalodon survival:

• 1918 Port Stephens Incident: Australian naturalist David Stead recounted a story of fishermen refusing to go to sea due to an immense shark that took their fishing pots. The fishermen described the shark as having a 'gigantic stature' and a 'ghostly whitish color', with estimates of its length ranging from 90 to 115 meters. Roesch finds the reported size absurd and the color inconsistent with marine animal adaptations like countershading.
• Zane Grey Sightings (1927-1928 and 1933): Author Zane Grey and his son Loren reported sightings of large sharks in the South Pacific. Zane Grey described an enormous 'yellow and green' shark with a 'square head' and 'immense pectoral fins', estimated at 35-40 feet. Loren Grey described a monstrous shark with a huge round head, estimated at 40-50 feet. Roesch suggests these descriptions are more consistent with whale sharks (Rhincodon typus), noting similarities in head shape, fin size, and behavior, despite the Greys' assertions that it was not a whale shark.
• Cartmell's Evidence: The article dismisses evidence presented by Cartmell (1978), including sonar trackings of an object 100 ft long traveling faster than a submarine, and a report of an 85-foot ship sighting an immense, whitish shark near Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Roesch finds Cartmell's sources unverifiable and the accounts lacking in detail and reliability.

Roesch concludes that these five unconfirmed and dubious anecdotes provide no good evidence for the modern-day survival of C. megalodon, with at least two being reasonably attributed to whale sharks.

Evidence from Teeth

Another persistent myth is the claim that unfossilized C. megalodon teeth have been dredged from the ocean floor. Roesch states that this claim, cited by Cartmell, Goss, and Shuker, ignores the fact that no unfossilized C. megalodon tooth has ever been found. He references Whitley (1940) and Smith (1953) who mentioned dredged teeth, and Stead (1963) who described large teeth found on the Pacific Ocean floor. Roesch argues that these teeth are fossilized specimens, often encrusted with manganese dioxide, which can give them a fresh appearance. He suggests that untrained observers, like Whitley and Stead, might mistake these well-preserved fossil teeth for unfossilized ones. Smith's comments, lacking specificity about whether the teeth were fossilized, have also been misinterpreted. The article asserts that all discovered teeth are unequivocally fossilized.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reports on sightings of cryptids and unexplained phenomena, including large predatory cats, lake monsters, and legendary sharks. The editorial stance, particularly in the C. megalodon article, is critical and evidence-based, favoring scientific consensus and rigorous analysis over anecdotal accounts. The magazine appears to encourage skepticism while remaining open to the possibility of undiscovered or surviving species, provided sufficient evidence is presented. The recurring theme is the exploration of the boundaries between myth, legend, and potential scientific discovery in the field of cryptozoology.

The Cryptozoology Review, Vol. 3 No. 2, published in Autumn 1998, features articles on the potential survival of the C. megalodon, new discoveries in the field of beaked whales, and a classic cryptozoological folklore story.

Debunking C. Megalodon Survival Claims

The issue critically examines the evidence for the continued existence of the C. megalodon. Proponents have cited fossilized teeth dredged from the South Pacific, dated using manganese dioxide layers. Dr. W. Tschernezky's 1959 analysis suggested these teeth were only 11,000 to 24,000 years old, implying survival beyond the Pliocene. However, researchers now believe these claims are erroneous, likely representing reworked material from older deposits. A fundamental flaw identified is the unreliability of manganese dioxide dating due to its variable deposition rates, which can lead to vast discrepancies in age estimates. For instance, a 50 mm thick layer could yield dates ranging from 333,000 to 36,000 years old. Another piece of 'evidence' involves teeth found embedded in the hull of the Australian cutter Rachel Cohen in 1954. These teeth were reportedly larger than those of modern white sharks, arranged in a bite pattern. However, the story is considered unreliable, with potential for exaggeration and misidentification of the teeth. The article also dismisses the megamouth shark as a useful analogy for C. megalodon survival, stating that the megamouth is a highly specialized mesopelagic planktivore, unlike the presumed coastal, warm-water habitat of C. megalodon.

Ecological Counter-Evidence

The paleoecological view strongly suggests C. megalodon inhabited tropical, coastal waters and was a shallow-water predator. It is argued that such a creature could not survive in the cold, food-poor deep-sea. Factors contributing to its extinction may include the Pliocene extinction of its primary food source, early baleen whales, and changes in oceanic circulation. The idea that C. megalodon could adapt to a deep-sea environment after its extinction is deemed fatuous. The article concludes that if C. megalodon were still alive, it would inhabit shallow continental shelf waters, where its presence would be undeniable, making popular activities like surfing and swimming far more hazardous. The conclusion is that the suggestion of C. megalodon survival lacks acceptable evidence and conflicts with current paleontological and ecological knowledge, classifying it as a myth.

A Possible New Species of Ziphiid Whale

Darren Naish contributes an article discussing the ongoing discoveries and challenges in identifying beaked whale species (Ziphiidae). Despite being considered poorly known, eight of the 20 recognized species have been described this century, with two in the current decade. The article highlights Mesoplodon peruvianus and Mesoplodon bahamondi as recently described species. It also discusses Mesoplodon sp. "A", known from eyewitness and photographic evidence, and its potential identity as M. bahamondi or M. pacificus. A significant development is a study using mitochondrial DNA to identify ziphiid species. This research revealed that four out of 20 'test' samples from New Zealand strandings had been misidentified. Notably, a specimen previously identified as Mesoplodon bowdoini was found to be different. The study also revealed a marked genetic difference between two specimens identified as Mesoplodon hectori, one from South Australia and the other from the North Pacific. This suggests the discovery of a new mesoplodont species, which morphologically resembles M. hectori but is genetically distinct.

The article also touches upon the history of misidentification within the Mesoplodon genus, noting that M. bowdoini has been problematic due to its apparent closeness to M. carlhubbsi, though DNA analysis suggests they are not close relatives. The distribution of M. hectori is also discussed, with evidence now pointing to its presence in the northern hemisphere, contrary to its previously assumed austral distribution.

The Lambton Worm: A Cryptozoological Folklore Story From the Past

Gordon Rutter presents the legend of the Lambton Worm, a cryptozoological folklore story from North East England, dating from 1862 and based on a legend from the 11th-13th centuries. The story concerns John Lambton, the son of Lord Lambton, who, after missing church, went fishing and caught a small, ugly worm. Displeased, he threw it down a well. As John grew older and went on a seven-year crusade, the worm grew to a massive size, escaping the well and terrorizing the local land by eating livestock and children. The worm was said to wrap itself around a nearby hill, identified as either Penshaw Hill or, more popularly, Worm Hill. Lord Lambton's attempts to defeat the worm with seven knights failed. Upon John's return, he sought the help of a local witch, who advised him to wear armor studded with spear heads and to fight the worm in the River Wear. He was also warned to kill the first living thing he saw after defeating the worm to avoid a curse on his family for nine generations. John battled the worm, which wrapped around him, but the spear heads on his armor wounded it. He then used his sword to cut the worm into pieces, preventing it from rejoining. Remembering his pact, John blew his hunting horn to signal his father to release the hunting dogs. In his haste to congratulate his son, his father approached first, and John, to forestall the curse, killed the nearest dog. However, it was not the first living thing he saw. The legend states that for the next nine generations, all Lambton heirs died out of their beds. A statue depicting John Lambton battling the worm, dating from the seventeenth century, stands outside Lambton Hall.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical yet open-minded approach to cryptozoological claims. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific evidence, peer review, and ecological plausibility when evaluating purported discoveries. The articles on C. megalodon and beaked whales demonstrate a commitment to debunking unsubstantiated claims while acknowledging the potential for new discoveries based on sound scientific methodology. The inclusion of the Lambton Worm legend highlights the magazine's interest in the historical and folkloric aspects of cryptozoology, presenting them as cultural narratives rather than scientific evidence. The overall stance is one of critical inquiry, prioritizing verifiable data and established scientific understanding.

The Cryptozoology Review, Vol. 3 No. 2, Autumn 1998, is a magazine focused on unexplained creatures and phenomena. This issue features an in-depth exploration of the legend of the Lambton Worm.

The Lambton Worm Legend

The article begins by establishing Worm Hill as a major local landmark in England, noting that the land was given to the public with a stipulation against excavations. It then delves into the history of the Lambton Worm legend, citing Robert Surtees who, in the early nineteenth century, was shown a piece of material claimed to be the worm's skin, described as leather-like. However, the article points out the lack of any record of this material before or after this incident, suggesting it might have been a publicity stunt.

Dating the Legend

Regarding the timeline of the legend, the article notes disagreement but references Dufferwiel (1996) for specific details. It recounts that John Lambton's son drowned near a chapel where his father had made vows before fighting the worm. Sir William Lambton was killed at Marston Moor during the civil war, and his son, also named William, died leading a troop of Dragoons in 1643. Henry Lambton MP is reputed to be the last victim of the curse, dying of a heart attack while crossing the River Wear in 1761. By tracing the lineage back nine generations from Henry, the story is dated to sometime during the twelfth or thirteenth century, linking it to a Sir John Lambton, Knight of Rhodes.

Evidence and Explanations

The central question posed is whether the worm actually existed. The article states that, like many cryptozoological stories, the Lambton Worm tale describes an animal unknown to science. The current record is based solely on hearsay, with no extant evidence. The story is characterized as fantastic, and the article asserts that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. In the absence of such evidence, the Lambton Worm is relegated to the realm of folklore and moralistic fable.

One possible explanation, advanced by Dufferwiel (1996), suggests the story might recount an attack by an army. The army, when attacked, broke up but regrouped, causing damage to villagers. The defeat of this army is attributed to the intervention of an experienced soldier named "John Lambton," who used superior tactics.

Similar Legends and Cultural Significance

The article notes that British folklore contains many legends of creatures similar to the Lambton Worm. These stories generally fade by the mid-seventeenth century, with some tales suggesting these creatures were hunted to extinction. Several of these legends mention the beast having a fondness for milk, as well as for animals and people. An unusual story from the fourteenth century involves a tangible element: the sword allegedly used to dispatch the Sockburn Worm is said to be housed in Durham Cathedral in County Durham.

The author reflects that while many of these stories can be dismissed individually as conjecture or fanciful tales, their sheer number raises questions. It prompts consideration of whether they are accounts of real creatures from the past or a cultural trend of using monstrous "worms" in moralistic stories. The latter interpretation is deemed more believable, though the possibility of a basis in truth is not entirely dismissed. The article concludes that in retrospect, the truth may never be known.

Acknowledgements and Further Reading

The author thanks Alan Rutter for references and Alison Clayton for checking the perimeter of Worm Hill. A "Further Reading" section lists several publications related to the Lambton Worm, including works by T. Arthur, M. Dufferwiel, A. L. Hind, J. Lulic, C. Sharp, and W. Stephenson, with publication dates ranging from 1830 to 1996.

Contributors and Contact Information

The issue also includes a section on contributors. Darren Naish is a zoologist at the University of Portsmouth, UK, specializing in predatory dinosaurs and cryptozoology of whales. Ben S. Roesch is a student in Toronto, Canada, with interests in marine biology, animal behavior, and zoology. Gordon Rutter is a mycologist at the Royal Botanic Garden (UK) with a lifelong interest in cryptozoology and forteana.

Contact information for the editor, Ben S. Roesch, is provided, including his address in Toronto, Canada, phone number, and email address. Upcoming issues are also previewed, including a review of alleged sea serpent carcasses and installments on the cryptozoology of the moa, with the next issue scheduled for March 1999.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly focuses on the cryptozoological legend of the Lambton Worm, presenting historical accounts, examining the lack of concrete evidence, and exploring potential explanations and cultural significance. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the allure of such legends while maintaining a skeptical approach that demands extraordinary evidence for extraordinary claims. The magazine seems to lean towards interpreting such stories as folklore or moralistic fables, though it leaves open the possibility of a historical basis. The inclusion of contributors with diverse scientific and research backgrounds suggests a commitment to exploring these topics from various perspectives.