Flying Snake - No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: Flying Snake
Issue: Volume 1 Issue 2
Date: October 2011
Publisher: Flying Snake Press
Country: UK
Price: £3

This issue of Flying Snake, a journal dedicated to Cryptozoology, Folklore, and Forteana, presents a diverse range of articles and features. The cover prominently displays an ammonite fossil, referred to as a 'snake stone,' with the magazine's title and issue details. The main cover headline lists several key topics within this issue, including "Pine Martens in Derbyshire, 1996-2011," "Red Heifer and 3rd Temple," "Spotted Otter in Ireland," "Lazarus Syndrome," "Oddity in Forest of Dean," and "Weird Worms."

Editorial Content

Dr Devo's Diary

Dr Devo, the columnist, has been busy with research for Flying Snake and other projects. He expresses a desire for more "mainstream" cryptozoology in the journal, citing examples like Alien Big Cats and the Loch Ness Monster. He mentions that Lizzy Clancy's article on Lazarus Syndrome covers a less obscure topic. Dr Devo also shares personal updates, including a potential sighting of the Loch Ness Monster for a future issue and his ongoing work on a cryptozoology blog and a book about Mystery Animals of Hong Kong. He concludes his diary with a quote from G.K. Chesterton on the unique nature of humanity.

A Strange Creature in the Forest of Dean, 1924

This article by Richard Muirhead recounts a peculiar incident from August 15, 1924, reported in the Dean Forest Guardian. Miners at the Poolway Level discovered a living animal, approximately 14 inches in height, within a piece of coal. The creature, described as a near-perfect model of a human body but without arms, showed signs of life for about an hour before disappearing overnight. The discoverer, Mr. Leslie Jones, insisted it was not a bat, despite a naturalist's suggestion. The creature was estimated to weigh nearly two pounds, had a round head the size of a teacup, and possessed ears, eyes, nose, mouth, tongue, and teeth. The article explores various possibilities, including an aborted foetus or different species of bats, but ultimately concludes that the true nature of the creature remains unknown.

Lazarus Syndrome

Lizzy Clancy's article delves into the phenomenon of Lazarus Syndrome, also known as autoresuscitation, which is the spontaneous return of circulation after failed resuscitation attempts. The article begins by referencing the biblical story of Lazarus's resurrection. It then presents two modern cases: Daphne Banks, who was pronounced dead on New Year's Day 1996 but revived before refrigeration, and Michael Wilkinson, who was declared dead from a heart condition in 2009 but later showed a pulse, though he ultimately succumbed. The article cites Wikipedia and the Daily Mail for statistics on Lazarus Syndrome cases and discusses Dr. Bruce Ben-David's theories on potential causes, including delayed adrenaline response. It also explores Rodney Davies's suggestion that Lazarus may have been in a cataleptic state rather than truly dead, supported by Jesus's loud command and the lack of decomposition. The piece concludes by noting that while Lazarus Syndrome is accepted as a medical condition, the biblical resurrection remains a matter of faith.

Other Articles and Features

The table of contents reveals a wide array of topics covered in this issue:

• A People's Republic of China U.F.O. Magazine 1984: Likely an article discussing UFO phenomena in China.
• Flying Snakes Part 2: A continuation of a series, possibly exploring mythological or cryptozoological serpents.
• The Quest for the Red Heifer: This article by Zvi Ron likely examines the significance of the Red Heifer in religious or prophetic contexts, possibly related to the Third Temple.
• The Pine Marten in Derbyshire 1996-2011: A report by Richard Muirhead on sightings or studies of Pine Martens in Derbyshire over a 15-year period.
• The Weird Weird World of Worm Anomalies: Another contribution from Richard Muirhead, exploring unusual phenomena related to worms.
• Some Odd Fauna Records in Britain 1611-1922: Richard Muirhead presents historical records of unusual animal sightings in Britain.
• A Unicorn Rabbit From County Durham: An article by Karl Shuker on a reported sighting or legend of a unicorn rabbit.
• A Spotted Otter in Ireland: Richard Muirhead contributes an article on spotted otters in Ireland.
• Reactions to Flying Snake 1: Reader feedback or responses to the previous issue.
• Notes and Queries: A section for reader questions and discussions.
• Book Reviews: Critiques of relevant books.
• Letters: Correspondence from readers.
• Giant Turtle Caught Near Brisbane 1947: A brief report on a large turtle capture.

Publication Details and Availability

Flying Snake is available from Richard Muirhead at Flying Snake Press, located in Macclesfield, Cheshire, UK. The journal's website is provided for cryptozoology resources. A PDF version is available for £3 per copy. Subscriptions are priced at £3 per issue or £9 per annum. Payments can be made via PayPal or through the website www.flyingsnakepress.co.uk. Cheques and postal orders from within the UK should be made payable to Richard Muirhead. International payments are not accepted via cheque at this time.

Credits

The magazine's title and logo were designed by William Frederiksen. The cover image, a 'snake stone' or converted fossil ammonite, is from the book 'Formed stones,' Folklore and Fossils by Michael G. Bassett, and is reproduced with permission from the National Museum of Wales.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Flying Snake demonstrates a strong focus on cryptozoology, folklore, and unexplained phenomena, ranging from biological anomalies and historical oddities to potential UFO sightings and medical mysteries. The editorial stance, as implied by Dr. Devo's diary, is open to a wide spectrum of unusual subjects, though there's a slight leaning towards the less commonly discussed aspects of cryptozoology. The journal encourages reader participation through letters and queries, fostering a community interested in fortean subjects. The inclusion of diverse topics like the Red Heifer and Lazarus Syndrome suggests an interest in the intersection of folklore, religion, and unexplained events.

This document contains pages from various publications, including a 1984 Chinese UFO magazine titled 'UFO Discovery' (飞碟探索), and articles related to the Lazarus Syndrome, 'Flying Snakes,' and the biblical Red Heifer ritual. The pages are numbered 11 through 20.

Lazarus Syndrome and Medical Anomalies (Page 1)

Page 1 presents a collection of references to news articles and online encyclopedias concerning the Lazarus Syndrome. This phenomenon is described as a person pronounced dead coming back to life, with specific mentions of a man who returned to life for two days (Mail Online) and a woman found alive in a hospital morgue (The Independent). Wikipedia entries for 'Lazarus Syndrome' and 'Swoon Hypothesis' are also cited, along with a medical journal article on 'Survival After Failed Intraoperative Resuscitation: A Case of “Lazarus Syndrome”.'

UFO Discovery Magazine from China (Page 2)

Page 2 displays the cover of a 1984 magazine from the People's Republic of China, titled 'UFO Discovery' (飞碟探索). The cover features an illustration of a spacecraft in space. A note indicates that the translation of the title is 'U.F.O. Discovery', translated by Mr Shanshun Li from Macclesfield, U.K.

Flying Snakes - Part Two (Pages 3-7)

Pages 3 through 7 contain the second part of an article titled 'Flying Snakes' by Dale Drinnon, originally published on Cryptozoology Online in January 2011. Drinnon hypothesizes that ancestral long-necked pheasants spread across Europe and, over time, became associated with superstition, leading to their being perceived as 'flying snakes' or 'dragons'. He discusses their possible disappearance and reappearance in historical records, citing reports from England, Wales, and the Baltic countries. The article also references contemporary reports from the Basque territories in Southern France and Northern Spain. Accompanying images include a pheasant, a map of China showing a hypothetical pheasant range, a map of Europe and the Mediterranean illustrating pheasant distribution, and an illustration of 'The Flying Serpent, or Strange News out of Essex'.

Comments from readers are included, with Retrieverman, Ego Ronanus, Dr Karl Shuker, Oll Lewis, and AnnF offering their thoughts. Dr. Karl Shuker suggests that brightly colored serpents with feathered wings seen in the Vale of Edeyrnion in 1812 might have been cock pheasants. Oll Lewis agrees that Gwibers might be pheasants or similar birds. Dale Drinnon responds, explaining that his reconstruction of the 'serpent' is based on the long neck and tail of certain birds, like the Anhinga, and that the 'serpent' part comes from the very long tail and flight profile. He now prefers the pheasant explanation over pterosaurs for Western European 'Flying Dragons'. AnnF notes that ring-necked pheasants can move explosively, resembling a snake strike.

A 'FIGURES' section on page 7 lists and describes images related to the 'Flying Snakes' article, including Reeve's Pheasant, hypothetical ranges, mockups of 'Flying Serpent' appearances, and an image of 'The Flying Serpent or Strange News out of Essex'.

The Quest for The Red Heifer (Pages 8-10)

Pages 8 through 10 feature an article titled 'The Quest for The Red Heifer' by Zvi Ron. This article details the esoteric biblical ritual of the red heifer, explaining that its ashes are used for purification. The precise requirements for a red heifer are outlined: it must be completely red, at least three years old, without blemishes, and never used for labor. Rabbinic tradition states that only seven or nine red heifers have been prepared throughout history, with the most recent before the destruction of the Second Temple.

The article discusses the mysterious nature of the rite and suggests modern interpretations linking the color red to blood. It highlights a tradition recorded by Maimonides that the tenth red heifer will be prepared by the Messiah, giving the red heifer eschatological significance. The search for a suitable red heifer continues today, with some individuals working to breed them.

The text mentions Rabbi Mordechai Shmaryahu of Kfar Chassidim, who in 1997 owned a heifer named Melody that was initially considered a potential red heifer but later disqualified due to white hairs. The Temple Institute in Jerusalem, founded in 1987, is dedicated to rebuilding the Temple and has made efforts to produce a kosher red heifer, including plans to import frozen fetuses and working with Clyde Lott of Mississippi to breed Red Angus cattle. This activity is seen by some, like Lott, as heralding the End-Times.

Concerns have been raised that these efforts might be part of extremist attempts to destroy the mosque on the Temple Mount. The rabbis from the Temple Institute caution that they have no intention of immediately beginning purification rituals. Reports of red heifers being born periodically surface, but many candidates are disqualified due to the development of white hairs as they mature. An image labeled 'The Third Temple' is included, based on Ezekiel chapters 40-47.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The document touches upon themes of unexplained phenomena (Lazarus Syndrome, UFOs), cryptozoology and folklore (Flying Snakes), and religious prophecy and ritual (Red Heifer). The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and reporting on these subjects, presenting various theories, historical accounts, and contemporary developments without necessarily endorsing them. The inclusion of diverse sources, from news outlets to encyclopedias and academic journals, suggests an aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the topics discussed.

This issue of INFO Journal, identified as issue number 78 and published in Autumn 1997, delves into three distinct topics: the complex ritualistic requirements surrounding the red heifer and the rebuilding of the Temple, the resurgence and sightings of pine martens in Derbyshire, and an exploration of unusual earthworm distribution in the Sahara desert.

The Red Heifer and Temple Rebuilding

The lead article discusses the contemporary understanding and challenges related to the red heifer, a crucial component for certain Jewish rituals, particularly those associated with the rebuilding of the Temple. Rabbis from the Temple Institute explain that red heifers are not as rare as once thought, with herds found in Holland and Texas, and recent advancements in genetic understanding. However, the primary obstacle is not finding an unblemished animal, but the ritualistic requirement that the ashes must be prepared by a priest who is himself ritually pure. The paradox, or 'Catch-22,' is that the only means of achieving this ritual purity is through the ashes of the red heifer itself. Historically, ashes from previous red heifers were preserved to solve this problem, but a mechanism for purifying a priest for the preparation of new ashes is currently lacking. Rabbi Richman of the Temple Institute emphasizes that the rebuilding of the Temple requires broader societal unity in Israel and is intended to be a universal place for all people, not just Jews.

Pine Martens in Derbyshire 1996-2011

This section, authored by Richard Muirhead, details the evidence and sightings of pine martens in Derbyshire between 1996 and 2011. It references earlier studies indicating a decline in pine marten populations in South and West Yorkshire from 1977-1982, suggesting possible emigration into Derbyshire. The records from Vice County 57 (Derbyshire) are concentrated in the 1990s, with specific sightings noted in locations like Hall Dale Woods, Lea Wood, Wirksworth, Crich, Wheatcroft, and the Goyt Valley between 1996 and 2005. A pine marten killed accidentally during predator control in 2001 was documented and preserved. The article highlights that Derbyshire naturalists were jubilant about the return of this elusive mammal, with early sightings kept secret. Nick Moyes of the Derbyshire Biological Records Centre noted observations of pine martens feeding on berries. The abundance of reports from the Derwent Valley in the late 1990s is contrasted with fewer records in the new millennium, leading to speculation about a possible decline in abundance or a shift in habitat. The period 1996-2007 saw 25 records, including instances of multiple pine martens seen together. The author recounts his own investigation in 2011, which yielded two interesting replies from individuals who had observed pine martens. Pete Yeomans provides detailed accounts of sightings on the Tissington Trail in March 2008 and February 2011, describing the animal's appearance and behavior. The article also touches upon genetic research concerning the origins and fates of European pine marten populations in the British Isles, using mitochondrial DNA. This research suggests differences between Irish and southern British populations, with the latter showing significant genetic changes possibly due to the introduction of escaped or translocated animals. The article concludes by referencing historical records of pine martens in Derbyshire from 1905 and invites readers to contact the author for more information.

The Weird Weird World of Worm Anomalies

The final essay, also by Richard Muirhead, explores the phenomenon of earthworm distribution in seemingly inhospitable environments, specifically the Sahara desert. The author begins by referencing a biblical passage about humans being like maggots and worms. He then discusses his personal interest in worms, stemming from childhood reading and experiences in Hong Kong. The essay focuses on the surprising presence of earthworms in the Sahara, noting their vulnerability to dehydration. Despite this, earthworms are found in damp places and oases, even in locations like Tin Téhoun, which is far from regular water sources. The article questions how these creatures survive in such arid conditions, suggesting that their presence in areas like the Niger River floodplain and drainage basins far from any actual drainage points is anomalous.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of INFO Journal appears to maintain a focus on unusual or anomalous phenomena, whether they be ritualistic, biological, or related to wildlife rediscovery. The editorial stance seems to be one of investigation and reporting on intriguing, often paradoxical, situations. The red heifer article highlights a theological and practical dilemma, while the pine marten section documents a successful wildlife recovery story with scientific backing. The worm anomalies essay delves into a biological mystery in an extreme environment. The journal encourages reader participation through shared information and personal accounts, as seen in the pine marten section.

Title: Animals and Men
Issue: 3
Volume: 1
Date: 1994
Publisher: The Centre for Fortean Zoology
Price: £1.50

This issue of Animals and Men, published by The Centre for Fortean Zoology, presents a collection of unusual and unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on zoological oddities and folklore. The cover features a striking image related to the band Devo and the headline 'Q:ARE WE NOT MEN?', alongside the main article title 'Some Odd Fauna Records in Britain 1611-1922' by Richard Muirhead.

Saharan Earthworms: Clues to a Lost Climate

The issue opens with an exploration of deep-desert earthworms, drawing on a study by S.I. Ghabbour of Cairo University. The article questions how these earthworms came to inhabit the Sahara, their migration routes, and what this reveals about geological events and human history. It highlights curious connections between earthworm species in different regions, such as the north-west Sahara and Morocco being identical to those in Spain and Portugal, and eastern Algeria, Libya, and Siwa in Egypt sharing similarities with Sardinia and Sicily. Earthworms from the eastern Nile region are also found in the Levant and Romania. Four distinct migration tracks are identified for the southern Sahara, including a remarkable trail from West Africa to the Nile, spanning over three thousand miles. The widespread dispersal of these worms is presented as conclusive evidence that the Sahara was once significantly more humid.

Unusual Worm Phenomena

The magazine then delves into specific, peculiar worm-related accounts. One section features a letter from A. Dorothy Daffon describing an 'extraordinary earthworm freak' with two tails, which was found while digging for fishing bait. The sketch provided shows the worm is natural size and appears unharmed. A note from E.K.R. confirms that such freaks, while rare, are not unknown.

Another account, from Don Chapman of Harlow, Essex, recounts an event from the Summer of 1993 where hundreds of large worms were observed on a lawn at 2 am, aligned towards the moon. Chapman describes the worms as being spaced evenly and appearing to have their tail ends in holes for rapid withdrawal. He notes their synchronized orientation to the moon, despite lacking sight, and that this event has remained a vivid memory for 20 years.

The article also touches upon reports of worm-like structures on Mars, referencing an article from Fortean Times. 'Skipper' interprets these as potentially 'organic constructs' that capture and retain water, and he and Jeffrey McCann maintain a website, marsanomalyreserach.com, to share their discoveries.

Historical and Folklore Accounts

Richard Muirhead's article, 'Some Odd Fauna Records in Britain 1611-1922', forms a significant part of the issue. It begins by referencing John Speed's 1611 atlas, noting descriptions of 'certaine stones fashioned like Serpents' near Whitby, which were thought to be actual serpents turned to stone by prayer. The article explores the folklore of 'snakestones' centered around Whitby and Keynsham, linking them to legends involving saints like St. Hilda and St. Cuthbert, who supposedly turned serpents into stone. These fossils, often found in jet, were sometimes 'restored' by carving heads to enhance their saleability.

Further historical accounts include a story from John Edgar Mann's 'Hamphire Customs, Curiosities and Country Lore' about a 'dry land grampus' (a killer whale or cetacean) found in a yew tree near Highclere, Hampshire. This is discussed alongside local legends of the 'Highclere Grampus', a beast described as similar to a dolphin but living on land, which was said to inhabit a Yew Tree and was banished to the sea for 1000 years.

Charles Fort's extensive collection of anomalous phenomena is also referenced, with accounts of jelly-like substances falling from the sky, described as containing eggs or larval forms, in Eton and Bath. There are also reports of worms falling from the sky in Indiana and Massachusetts, and worms found crawling on frozen ground in Norway, suggesting unusual atmospheric or geological transport mechanisms.

The Palouse Earthworm and Other Anomalies

A Metro newspaper report from April 29th, 2010, details the rediscovery of the near-mythical giant Palouse earthworm in the U.S. after a 20-year absence. Scientists used electrical probes to bring two live specimens to the surface, dispelling myths that they spit or smell of lilies. Three cocoons were also found, with two having hatched.

The issue also includes a reference to a 'wormlike chrysalis' found at a railroad station in Bath in 1871, and reports of enormous numbers of unknown brown and scarlet worms falling from the sky in 1892.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained zoological phenomena, the interpretation of folklore as potential evidence of anomalous events, and the exploration of historical accounts that challenge conventional scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into Fortean subjects, presenting various reports and legends without necessarily offering definitive explanations, but rather encouraging readers to consider the possibilities of the unexplained and the unusual in the natural world and beyond. The inclusion of references suggests a commitment to documenting and investigating these phenomena.

This issue of The Country-side, dated September 28th 1907, delves into a variety of historical accounts of unusual animals and creatures reported across Britain.

Grampus and Highclere Bogy

The issue begins by referencing a 'Grampus', or 'Highclere bogy', a creature associated with ghost stories. It is noted that this bogy had been 'laid in the red sea for 100 years' but its time was 'nearly expired'. The text suggests that this account might illuminate the period during which the beast lurked in the yew tree in Highclere Churchyard. Northcote indicated that the fiend's banishment lasted 'merely 100-years', which is considered a potential typo, as most accounts agree the beast was cast out for 'no less than millenia'. If the 1000-year exile is accurate, it places the Grampus's tenure in the yew tree in Hampshire County around the late 9th century A.D.

The 'Cypress Cat'

Marco Masseti, via an email on April 27th 2011, sent information in response to queries about entries in John Fleming's 'History of British Animals' (1828). One question concerned the 'Cypress Cat'. The text quotes FELIS.Cat stating that the spotted variety, termed 'Cypress Cat', is noticed by Merret. Merret, an English physician and scientist, compiled one of the first lists of British flora, fauna, and minerals. He noted that it 'Enutritur in aedibus nobilium', which translates to 'it feeds (or, not literally: "it is bred") in the houses of nobles', suggesting it was a precious and perhaps exotic animal. The term 'Cypress Cat' may underline its exotic nature to the UK's biogeography, similar to the cypress tree. The text suggests it could refer to wild large-medium sized felids of the Old and New Worlds, such as the cheetah, Iberian lynx, African serval, or American genus Leopardulus.

Historical Records from The Lancashire Journal

The early 18th century yielded several interesting records. From The Lancashire Journal of February 5th 1739, a report describes a 'monstrous Creature of a Fish' taken from the Hackney River near Clapton. This fish had four eyes, a head like a jack, two arms like a child, a paw like a bear, claws like an eagle, a tail like an eel, a crown on its nose, and was six feet in length.

From The Lancashire Journal of May 29th 1739, a report from Dover mentions Mr Kennet, a miller, catching a trout weighing three pounds and three quarters. Remarkably, the trout contained three water rats in its belly, and a fourth almost digested.

The Lancashire Journal of January 21st 1740 reported that a pair of very large black eagles, standing about four feet high, settled on an island called the Binness, belonging to Colonel Smith. Their appearance, rarely seen in the country, was observed the day after a public fast for success in the present war, leading to speculations that it was a happy omen for the reunion of the Imperial Arms of Germany and Great Britain against France and Spain.

Eurasian Black Vulture Sighting

Andrew Judd, a contemporary ornithologist, examined birds and commented on the lack of records for Eurasian Black Vultures in the UK. The official British bird list only goes back to 1800. However, research into bird books and Wikipedia suggests the Eurasian Black Vulture is the most likely suspect for a sighting. Key characteristics include dark colouration with pale adult heads, while juveniles are totally black. Though not recorded since 1800, their traditional range covered Portugal, Spain, and southern France, and birds from further afield have been recorded in Britain, possibly due to storms. They are considered the largest birds of prey, with a length up to 115cm. Judd concludes that the sighting was of two juvenile Cinereous Vultures or Eurasian Black Vultures (Aegypius monachus).

Insect in Norfolk and British Crocodile

In The Manchester Magazine of June 24th 1740, an 'Insect' of the caterpillar kind appeared in Norfolk. It had formidable forceps, harpy talons, and a blue list across its belly, fastening on the herbage and destroying it to the root, threatening forage scarcity. Agricultural records for 1740 indicate a year of drought, cold in July, and a poor harvest, redeemed partly by a heavy thunderstorm. Gilbert White recorded fieldfares remaining until June, and a hurricane occurred in London on November 1st.

On August 14th 1778, The Belfast News-Letter reported the killing of a 'very extraordinary monster that resembled a Crocodile' at Coatham, near Kirkleatham. It was seven yards long and was considered the most surprising creature ever seen on the coast of England. Enquiries at a museum in Kirkleatham in 2010 yielded no information about this 'crocodile'.

Martes and Enormous Horns

Marco Masseti provided additional information regarding entries in John Fleming's 'History of British Animals' (1828). Regarding 'MARTES' (M.fagorum, Common Martin or Beech Marten), it is described as having a white throat and breast, inhabiting woods and rocks in southern England. Its fur is dark brown with a reddish tinge on the head, and it is a great destroyer of poultry and game. It lodges in tree hollows and has four to six young. A note clarifies that there are no beech martens or stone martens in the UK, only pine martens. The evidence suggests the beech marten was a late immigrant to the West, possibly following human groups.

An entry from the John O' Groats Journal, 1840, titled 'Enormous Horns', describes two pairs of horns of an enormous size found about three feet underground at Clayock. The horns crumbled to powder when touched, but the osseous substance (sloch) was entire. The horns were curved, and the circumference at the root was sixteen inches, with a span of five and a half feet from point to point. The species of animal remains impossible to guess.

The Countryman's Findings

The Countryman for Summer 1975 recalled an entry from the Churchwardens' Accounts for Lythe, near Whitby, dating to 1846, where 8s was paid for 'One jackall head'. The high price suggests it was an unusual animal.

Racoon in Britain

The Nottinghamshire Guardian of May 7th 1857 reported a 'NOVEL FISHER' where a fisherman, Mr Neilson, found an unknown animal in his salmon nets, busily devouring fish. Seals and 'pellochs' are common on the east coast, but this animal was unknown. After a struggle, Mr Nelson, aided by his dog, killed the interloper, and its carcass was sent to Mr Hastings, who identified it as a racoon, a native of North America.

Giant Pike and Unusual Frog

In 1887, The Nottinghamshire Guardian's Natural History Column reported a story about giant pike in Market Drayton. A diver exploring a mere for a missing butler was attacked by a pike, which struck him in the chest. The diver believed the fish had taken his arm, but no teeth marks were visible, suggesting it was a tail strike. The diver, experienced in sea and river, had never been so assailed before.

Dog-Fox Hybrid and Tasmanian Cat

The Country-side reported on December 9th 1905 an odd coloured frog in N.Wales, with a bright red back spotted with orange and a pure white breast. On September 1st 1906, a 2ft grass snake killed in Ballymena was mentioned. On September 28th 1907, the magazine contained a report on a 'Dog-Fox Hybrid', an animal supposed to be a cross between a dog and a fox, killed in Warwickshire. It resembled a fox in colour and shape, with a thick tail tipped with white, and had a similar scent. Terry Hooper later commented that it was more likely a dog-jackal hybrid.

On July 19th 1912, the Northampton Mercury featured a story and photograph of a 'Tasmanian cat'. This animal was identified as a Madagascan ring-tailed lemur, found near Weedon, Northamptonshire, and its presence and supposed origin from Tasmania were questioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of The Country-side consistently focuses on the unusual, the unexplained, and the historical in the realm of natural history and cryptozoology. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting and documenting curious accounts, often drawing from older publications and correspondent submissions. There is a clear interest in creatures that defy easy classification or are considered rare, extinct, or even mythical. The magazine acts as an archive of such reports, presenting them for the reader's consideration without necessarily endorsing them as fact, but rather as historical curiosities and potential subjects for further investigation. The inclusion of scientific names and references suggests an attempt to ground these accounts, even if the creatures themselves are speculative.

This document appears to be a collection of articles and references, likely from a publication focused on cryptozoology, folklore, and unusual natural phenomena. The content spans various topics, including animal deformities, genetic mutations, and rare animal sightings.

Article: Rabbit With Tusks

The first section details a report from the February 1922 edition of The Surrey Times concerning a rabbit with a severe deformity. The headline, "Rabbit With Tusks," highlights the most striking feature. The accompanying text describes a rabbit killed at Hascombe, United Kingdom, which had a lower jaw that protruded significantly. This protrusion caused two of its teeth to grow abnormally, resembling tusks, and to penetrate the upper jaw. The condition resulted in the rabbit's mouth being practically sealed, and it was found to be in a skeletal state when killed. The article notes this as a sad deformity.

Article: A Unicorn Rabbit From County Durham

This article, authored by Karl Shuker, discusses an unusual rabbit named Unicorn, owned by Kathy Lister of Trimdon Grange in County Durham, England. Unicorn was born in Spring 1981 and was a Flemish Giant doe. Due to a genetic fluke, she possessed only a single ear, which was not positioned laterally but grew from the center of her head, resembling a long, furry horn. The author investigated this case personally, contacting Kathy and her father James in July 1988. Unicorn's owner, James, had been breeding rabbits for over thirty-five years and had never observed a one-eared rabbit before. In autumn 1984, Unicorn escaped and mated with a wild rabbit, resulting in a litter of five offspring. Four of these were normal, but the fifth exhibited the same median-ear condition as its mother. Tragically, all five offspring died shortly after birth during a severe thunderstorm. Unicorn survived and lived for two more years but had no further litters. The author speculates that the median-ear condition was likely caused by a recessive allele, and Unicorn was homozygous for it. He also considers the possibility that the wild mate was heterozygous for the same allele. The article touches upon the potential for such mutations to be associated with debilitating traits, such as hearing impairment, though Unicorn's hearing did not appear to be severely affected. The author concludes that the identity of this unique mutation will likely remain undiscovered unless the condition reappears elsewhere.

Article: A Spotted Otter in Ireland

Authored by Richard Muirhead, this piece discusses a spotted otter from Lough Sheelin, Ireland, dating back to approximately 1909. The report is based on correspondence with Dr Andrew Kitchener of the National Museums of Scotland and references an original article by R.F. Scharff in the Irish Naturalist. The spotted otter, acquired by the National Museum of Ireland from Mr W.J. Williams, differed from ordinary otters due to its rich brown fur being spotted all over with white spots. These spots were not confined to the under-fur but extended to the longer, stiffer hairs, giving the otter a peculiar speckled appearance. Mr Williams noted that among thousands of skins he had handled, this was the only specimen of its kind. The article also mentions records of perfectly white otters (likely albinos) observed in the River Shannon and an albino otter preserved in the Belfast Museum. The author examined sixteen recent Otter skulls from British and Irish localities in the National Museum and found no definitive character to distinguish Irish skulls from British ones, suggesting that the Irish Otter is not specifically distinguishable from the British. In a letter dated April 29th, 1996, Dr Andrew Kitchener suggests two possible explanations for the spotted otter: either it was a hoax or a simple single gene mutation causing white spotting, a phenomenon known in cats. He notes that such mutations are rare in wild mammals.

Reactions to Flying Snake 1

This section features comments and reactions to the first issue of "Flying Snake," a new cryptozoological periodical. Karl Shuker praises the hard-copy format and welcomes the publication, edited by Richard Muirhead, as a "crypto-cornucopia of extraordinary subjects." He highlights the diverse range of reports covered, including flying snakes, unidentified flying lizards, pink-tusked elephants, devil crabs, mermaids, Nandi bears, giant centipedes, and equine cryptids. The periodical is planned to be published three times a year at a cost of £3 per issue or £9 per annum. Marco Masseti also compliments the publication, calling it "very amazing and interesting."

References

The document includes extensive reference lists for the articles, citing various books, journals, and correspondence. These references span historical publications from the 17th century to modern emails and online sources, indicating thorough research into the topics covered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document revolve around the documentation and investigation of unusual animal phenomena, including deformities, genetic anomalies, and cryptids. There is a clear interest in cryptozoology, folklore, and the scientific examination of such cases, with a focus on evidence, historical records, and potential genetic explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained natural occurrences, presenting findings and expert opinions while acknowledging the speculative nature of some topics.

Title: Flying Snake
Issue: 1
Date: May 25th, 2011
Type: Cryptozoology and Folklore Magazine

This issue of 'Flying Snake' magazine, edited and published by Richard Muirhead, is a new periodical focusing on the intersection of forteana, cryptozoology, and folklore. The magazine is noted for its crisp and professional printing, well-written articles, and interesting correspondence. Unlike some publications, it deliberately avoids 'classic monsters' of cryptozoology, which is seen as a refreshing approach.

Reviews and Content

Journal of Cryptozoology, Folklore, and Forteana

A review by Matt Bille highlights the first issue of 'Flying Snake' as an enjoyable magazine that strays into the borders of cryptozoology and beyond. Bille mentions Richard Muirhead's own piece on Ezekiel's wheels, interpreting it as a supernatural event rather than a UFO. He also praises the color photo of an orange badger on the back cover.

A review from Fortean Times (October 2011, no. 280, p. 65) welcomes the new journal, noting its rarity. It lists some of the diverse articles featured in the first issue: pink tusked elephants in China, giant centipedes in Hong Kong, a Dorset wild cat, an Israeli mermaid, the Nandi bear, flying lizards, and Ezekiel's Chariot, though the latter is suggested to be a flyer for a Christian ufology site.

Notes and Queries

Richard Muirhead poses a question about the phobia of butterflies and inquires about the story of Richard I introducing the Mute Swan from Cyprus to England. The section also discusses a rabbit with tusks, referencing the 'Jackalope Cousins?' website. Historical accounts are presented, including:

• 1572: The Corando expedition recorded a 'lion-rabbit' in the fabled Seven Cities of Cibola.
• 1878: A Tombstone, Arizona prospector reported an attack by a swift, unidentified creature, leaving him scratched and with quills found on his clothing.
• 1996: A creature called a 'Razor-Jack' was sighted in the McDowell Mountains, Arizona, described as a Sabre-tooth Bristled Hare with tusks and quills, similar to a Javelina's coat.

References

The issue includes references to online resources like 'Jackalope Cousins?' and historical expeditions.

A Homing Snake

A query is raised about a snake trained to find its way home across a distance of two miles, asking if such a thing is possible.

John Aubrey's Natural History of Wiltshire

Notes from John Aubrey's work (1656-1691) are presented, mentioning the presence of martens and otters in Cranborn Chase and Wiley River, respectively. It also discusses real beavers in Carmarthenshire and the presence of old white stotes (ermines) in warrens. Grey lizards are noted in Sir James Long's park, and large snakes (an ell long) and amphisbænas are mentioned in the Devizes area. A child reportedly voided a 'lumbricus biceps', and an amphisbæna was observed in Mechlin.

Book Reviews

• Varmints by Chad Arment: This 682-page book is described as an encyclopaedia of N. American cryptid carnivores. It covers various accounts, native and exotic carnivores, folklore, and evidentiary requirements. The review notes illustrations of cryptids like a giant otter and a European Wild Cat. The term 'Varmints' is explained as the first folkloric step in creating the perception of a distinctive animal. The book includes historical newspaper reports from the 19th century to the present.
• Big Cats Loose in Britain by Marcus Matthews: This work covers mystery cats in SW Britain, Surrey pumas, and other big cats across the country. It details the Exmoor beasts and Surrey pumas, with sightings dating back to the 1870s. The review notes the complexity of the Exmoor beasts saga and mentions potential candidates like British big cats, lynxes, and werewolves. The book also touches upon Isle of Wight, Welsh, Midland, and Northern mystery cats.

Kraken 3

This publication from the Dépt de cryptozoologie Bernard Heuvelmans is noted as a worthwhile, though occasionally French-language, issue concentrating on mystery hominids. English essays include 'African winged reptiles: The fabulous pterodactyls of the black continent' by Gustave Sànchez Romero and 'Introducing Aequivotaxa: A new classification system for cryptozoology' by Michael A.Woodley.

Letters to Flying Snake

Letter from Dr. Sigrid Schmidt

Dr. Sigrid Schmidt, an expert on the Flying Snake of Namibia, responds to Richard Muirhead. She explains that Namibian snakes are a prominent topic in Nama legends and folk belief. These snakes are seen by those who believe in them. Attributed traits include a stench that kills people, a call like sheep or goats, a light or white spot on the forehead, a man-like face (sometimes with a beard), horns or ears, and a fondness for women. The 'big Snake' lives in mountains or permanent rivers, with an aquarian equivalent in the Oranje River. Rock paintings in Southern Africa suggest ancient connections to snakes and rain ceremonies. The 'flying snake' typically has no wings but uses its tail to move through the air. Schmidt mentions her own published tales and a forthcoming book on Namibian legends.

Email from Irene Brierton

Irene Brierton of the Mid Derbyshire Badger Group discusses the erythristic badger specimen featured on the cover. She explains that erythristic is a color variant resulting from a recessive gene, similar to melanism in squirrels. This gene can be passed down, leading to the birth of similarly colored offspring generations later. The color can range from pale fawn to dark reddish brown. Brierton notes that such gene variations occur in Derbyshire and other parts of the country, though some areas have less evidence of it. She mentions the High Peak Badger Group and the Mid Derbyshire Badger Group's involvement with badger issues and their own erythristic specimen, which is not for sale.

Email from John Didier

John Didier provides information concerning black pink-tusked elephants of T'ang dynasty China, referencing 'The Vermillion Bird' by Schafer. Didier's research into the 16th-century 'Chinese Materia Medica' (Bencao gangmu) found no mention of these specific elephants. He also notes that Schafer does not provide information on the extinction timing of these elephants.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'Flying Snake' consistently explores the fringes of cryptozoology, folklore, and forteana, showcasing a wide array of unusual creatures and historical accounts from around the world. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into unexplained phenomena, with a particular interest in lesser-known or more obscure subjects, as evidenced by the avoidance of 'classic monsters' and the inclusion of diverse international reports. The publication serves as a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share findings and pose questions on a variety of mysterious topics.

This is issue number 10 of volume 1 of UFO Australia magazine, published in October 1979. The cover price was A$1.50. The magazine's ISSN is 0725-7678. The cover headline announces "GIANT TURTLE CAUGHT NEAR BRISBANE".

Articles and Content

Elephants and Extinction

The issue includes a discussion questioning the accuracy of reports claiming that elephants became extinct in the 14th century. The text highlights the difficulty in determining extinction dates, particularly in regions like Vietnam, which was largely undisturbed forested mountain territory inhabited by Neolithic tribes at that time. The author expresses doubt about how one could definitively know when such an extinction occurred.

Giant Turtle Caught Near Brisbane

The cover image depicts a large sea turtle that was reportedly caught near Brisbane. The photograph shows the turtle with a child sitting on its back, surrounded by a crowd of onlookers.

A Yeren in a Macclesfield Antique Shop?

This article explores the possibility of a 'Yeren' (a wild man) being represented by a statue found in an antique shop called Aladdin's Cave in Macclesfield. The photograph shows a plush, somewhat unsettling statue with red eyes and a beard, standing in a display case, reflected in a mirror. The article references an image on page 70 from "The Mercury" newspaper, dated January 14th, 1947, from Hobart, Australia. This image is described as a poster that alerted Chinese people to look out for the Yeren, noting a distinct similarity to the statue. The reproduction of the poster is credited to the permission of Loren Coleman.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to cover a range of unexplained phenomena, including cryptozoology (the Yeren) and potentially historical mysteries (elephant extinction). The editorial stance seems to encourage critical thinking about historical reports and the presentation of evidence, as seen in the questioning of the 14th-century elephant extinction claims. The inclusion of a large turtle sighting on the cover suggests an interest in unusual animal encounters alongside more typical UFO and paranormal topics.