ISC Newsletter - Vol 11 No 1 - 1992

Magazine Overview

New Pygmy Elephant Photos Indicate Separate Species

This issue of The ISC Newsletter, Volume 11, Number 1, published in 1992, focuses on compelling photographic evidence that suggests the existence of a distinct pygmy elephant species, *Loxodonta pumilio*, separate from the known African elephant subspecies. The newsletter details the findings of Ambassador Harald Nestroy, who captured clear color photographs of a band of elephants in the Congo, including adults and juveniles. Crucially, one photograph includes a great egret bird, which serves as a scale, allowing for the calculation of the adult elephants' height at the shoulder to be approximately 5 feet (1.5m). This measurement aligns with the original description of *Loxodonta pumilio* by German zoologist Theodore Noack in 1906, and contradicts the explanation that such reports are merely of juvenile forest elephants.

The article highlights the historical skepticism surrounding the pygmy elephant, noting that while recognized by native peoples and some explorers, it has been largely ignored by mainstream zoology, often dismissed as misidentified individuals or subspecies. The newsletter references previous research, including a study by David Western that argued against the existence of a pygmy elephant, and the subsequent work by German zoologists Martin Eisentraut and Wolfgang Bohme, who presented evidence supporting *Loxodonta pumilio* as a valid taxon in the *Zeitschrift des Kölner Zoo*.

Ambassador Nestroy's observations in the Likouala region of the Congo in May 1982 are central to the report. He photographed a band of four adults and two juveniles, and later observed forest elephants for comparison. The presence of tusks on the adult elephants in Nestroy's photos further supports the idea that they are not juveniles.

The newsletter also touches upon the challenges faced by the International Society of Cryptozoology (ISC), detailing a long delay in publication due to financial difficulties. It announces the return of the newsletter and the upcoming relaunch of the journal *Cryptozoology*, attributing the renewed stability to a new German industrial firm, Tracto-Technik, becoming a corporate sponsor. The editorial emphasizes the Society's frugal management and the ongoing need for financial support to continue its work.

Forrest G. Wood, 1919-1992

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to an obituary for Forrest G. ("Woody") Wood, a founding director of the ISC and a renowned marine biologist. Wood passed away on May 17, 1992. The obituary, written by editor J. Richard Greenwell, chronicles Wood's diverse career, from his service in the Army Air Corps during World War II to his graduate studies at Yale and his pioneering work in marine mammal research at Marineland and the U.S. Naval Missile Center. Wood's contributions included extensive research on marine mammals, authoring the book "Marine Mammals and Man," and his involvement in the study of giant octopus reports. The obituary notes his lifelong interest in cryptozoology, particularly "lake monsters" and sea serpents, and his collaboration with cell biologist Joseph F. Gennaro on the giant octopus case.

New ISC Board Members

The newsletter introduces five new members to the ISC Board of Directors: Aaron M. Bauer, C.K. Brain, Angelo P. Capparella, Christine Janis, and Anthony P. Russell. Brief biographies detail their academic backgrounds, research interests, and contributions to zoology and cryptozoology. Aaron Bauer is noted for his work on geckos and microcryptozoology. C.K. Brain is recognized for his expertise in fossil hominids and cave fossil deposits. Angelo Capparella focuses on Neotropical birds and avian cryptozoology. Christine Janis researches Tertiary mammal evolution and the possible persistence of fossil mammal species. Anthony P. Russell, a herpetologist, has also co-authored research on *Hoplodactylus delcourti*, the world's largest known gecko.

New Honorary Members

Five ISC members have been elected as Honorary Members: Richard S.R. Fitter, Robert L. Downing, Athol M. Douglas, Robert H. Rines, and Forrest G. Wood. The criteria for this honor include significant contributions to cryptozoology, responsible conduct, and advanced years or retirement from professional life. Forrest G. Wood is highlighted as the first American Honorary Member, receiving the honor posthumously. Athol Douglas is recognized for his extensive work in Western Australian natural history. Robert Downing's research on the Eastern puma is mentioned. Richard Fitter's long-standing involvement in the Loch Ness Monster investigation is also detailed.

Editorial: Rolling, and Full Steam Ahead

In the editorial, J. Richard Greenwell addresses the long delay in publishing the newsletter and the upcoming relaunch of the journal *Cryptozoology*. He explains that financial difficulties, particularly the discontinuation of significant annual support, had impacted the Society's operations. However, with the support of new corporate sponsors, including the German firm Tracto-Technik, the Society is now able to resume its publications. The editorial reassures members that all past membership dues will be honored and that missing issues will be provided. It also announces upcoming coverage of various cryptozoological news, including a moa sighting in New Zealand, mammoth fossils in Siberia, a Sasquatch encounter, the official recognition of the Eastern puma, and new discoveries in Vietnam.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous scientific investigation of cryptozoological claims, particularly the pygmy elephant. The editorial stance strongly advocates for evidence-based research and challenges skepticism, urging for the acceptance of credible findings. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of scientific rigor, the documentation of evidence, and the need to overcome preconceived notions in the pursuit of cryptozoological knowledge. The newsletter also highlights the Society's dedication to its members and its commitment to advancing the field of cryptozoology despite financial and logistical challenges. The passing of Forrest G. Wood underscores the Society's deep roots and the contributions of its dedicated members to the field.

The ISC Newsletter, Volume 11, Number 1, published in 1992, is the official publication of the International Society of Cryptozoology. It covers topics related to the investigation of animals of unusual form, size, or occurrence, and serves as a forum for public discussion and education on these matters.

Robert H. Rines and the Loch Ness Monster

The issue prominently features Robert H. Rines, a scientist and lawyer with extensive experience in electrical engineering, patent law, and technology commercialization. Dr. Rines holds over 50 U.S. patents and has founded organizations such as the Franklin Pierce Law Center and the Academy of Applied Science (AAS). Since 1970, AAS has sponsored educational programs and Rines' research into the Loch Ness Monster. His fieldwork in the 1970s, conducted with engineers like Martin Klein and Harold "Doc" Edgerton, involved extensive sonar contacts with large, unidentified targets and the production of famous underwater photographs suggesting the presence of a flipper, body-neck, and head.

Dr. Rines has faced criticism for his Loch Ness work but has endured it with grace. His research at Loch Ness continues on a smaller scale, with a focus on revealing definitive evidence. He has presented his findings at cryptozoology symposia.

The Conservation Agency's Support

James D. Lazell, President of The Conservation Agency, writes to express his organization's commitment to the International Society of Cryptozoology. The agency's purpose aligns with the Society's goal of investigating animals of unexpected form or size, or unexpected occurrence. They focus on discovering new terrestrial vertebrate species and re-discovering species deemed extinct. The Conservation Agency believes that a strong cryptozoology society can inspire hope for the discovery of unlikely surviving creatures while also acknowledging common discoveries. To support this mission, The Conservation Agency becomes the Society's first Corporate Sponsor with a $1,000 contribution.

Society Funding and Sponsors

The newsletter expresses gratitude to The Conservation Agency and the Academy of Applied Science for their contributions. It also announces Tracto-Technik Group of Companies as the Society's third Corporate Sponsor and first 'industrial sponsor,' contributing $5,000 annually. This support is crucial for replacing lost funding from 1992 and enabling continued publications.

Society Purpose and Policy

The International Society of Cryptozoology, founded in 1982 and incorporated in Washington, D.C., is a tax-exempt, non-profit scientific organization. Its mission is to investigate, analyze, publish, and discuss matters related to animals of unexpected form or size, or unexpected occurrence. The Society acts as a forum for public discussion and education, and provides reliable information. It explicitly states that it takes no position on the existence of supposed animals or the authenticity of evidence, and that individual member opinions do not reflect official Society policy.

Membership and Subscriptions

Information is provided for membership and subscription inquiries, directed to the ISC Secretariat in Tucson, Arizona. Annual membership is US $32 or £22, which includes quarterly issues of The ISC Newsletter and the annual journal Cryptozoology. Joint memberships for couples are available for US $37 or £25. Institutional subscriptions are US $45 per year. Payment methods include personal checks drawn on U.S. or U.K. banks, bank drafts, international postal money orders, and Eurocheques for European members. All payments should be sent to the Secretariat.

Back Issues and Publications

Back issues of The ISC Newsletter and the journal Cryptozoology are available for purchase. Prices are listed, with discounts offered for larger orders. Free order forms for all back publications can be requested from the ISC Secretariat. All orders must be prepaid.

Field Medical Advisor and Honorary Members

Dr. Michael J. Manyak, M.D., serves as the Field Medical Advisor, offering medical and health care advice for members planning fieldwork. A list of Honorary Members is provided, including notable figures such as Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer, Robert H. Rines, and Forrest G. Wood. A list of Benefactors is also included.

Corporate Sponsors

The Corporate Sponsors are listed as the Academy of Applied Science (U.S.A.), The Conservation Agency (U.S.A.), and Tracto-Technik Group of Companies (Germany/U.K./France/U.S.A.).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing research into cryptids, particularly the Loch Ness Monster, and the importance of scientific investigation and technological innovation in this field. The editorial stance emphasizes the Society's commitment to open inquiry and the dissemination of information, while maintaining a neutral position on the existence of cryptids. The importance of financial support from individuals and organizations for the Society's publications and research activities is also a significant theme.