Flying Snake - No 13

Magazine Overview

Title: Flying Snake
Issue: Volume 5, No. 13
Date: May 2018
Publisher: Richard Muirhead (also known as Dr Devo)
Country: UK
Price: £3.99 cover price, £12 for 3 issues.

Flying Snake is a publication dedicated to obscure aspects of cryptozoology, Forteana, and folklore. It appears approximately twice a year. The current issue, No. 13, features a wide array of intriguing and unusual topics, as indicated by its cover headline: 'SOME MONSTER TOAD STORIES' and a list of other 'Monster Toad Stories' and 'And More!'

Editorial and Subscription Information

Page 2 provides detailed subscription guidelines and contact information. Flying Snake is established by Richard Muirhead AKA Dr Devo in 2011. Subscriptions and back issues can be purchased by sending a cheque to Richard Muirhead at 112 High St, Macclesfield, SK11 7QQ, UK. The cover price is £3.99, and a bundle of 3 issues costs £12. Payments using non-UK currencies or bank orders are not accepted. Co-Editors are Carl Marshall (U.K.) and Mike Hardcastle (Australia). PayPal payments are accepted at [email protected]. Further information is available at www.cosmicpolymath.com/blog. Contributions on cryptozoology, Forteana, and folklore are welcome. Full-colour PDF versions of back issues and the current issue can be sent via email for £3.99 per copy. Essays covering the occult, racism, or sexism will not be considered. Copyright permission is sought wherever possible.

Contents

Page 3 lists the contents of the issue:

• 5: Dr Devo's Diary
• 6-9: Strange Clouds by Richard Muirhead
• 10-16: Some Monster Toad Stories by Richard Muirhead
• 17-22: The First Alien Big Cat? The “Lion of Valencia" by Javier Resines
• 23-25: Unknown Water Spider in Uganda by Carl Marshall and Richard Muirhead
• 26-31: The Magic Zoo of Lake Lugano by Ulrich Magin
• 32-33: Steller's Sea Cow An Update by Richard George
• 34-36: The Baby of the Desert by Richard Muirhead
• 37-42: Lore of the Bear Lake Monster by David Weatherly

Page 4 continues the contents list:

• 43: Mystery animal photo found on ebay by Richard Muirhead
• 44-49: Those ever enigmatic Cetaceans by Carl Marshall
• 50-73: Notes and Queries (covering a vast array of topics including Living dragon in Hungary, Long Lasting Rainbow Wolves in Germany, Wolf in Belgium, Ancient Statue found in New York state, Greek coin found in dress, Educated hens, Exploding Ostrich Egg, Opossum or Manx Cat in Ireland, Steller's Sea Cow in 2016, Double Headed Snake, Plague of Moths, Strange Pelt of Canadian Cat, Fish with swallowed ring, Weird Fish, Strange Owl, Mutant Rat?, Large Pink Bat, Strange Tiger in Indiana, Sea Horse, Giant wasp in Scotland, Dog Headed Sea Monster, Strange insect in court, Bird with a pouch, Orang Pendek?, Monster Turtle, Dog poo generates light, French bat migration, Giant snakes in Fiji?, Horned monsters and Japanese, Strange crocodile story, Black Triton in Somerset)
• 75-79: Letters and E-mails (Irish fauna, Various cryptids, Steller's Sea Cow, Cryptozoology and Botany in pop & rock)

Dr Devo's Diary

Dr Devo's diary entry on page 5 begins with a quote from Christopher Smart's 'Rejoice in the Lamb.' He expresses excitement about the arrival of Flying Snake Issue 13, noting it's still printed by Mailbox Macclesfield. He encourages support for local businesses. Dr Devo explains the delay in publishing Issue 13, attributing it to working only a few hours a day at the library. He mentions acquiring a new Lenovo desktop computer and humorously connects the brand name to Vladimir I. Lenin, pondering the lack of acknowledgement for the 100th anniversary of the Russian Revolution. He then lists some of the topics covered in FS 13, including monster toads, exploding ostrich eggs, Irish opposums, Japanese horned sea monsters, Steller's Sea Cow, Lake Lugano's fauna, and the Bear Lake monster. He regrets not including a second part on American kangaroo anomalies. Dr Devo also shares a personal update, stating he was taken off lithium after 18 years on February 14th, 2018. He announces he is compiling an index to FS 1-12, which will be ready soon. The entry concludes with a playful sign-off: 'DANCE THE POOT AND BOMBS AWAY!!'

Strange Clouds

Pages 6 and 7 discuss unusual cloud formations. The article on page 6, 'STRANGE RIBBON OF CLOUD Formation Seen in North,' by Richard Muirhead, describes a ribbon of cloud seen in Mareeba, Cairns, and Atherton, Australia, on February 2nd, 1937. It stretched from horizon to horizon and was caused by a cool southerly wind impinging upon a warm, moist air current from the north. The Commonwealth Divisional Meteorologist, Mr. A. S. Richards, explained that the meeting of these air streams would cause condensation. While common in southern Australia, such occurrences were possible in Queensland. The article also notes that in the south, cloud rolls were usually accompanied by other cloud.

Page 7 features a photograph and description of 'A hole of oval shape in the sky over Stratford-on-Avon West Midlands U.K, 1945.' This image is from the author's own collection and was published in 'Weather' magazine in October 1946. The caption specifies it was a 'Circular hole in altocumulus cloud at 11.30 a.m. on July 8, 1945, seen from Stratford-on-Avon.'

Page 8 presents an article titled 'Strange cloud in the shape of Lincoln's head,' originating from the Fort Wayne News Sentinel, September 12th, 1918. It reports on a cloud formation resembling Abraham Lincoln observed at Camp Sherman, Chillicothe, Ohio, by members of the 84th (Lincoln) division. The cloud reportedly disappeared and reappeared minutes later, with hundreds of men witnessing the event.

Page 9 details 'Strange cloud of vapour' reported in the Trenton State Gazette on October 13th, 1881. Near San Jose Papaivapam, Vera Cruz, Mexico, an immense cloud of vapor was observed rising from the ground for nearly seven days after a violent thunderstorm. An Indian discovered the vapor emanating from his maize field. The heat of the vapor thwarted attempts to approach it. The column was described as thirty square yards, with vapor issuing at five-minute intervals. The dense smoke obscured trees, and the maize field was completely burned, with trees and trunks turning black. The phenomenon is interpreted as an underground fire communicating with the volcanoes of Orizaba and Tuxtla.

Some Monster Toad Stories

Pages 10-16 are dedicated to 'Some Monster Toad Stories,' with an article by Richard Muirhead. Page 10 discusses the image on the front cover, identified as a large Cane Toad carrying a young one. It references Animal Records by Mark Carwardine (Natural History Museum, London, 2010), stating the largest toad ever recorded was a cane toad, weighing 2.65 kg (5lb 13 1/2 oz) and measuring 53.9 cm (21 1/4 in) fully extended, though this record may have been superseded.

A historical account from Repository (Ohio), May 12th, 1888, describes a 'MONSTER toad' found at Juillac, France. This toad reportedly weighed nearly sixty-six pounds and measured nearly three feet round the body. It was sold for three hundred and fifty dollars to a manufacturer at St. Etienne. Its croaking was said to resemble a dog's bark, drawing crowds of inhabitants to Juillac.

Other Articles

• The First Alien Big Cat? The “Lion of Valencia" (Pages 17-22): An article by Javier Resines exploring the phenomenon of alien big cats, possibly focusing on a specific case or report from Valencia.
• Unknown Water Spider in Uganda (Pages 23-25): Co-authored by Carl Marshall and Richard Muirhead, this piece investigates a potentially unknown species of water spider found in Uganda.
• The Magic Zoo of Lake Lugano (Pages 26-31): Written by Ulrich Magin, this article delves into the mysteries and potential unusual fauna associated with Lake Lugano.
• Steller's Sea Cow An Update (Pages 32-33): Richard George provides an update on the Steller's Sea Cow, a creature thought to be extinct.
• The Baby of the Desert (Pages 34-36): Another contribution from Richard Muirhead, this article likely discusses a creature or phenomenon known as 'The Baby of the Desert.'
• Lore of the Bear Lake Monster (Pages 37-42): David Weatherly explores the folklore and accounts surrounding the Bear Lake Monster.
• Mystery animal photo found on ebay (Page 43): Richard Muirhead discusses an animal photograph discovered on eBay.
• Those ever enigmatic Cetaceans (Pages 44-49): Carl Marshall examines enigmatic cetaceans, likely focusing on unusual whale or dolphin sightings or behaviors.

Notes and Queries

Pages 50-73 contain a lengthy 'Notes and Queries' section, which is a compilation of numerous brief reports and mentions of unexplained phenomena, strange creatures, and Fortean topics. These include:

• Living dragon in Hungary
• Long Lasting Rainbow Wolves in Germany
• Wolf in Belgium
• Ancient Statue found in New York state
• Greek coin found in dress
• Educated hens
• Exploding Ostrich Egg
• Opossum or Manx Cat in Ireland
• Steller's Sea Cow in 2016
• Double Headed Snake
• Plague of Moths
• Strange Pelt of Canadian Cat
• Fish with swallowed ring
• Weird Fish
• Strange Owl
• Mutant Rat?
• Large Pink Bat
• Strange Tiger in Indiana
• Sea Horse
• Giant wasp in Scotland
• Dog Headed Sea Monster
• Strange insect in court
• Bird with a pouch
• Orang Pendek?
• Monster Turtle
• Dog poo generates light
• French bat migration
• Giant snakes in Fiji?
• Horned monsters and Japanese
• Strange crocodile story
• Black Triton in Somerset

Letters and E-mails

Pages 75-79 feature 'Letters and E-mails,' covering topics such as Irish fauna, various cryptids, Steller's Sea Cow, and the role of cryptozoology and botany in popular culture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Flying Snake are cryptozoology, unexplained phenomena, and Forteana. The magazine showcases a wide variety of alleged creature sightings, unusual natural events, and historical mysteries. The editorial stance, as indicated by Dr Devo's diary and the submission guidelines, is to explore the obscure and the unexplained, while maintaining a focus on factual reporting (even of anecdotal evidence) and avoiding sensationalism or topics deemed outside the scope of Forteana and cryptozoology. The publication emphasizes its commitment to exploring the fringes of knowledge and folklore.

This issue, identified by page number 11, features articles and accounts related to unusual toad sightings and legends, as well as a historical account of a 'lion' sighting in Valencia, Spain. The primary focus appears to be on anomalous animal encounters and folklore.

Massive Toad in Gloucestershire Castle

This section details information about a giant toad that reportedly inhabited the dungeon of Berkeley Castle during the reign of King Henry VII (1457-1509). The information is sourced from pages 29-30 of 'Ghosts and Witches of the Cotswolds' by J.A.Brooks. The author notes that Berkeley Castle has a sinister aura, possibly derived from the gruesome death of Edward II in its dungeons. While the author has failed to find evidence of ghosts, a remarkable discovery from John Smyth's account is presented regarding a toad.

The description of the toad, as quoted from John Smyth, states it was found in a deep dungeon chamber within the Keep of Berkeley Castle. Tradition holds that this toad, of 'incredible bignes', had lived in the dry dust at the bottom of the dungeon for hundreds of years. Its portraiture, as affirmed by aged persons, was seen drawn in colours on the door of the Great Hall and the outer side of the stone porch about 48 years prior to Smyth's writing. The portrait showed a toad that was more than a foot wide, nearly sixteen inches, and longer. The inhabitants of the town and surrounding villages told many strange and incredible wonders about this beast, fabled to be large enough to fill a peck, or even a bushel or strike. Some reports from their fathers and grandfathers suggested it had been fed with flesh and garbage from butchers.

Monster toad at Niagra Falls

A brief snippet from 'A History of N.Greening and Sons, Ltd, of Warrington, England from 1799 to 1949' by Stuart P.B.Mais, page 19, mentions a 'monster toad' found under the Horseshoe Falls of Niagara amidst a roar of waters.

Monster Toad and strange fish - Florida

Page 13 features an image with the caption 'Monster Toad and strange fish - Florida'. The image appears to be a composite, with the top half showing what looks like a crashed aircraft and the bottom half showing a large toad. The source is cited as 'Mobile Register September 21st 1971 © Newsbank'.

Toads persecuting man

This section, from Muirhead's Mysteries blog dated April 18th, 2018, presents a story found in Tony Roberts' 'Myths and Legends of Pembrokeshire' (2016). The story, attributed to Giraldus Cambrensis (1146-1223), tells of a farm called Trellyffant near Nevern in south-west Wales. A young man named Cecil Longlegs, during a severe illness, suffered a violent persecution from toads. Despite efforts by his nurses and friends to destroy them, the toads increased in infinite numbers, like hydra's heads. Eventually, Cecil was drawn up in a bag into a high, leafless tree, but the toads crept up and consumed him to the very bones.

Giant Toads in Lower Umlazi River area South Africa

This article, from 'Sketches of Life and Sport in South-Eastern Africa' by Charles E.Hamilton, Frederick G.H.Price, and Pierre Méjanel (1870, page 119), describes toads and frogs in the Lower Umlazi River area of South Africa as unusually large. One kind, called the 'monster-toad', is described as being of a deadly poisonous nature. Horses would shy at them as they would at a wild beast or snake. The author suggests they might be valuable for training to distinguish mushrooms from fungi.

Poison of the African Toad

An excerpt from 'The New Hampshire Journal of Medicine' (Volumes 7-8, 1857, page 94) discusses Rev. Francis Flaming's work on Southern Africa. It mentions a 'monster toad' with a terrifying celebrity, described as being about a foot long and eight inches broad, with a spotted green back, yellow belly, and large red eyes that the Kaffirs say 'spirt fire'. Animals and humans alike reportedly abhor this creature. The text questions if this could be the same creature as the one mentioned in the 1870 account.

Huge toad in a pond in a Berkshire in 1806

This article, from the 'Belfast Commercial Chronicle' dated June 7th, 1806, reports a singular and fatal occurrence. Three drovers, a father and his two sons, died shortly after eating duck eggs at a farmer's house near Fifield, Berkshire. An investigation revealed that a toad of enormous weight, seven pounds, was found at the bottom of the pond where the farmer's ducks fed. Some of the remaining duck eggs showed black spots inside the yolk, and one egg given to a dog caused its death. The article suggests the eggs must have been impregnated by the spawn of the toad and leaves the explanation to naturalists.

1517: The first alien big cat? The "Lion of Valencia"

Authored by Javier Resines, this article discusses the phenomenon of 'alien big cats', particularly in Great Britain, but also mentions other countries. It focuses on the first documented case in Spain, occurring on September 27, 1517, in Valencia. A severe storm and flood hit the city, and during the downpour, neighbours saw a strange animal resembling a lion, roaring and threatening people. The account is supported by two works: one by Catalan researcher Fontana Tarrats concerning meteorological incidents, and another, the 'Second part of the first decade of the history of the Illustrious and crowned city and Region of Valencia', written by priest Gaspar Joan Escolano in 1611.

Escolano's work describes the event: heavy rain for forty continuous days caused a flood, collapsing houses and leading to deaths. The strange lion was seen walking and bellowing through the streets, enhancing the horror. Initially thought to be an escaped lion from the Royal Palace, it would appear, become invisible, and reappear elsewhere. The description of the creature varies, with some seeing a large lion and others an ox-like animal with powerful roars. The article suggests it was a large animal never seen before in the area. The text also notes that the description aligns with typical features of encounters with alien big cats, such as sudden appearance and disappearance, and the ability to be in multiple places simultaneously.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores anomalous animal accounts, particularly those involving toads of unusual size, behavior, or perceived danger, often drawing from historical records and folklore. There's a recurring theme of the monstrous or uncanny in nature. The inclusion of the 'Lion of Valencia' article broadens the scope to include cryptid-like phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these historical accounts and legends for consideration, often with a degree of skepticism or an invitation for further investigation ('How it happened, we will leave to naturalists to determine').

This issue of "Flying Snake" features several articles on unexplained animal phenomena and historical mysteries. The content spans reports of a mysterious lion in Valencia, unusual snake behavior in Lake Lugano, and a potential unknown spider species in Uganda.

The Lion of Valencia

The first article recounts a historical event in Valencia where a lion, believed to have escaped from the Royal Palace zoo, terrorized the city for three months. Despite extensive searches, the beast was never captured and eventually disappeared into the water. A theory that the lion was an exotic animal from the King's collection was dismissed because the flood did not affect the building or the zoo's specimens. The search was unsuccessful, though evidence like torn trees, dead animals, and dung suggested the lion's existence and ferocity. The incident caused widespread fear, with many women reportedly becoming frightened and going crazy. The lion was last seen near the convent of the Trinity, heading towards the bridge of the same name, where witnesses claimed it jumped into the water and vanished. The article suggests this might be an early documented case of an 'alien big cat', noting that strange animals are not a new phenomenon.

Unknown Water Spider in Uganda

This section details an account from Norman E. Hickin's book 'African Notebook' about a sighting of what appeared to be a giant water spider in Uganda. The author himself seemed overwhelmed by the sighting, questioning his own eyesight. The article also includes information from Carl Marshall, a Co-Editor of Flying Snake, who suggests that an undescribed species of the *Hysterocrates* genus, commonly known as Red Baboon Tarantulas or Swimming Tarantulas, might be responsible. Marshall explains that this species has specialized setae on its abdomen that hold oxygenated bubbles, allowing it to breathe underwater for extended periods. He recounts an instance where one individual remained submerged for at least eight hours. The article is accompanied by images of *Hysterocrates gigas*.

The Magic Zoo of Lake Lugano

This extensive article by Ulrich Magin explores legendary and mysterious animal stories associated with Lake Lugano. It begins by describing Lake Lugano as a beautiful but historically dangerous place known for legendary animal stories. The focus then shifts to reports of poisonous vipers from Monte San Salvadore. Citing Friedrich von Matthisson's 'Erinnerungen' (1810-1816), the article describes how these vipers supposedly swim across Lake Lugano in 'mighty columns' during spring to inhabit forests on the opposite bank, returning in autumn. The author finds it more likely that grass snakes were mistaken for vipers, as snakes do not typically enter water voluntarily. The report elaborates on the vipers' appearance (brown with a black stripe, up to a foot long) and their habit of forming 'horrible, mobile balls' resembling Medusa heads. The editor of the magazine 'Wanderer' reportedly observed such a snake-ball in 1808. The article notes that Lake Lugano is unusual for an Upper Italian lake in lacking a monster tradition, apart from some 20th-century hoaxes. It mentions that schemes to eradicate these snakes, including felling and burning the forest, were proposed but never fully realized.

Further discussion in this section touches upon Harald Othmar Lenz's more sober account of these snakes, identifying them as *Vipera redi* and later as *Coluber Aspis*, noting their migration across the lake but without the 'snake ball' phenomenon. The author also references Pliny's claim about eels in Lake Garda forming balls and Olaus Magnus's description of a Norwegian lake monster coiling into a sphere, questioning if these concepts are related.

Taming Fishes

Briefly mentioned at the end of the Lake Lugano article is a report about a Swiss physician, Dr. R. Fastenrath of Herisau, who reportedly succeeded in taming fish in Lake Lugano. The article describes how the fish, identified as loaches, became accustomed to the doctor and ate bread from his hands. This news story, published in various newspapers in 1906, is presented as a more credible, though still elusive, phenomenon compared to the snake balls.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around historical accounts of unexplained animal sightings and behaviors, often referred to as 'impossible beasts' or 'strange animals'. The magazine presents these accounts with a degree of skepticism, referencing scientific literature and historical records, but also acknowledges the enduring mystery and the contribution of these stories to making the world 'a little more mysterious'. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and exploring these historical curiosities, presenting different perspectives and potential explanations, while leaving room for wonder and the possibility of undiscovered phenomena.

This issue of UFO Universe, identified by page number 31, contains articles on various cryptid phenomena. The content is primarily text-based, with a few illustrative images and maps.

Steller's Sea Cow: An Update (well, sort of) This article by Richard George discusses recent alleged sightings and media related to Steller's Sea Cow (SSC). It begins by referencing an unconvincing sighting from 2010 off the Pacific Northwest. Two years later, a YouTube video titled "STELLAR'S SEA COW REDISCOVERED OFF WEST GREENLAND" appeared, featuring indistinct bumps and lumps. Accompanying this was a trailer for "Tales of a Sea Cow," a 59-minute fictional pseudo-documentary by filmmaker Etienne de France. The film's central theme is that SSC perceives events through rhythm and a "complicated code," threatened by human telecommunication systems, inspired by humpback whale songs. Critic Annick Buread described it as "A tongue-in-cheek joyous but unsettling fable." The author questions the validity of the Greenland sighting, suggesting it might be fake news. He notes that Steller's Sea Cow could plausibly inhabit the Davis Strait off West Greenland due to its latitude, similar to the Gulf of Anadyr where a 1977 sighting occurred. He mentions Bret Weinstein and James Patton of the University of California investigating "vague reports" of SSC off Greenland. The article touches on the possibility of SSC being a Cold War propaganda tool, referencing Aileen Orr's book "Wojtek The Bear," which claims cetaceans were used for security and espionage by the USSR and US. A shadowy online claim of an SSC skeleton found in 1983 on a Russian island is mentioned. The author also highlights Matthew A. Bille's book "Shadows of Existence" (2006), which includes John Hunt's "A World Full of Animals" (1969). Hunt reported "Russian reports" suggesting a surviving population of Steller's Sea Cow was under official protection.

The "Baby of the Desert" an insect cryptid from Arizona Richard Muirhead investigates the "Baby of the Desert," an insect cryptid from Arizona. The inquiry stems from references in the online edition of The Desert Magazine. An early mention is from a January 1947 letter by William M. Weldon, who asks about a poisonous desert resident named "Baby of the Desert" due to its resemblance to a baby's face. Weldon was told it was smaller than a Gila Monster and could be an insect, reptile, or rodent.

Further discussion on the magazine's Letters page involved a reader describing the creature as doll-like, three to four inches long, walking on all fours, with an infant-like face, and more poisonous than a rattlesnake. It was speculated that this creature is the yellow and black striped Jerusalem cricket or Sand-cricket, which is nocturnal and found under boards or stones. Nature Magazine published an article and photo of this insect in April 1944.

A letter from San Fernando, California, in the February 1947 Desert Magazine, references the "Baby Face" and an incident that might be connected. Another letter, from April 1947, discusses "Nino de la Tierra" (child of the earth). Coila Harris describes a creature found near the Mexican border with a Tarantula-like body and a white, bald-headed baby-like face, considered highly poisonous by Mexicans.

S. G. Chamberlain recounts an experience on a Cascade ranch where an insect resembling a Jerusalem Cricket, but with a round face, was found. It was identified by the Farm Bureau as a Vinegarone or Sun Spider, supposedly harmless, but a similar insect on the Mexican border was said to be poisonous.

After these accounts, the trail of the "Baby-face" went cold.

Lore of the Bear Lake Monster David Weatherly explores the legend of the Bear Lake Monster. Bear Lake, a natural freshwater lake straddling Utah and Idaho, is known for its picturesque turquoise water and unique fauna. The lake is over 250,000 years old and has a maximum depth of 208 feet.

The monster is described as being a hundred feet in length, resembling a serpent with a light cream-colored body, moving faster than a locomotive. Its head is said to resemble that of a cow or walrus, and it has a voracious appetite. Alternative descriptions include a fifty-foot-long snake with feet and a crocodile or alligator head. Locals offer varied descriptions, from Nessie-like to dismissive.

The legend has a long history, with accounts appearing in the late 1860s. Joe Rich, a reporter for the Deseret News, is credited with early tales, purportedly hearing them from local Shoshone Indians. An 1868 article by Rich stated that the Indians believed a monster lived in the lake, having carried away Indians swimming in it, but hadn't been seen for many years.
The Deseret News ran stories, while the Salt Lake Tribune skeptically called the monster the "twin brother to the devil and cousin to Brigham [Young]."
Interest continued into the 1880s. An August 27, 1881, Ogden Herald story described fishermen attempting to capture the beast using a sheep carcass as bait. Local Native Americans reportedly replaced the sheep with a large sucker fish.

The Logan Journal in May 1883 defined Bear Lake Valley as "The Home of the Monster." Stories evolved, with some speculating they were created for tourism. A 1907 Logan, UT newspaper reported an encounter where the beast came ashore and killed a horse. The Logan Republican described it as a "Leviathan" measuring twenty feet, with the roar of a lion.

A headline from September 21st read: "Quil Nebeker sees monster." Aquilla C. Nebeker, a former President of the Utah Senate and acting governor, provided a detailed account. Nebeker claimed the creature devoured eight of his sheep, a stack of hay, pigs, and barbed wire. His "solution" was to play music from his gramophone, believing it could tame wild animals. He concluded that the creature was "wondrously human."

Despite Nebeker's account, the author notes it provides no evidence. Rumors of a political figure spotting the creature added to the mythos.

Sightings became occasional. A Boy Scout leader reported seeing the monster in 1946. In November 1976, Bryce Nielson, a biologist with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Fisheries, observed a group of elk swimming across Bear Lake. This event led locals to wonder if the elk's unusual behavior was related to the Bear Lake Monster legend.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of cryptid reports, the examination of evidence (or lack thereof), and the distinction between genuine phenomena and hoaxes, folklore, or fictional creations. The magazine appears to approach these subjects with a critical yet open-minded perspective, exploring historical accounts, media portrayals, and potential explanations. There is an underlying skepticism towards sensational claims, particularly when they are linked to fabricated media or lack credible evidence, as seen in the Steller's Sea Cow and "Baby of the Desert" articles. The Bear Lake Monster section, while detailing the legend's evolution, also highlights the speculative nature of the accounts. The editorial stance seems to favor rigorous investigation and a cautious interpretation of extraordinary claims within the realm of the unexplained.

This issue of "Mysterious Creatures" (pages 41-50) delves into various unexplained phenomena, focusing on cryptozoology and marine enigmas. The content spans from local lake monsters to the complex world of whale species and intriguing photographic evidence.

The Bear Lake Monster

The issue begins with an account of the Bear Lake Monster, a local legend. Brian Hirschi, a business owner, recounts his encounter in June 2002. While anchoring his boat on a summer night, he spotted two humps in the water, which then vanished. Moments later, his boat was lifted, and he saw a "serpent-like creature" emerge with "really dark, slimy green skin and deep beet-red eyes." The creature submerged, and Hirschi heard a sound like a "roaring bull" before it disappeared. He initially hesitated to report the incident, fearing he would be perceived as crazy, but eventually decided to share his story, stating, "Once you've seen the monster, you really don't care what other people say." The article notes that the Bear Lake monster is a significant part of the region's folklore, with a boat tour operation dedicated to its legend. Folklorist Elaine Thatcher suggests the story has evolved into self-parody, played with by locals for themselves and tourists.

Mystery Animal Photo Found on eBay

Richard Muirhead details his purchase of a black and white/sepia photo from ebay.co.uk in February 2018. The photo, bought from Mr. Darrin Stouffer of Covington, Washington, U.S.A., intrigued him because he couldn't identify the animal. He initially thought it might be a pony or camel from an unusual angle. After posting the image on the Zombie Mammal Society's Facebook page, members suggested it could be a llama, a takin, or even a young musk ox or bison, with one person noting what appeared to be horns.

Those Ever-Enigmatic Cetaceans

Carl Marshall's article explores the mysteries surrounding cetaceans, particularly beaked whales and other unusual marine creatures. He begins by describing whales as large, conspicuous aquatic mammals. The article highlights the Indopacific beaked whale (*Indopacetus pacificus*), previously known only from two skulls found decades apart. It is likely the same species as Longman's beaked whale. Sightings of unidentified off-grey whales near the Seychelles in 1980 were inconclusive. A significant event occurred on July 26th, 2002, when a strange beaked whale washed ashore in Japan. Initially overlooked, its remains were later identified by a cetologist as the first intact example of Longman's beaked whale.

The smallest beaked whale, the Peruvian or Lesser, beaked whale, was only identified in 1976 when a skull was found in Peru by Dr. James Mead of the Smithsonian Institution. Between 1975 and 1997, four beaked whales stranded on the California coast, initially identified as Hector's beaked whales (*Mesoplodon hectori*). However, ecologist Dr. Merel Dalebout's DNA analysis revealed they were a new species, *Mesoplodon perrini*, discovered in 2002.

In November 2003, biologists from Tokyo's National Science Museum and the National Institute of Fisheries Science announced that Bryde's whale (*Balaenoptera brydei*) was likely two separate species, based on DNA evidence. Further studies of specimens from the 1970s suggested a third species might have been missed.

The article also mentions observations of an unknown cetacean similar in size to a killer whale (*Orcinus orca*) but with a strikingly narrow, sword-like dorsal fin. Sir James Ross reported similar whales with "remarkably long, pointed, black fins" near Antarctica in 1841. Naturalist Edward A. Wilson sketched such a whale in 1902. The possibility of these being melanistic orcas is raised.

Other crypto cetaceans mentioned include the Scrag Whale in the North Atlantic, described as a fin whale with lumps instead of a dorsal fin, and the white-flippered beaked whale. The article touches upon genetic research, including Kevin Glover's analysis of whale DNA, which revealed a hybrid whale with an Antarctic minke mother hunted in the northeastern Atlantic in 2007. A rare hybrid, the Wholphin, born from a bottlenose dolphin and a false killer whale, is also discussed.

The "52-hertz whale," an unidentified species calling at an unusually high frequency, is described as the "world's loneliest whale." The issue lists several reported hybrid Rorquals, including crosses between Bowhead and North Pacific Right Whales, Blue and Fin Whales, and Grey and Humpback Whales. DNA analysis in 2014 also identified the Clymene dolphin as a naturally occurring hybrid.

The article concludes by emphasizing the many mysteries still to be solved regarding cetaceans, including new species, color variants, and hybrids. It is dedicated to the author's father, John Marshall.

Notes and Queries

This section includes two brief items. The first, dated July 24th, 1805, from Hibernia, recounts a letter from Hungary describing an animal shot in a wood that resembled a crocodile but had wings, leading locals to call it a dragon.

The second item, dated December 1st, 2017, reports on the "Longest lasting Rainbow observed" in Taipei, Taiwan, which lasted for nine hours. This event is noted as a potential new world record, surpassing the previous record of six hours observed in Sheffield, UK, in 1994. The prolonged duration in Taiwan was attributed to monsoon conditions.

Additional Content

Page 42 features an image of Bear Lake with a caption crediting Wikipedia Commons and providing a Flickr URL. Page 49 includes a brief, unrelated story about a "CAPTURE ODD WHALE" – a Humpback Variety with Two Hind Limbs found off the coast of British Columbia, with bones of the appendages arriving at the American Museum of Natural History. This story is presented as filler.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are cryptozoology, unexplained animal phenomena, and the ongoing discoveries and mysteries within marine biology, particularly concerning whales. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and a desire to document and explore the unknown, presenting accounts and scientific findings without definitive conclusions, leaving room for speculation and further research. The inclusion of both folklore-based accounts (Bear Lake Monster, Dragon) and scientific investigations (whale DNA analysis, species identification) suggests a broad interest in the unexplained.

This issue of The Local, dated April 19th, 2018, features a collection of diverse and intriguing reports, ranging from wildlife return to historical artifact discoveries and unusual animal phenomena.

Wolves back in Germany

The cover story highlights the return of wolves to Germany after more than a century of extinction. The article notes that wolf numbers are increasing rapidly, with estimates from the Federal Documentation and Advice Centre on the Wolf (DBBW) indicating around 800 wolves in Germany in 2017, of which 150 to 160 were adult animals. The report poses questions about who is affected by this growth and whether it poses a threat to humans.

First wolf in Belgium for over 100 years

This section reports on the sighting of a wild wolf in Belgium, marking its return to the country after more than a century. The animal was wearing an electronic tracker and had traveled approximately 310 miles in 10 days from Germany, via Holland, where it was spotted around Christmas. Wolves had disappeared from most of western Europe due to hunting and industrialization but are now recolonizing the continent. The Bern Convention in 1979 has played a role in rehabilitating wolves as a protected species.

Ancient Greek Statue found buried near New York

An article from The Washington Post dated July 21st, 1922, details the discovery of a 2,000-year-old pure Greek statue in Yonkers, New York. The statue, described as a work of master craftsmanship, stands about 4 feet 6 inches tall but is missing its head. It was found buried under a water main that had not been disturbed for 38 years.

Greek coin found in dress

This report from the Daily Nonpareil, November 21st, 1963, recounts the peculiar discovery of a Greek coin (10 drachma, worth about 3 1/2 cents) found in the hem of a tightly stitched dress in Louisville, Kentucky. The owner, Mrs. Wilson Beatty, noticed an unusual weight after the dress was dry-cleaned, and no tear was found in the fabric.

EDUCATED HENS

Published in the Bay City Times on April 27th, 1908, this piece describes two hens in Bay City that laid unusual eggs. One egg, discovered by William Decourcey, had a clock dial imprinted on its flat side, with Roman and part-numeral characters. Another similar egg was found by Austin Smith. The article speculates whether these hens are exceptionally educated or simply freaks.

Exploding Ostrich Egg

An old report from the Patriot, Harrisburg Pennsylvania, dated November 22nd, 1886, details a "Weightful Explosion of an Ostrich Egg" in New Haven. Dr. George Blair of Yale College was knocked insensible and nearly killed by the explosion of an ostrich egg, weighing 3 1-2 pounds, which came from South Africa. Scientists reportedly had never heard of such an occurrence.

Manx cat or Opossum in Ireland?

This article from Limerick Life (August 2017) recounts a strange incident from May 16th, 1931, in Abbeyfeale, Ireland. A strange animal, about the size of a rat, was discovered and attacked by a blue terrier. An inquest was held, and it was later discovered that an opossum had escaped from a circus two weeks prior, and the night before its demise, it had been chased from a bedroom by a resident who thought it was a Manx cat.

Possible Steller's Sea Cow sighting near Svalbard near the Arctic in 2016

Danish cryptozoologist Lars Thomas shared a story via Facebook in April 2018 about a possible sighting of a Steller's Sea Cow south of Svalbard in 2016. The description was vague, noting a broad brownish back, rough appearance, and that it moved differently and much slower than a walrus, being considerably bigger.

Double-headed snake

An item from the Cheyenne State Leader, August 30th, 1919, features an illustration and brief mention of a "Two-headed Snake Found by Kentucky Farmer."

CITY VISITED BY MANY ODD MOTHS

From the Patriot (Harrisburg) Pennsylvania, July 30th, 1917, this report describes Harrisburg being visited by an unusual number of large, beautiful lunar moths, described as pea-green with long tails. Dr. George Potts was consulted to explain the phenomenon, but the reason remained unknown, though weather was suggested as a factor.

Strange pelt of a wild cat in Yukon Canada

This piece, found in the Evening Post Charleston South Carolina, August 23rd, 1923, discusses a mystery feline pelt found by trapper Robert McConnell in the Upper Yukon region. The strange skin, thirty-eight inches long, is tan colored with markings resembling a tiger or royal oct-law. Some speculate it might be a wild cat that allied with another creature.

Fish found with swallowed ring

An article from 'Lost Treasure' magazine, June 1985, tells the story of Tommie Jeff Ashcroft, who lost his high school class ring while water-skiing in Lake Brownwood, Texas. Six months later, Benny "Scooter" Tarver, a fisherman, found the ring inside a 23-pound catfish. The ring was engraved with "E.H.S." and the initials "T.J.A.", and was successfully returned to its owner.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine features a variety of unusual and unexplained phenomena, historical curiosities, and wildlife news. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on intriguing and often bizarre events from the past and present, without offering strong opinions, but rather presenting the facts and accounts as reported by various sources. The inclusion of diverse topics suggests an interest in the strange, the historical, and the natural world.

This issue, compiled by Newsbank, presents a series of intriguing and often bizarre reports of unusual creatures and phenomena, spanning from the late 19th century to the early 21st century. The collection highlights public interest in the unexplained and the mysterious aspects of the natural world. The earliest dated article is from 1861, and the latest is from 2018, with the primary focus on reports from the early 1900s.

"Fish Is a Puzzle" (St. Joseph, Mo., Sept. 19) This article from the Salt Lake Telegram (Sept. 30, 1904) details a peculiar creature caught by M. E. O'Brien, superintendent of the St. Joseph fish hatchery. The 'what-is-it' weighed seventeen and a half pounds and was twenty inches long. It possessed an alligator-like head and mouth, four legs, and a finny tail with webbed feet, suggesting a relationship to ducks. Its body was covered in scales similar to those of a buffalo fish. The creature was described as a vicious fighter with snakelike eyes, prompting caution due to a potential for poison. O'Brien was reportedly absorbed in studying how sound waves affect animals without external hearing organs.

"Strange Owl" (The State, Columbia S. Carolina, Dec. 16, 1938) This piece, attributed to Harry Hampton and published in "Woods and Waters," describes a bird that the author and numerous other observers could not identify. The bird, seen in broad daylight, was compared to an owl but differed significantly in shape and coloring. It had markings resembling a barred rock rooster with brownish bars across a field of gold on its tail and wings. The head was peculiar, with a frill of very short brown feathers that enclosed the face, and its eyes were set back and jet black. The legs and feet were also black, with a wingspread estimated between 28 and 30 inches. Mr. Shuford, an ex-game warden, suggested it might be a "wood owl" or a "North Carolina owl," but old-timers doubted it was the same species as one previously seen in a river swamp.

"Mutant Rat?" (Oregonian, Sept. 6, 1909) This report from North Yakima, Washington, details the discovery of a new species of rat. The animals were unusually large, jet black, with a snout like an Arkansas razor-back hog, and tails over a foot long. Dr. Philip Frank, County Health Officer, was involved in a campaign against filth when the discovery was made. Six of these rodents were found in the basement of the First National Bank. Two specimens were sent to state laboratories for identification, as local naturalists could not classify them. The rats had peculiar webbed feet, which seemed adapted for water, despite North Yakima being nearly 200 miles from the seaboard and in an irrigated area with limited standing water. The article notes that rats were not present in the Yakima Valley until a few years prior.

"Large pink bat in the Philippines" (N/A) A brief personal anecdote from a friend of the author, who works with Oxfam in Macclesfield. The friend reported seeing a large pink bat on the island of Cebu in the Philippines around 2013.

"Strange "tiger" in Indiana" (Plain Dealer Ohio, Nov. 28, 1935) This report from Princeton, Indiana, details Sheriff Chester Braselton's plan to hunt a striped animal believed to be a tiger. Residents had persistently reported seeing such an animal in the Wabash River lowlands, though the sheriff acknowledged it was not indigenous to Indiana.

"Sea Sea-Horse" (Cincinnati Daily Press, March 28, 1861) This article describes a strange specimen caught in the Rappahannock River, Virginia. Known as the "Sea Sea-Horse," it was about five inches long, possessing the body and tail of a water dragon and the head and neck of a horse. It had fins in place of ears and along its back and belly. The creature was kept alive for three weeks, exhibiting a fierce disposition and making a snorting noise. It was sent to the Smithsonian Institute in Washington for exhibition.

"Dog - headed sea monster" (San Diego Union, California, July 9, 1934) This report from Cleveland, Ohio, details coastguardsmen being informed by summer resorters about a "sea serpent" approximately 20 feet long with a head as large as a dog's, lurking off the shore of Lake Erie. Ben Schwart described seeing the creature swim towards shore, initially mistaking it for a dog, before it turned and headed for deeper water, likening it to a water snake. The Museum of Natural History suggested it might have been a small, escaped monster.

"Strange insect in court" (Philadelphia Inquirer, Aug. 31, 1901) Jacob Mutzer of Camden exhibited an insect nearly eight inches long in the Recorder's Court. He found it beneath a step at Fourth and Chestnut streets. The insect was said to be a twig insect brought from the Philippines by returning soldiers. A similar creature was reportedly found in West Philadelphia the previous week. The article notes the juxtaposition of this mystery animal with the U.S. occupation of the Philippines after the war with Spain in 1898.

"Bird with a pouch" (Lexington Herald Kentucky, July 18, 1922) Mr. J. F. Booth reportedly found a bird closely resembling a bat near Carlisle, Kentucky. The bird was a curiosity because its breast contained a pouch holding three young birds, with the pouch or sack described as not unlike that of an opossum.

"Orang Pendek?" (Wisconsin Weekly Advocate, Oct. 13, 1904) This article, originating from The Brussels Soir, reports the discovery of a new animal in Java that resembles a monkey but is closer to man in habits and culture. A merchant named Van Beuren encountered a giant nest with a circular opening, occupied by a family of these animals. They had heads covered with long, brown hair. Dr. Werdehouse, an American scientist, studied their habits, noting they were fond of bathing, adorned their necks with fruit kernel collars, cared for their young, and were near extinction. The natives called them "asch perrizlz." Dr. Werdehouse classified them as pithecanthropes but was unable to capture any. A scientific expedition was planned to explore the island and capture one.

"Monster Turtle" (Kalamazoo Gazette, June 2, 1907) Two men, George Whittaker and Solomon Truebill, fishing in Michigan, were surprised to find their boat gone upon returning to the bank. They discovered the boat had been moved inland about 50 feet. It was revealed that a large "monster turtle" had risen from the water, carrying the boat on its back. The turtle was secured with the help of two farmers, and the boat was returned to the water.

"Dog poo as generator of light" (Macclesfield Express, March 7, 2018) This short piece mentions that "Cheshire East" has agreed to investigate the possibility of using dog waste to power street lights. Councillor Janet Clowes is noted as agreeing to look into this option.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring theme throughout this collection of articles is the reporting of unusual, often unexplainable, natural phenomena and creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these reports as factual accounts, often citing newspapers and individuals as sources, without overtly sensationalizing them but rather allowing the strangeness of the events to speak for themselves. There is a clear interest in cryptids, unusual animal mutations, and unexplained sightings, reflecting a historical fascination with the unknown in the natural world.

This issue of World's News, dated November 15th, 1902, presents a collection of intriguing and often bizarre reports on unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and unusual natural history occurrences from around the globe. The publication appears to be a compilation of snippets and letters, drawing from various sources and time periods.

Dog Poo Powered Street Lights

The issue opens with a report from a council meeting where a scheme invented by Brian Harper to power street lights using dog faeces was suggested. Councillor Clowes indicated the council was considering rolling out the scheme. Mrs. Helliwell, an Alsager Town councillor, confirmed she had contacted Brian Harper, who was reportedly eager to discuss the system with the council. Dr. Devo expresses skepticism about the practicality and potential popularity of such a system.

Does a French Bat Migrate to Japan?

A brief mention is made of a snippet found in C.H.D Cullingford's book 'Exploring Caves' (1951). It suggests that a French man named M.Casteret believed a French species of bat migrated to Japan for the winter.

Man-Eating Snakes in Fiji during World War 2

This section references a quote from James Renner's book 'It Came From Ohio' (2012). The quote states that the author's grandfather, who served in the Pacific theatre during WWII, sometimes spoke of giant snakes in the jungles of Fiji that were large enough to eat men. Research into this is noted as ongoing.

Fearsome Horned Monsters Captured by Japanese

This headline story, dated November 15th, 1902, reports on a "desperate struggle with and capture of two 'sea-serpents'" by fishermen off the coast of Japan. The creatures were described as a male, 48 ft long, and a female, 39 ft long. Both had horns measuring 2ft 6 inches and ears of about 2ft. The male became entangled in nets and was hauled to the surface, where it bellowed. The fishermen then used firearms to shoot the male. As the male died, the female surfaced and thrashed the water in fury, and was also killed. The remains were taken ashore and exhibited in Osaka. Scientists are quoted as suggesting the serpents, disturbed by seismic disturbances, had abandoned the deep.

A Very Strange Crocodile Story from New Jersey in 1848

This report, dated September 26th, 1848, details the discovery of a skeleton of an alligator or crocodile, approximately 30ft long, in a marl bed in Eatontown, Monmouth County, New Jersey. The skeleton was found with an ancient coin, described as being the size of a dollar and likely Corinthian brass, featuring a lion and Arabic numerals. Fragmentary words on the reverse were partially deciphered. The article speculates that a crocodile might have digested a Roman soldier in an African river two thousand years ago and then traveled to the New World with the coin in its maw.

Deadly Black Triton in Somerset Moors - late 19th Century

This section discusses a snippet from Francis A.Knight's book 'In The West Country' (circa 1900). It mentions "great black tritons, the terror of the moorfolk, in whose eyes even the viper is hardly more venomous." The author notes that tritons were thought to be a kind of mermaid or large sea snail, or perhaps a salamander, and were distinguished from newts, or were newts of a darker coloration. Bob Skinner commented on Facebook that newts are often considered dangerous in folklore, with fears of them being ingested or crawling into sleeping mouths. Jon Downes suggests the 'triton' sounds like a mollusc, specifically Charonia, a large sea snail known as Triton's Trumpet.

Letters and E-mails

E-mail from Richard Colbourne (December 14th, 2017)

Richard Colbourne suggests that the Natterjack toad living in Kerry, Ireland, near Castlemaine Harbour, may have been brought there from Spain. He also discusses the migration of flora and fauna to Great Britain and Ireland after the last Glaciation, questioning whether species survived naturally or were brought by human migrants.

E-mail from Paul Garner (November 23rd, 2017)

Paul Garner shares thoughts on recent articles. He discusses the Patagonian Plesiosaur, citing Karl Shuker and other books on lake monsters. He also addresses reports of "elephants found at sea or washed ashore," suggesting they are likely decaying whale carcasses, referencing the globster 'Trunko' found in South Africa in 1924. Garner also mentions seeing coypu in Norfolk in the 1970s and early 1980s, noting their introduction from South America for fur farming. He identifies a "strange object" found near Newcastle, New South Wales, as a purple sea urchin.

Letter from Richard George (April 6th, 2018)

Richard George reports the death of Tom Rapp, guiding spirit of Pearls Before Swine and manatee conservationist, aged 70. He recommends a PBS Live performance as an introduction to Rapp's work.

Letter from Richard George on Steller's Sea Cow (April 13th, 2018)

Richard George thanks the recipient for introducing him to Lars Thomas and the "mer-sow," suggesting it might explain some alleged mermaid sightings off the Hebridean islands in the 19th century.

Letter from Richard (May 11th, 2018)

This letter discusses Tom Rapp's song "Butterflies" and a promotional event for Moby Grape in 1967, where ten thousand purple orchids were released at the Avalon Ballroom in San Francisco. It also references an article about the Rolling Stones releasing white butterflies during a gig in Hyde Park in 1969.

Book Advertisement

An advertisement promotes David C. Xu's book, "Mystery Creatures of China: The Complete Cryptozoological Guide." Published in January 2018 by Coachwhip Publications, it is noted as being available in English for the first time and can be found on Amazon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around cryptozoology, unexplained phenomena, and Fortean zoology. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting intriguing, often unverified, accounts from various sources, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations. There is a clear interest in sea monsters, cryptids, and unusual animal reports from different historical periods and geographical locations. The inclusion of letters and e-mails indicates an engagement with reader contributions and discussions on these topics.