Nessletter - No 061 - 1983

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Ness Information Service, number 61, dated December 1983, focuses on the analysis of videotape evidence and reports on various sightings of unidentified aquatic creatures. The primary discussion revolves around John Erik Beckjord's videotape from Loch Ness, where he argues that the observed wakes were not made by ducks.

Erik Beckjord's Videotape Analysis

The issue delves into a letter from John Erik Beckjord explaining his reasoning for believing the videotaped wakes were not from ducks. He contrasts the wakes made by ducks, loons, grebes, cormorants, seagulls, and terns, describing them as tiny ripples. He notes that swans, which are large and majestic, create more significant wakes, and he has swans on the same videotape as the alleged Nessie wakes. Beckjord emphasizes that the objects making the wakes appeared to be on the surface, then under, then up again, with continuous wake generation, unlike swans which do not dive. He compares the wakes to those seen in the Dinsdale film and a rental fishing skiff, finding them similar. He seriously doubts ducks could create such disturbances, including a 70-foot splash or swimming away as a dark object approximately 9 feet across.

However, the editor offers a counter-argument, suggesting that while Erik's points are valid, he missed the factor of speed. The editor posits that waterfowl, when paddling normally, create small disturbances, but when traveling much faster (e.g., preparing for flight, chasing food, or being chased), the resulting water disturbance can be dramatic and detectable on film, even if the birds themselves are not visible. A case from the Loch Ness Investigation in the late 1960s at Achnahannet is cited, where a disturbance was observed and filmed, initially thought to be an animal, but later identified as waterfowl taking off.

Further analysis of Erik's video and stills questions the 70-foot splash, arguing that such an event would require significant force and create noticeable waves, which were absent. The editor also expresses doubt about seeing objects underwater through the surface, given the camera angle and conditions, even with polarized filters.

Other Sightings and Investigations

Sea Serpent Sighting

The issue includes a report of a sea serpent sighting off Stinson Beach, California, on October 31st, 1983, witnessed by five construction workers. The creature was described as large, with three bends or humps, a rounded blunt nose, and was moving very fast. A biologist, Jack Swenson, noted that periodic sightings of strange creatures off the Marin County coast have occurred without explanation.

Doc Shiels' Photographs

Doc Shiels is mentioned as forming a new group, the 'Loch Shiel Investigation Group,' to focus on that loch, which has a history of monster sightings. He is also analyzing photographs taken by himself in Ireland in 1983, specifically of the Loughs Maumeen and Inaugh, and Lisconnor Bay, expressing that he believes Doc has significant evidence in these four shots.

Frank Searle's Departure

Frank Searle is reported to be leaving Loch Ness in the spring of 1984 to pursue treasure hunting on the West Coast. He states that his decision is not related to criticism from other monster hunters but rather a feeling that he has achieved all he can at Loch Ness after fifteen years, and also due to the boat firm where he rents land for his caravan closing down. He is more interested in the discovery than the profit.

Whale Discovery

A specimen of a Sowerby's Whale, a fully grown male approximately fifteen feet long, was found on the beach near Castle Stuart, east of Inverness. The whale had well-developed tusks, likely used for fighting, and scars from combat. The Sowerby's Whale is rarely seen in British coastal waters and is known for being a deep-diving, fast swimmer feeding on cuttlefish and squid. Unfortunately, one tusk was removed by a souvenir hunter, though the Inverness museum has acquired the skull for future display after a preservation process.

Lake Champlain Phenomena Investigation

Joe Zarzynski, Director of the Lake Champlain Phenomena Investigation, has announced changes to his newsletter, 'Champ Channels.' It will now be published quarterly, with release dates in February, May, August, and November 1984. The subscription rate is $8.00.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical analysis of evidence, particularly photographic and video material, related to unidentified phenomena. The editorial stance emphasizes the difficulty of obtaining scientifically acceptable proof and the importance of rigorous analysis to avoid premature conclusions. There is a clear focus on distinguishing between credible evidence and misinterpretations, while also acknowledging the persistent reports of mysterious creatures in various locations. The publication also highlights the efforts of individuals and groups dedicated to investigating these phenomena, even when facing skepticism from the scientific community.