Flying Snake - No 04

Magazine Overview

Title: Flying Snake
Issue: Volume 2, Issue 1
Date: November 2012
Price: £3.99

Flying Snake is a journal dedicated to cryptozoology, folklore, and forteana. This issue, Volume 2, Issue 1, published in November 2012, offers a diverse collection of articles exploring unusual creatures, historical accounts, and unexplained phenomena.

Editorial Content

Dr Devo's Diary

Dr Devo opens the issue with a reflection on the magazine's availability and a quote from Christopher Smart. He mentions a mistake in a previous issue regarding the apparition of the Virgin Mary and shares a UFO story from near Macclesfield. The diary also touches upon a study of Chinese coins found far beyond China, highlighting the advanced nature of Chinese civilization. Dr Devo notes that Flying Snake is not yet available on Kindle but plans to create a Wikipedia entry for the Flying Snake of Namibia. He also previews Part 2 of Carl Marshall's essay on Giant Snakes and mentions an upcoming study on the entombed bat phenomenon. The diary concludes with a reference to the Mary Toft rabbit case and a humorous note about cats telling time.

A Relation of a terrible Monster...called a Toad-fish, etc (1642)

This section presents a historical account from 1642, detailing the capture of a strange creature by a fisherman near Wollage. The 'monster' is described as being like a Toad but possessing human-like hands and chest, measuring five feet long and three feet over. It was brought alive to Kings Street, Westminster. The text elaborates on its appearance, noting its toad-like head and eyes, but a man-like chest and ribs, and two perfect hands. It is suggested that the creature swims upright. The account also references Pliny the Naturalist and historical omens, linking unusual births to great commotions and desolation.

A "Winged Toad" in Suffolk in 1662

This article features a letter from Thomas Flatman, dated September 25th, 1662, to his brother. The letter, found in the Bodleian Library, describes a 'Serpent' or 'Winged Toad' that is over a yard and a half long. It is said to have a toad-like head with a yellowish ring around its neck, two bat-like wings as broad as a man's hand, and four short, duck-like legs. An illustration is provided to depict its possible appearance.

Other Featured Articles

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

• A Relation of a Terrible Monster....Call`d a Toad-Fish: An account of a strange sea creature.
• Frogs and Toads in Early Eighteenth Century Northamptonshire: A historical look at amphibians in the region.
• Chinese Coins in Unexpected Places: An article by Richard Muirhead and Bob Skinner exploring the discovery of Chinese coins in unusual locations.
• Telling The Time From Cats Eyes: An article on how cats' eyes relate to timekeeping.
• A Giant Crocodile Ballad: A ballad about a giant crocodile.
• A Wonder Boy: Likely a story about an unusual child.
• Carl's Cogitations: Giant Snakes of the World Part Two: The continuation of Carl Marshall's essay on large snakes.
• Observation of A U.F.O. in Sutton, Cheshire, Spring 2011: A report of a UFO sighting.
• Words from the Koran found on an Indian Ocean Fish: An exploration of religious texts found on marine life.
• Interview conducted by Carl and John Marshall with Anthony Quiney regarding The Beast of Burford: An interview about a cryptid or legend.
• The Woman who gave birth to Rabbits - The Mary Toft case: An examination of the historical Mary Toft case.
• Three Notes on the Bunyip: Articles about the Australian cryptid.
• Notes and Queries: A section for reader contributions and questions.
• Book Reviews: Critiques of relevant books.
• Letters: Correspondence from readers.

Publication and Contact Information

Flying Snake is available from Richard Muirhead at Flying Snake Press, located at 112 High St, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 7QQ, UK. A website address is provided for further information. The contact telephone number is 01625 869048. The magazine also lists its correspondents: Andy Scott (Oxfordshire), Mike Hardcastle (Sub-Editor, Australia), Zvi Ron (Israel), and Carl Marshall (Zoological Consultant).

Payment details are provided for subscriptions (£3.99 per issue, £12 per annum) and back issues. PDF versions are available via email for £3. Payments can be made via PayPal on the website. UK residents should make checks and postal orders payable to Richard Muirhead, not Flying Snake. Payments from outside the UK are not accepted at this time.

Credits

The cover image is from the collection of Dr Devo. Articles without a listed author are noted as being extracts from newspapers, blogs, etc. The printing was done by Mailbox, Macclesfield.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Flying Snake magazine strongly emphasizes historical accounts of unusual creatures and unexplained phenomena, fitting within the broader categories of cryptozoology and forteana. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting historical documents and contemporary reports for the reader's consideration. There is a clear interest in folklore, natural history anomalies, and potentially UFO sightings. The magazine aims to provide a platform for diverse topics, from cryptids like the Bunyip and the Beast of Burford to historical curiosities like the Mary Toft case and strange sea creatures.

This issue of Fortean Times, identified as Issue 11, features a collection of articles exploring various unusual phenomena, historical curiosities, and cryptozoological accounts. The issue includes discussions on legendary creatures, historical artifacts, and scientific observations, drawing from historical texts, personal accounts, and modern research.

Cryptozoology and Folklore

The issue begins with an examination of the 'llamhigyn y dwr', a Welsh water monster documented in John Rhy's 'Celtic Folk Lore, Welsh and Manx' (1901). This creature is described as a formidable water monster inhabiting rivers, with a toad-like body, a tail, and wings. It was known to devour livestock and frighten travellers with a hideous shriek, causing them to fall into the water. The article notes that the creature has not been encountered lately.

Another section delves into the 'Hairy' frog, *Trichobatrachus robustus*, from central Africa. This frog possesses a remarkable defense mechanism where it can break the nodule connection in its toes, extruding bones to create makeshift claws. This singular activity was witnessed by the naturalist and zookeeper Gerald Durrell.

Historical Accounts of Frogs and Toads

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to historical perspectives on frogs and toads, particularly from an extract of John Martin's 'The Natural History of Northamptonshire' (1712). The text discusses the opinions of 'Ingenious Gentlemen' regarding different sorts of toads, including the 'Water-Toad', which inhabits watery places and has a smoother skin. It contrasts this with the common toad, which has a dryer, rougher skin. The author of the extract, while acknowledging differences in color and skin texture, suggests that these might be due to accidental causes or variations within the same species. The article also explores the idea that toads might simply be old, overgrown frogs, but the author disagrees, citing the progressive motion of small toads and their ability to urinate or squirt a black liquid when provoked, a trait not observed in frogs. The text further discusses variations in frog coloration observed in pits and wells, suggesting that differences in sex, age, vigor, and feeding grounds might influence their hue. Male frogs, particularly during their breeding season, are noted to be almost as black as toads.

Carl Marshall contributes an e-mail suggesting that the 'hairy toad' mentioned might be the monotypic *Trichobatrachus robustus*, hypothetically imported with flora to the Oxford Botanic Garden and subsequently identified as Spanish. The defense mechanism of this frog is reiterated.

Chinese Coins in Unexpected Places

Another major theme explores the discovery of Chinese artifacts, specifically coins, in locations far from China, including Ireland and North America. Bob Skinner conducted research into W. Corliss's investigations, uncovering several articles reproduced in Corliss's 'Ancient Man - A Handbook of puzzling artefacts' (1978) and 'Strange Artefacts - a Handbook of ancient Man' (1976).

These articles detail finds such as a 'Chinese coin in Alaskan Burial' (1892), 'Chinese coins in British Columbia' (1884), and discussions on the potential peopling of Middle America from Asia and the similarity of Chinese and Indian languages. An Egyptian Scarab found in North Queensland, Australia, in the early 1900s is also mentioned.

A report from the Anglo-Celt newspaper (October 7th, 1944) details the discovery of a Chinese coin dated 1243 by Master Jim Cleary in Co. Monaghan, Ireland.

The Epoch Times website posted a story on October 30th, 2011, about a '300-Year-Old Chinese Coin Found in North of Canada'. James Mooney, a cultural resource specialist, discovered the coin near a proposed mine site in Yukon. The coin, minted between 1667 and 1671, was found in the Selkirk First Nation traditional territory. This find suggests that Chinese people connected with Yukon First Nations through Russian and Tlingit traders during the late 17th and 18th centuries, and possibly as early as the 15th century.

Mooney explains that the coin has a square hole in the center, and the one found by Ecofor has four additional small holes. He speculates that these extra holes could have been made in China for decorative purposes or by First Nations to attach them to clothing. The Russians traded various goods with the Tlingit, who in turn traded with the Chinese.

The location of the find in Yukon is described as a promontory overlooking a river, a likely resting place for travellers. The coin is identified as a 'poem coin' from the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, used as good luck charms. Kangxi was known for his poetry, and people collected these coins to create poems for good luck.

Two other Chinese coins found in Yukon are mentioned: one minted between 1724-1735, and another discovered in 1993, minted between 1403 and 1424. The latter was found in a travel corridor near an overland gold rush trail. Mooney believes these coins were found with prehistoric materials, indicating they were traded into the interior.

References

The issue provides references for the articles, including letters, books by W. Corliss, and online articles from The Epoch Times.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are cryptozoology, folklore, historical anomalies, and archaeological discoveries. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded stance towards unusual phenomena, presenting various accounts and historical evidence for readers to consider, without necessarily endorsing them as definitive proof. The editorial approach involves collating information from diverse sources, including historical texts, academic research, and contemporary reports, to explore the fringes of known history and natural science.

This issue of Flying Snake, spanning pages 21-28, features a collection of diverse and unusual stories, with a focus on folklore, unexplained phenomena, and historical curiosities. The cover story, 'Telling The Time from Cats Eyes,' by Richard Muirhead, is accompanied by a quote from H.P. Lovecraft regarding the nature of 'weirdness.' The issue also includes a ballad about a giant crocodile and an account of a prophetic newborn.

Telling The Time from Cats Eyes

This article, originally appearing in the Grey River Argus on June 11th, 1904, details a peculiar method of timekeeping observed in China. According to French missionary Huc, the pupil of a cat's eye changes shape throughout the day. It diminishes to a thin perpendicular line at noon and becomes round like a marble at midnight. The article explains that with patience and observation, one could determine the time by watching these changes, using the noon line as a starting point. The missionary reportedly discovered this by accident when a boy used his cat to tell him it was 'half-past eleven.' The story also references Huc's 'Chinese Empire (1854)' and a website posting from www.strangehistory.net.

A Giant Crocodile Ballad

Found on the National Library of Scotland's website, this ballad is described as 'doggerel' and was available for the price of one penny. The song tells the tale of a shipwrecked sailor off the coast of Peru who decides to explore the country. Instead, he encounters a colossal crocodile, described as five hundred miles long from nose to tail. The ballad humorously recounts the sailor being swallowed by the crocodile, traveling inside its maw for a month or two, finding rum kegs and bullocks, and living there contentedly for ten years. The crocodile eventually dies after five years of 'getting cold,' and its skin is described as five miles thick. The sailor escapes by cutting a tunnel and eventually finds passage on a ship to return home. The ballad concludes by suggesting that the crocodile's shell can still be found on the Nile.

A Wonder Boy

This section presents a story titled 'Wonder of Wonders, or the Speech of a child born near Edinburgh on Thursday the 15th of March 1770.' The account claims that a farmer's wife, shortly before delivery, predicted her son would speak of future events. Ten minutes after birth, the child reportedly delivered a prophecy foretelling a 'bloody year,' war, the victory of Christian powers, insults to 'Highest powers,' and dismay for 'Wilkes's party.' The prophecy also praised the loyalty of the SCOTS and mentioned London. The child then immediately expired. The story references a URL from the National Library of Scotland.

Carl's Cogitations: Great Snakes of the World Part Two

This section, featuring a quote from H.P. Lovecraft about 'weirdness,' includes an image of a European Grass Snake (Natrix natrix) from the collection of Carl Marshall. The text discusses reports of very large crested snakes in North Africa (Morocco and Tunisia), speculating if they are surviving pythons or a new species. It then details the Rock Python (Python sebae) from sub-Saharan Africa, noting its large size (specimens reported over 20 ft) and its diet, which includes antelope and crocodiles. The article mentions two documented cases of rock pythons killing and consuming children in Uganda (1951) and South Africa (2002). It also briefly touches upon the folklore surrounding the 'Crowing Crested Cobra.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unusual, the unexplained, and the folkloric. The magazine presents these stories as curiosities, often citing historical sources or anecdotal evidence. There is a clear interest in tales that stretch the boundaries of the ordinary, from natural phenomena used for timekeeping to mythical creatures and prophetic pronouncements. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting intriguing, often bizarre, accounts for reader consideration, without necessarily endorsing their literal truth, as evidenced by the description of the crocodile ballad as 'doggerel' and the inclusion of Lovecraft's philosophical take on 'weirdness.'

This issue of Wide World Magazine, dated Late 1917/Early 1918, features a cover story on a 'MYSTERIOUS FISH WITH STRANGE ARABIC INSCRIPTION' and includes articles on cryptozoology and UFO sightings.

The Crowing Crested Cobra

The issue begins with a discussion of the Crowing Crested Cobra, a legendary serpent. This creature is described as having a blood-red crest and wattles, similar to a chicken, and sometimes a feathered crest. Folklore suggests it originates from an egg laid by a chicken and hatched by a toad. Sightings and folklore are reported from East and Central Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, with a neotropical version noted in Jamaica. The African species is said to measure up to 20ft, potentially making it the largest venomous snake in the world. Its appearance is described as brown or greyish-black with a scarlet head, while its 'new world counterpart' is dull yellowish-brown with dark spots and up to 4ft long. The article recommends Dr. Karl Shuker's 'Extraordinary Animals Revisited' for further details.

Observation of a UFO in Sutton, Cheshire, Spring 2011

Trevor Bailey recounts a UFO sighting that occurred in Sutton, Cheshire, in the spring of 2011. While driving with his girlfriend, he observed a black, disc-shaped craft hovering off the ground. He described the material as shiny black plastic, with a round, deep recess in the center containing a helmeted figure dressed in a similar shiny black material. Bailey expresses regret at not having a camera but states the experience has convinced him of the existence of UFOs.

Fig 1 on page 34 presents Trevor Bailey's impression of the UFO he saw.

Words from The Koran on an Indian Ocean fish

This section details a remarkable fish caught in Zanzibar, which bore strange Arabic inscriptions on its tail. The fish, initially unsold due to its unusual appearance, was purchased by an Indian and subsequently examined by an Arab scholar who deciphered the markings. The inscriptions read "The work of God" and "God alone." The fish was offered to the Sultan and later sent to the Government Laboratory for preservation in formalin, eventually being placed on public exhibition. The article notes that the original price paid for the fish was a penny, while later offers of three thousand and five thousand rupees were refused. The discovery caused wonderment among the Mohammedan community, who interpreted it as a portent of events, possibly related to the end of the war. A similar nature case is mentioned, occurring in Tibet with Hindustani wording on tree leaves.

An update from May 19th, 2006, reports on Kenya's 'Koranic Fish' recovery. A tuna fish with markings resembling Koranic text had vanished from a fisheries office in Kenya. It was later found, and investigations were underway to determine if the inscription "You are the best provider" was natural or a hoax. Sceptics suggested it was man-made, while others found it impossible. The fish, caught by fisherman Said Ali near Mombasa, weighed 2.5kg. It was moved to the fisheries department for safekeeping and then offered to Kenya's National Museum for preservation. The article mentions attempts by locals and scholars to buy the fish, with one offer of $150, significantly higher than its usual market value of around $6.

Fig 1 on page 37 shows the 1917 fish with the Koranic inscription.

Interview between Carl and John Marshall and Anthony Quiney regarding The Beast of Burford

This interview features Anthony Quiney, an ex-game keeper from the Ragley estate, discussing sightings of big cats, specifically leopards, in the local area. The interview, conducted by Carl and John Marshall, covers Quiney's experiences and observations.

Quiney mentions Quinton Rose from London Zoo, who used leopard scent and cameras in attempts to track the animals. He refers to a map showing sightings of unusual species, including a Wolverine. The discussion focuses on a pair of leopards, a male seen at Hanly Swan and a female whose territory extended across Ragley, the Lenches, Flyford Flavel, Worcester, and Feckenham. Approximately twelve years prior to the interview (around 1999), a combine harvester operator at Salford Lodge reported seeing the female leopard with two cubs emerging from a cornfield.

Quiney shares an anecdote about a young boy at Cold Comfort Farm who witnessed a leopard jump a fence to catch a dove. The leopard was described as having grey hairs around its ears, suggesting it was older. Quinton Rose also interviewed this witness.

Regarding the possibility of these animals being shot and buried at Ragley, Quiney states this is not true. He also mentions a friend who shot a civet cat. The cubs' size is unknown to Quiney, who suggests speaking to Graham Mills. He notes that while they had a 'dead pit' at Ragley where calves were taken, he was surprised not to find kills up trees, a behavior Quiney attributes to leopards in the African savannah where they are not the top predator.

Quiney also mentions a civet cat shot by a friend at Wellesbourne and a skunk found and taken to the Vale Wildlife Park. He notes that skunks are commonly bred and sold, with escapes sometimes occurring.

Fig 1 on page 40 shows Mr and Mrs Quiney.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and unusual animal sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into mysterious events and creatures, presenting anecdotal evidence and folklore alongside more recent reports and investigations. The articles encourage readers to consider the possibility of extraordinary occurrences and creatures beyond conventional understanding.

Title: UFO Brigantia
Issue: 10
Volume: 3
Date: October 1999
Price: £3.50
ISSN: 1359-204X

This issue of UFO Brigantia features a prominent article on the 'Beast of Burford,' a large feline sighted in the Ragley estate area, and revisits the historical Mary Toft case of alleged anomalous births.

The Beast of Burford

The main focus of the magazine is an in-depth exploration of sightings of a large feline, referred to as the 'Beast of Burford,' which was reportedly seen in the Ragley estate area. The article features an interview with Anthony, a former game keeper, who shares his experiences and knowledge of local wildlife, including the possibility of big cat presence. Anthony recounts instances of prey kills, such as calves found in a dead pit, and discusses the characteristics of the animal, including its potential melanistic (black) coloration with visible spots when viewed up close. He mentions that the adult female was described as black, and that cubs were also reported.

Key individuals involved in the investigation include Graham Mills, a combine driver who may have witnessed the animal, and Quentin Rose, an investigator who died at a younger age than initially reported. Quentin Rose, along with his friend Chris Bosley, actively investigated the Ragley beast, employing methods such as setting up waterproof tape recorders and using lion urine and dung as lures, though the effectiveness of these methods for attracting a leopard is questioned. The article notes that Quentin Rose was a chronic diabetic and dedicated his later life to designing animal traps, known as 'rose cuffs,' which caught animals without harm and were successful in Canada.

There are mentions of corroborating sightings by dog walkers and estate workers. The article also touches upon an incident in Inkborough church yard where an ex-army soldier reportedly shot at a leopard that had cornered him, with claw marks penetrating his waxy coat and shirt. The possibility of obtaining DNA samples from potential remains was considered a significant investigative angle, though it appears this was not fruitful. The investigation into the 'Beast of Burford' is suggested to have occurred between 1997 and 1999, with earlier beliefs placing the events around 1981.

The Mary Toft Case

Another significant section of the magazine is dedicated to the historical case of Mary Toft, a woman from Godalming, Surrey, in 1726, who claimed to have given birth to rabbits. The article, written by Oll Lewis, titled 'The Woman who gave birth to rabbits - the Mary Toft case,' explores the context of the 18th century, where knowledge of genetics was limited, and superstitions about animal-human conception were prevalent. The case gained widespread attention, reaching King George I, who dispatched investigators, including surgeon Nathanial St Andre and Samuel Molyneux, to Godalming.

Mary Toft reportedly gave birth to several rabbits and other animal parts, including cat legs and an eel backbone, which were examined by the investigators. While St Andre initially appeared convinced, the case was later revealed to be a hoax. A second surgeon, Cyriacus Ahlers, was sent by the King and determined that the animal parts had been cut with a knife and contained straw and grain. The article suggests that John Howard, a midwife involved, may have orchestrated the deception. The case is presented as an example of how such bizarre superstitions could be exploited.

Other Mentions

The magazine also briefly touches upon other topics, including reports of wallabies in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, hoopoe and bee-eaters at Ragley, and the identification of a melanistic big cat. There is also a mention of unusual species on a map of the British Isles, including a bear.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of cryptozoology, unexplained phenomena, and historical mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of investigative journalism, presenting witness accounts, historical records, and expert opinions, while also critically evaluating the evidence and acknowledging potential hoaxes or misidentifications. There is a clear interest in documenting and analyzing reports of unusual creatures and anomalous events, with a focus on providing detailed accounts and exploring the investigative processes involved.

This issue of FATE magazine, dated April 10th, 2011, delves into a variety of intriguing and often mysterious topics, ranging from historical hoaxes to cryptozoological legends and ancient myths.

The Mary Toft Rabbit Birth Hoax

The issue begins with a continuation of a piece by Richard Freeman, discussing the peculiar case of Mary Toft. The narrative recounts how Mary Toft, along with her collaborators including her husband Joshua and midwife John Howard, allegedly organized more human-rabbit births. This event, which occurred in the early 18th century, drew the attention of prominent surgeons and scientists, including King's surgeon Nathanial St Andre and Samuel Molyneux, secretary to the Prince of Wales. St Andre, in particular, staked his reputation on the validity of Mary's unusual births, even issuing challenges for disbelievers to witness a birth in person.

Initially, the case was investigated in Surrey by surgeon Cyriacus Ahlers, who found evidence suggesting the animal parts were cut by knives and mixed with straw. However, when Mary was moved to London, the scrutiny intensified. Richard Manningham, another visitor, was unconvinced, identifying one of the 'births' as a pig's bladder. Despite this, John Maubray, a proponent of the 'sooterkin' theory (small creatures formed from excessive familiarity with pets), supported the claims. James Douglas, a respected midwife, also felt it was a hoax.

The hoax began to unravel when Thomas Onslow investigated and had Mary's husband, Joshua, followed. Joshua was caught buying rabbits, and Mary's sister-in-law confessed to smuggling animal parts into Mary's room. Under interrogation by Manningham and Douglas, Mary eventually confessed. She revealed that after an initial miscarriage, she had inserted animal parts into her uterus, prompted by a gypsy's advice to gain fame. She then pushed these parts out, simulating births. John Howard was fined £800, and Mary was briefly incarcerated.

Nathanial St Andre, meanwhile, published a book on the sooterkin theory, only to face condemnation when the hoax was exposed. He later faced accusations of poisoning Samuel Molyneux and eloping with his widow.

Three Notes on the Bunyip

The magazine then shifts focus to Australian folklore, presenting "Three Notes on the Bunyip." This section compiles several historical accounts and reports concerning the legendary creature.

One article, originally from the Hereford Times in 1845, references an Australian paper, The Squatters' Advocate, discussing the discovery of a gigantic animal's knee joint, initially thought to be fossil remains. However, subsequent information and the bone's recent appearance led to a re-evaluation. An Aboriginal man identified the bone as belonging to a 'bunyip,' a creature he claimed to have seen. He provided a drawing, and other Aboriginal individuals recognized the bone and drawing as a bunyip. They shared accounts of the bunyip killing people, including a woman at the Barwon lakes and another at South Geelong. A mare belonging to Mr. Furlong was also reportedly attacked and escaped with a broken leg.

The bunyip is described as amphibious, rarely coming on land except on hot days. It is said to have characteristics of a bird and an alligator, with an emu-like head, a long bill, and an alligator-like body and legs. Its hind legs are thick and strong, forelegs longer and also strong, with long claws. Its method of killing prey is by hugging it to death. It swims like a frog and walks on its hind legs on land, standing 12 to 13 feet tall. Its breast is described as having colored feathers, though this might be due to scales or hair.

A second note, from The Mercury in 1935, discusses the 'bunyip' at the Great Lake. Mr. Critchley Parker, upon arrival in Launceston, mentioned that while the bunyip has many descriptions, none have described it as a beetle. He had found two rare beetles in the Great Lake, suggesting other things besides bunyips were present.

The third note recounts a personal experience from Mr. Simmonds, who saw a seal in the Great Lake, which had become known to Tasmanian readers as the 'bunyip.' He observed the seal floating in clear water, noting its soft brown eyes and yellowish fur.

Finally, a story from The Sydney Morning Herald in 1949 describes a 'weird animal' reported by Mr. and Mrs. L. Keegan in the Laurisior reservoir. They described an animal about four feet long with long shaggy ears that used its ears to propel itself through the water at high speed, diving considerable distances. They also noted that its submergence created a noise audible from about 20 yards away. Mr. J. Beare, a school teacher, also saw the animal twice and confirmed the description.

Notes and Queries

This section includes two historical notes on unusual creatures.

The first note, from John Fleming's "History of British Animals" (1828), discusses the Green Lizard (L. viridis) found in Ireland, Guernsey, and England. It details its physical characteristics, including length (18 to 30 inches), coloration (variegated green and whitish belly), and the placement and features of its legs and feet, noting sharp claws. It mentions a lizard killed in Worcestershire that was 2 feet 6 inches long.

The second note, from the "Statistical Account of Little Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross" (1793), describes a quadruped found in the moors, considered a remarkable variety of the Lizard tribe. It is about 9 inches long, with an unusually long body relative to its tail, which tapers suddenly. Its back has small protuberances and a hard, shell-like skin. Its eyes are large and circular, like a trout's, and its jaws are over an inch long with strong teeth. It is believed that about 50 years prior, the bite of this animal proved fatal to a two-year-old child. The creature is only seen on very dry ground and expresses rage by reddening and glistening its eyes.

Atlantis

The final section of the magazine addresses the mythical island of Atlantis. It presents information from the South China Morning Post of February 7th, 1940, regarding claims made by Italian scientist and astronomer Professor Raffaele Bendandi. Bendandi asserted scientific confirmation of the Universal Deluge occurring in 2687 B.C. and the existence of Atlantis in 10,000 B.C.

According to an interview, Bendandi's discovery of four planets beyond Neptune led him to ascertain that these celestial bodies regulate the solar system through their attraction on the world axis, causing geological movements and earthquakes. He concluded that the Universal Deluge occurred as stated in the Bible and that Atlantis existed west of the Pillars of Hercules, submerged in the Atlantic Ocean. A footnote clarifies that Professor Bendandi (1893-1979) was considered a pseudo-scientist specializing in earthquake prediction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and folklore. The magazine presents a critical examination of the Mary Toft hoax, highlighting the scientific and public reaction to the event. It then delves into the realm of cryptozoology with the exploration of the Bunyip legend, drawing from historical reports and Aboriginal traditions. Finally, it touches upon ancient myths like Atlantis, presenting a claim of scientific validation for its existence. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploring and presenting various accounts of the unusual and unexplained, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also critically examining the evidence, as seen in the detailed debunking of the Mary Toft case.

This issue of 'Flying Snake' (Issue 3) presents a collection of intriguing articles exploring cryptozoological curiosities, historical accounts, and zoological mysteries. The content spans from ancient legends of Atlantis to contemporary observations of unusual creatures and the history of tortoises in academic institutions.

The Japanese Mystery Tortoise That Wasn't

The issue begins with an account of a visit to Whitby Museum in September 2012, where the author encountered a Japanese natural history book featuring a brightly colored tortoise illustration. This illustration sparked an inquiry into its identity, leading to consultations with experts like Allen Salzberg and Peter van Dyke. The consensus is that the illustration is not of a single identifiable Japanese species but is likely a composite created by artists, possibly combining parts of real animals and artistic license. Peter Pritchard further suggests it's based on the prized and protected Geoemyda japonica, a species found on islands off southern Japan, though the artwork is a rough representation.

Flying Adders

An extract from Aubyn Bernard Rochfort Trevor-Battye's 'Pictures in Prose of Nature, Wild sport, and Humble life' (1894) discusses folklore from Britain, specifically Kent, where country folk believe that adders develop wings and fly as they age. This belief is linked to the term 'death-adder' and is suggested to have originated from a misinterpretation of 'deaf adder.'

Freak Bird Has Head Like a Monkey

This section reports on a strange creature caught in Hankow, China, described as a bird with a monkey's head. Measuring three feet in height and eight feet in breadth, it was said to have fur-like black feathers, four toes on each foot, and a mouth shaped like an eagle's bill. This report was published in the Mirror newspaper of Perth, Australia, on July 17th, 1937.

The Two-Legged Snake

An article from The Straits Times on August 1st, 1922, details the discovery of a 'two-legged snake' in Japan. The creature, described as a cross between a snake and a Rocky Mountain billygoat, was reportedly 5 feet 9 inches long, had two legs about 18 inches from its tail, and a horn above each eye. It was encountered at a summer resort in Karuizawa. The report includes commentary from an American correspondent of the N.C.Daily News, who humorously links the sighting to the effects of prohibition.

The Oxford Colleges Ancient Tortoise

This extensive section, initiated by a letter from Richard George, explores the history of tortoises, particularly 'giant tortoises,' at Oxford Colleges. Richard George received a newsletter from Queen's College mentioning a query about the college having had tortoises around the 1930s-40s. Further investigation, including digging by Rob Wilkes at the Bodleian Library, reveals details about tortoises at Oriel College, which adopted a tortoise as a mascot around 1896. This tortoise, named Testudo, was stuffed after its death in 1923 and was succeeded by others. The article also mentions the disappearance of Rosa Luxembourg, a beloved College tortoise, in 2003, and the subsequent arrival of a new tortoise. The question of whether these were 'giant tortoises' in the Galapagos sense is raised. The text also references a colleague's memory of a giant tortoise at New College in the mid-1970s, supposedly 100 years old. Karl Shuker's perspective is included, linking the potential existence of giant tortoises at Oxford to surviving, previously 'lost' species from the Seychelles, emphasizing their potential scientific significance if found.

A Mewing Malaysian Snake

This brief report, from The China Mail of October 18th, 1935, describes an 8-foot opistoglyph snake sent to the West New Brighton Zoo. The snake was believed by natives in the Malay States to be capable of meowing like a cat, though reptile experts were reportedly doubtful.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, the folkloric, and the zoologically unusual. The magazine appears to have a strong interest in cryptozoology, presenting accounts of creatures that defy conventional classification or are rooted in local legends. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting these accounts with a degree of skepticism but also acknowledging the possibility of undiscovered species or phenomena. The use of historical texts, expert consultations, and eyewitness reports suggests a methodology aimed at gathering and presenting evidence, even for the most extraordinary claims.

This issue of Flying Snake magazine, dated November 2012, features a range of articles and correspondence on cryptozoological and fortean topics. The issue includes a book review, discussions on unusual animal behavior, and personal accounts of strange phenomena.

Book Review: Sea Serpent Carcasses. Scotland: From the Stronsa Monster to Loch Ness.

The main feature is a review of the book 'Sea Serpent Carcasses. Scotland: From the Stronsa Monster to Loch Ness' by Glen Vaudrey, published by CFZ Press in 2012. The reviewer describes the book as an excellent 'grand tour' of Scotland's coast and islands, focusing on sea-monster strandings. The review highlights the Alba case of 906 A.D. from the Irish Annals of Innisfallen, the famous Stronsa Monster of 1808 with its illustrations, and mentions the Loch Ness Monster. It also notes a hoax from 1868 involving a northern bottlenose whale reported in the Inverness Courier, and the most recent case of a strange lump of flesh washed up at the Bridge of Don in 2011. The book is said to include the author's 'plastacine (?) carcass creations,' maps, a conclusion, and a bibliography. Dr Devo is quoted as recommending the book as a Christmas gift.

Cat Convention Correspondence

This section features a letter from Patrick Foord, e-mailed on February 16th 2010, responding to a previous article in Fortean Times #253 concerning 'cat conventions.' Patrick Foord describes his own experience witnessing what he believes to be a cat convention when he was about 14 years old. Awakened by noise, he looked over his garden wall into the street and saw a large circle of cats surrounding two cats in the center, who appeared to be facing off. He felt the proceedings were overseen by a large ginger tom sitting within the circle. Upon seeing him, all the cats fled, except for the ginger tom, who looked at him disdainfully before walking away. Foord notes that he has not read of similar events since, but Mr Muirhead's interest suggests it's not entirely unknown.

This is followed by a letter from Richard Muirhead to Mr Sutton, dated September 2009, referencing a letter in Fortean Times #245:75 about cat conventions. Muirhead expresses interest in reports of cats gathering in circles, seemingly directed by a larger cat.

Dr Who and Flying Snakes

This section contains a letter from Oll Lewis, dated September 30th 2012, discussing sightings of 'snakes with wings,' also known as 'Gwybers,' in South Wales. Lewis notes the interesting coincidence that the TV show Doctor Who has filmed in the areas where these sightings occurred since its relaunch. Specifically, scenes were filmed at Upper Boat Studio near Culverhouse Cross, and location shots for the episode 'Tooth and Claw' were filmed in Penllyne and Penllyne Castle. The episode also featured a cryptid, a Werewolf. Lewis suggests that for those interested in the Penllyne Gwiber sightings, the Doctor Who episode is worth watching as a substitute for visiting the locations in person.

Butterfly and Moth Phobia

This section presents a letter from Richard George to Richard, dated May 11th 2012, discussing lepidopterophobia (fear of butterflies) and a personal unease with moths. George states he has not heard of lepidopterophobia concerning British butterflies but can imagine it for tropical ones. He and his mother are uneasy with moths, stemming from his mother's childhood encounter with a Death's Head Hawkmoth (Acherontia atropos) in Birkenhead. George recounts a similar 'not-quite-panic attack' when confronted by an Old Lady Moth (Mormo maura) in his home, which seemed to chase him. He questions whether moths are feared more due to their association with the night or their movement, referencing Jim Morrison's lyric "The scream of butterfly..." from 'When The Music's Over.'

Advertising

The final page advertises 'The Journal of Cryptozoology, Volume One, November 2012,' with a website address and price of £6.99 plus postage, noting it is not for sale from Flying Snake.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around cryptozoology, particularly sea monsters and winged serpents, and fortean phenomena such as unusual animal behavior (cat conventions) and phobias. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded stance, presenting anecdotal evidence and personal accounts for readers to consider, while also referencing popular culture connections like Doctor Who. The editorial stance seems to encourage the sharing of such experiences and investigations into unexplained phenomena.