Cryptozoology Review - Vol 4 No 2 - 2004 - LOW RESOLUTION

Magazine Overview

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 4, No. 2
Date: Autumn 2004

This issue marks the final publication of The Cryptozoology Review, citing the editors' increasing university and research commitments as the reason for its cessation after four years. The editorial reflects on the field of cryptozoology, acknowledging its appeal in the quest for undiscovered animals but criticizing the often uncritical and speculative methods employed by many practitioners. It advocates for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach, suggesting that while the premise of undiscovered animals is sound, the methods used to find them often fall short of scientific standards. The editorial contrasts cryptozoology with conventional zoology, noting that while new species are regularly discovered by the latter, cryptozoologists have had little success in predicting these discoveries or in identifying which hypothetical animals do not exist. It also questions the suitability of cryptozoology as an introduction to science for children, given its tendency to promote ideas contrary to well-established scientific evidence and its reliance on inadequate forms of evidence like eyewitness testimony.

Articles and Features

Editorial

Ben S. Roesch and John L. Moore penned the final editorial, reflecting on the end of The Cryptozoology Review. They express gratitude to subscribers and discuss the challenges facing the field, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and a scientific approach to avoid misinterpretations and hoaxes. They use the example of the "mokole-mbembe" to illustrate how eyewitness accounts can lead to unwarranted conclusions, such as identifying it as a sauropod dinosaur without sufficient evidence. The authors argue that cryptozoology is, at best, a soft science, and that its practitioners often lack the critical and careful approach characteristic of true science. They conclude by stating that while they are not dismissing cryptozoology entirely, they plead for more cautious consideration of evidence to help the field achieve its original goal: assisting in the discovery of new animals.

A Compendium of Cryptids

This section, by Ben S. Roesch and John L. Moore, details several recent cryptozoological news items.

• Hyenas and the Nandi Bear: The article discusses a mysterious animal killed in Dowa, Malawi, in August 2002, which had been terrorizing villagers. Initially described as hyena-like but with distinct features, it was responsible for one death and 18 injuries. While some suggested it might be the legendary Nandi bear, a cryptid often described as a large hyena or bear-like animal, preliminary assessments pointed towards a lion. However, the animal was ultimately identified by Parks and Wildlife officers as a female spotted hyena suffering from starvation. The article suggests that many Nandi bear reports might be explainable by attacks from spotted hyenas, noting that even emaciated specimens can be difficult to identify for local people, highlighting the potential for misidentification.
• Farewell to Pseudonovibos spiralis: This segment examines the debate surrounding *Pseudonovibos spiralis*, a mysterious bovid described in 1994 based on its distinctive spiraling horns found in Southeast Asia. Recent studies, particularly by Alexandre Hassanin et al. and Herbert Thomas et al., argue that the horns are likely forgeries manufactured from domestic cattle horns. DNA analysis and isotopic ratios of carbon in the horn sheaths suggest a domestic origin and a diet of grasses, inconsistent with a wild forest dweller. While some researchers, like German Kuznetsov et al., have presented evidence suggesting a separate species, the prevailing view, supported by evidence of artificially carved annulations on the horns, is that *Pseudonovibos spiralis* is not a real animal.
• Globsters, Sperm Whales, and DNA: This section discusses "globsters," large, non-descript masses of tissue found on beaches, which are often mistaken for sea monsters. The article presents evidence, including DNA analysis by evolutionary geneticist Steven Carr, suggesting that globsters are typically the decomposed remains of whales, particularly sperm whales. Examples from New Zealand, Tasmania, and Newfoundland are cited. The famous "giant octopus" carcass from St. Augustine, Florida, is also discussed, with evidence pointing towards it being a sperm whale carcass, despite some cryptozoologists championing a giant octopus identity.
• New and Old Species of Beaked Whales: This part reviews recent discoveries and taxonomic revisions concerning ziphiids, or beaked whales. It mentions the description of *Mesoplodon perrini* based on specimens found in the 1970s and 1997. It also discusses the reclassification of *Mesoplodon bahamondi* to *Mesoplodon traversii* based on new evidence from partial lower jaws. The article further reviews the unidentified *Mesoplodon* species "A" from the eastern tropical Pacific, suggesting it is likely *Mesoplodon peruvianus*, and discusses *Indopacetus pacificus*, which may account for sightings previously attributed to *Hyperoodon* species.
• The Case Against the Silver Coelacanths: This section debunks the idea that silver sculptures from Spain, resembling coelacanths, are evidence of undiscovered populations of the fish in the Gulf of Mexico or the Mediterranean. Research by Hans Fricke and Raphael Plante suggests that these sculptures were likely made in the 16th or 17th century, or even more recently, based on photographs of known coelacanth specimens, not ancient knowledge.
• Other Cryptozoology News: This brief section covers a few miscellaneous items:
• A claim by Russian taxonomist A.P. Kasatkina of discovering a living conodont is dismissed, with the specimen identified as a decomposing bristlemouth fish.
• News of large sand tiger sharks (*Odontaspis*) found off Malpelo Island, Colombia, exceeding the known maximum size for the species, is discussed. While some speculate a new species, experts suggest they are likely large specimens of *Odontaspis ferox*.
• A BBC Wildlife article by Brian Leith suggests that the legend of the "mokele-mbembe" might be based on traditional recollections of rhinoceroses, after local people identified an illustration of a rhinoceros as the creature.

Giant Squids Are Red Herrings: Why Architeuthis Is an Unlikely Source of Sea Monster Sightings

By Charles G.M. Paxton, this article argues that giant squids (*Architeuthis* spp.) are unlikely candidates for the origin of many sea monster sightings. Paxton reviews what is known about giant squids, noting their mesopelagic habitat, worldwide distribution, and role as prey for animals like sperm whales. He highlights that their behavior is poorly understood, with differing opinions on whether they are active hunters or passive drifters. The article points out that giant squids likely cannot survive in freshwater environments, making them unsuitable explanations for creatures reported in lakes like Loch Ness. Furthermore, it is argued that they are unlikely to cruise the oceans with their tentacles protruding, a common feature in sea serpent descriptions. The article concludes that while giant squids are fascinating creatures, they are not a plausible explanation for most historical sea monster accounts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Cryptozoology Review include the critical examination of evidence, the identification of known animals as explanations for cryptid reports, and the debunking of claims based on questionable evidence or forgeries. The editorial stance, particularly evident in the final editorial and the articles on *Pseudonovibos spiralis* and globsters, is one of caution and a strong emphasis on scientific methodology. The journal advocates for a more skeptical and evidence-based approach to cryptozoology, distinguishing it from pseudoscience and urging practitioners to adhere to scientific principles. There is a clear effort to ground cryptozoological discussions in verifiable facts and to distinguish between genuine scientific inquiry and speculative or unfounded claims.

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 4 No. 2 Autumn 2004
Publisher: The Cryptozoology Review
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Article 1: Sea Serpent Theories and Giant Squids

This section critically examines the long-standing theory that many historical sea serpent sightings were actually misidentified giant squids (Architeuthis spp.). The author questions the logic behind squids attacking ships, suggesting it's unlikely due to predator-prey dynamics and size disparity.

Historical Interpretations:

• Henry Lee's (1883) 'Sea Monsters Unmasked': Lee interpreted a 1845 sighting as a giant squid, citing characteristics like "two fins near the forefront of the body" and the disturbance of water. However, the author notes these features are common to many large marine animals.
• Egede's (1734) Sighting: Lee also suggested Egede's "sea-serpent" was a giant squid. The article discusses the "Daedalus" sighting (1848) and others, noting that while giant squids are long and thin, this description fits many animals. The countershading of the Daedalus serpent is compatible with Architeuthis, but not conclusive. The presence of a dorsal fin is problematic for squid identification.
• The 'Pauline' Sighting (1875): A sighting off the coast of Brasil involved a white sea serpent wrapped around a sperm whale. The author finds the interpretation of constriction ludicrous, suggesting the "serpent" could have been a part of the sperm whale (like its penis) entangled with a giant squid, or even just the penis itself. A pale whitish pillar-like serpent seen later remains unexplained by this theory.
• Other Accounts: The article mentions the "sea monk" sighting in Denmark (1546), which Steenstrup identified as a giant squid. However, the author argues that features like being scaled are irreconcilable with a squid, suggesting it was more likely an angelshark.

Critiques of the Giant Squid Theory:

• Lack of Distinctive Features: Many sea serpent accounts lack specific diagnostic characters of a large cephalopod, such as multiple appendages or prominent eyes.
• Coloration: The natural maroon color of Architeuthis is rarely reported in sea serpent sightings.
• Morphological Inconsistencies: The posture and features described in some sightings are incompatible with the known morphology of giant squids.
• Alternative Explanations: The article suggests that other animals, such as whales (penises), cetaceans, sharks, or oarfishes, could better explain some sightings.

The Kraken Connection:

The article discusses the popular assumption that the kraken myth originated from the giant squid. It traces this idea to Pontoppidan's (1752-1753, 1755) descriptions and de Montfort's arguments. However, the author notes that Pontoppidan himself considered other possibilities, like a "polype" or starfish, and that Meurger (1999) argues the kraken description aligns more with a giant crab or an island monster (turtle or whale) than a cephalopod. There is no clear etymological or morphological link between pre-Pontoppidan kraken accounts and cephalopods.

Article 2: New Zealand's Giant Gecko: Hoplodactylus delcourti and the Kawekaweau of Legend

This section focuses on the discovery and study of *Hoplodactylus delcourti*, a giant gecko species from New Zealand.

Discovery and Description:

• A large, previously overlooked museum specimen of a gecko was discovered in the basement of the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Marseille, France. This specimen, found by Alain Delcourt, was easily the largest gecko in the world.
• Subsequent research by Aaron M. Bauer identified it as a new species of *Hoplodactylus*, named *H. delcourti* in honor of Alain Delcourt (1986).
• The type specimen (MMNH 1985-38) is an adult male, measuring 622 mm (24.5 in) in total length and 370 mm (14.6 in) in snout-to-vent length (SVL). This represents a significant size increase over previously known geckos.
• The specimen has a broad head, granular scales, short and robust limbs, broadly dilated digits with lamellae, and long, robust claws. Its coloration is yellowish-brown with dark reddish-brown dorsal and lateral stripes.
• Unfortunately, the specimen is preserved as a mount, with many bones removed, limiting detailed anatomical study.

Origin of the Specimen:

• The *Hoplodactylus* genus is endemic to New Zealand, suggesting *H. delcourti* originated there.
• An alternative hypothesis suggests it may have come from New Caledonia, formerly a French colony, explaining its presence in a French museum.
• A more precise explanation points to its acquisition by museum director Polydore Rous during a visit to India in 1819, suggesting a possible link to New Zealand specimens collected by French explorers.
• The specimen was acquired sometime between 1833 and 1869.

Lifestyle and Biology:

• *H. delcourti* likely shared the lifestyle of other *Hoplodactylus* species: omnivorous (feeding on fruit, nectar, insects, spiders, small vertebrates), viviparous, scansorial (climbers), and nocturnal.
• Its morphology suggests it was an able climber, though possibly slow and clumsy compared to smaller geckos.
• *Hoplodactylus* species are known for being long-lived, with *H. duvaucelii* living for 36 years, suggesting *H. delcourti* may have also been long-lived.

Gigantism:

• The article explores why *H. delcourti* became so large. Island endemism and isolation are cited as factors, allowing diminutive groups to evolve unusually large species due to reduced predation and competition.
• Alternatively, intense competition on a landmass with reduced area might have driven an increase in size.

Indigenous Knowledge (Kawekaweau):

• Maori legends mention several names for lizard-like animals, including 'kawekaweau'.
• The description of the kawekaweau in Maori lore, particularly its size, color pattern (banded, dull red stripes), and behavior (hiding under bark), closely matches *H. delcourti*.
• This suggests the Maori knew of *H. delcourti* and referred to it as the kawekaweau.

Skeletal Evidence:

• Two possible *H. delcourti* skeletal elements have been found in subfossil deposits in New Zealand:
• A lower jaw from Earnscleugh Cave, described by Hutton (1875), which, due to its size and non-acrodont teeth, is tentatively identified as belonging to a large lizard like *H. delcourti*.
• An unusual curved bone from the same site, possibly a medial cloacal bone, which bears resemblance to those of carphodactylines, including *Hoplodactylus*.

Current Status and Doubts:

• The question of whether *H. delcourti* still survives or survived until recently is explored. While extinction is likely, an open mind is kept.
• A search for live specimens began in 1990, with public reports of large lizards in New Zealand.
• However, investigations by Whitaker and Thomas (1990) were not convinced of *H. delcourti*'s survival, citing the lack of suitable habitat and potential misidentifications.
• Worthy and Holdaway (2002) have recently cast doubt on *H. delcourti*'s native status in New Zealand, arguing that the Earnscleugh Cave cloacal bone is not definitively identifiable and that the absence of giant gecko bones from fossil samples is suspicious.
• The author counters that *Hoplodactylus* is known only from New Zealand, making a native origin more parsimonious. The rarity of the species could explain the lack of fossil evidence.

Etymological Notes

This section clarifies the etymology of the word 'kraken'. It disputes the claim that 'Kraken' is the plural of 'Krake' in Norwegian for 'crawlers' or 'crabs'. It states that 'Krake' is the original name, and provides the Norwegian and Danish equivalents. The first mention of 'kraken' in English is attributed to Egede (1745), not Pontoppidan (1755).

End Notes and References

The issue includes end notes providing further details on specific points, such as cephalopods exposing tentacles and the origin of the 'sea monk' account. A comprehensive list of references is provided, citing numerous books and scientific articles related to cryptozoology, marine biology, and zoology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of historical cryptozoological accounts, particularly the tendency to attribute unexplained phenomena to known but poorly understood creatures like the giant squid. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous skepticism, emphasizing the need for detailed analysis of evidence, consideration of alternative explanations, and a cautious approach to accepting speculative theories. The article on *Hoplodactylus delcourti* exemplifies this by meticulously detailing the scientific discovery, morphological analysis, and ongoing debate surrounding the species' origin and existence, highlighting the importance of scientific evidence and the potential for overlooked or rare taxa.

Title: The Cryptozoology Review
Issue: Vol. 4 No. 2
Date: Autumn 2004
Publisher: The Cryptozoology Review
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The Cryptozoology Review features a lead article on "The Last Wolf" by Matt Bille, exploring the history and potential lingering existence of the Japanese wolf (yamainu). The magazine also includes several book reviews covering a range of cryptozoological topics, from extinct animals and ancient fossils to legendary creatures.

The Last Wolf by Matt Bille

The article "The Last Wolf" by Matt Bille delves into the history of wolves, particularly focusing on the extinction of various subspecies and the cultural significance of the Japanese wolf, known as the yamainu or shamainu. The yamainu is described as the smallest known wolf subspecies, standing about 14 inches high at the shoulder, with disproportionately short legs. Historically, it was viewed favorably in Japanese folklore as a friend or guardian, but later became a threat to livestock and was hunted for its fur.

Officially, the last Japanese wolf was killed in 1905 in Higashi-Yoshino Village, Nara Prefecture. However, occasional sighting reports have kept the question of its existence open for nearly a century. The article details sightings from 1934, after World War II, and mentions a conference in Nara in March 1994 where over 80 researchers discussed reports from 70 witnesses. The Kii Peninsula is noted as the last stronghold of the yamainu. A significant piece of recent evidence came from central Kyushu in July 2000, when school principal Akira Nishida photographed a canid believed to be a Japanese wolf. Despite these accounts, the wolf's identity remains unconfirmed, with some suggesting the possibility of released domestic dogs. The article concludes by reflecting on the enduring interest in wolves, which may stem from a desire to believe in the wildness and mystery that still exists.

Book Reviews

Histoire Naturelle des Dragons: Un Animal Problématique Sous l'Eil de la Science by Michel Meurger

Reviewed by John L. Moore, this book traces the history of the dragon concept from ancient Greece, where 'drakon' referred to large colubrids, through the Middle Ages when the dragon became associated with European folklore, to its eventual receding to the fringes of scholarly belief by the 20th century. The review notes that Meurger's account includes extensive quotations from historical texts and descriptions of purported sightings. The reviewer highlights that Meurger correctly denounces the approach of reshaping folklore to fit a zoological model and suggests the book causes one to question the reliance on eyewitness testimony in cryptozoology.

Encyclopedia of the Sea by Richard Ellis

Reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, this book is described as a comprehensive and useful encyclopedia of the sea. It covers geological features, human history related to oceans, and a wide array of marine life, including whales, dolphins, sharks, cephalopods, fishes, invertebrates, and algae. The review notes that while many entries are familiar to cryptozoology enthusiasts, they are useful for quick reference. It also mentions several cryptozoological entries, such as cryptozoology, the Loch Ness monster, coelacanth, Cadborosaurus, megalodon, sea serpent, and giant squid. The reviewer praises the book's scope and the inclusion of Ellis's illustrations.

The Kraken and the Colossal Octopus by Bernard Heuvelmans

Also reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, this is an English translation of Heuvelmans' work on the kraken and giant squid. The book covers the history of these creatures, aggressive behavior of octopuses, and includes fictionalized tales and first-hand accounts of attacks. The review notes that the translation is part of an ongoing effort to publish all of Heuvelmans' books in English. Despite some issues with illustration reproduction and the lack of an index, the reviewer calls it a "must-buy" for cryptozoology classics.

Mysterious Creatures: A Guide to Cryptozoology by George M. Eberhart

Reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, this two-volume set is described as an ambitious effort to collate information on every cryptid and mythical creature. The book features over 1000 alphabetically organized entries, from "Abnasayu" to "Ziz," and includes well-known cryptids like Nessie and Bigfoot. Each entry is broken into subsections including etymology, physical description, and sightings. The reviewer notes Eberhart's admirable inclusion of skeptical conclusions and his tendency to focus on animal-like characteristics. The book is considered an invaluable reference for those interested in cryptozoology, despite its hefty price.

The First Fossil Hunters: Paleontology in Greek and Roman Times by Adrienne Mayor

Reviewed by John L. Moore, this book argues that ancient Greeks and Romans knew of large vertebrate fossils, which they interpreted as remains of legendary heroes or giants, marking the birth of paleontology. Mayor suggests that legends of the griffin may be based on dinosaur fossils. The review acknowledges that while the argument is circumstantial, the book provides a fascinating look at how fossils were used to support beliefs in monsters and giants in antiquity.

Bigfoot Sasquatch Evidence by Grover S. Krantz

Reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, this book is a revised edition of Krantz's research on sasquatch. It includes chapters on footprints, the Patterson film, and other non-footprint evidence. Krantz concludes that the Patterson footage shows a real sasquatch, though the reviewer remains unconvinced. The book also discusses the possible biology and lifestyles of the sasquatch. The reviewer finds Krantz's approach admirable, noting his reliance on physical material and his consistent acknowledgment of the limitations of eyewitness testimony.

In Search of Giants: Bigfoot Sasquatch Encounters by Thomas Steenburg

Reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, this book presents Steenburg's research on sasquatch reports from western Canada, primarily consisting of collected reports and interviews. It includes a chapter on Alberta sightings and statistical analyses of sightings. The reviewer praises the book's numerous black-and-white photos and the author's dedication, while noting that the writing style can be a bit rough. The book is recommended for its insight into the complex process of investigating cryptozoological reports.

The Lost World of the Moa: Prehistoric Life of New Zealand by Trevor H. Worthy and Richard N. Holdaway

Reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, this is an extensive review and synthesis of the Quaternary fauna of New Zealand, with a focus on extinct birds, particularly the moa. It covers the paleontology, biology, and history of fossil discoveries of the moa, as well as other extinct birds like the Haast's eagle. The book is thoroughly referenced and academically readable. While it briefly mentions modern-day survival of moa as a cryptozoological topic, it emphasizes that scientific evidence suggests extinction at least 300-400 years ago.

The Loch Ness Monster: The Evidence by Steuart Campbell

Reviewed by Andrew D. Gable, this book is described as a critical examination of the mythology surrounding the Loch Ness Monster. Campbell analyzes various sightings, films, and photographs, offering explanations for most of them. The review notes that the book dispels popular myths about the lake and concludes that there is "absolutely no reason why anyone should believe in lake monsters."

The Private Life of Sharks by Michael Bright

Reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, this book presents recent shark research, including discussions on anatomy, physiology, feeding, migration, and deep-sea sharks. It also touches on the idea of the survival of *Carcharocles megalodon*. The reviewer notes that while the book is good for an introduction to shark biology, some speculative bits about the survival of *C. megalodon* are included.

In Search of Ogopogo: Sacred Creature of the Okanagan Waters by Arlene Gaal

Reviewed by Ben S. Roesch, this book presents new sightings and video/film evidence related to the ogopogo. The reviewer suggests that many of the purported sightings show sticks, birds, and waves, but acknowledges the interest in the evidence presented. The book includes a chronology of sightings and a discussion of various searches for the ogopogo.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of animals with dubious or extinct status, blending scientific research with folklore and eyewitness accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging open-mindedness tempered with skepticism. The reviews often highlight the importance of rigorous evidence and the potential pitfalls of relying solely on anecdotal accounts, while still acknowledging the value of cryptozoology as a field of study.

The Cryptozoology Review, Vol. 4 No. 2, published in Autumn 2004, is the final issue of this publication. It focuses on reviewing books related to cryptozoology and paranormal phenomena. The magazine is published by Ben S. Roesch and John L. Moore, with Roesch serving as the editor and Moore as the associate editor.

Book Reviews

Quest for the African Dinosaurs by Louis Jacobs This book, originally published in 1993 and now in paperback, is a travel journal and a work of popular science detailing dinosaur paleontology in Africa. While it covers various Mesozoic fauna, a chapter titled "A Living Dinosaur?" critiques the idea of living dinosaurs, particularly the mokele-mbembe, and dismisses the analogy of the coelacanth and the notion of unchanged rainforests. The reviewer notes that while Gaal's conclusion about ogopogo existing is not shared, the book is interesting for those interested in lake monsters.

Borderlands by Mike Dash Mike Dash's book covers a wide array of Fortean topics, including spontaneous human combustion, UFOs, conspiracies, mysterious disappearances, frog falls, ball lightning, and cryptozoology. The reviewer praises Dash's well-written, well-researched, and level-headed approach, noting that his book is entertaining and avoids the distortions often found in other works on these subjects. A chapter on cryptozoology examines British mystery cats, mapinguary, sasquatch, mokele-mbembe, giant snakes, sea serpents, the Loch Ness monster, and other topics, offering thoughtful commentary on cryptozoological evidence and practice.

Unexplained Phenomena: A Rough Guide by Bob Rickard and John Michell This book is an amalgamation of Rickard and Michell's previous works, 'Phenomena' (1978) and 'Living Wonders' (1982), with some updated content. It primarily deals with non-cryptozoological anomalies like UFOs, ghosts, crop circles, and unusual human abilities. The cryptozoology chapter, "Monsters," discusses lake monsters, sea serpents, globsters, man-eating trees, hairy hominids, wild people, black dogs, and werewolves. Another chapter covers strange animal behavior, including abductions by birds of prey. The authors tend to leave conclusions to the reader, but the reviewer recommends the book for its useful summaries and hard-to-find information on strange phenomena.

China's Major Mysteries: Paranormal Phenomena and the Unexplained in the People's Republic by Paul Dong Originally published in 1984 and reprinted with an addendum, this book covers paranormal topics such as UFOs, psychics, and qi gong, with a less skeptical approach than the reviewer prefers. It features three chapters (31 pages) on the wildman, China's equivalent of the sasquatch, detailing eyewitness encounters and scientific searches. An interview with Zhou Guoxing, an anthropologist known for his scientific approach to the wildman phenomenon, is highlighted. The book lacks references.

Cover Feature

The cover features a section of a map drawn by Hans Egede from 1734, depicting an animal seen off the coast of Greenland that was described as "shaped at the rear like a serpent."

Contact and Publication Information

The magazine provides contact details for the editor, Ben S. Roesch, including his address, phone number, and email. It also lists the contributors for this issue: Matt Bille, Andrew D. Gable, John L. Moore, Darren Naish, Charles G.M. Paxton, and Ben S. Roesch. Contributing editors include Matt Bille, Darren Naish, and Charles Paxton, with Peter Darben and Paul Cropper as correspondents, and R. Aidan Martin as editorial consultant. The publication notes that it is copyrighted and requests proper citation for any reprinted material.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around cryptozoology, particularly lake monsters, dinosaurs, and the wildman phenomenon. The reviews generally favor well-researched and level-headed approaches, with a critical stance on unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded skepticism, encouraging thoughtful commentary on evidence and practice within the field of cryptozoology. The publication's closure is noted, with information provided for those interested in acquiring back issues.