North American BioFortean Review - Issue 03

Magazine Overview

Title: North American BioFortean Review
Volume: II
Issue: Number 1
Year: 2000

This issue of the North American BioFortean Review, published in 2000, presents a collection of articles and reports related to cryptozoology and unexplained phenomena. The magazine adopts a single-column format for improved readability on screen. It is distributed as a free PDF download from the Zoological Miscellania website (www.herper.com).

Table of Contents and Key Articles

Letters and Editorial Notes

• From the Editors: Discusses the switch to a single-column format and solicits reader feedback. It also notes the source of the cover image: a cougar from W. J. M. McKnight's "A Pioneer Outline History of Northwestern Pennsylvania" (1905).
• Letter to the Editors: Don Keating writes about the upcoming 12th Annual Bigfoot Conference/Bigfoot EXPO scheduled for April 8th, 2000, in Newcomerstown, Ohio, listing speakers such as Ron Schaffner, Loren Coleman, Dr. John Bindernagel, and Scott Herriott. Contact information for both internet users and those without internet access is provided.

Bigfoot Event Report

• "Bigfoot Event Report" by Todd M. Neiss: Details an incident on July 21st, 1999, at Detroit Lake, Oregon. Witnesses Dana Jorgensen and Sharmayne Bettencourt heard a powerful "roaring scream" and later saw an unidentified fisherman running in panic. An investigation by the author and Joe Beelart the following day uncovered a large disturbed area in the grass, possible Bigfoot scat, an animal bed approximately nine feet by four feet, and a series of large, deep tracks on a hillside, suggesting a bipedal creature with a stride of over 50 inches. The investigation concluded the incident had a high probability of authenticity due to the timely on-scene investigation and witness credibility. The area is noted as habitat for Bigfoot, with a history of related events. A fecal specimen was collected for scientific analysis.

Addenda and Bibliographies

• "Addendum 'A'" by Dr. Wolfe Henner Farenbach: Provides a microscopic analysis of the fecal specimen found at Detroit Lake. The feces, measuring eight to ten inches in diameter, contained plant remains, aquatic matter, incidental insect parts, and a rich assemblage of nematode fauna, including pinworms, threadworms, roundworms, and hookworm larvae. The analysis concludes that the worm species present are common to many omnivorous forest species and cannot definitively identify the creature that produced the feces.
• "Primate Communication: Bibliography": A list of citations related to nonhuman primate vocalizations, intended to provide background for the study of possible Bigfoot vocalizations.

BioFortean Notes

• "BioFortean Notes" by Chad Arment & Brad LaGrange: This section presents several brief reports of unusual animal sightings and phenomena.
• Cougar in southern Ohio: An email from Paul S. describes a sighting of a large feline, estimated at 5-5.5 feet long with a tan-gray color, in the Cincinnati, Ohio area in July 1999. The witness was advised by a Park Ranger not to discuss the sighting widely, and it was noted that approximately 500 cougar-like sightings had been reported in the region since 1985.
• Giant White Wolves in Canada: Paul W. from Ontario reports on sightings of "waheela" or giant white wolves. His friend, a lodge owner near Hearst, Ontario, observed a wolf estimated at over 200 lbs, with a larger, broader head and longer front legs than normal. The witness also found unusually large wolf tracks, measuring 8 inches across, compared to the typical 4-5 inches. The area is described as true wilderness.
• Spider bites: A brief reference to a scientific article about envenomation by a spider previously considered harmless.
• Flying Critter: A report from Oklahoma describes a large, brown, leathery, bird-like creature with reptilian features, about as tall as a man, landing on a fence. The witnesses were told that similar sightings occurred annually but were unexplained, possibly originating from the desert.
• Marine "Platypus": An investigator, Bobbie Short, forwarded a report from Rob Alley about an aquatic animal seen off the coast of Alaska near Ketchikan. The animal was described as approximately six feet long, dark in color, with a bill and webbed feet, resembling a platypus.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The North American BioFortean Review appears to be dedicated to the investigation and documentation of anomalous animal reports and cryptozoological phenomena. The magazine takes a serious approach to these subjects, as evidenced by the detailed investigation report on the Detroit Lake Bigfoot incident and the scientific analysis of the scat. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the sharing of information and the pursuit of evidence, while also acknowledging the challenges of verification and the potential for misidentification or hoaxes. The inclusion of bibliographies and scientific addenda suggests a desire to ground the reports in research where possible. The magazine also emphasizes its free distribution policy, aiming to make this information accessible to a wider audience.

This issue of UFO Universe, Volume 12, Number 4, dated October 1999, with a cover price of $4.95, focuses on government UFO files and other unexplained phenomena. The cover headline boldly proclaims 'THE REAL X-FILES: THE GOVERNMENT'S SECRET UFO FILES ARE OPENING!'

Tennessee Ratite

The magazine presents reports from Stan in Tennessee concerning three-toed tracks found while fishing. These tracks are approximately six inches long and are believed to be from a ratite, possibly an emu. Stan's notes detail the discovery of a single clear track in sandy soil near a lake, which had deteriorated by the next day. He observed that the creature was moving quickly, with dirt pushed up on the outside of the track, suggesting a flexible foot and a gait faster than a walk. Stan also noted the presence of raccoon, deer, and waterbird tracks in the vicinity. He considered the possibility of a hoax but found several reasons to believe it was genuine, including the single track, its location in a secluded cove, and the timing of its creation. He also mentioned seeing a Maroon Chevy 4x4 multiple times in the area. Stan ruled out folklore associated with the area and mentioned two cougar sightings but nothing three-toed. He also noted that the 'heel pad' resembled an oval at the bottom of a Y-shaped track. Bobby Hamilton of the GCBRO suggested it could be an ostrich, emu, or rhea. Stan also inquired about local ratites and was told of sightings near I-75 and another location on the other side of the lake.

Big Vulture-like Bird

An email from Miles in New Jersey reports his father's sighting of two large birds in Rome, NY. These birds were described as twice the size of common turkey vultures, with vulture-shaped wings. They were seen above the treeline and then dove into the trees. The observer ruled out hawks, eagles, and falcons due to the wing shape and a turkey vulture due to their sheer size, estimating them at about 1.5 meters tall with a 3-meter wingspan. The article notes that size estimation can be difficult.

Nighthawk Sounds

Jan Williams responds to a previous article about mystery sounds in Indiana, suggesting that nighthawks (Chordeiles minor) might be responsible. She quotes the Audubon Society Guide, describing how male nighthawks flutter over rooftops during mating season, emitting a 'buzzy bzeerp or brrrrrrp' call, and then dive straight down, creating a whistling sound and a sudden 'boom' as air passes through their wings. Williams believes this behavior could match the described noises, though she questions if February is the mating season for nighthawks in Indiana.

Great Bugs in Onondaga (Classic Reprint)

This section reprints a story by Stephen Crane, originally published in 'Tales, Sketches, and Reports.' The story is told by a man named William Davis, who claims to have witnessed a strange event in the limestone quarries of the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad. Under an arc light, the track was found to be completely covered with immense, strange insects. These insects were described as lively, moving with lightning-like rapidity, and some were playing leapfrog. As the locomotive moved, the insects made a crackling sound, which grew to a 'monotonous din' as more were crushed. The engine eventually stopped because the rails became slippery from the crushed insects. The insects were larger than typical 'electric-light bugs,' with a hard, brittle, black shell resembling stone. The story mentions small holes in the rock, possibly bored by these insects, containing traces of an 'ovula.' A recluse suggested the insects were the offspring of a 'lithodome' crossed with a predatory insect. The story concludes by stating it is improbable and could not be verified, suggesting Davis might have misremembered or conflated other reports.

Firefly Synchronicity

This short section discusses the phenomenon of synchronous flashing in fireflies, noting that while Southeast Asian fireflies are well-known for this, a few species in North America also exhibit this behavior. It provides citations for further reading on the topic, including works on synchronous rhythmic flashing and the occurrence and mechanisms of synchrony in North American fireflies.

Introduction to the Folklore of Henry W. Shoemaker

Chad Arment introduces three reprinted articles from the Pennsylvania folklorist Henry W. Shoemaker. Shoemaker collected tales, songs, and craftways, with a particular interest in wildlife. Arment emphasizes that these are folklore and not necessarily factual accounts, noting the distinction between fact and folklore. The first tale, from 'Allegheny Episodes,' is a fanciful explanation for 'gorilla' reports in Snyder County, Pennsylvania, in 1920-1921, which may be of interest to Bigfoot researchers. The second tale involves a panther (mountain lion) hunt, with a male mountain lion possessing a short, 'raggedy' mane, possibly explained as a relict population of the American lion or an aberrant genetic mutation. The third article is a reprint of a pamphlet detailing newspaper accounts of an animal shot in a Bucks County swamp, resembling a long-tailed bobcat or European wildcat, with possibilities of hybrids or localized phenotypes.

The Gorilla

This section reprints a story by Henry W. Shoemaker about a 'giant gorilla' in Snyder County, Pennsylvania, in late 1920 and early 1921. The story describes a man-ape escaping a carnival train, attacking a boy, and causing disturbances. The article notes that the newspapers printed popular versions, but much of the folklore surrounding the event was untrue. It then presents a more detailed, 'confidential' Snyder County version. This version focuses on a character named Hornbostl Pfatteicher, who lived in Snyder County. The narrative recounts Hornbostl's past, including a failed romance and his opposition to a forester. It details his trip to Philadelphia and then Pittsburg, where he attended the funeral of his wife. While in Pittsburg, he saw a collection of stuffed animals being unloaded, including a large black beast resembling a man-ape. He purchased this stuffed 'gorilla' from a Negro coachman. Hornbostl later used the hide of the stuffed gorilla to disguise himself and planned to murder his rival, Heinie Beery, who had taken a tie contract on Blue Knob mountain. The story describes Hornbostl preparing the hide and dressing in it, noting his physical resemblance to the man-ape. He then set off towards Blue Knob, encountering a wood-chopping operation on his journey.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, from potential cryptid sightings like three-toed tracks and large birds to historical accounts of unusual phenomena such as massive insect swarms and folklore surrounding mysterious creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these reports, presenting them with varying degrees of skepticism and encouraging further investigation, as seen in the Tennessee Ratite section and the discussion of Stephen Crane's and Henry W. Shoemaker's works. There is a clear interest in separating factual reporting from folklore while still acknowledging the value of folklore in understanding cultural narratives.

This issue of The American Naturalist, dated May 1922, features a collection of articles primarily focused on wildlife and folklore in Pennsylvania, with a particular emphasis on wild cats and unusual animal encounters. The content is largely narrative and historical, drawing on accounts from local sportsmen, hunters, and naturalists.

The "Gorilla-Man" and Heinie Beery

The issue opens with a sensational account of a "gorilla-man" encounter. A boy working in the woods is attacked by a monstrous figure, described as having heavy footfalls and a hideous appearance. The creature slaps the boy, breaking his arm, before fleeing into the forest. The boy's father hears the story, and later the "man-ape" is seen by several people as it makes its way towards "the Monarch of Mountains." The narrative then shifts to Heinie Beery, who lived alone near Blue Knob. While searching for Beery, woodsmen are unnerved by sightings of the "man-gorilla." The creature eventually finds Beery on Blue Knob and, after a confrontation, pushes him off a precipice, sending him "to take a short cut to Altoona." The "man-ape" then travels through various towns, frightening residents. Later, experiencing remorse, the creature is described as sitting on a rock, sobbing and moaning, and wailing like a "Token." It decides to continue its disguise, intending to live off the land. The narrative follows its journey, including frightening fishermen and being offered a reward for its capture, highlighting its notoriety as the "Snyder County gorilla."

The Courage of Peter Pentz

This article, by Henry W. Shoemaker, recounts the exploits of Peter Pentz, a notable figure in Central Pennsylvania's history. It details an encounter with a large, formidable panther, described as having a tawny, matted mane like a lion, and potentially a hybrid of a panther and a shepherd dog, or a "veritable Felis Couguar Rex." The panther had been terrorizing the area, preying on livestock. Pentz and Isaac Dougherty track the animal to a cavern on Bald Eagle Mountain. Pentz enters the cave alone and, after a tense wait, emerges having killed the panther. He also discovers and kills a second, female panther in the cave. Pentz brings home the cubs as pets and keeps the male panther's scalp as a trophy. The article includes historical notes from Shoemaker (1917) about Peter Pentz killing a maned male panther in 1798 and mentions a West Virginia pantheress killed in 1901, noting the rarity of maned males and potential modifications from prehistoric lions.

Felis Catus in Pennsylvania?

This section, also by Henry W. Shoemaker, explores the possibility of a distinct species of long-tailed wild cat, referred to as "Felis Catus," existing in Pennsylvania. The writer initially disbelieved rumors, attributing sightings to feral house cats or young cougars. However, the recent capture of a specimen in Tinicum Township, Bucks County, prompts a re-evaluation. The article presents contemporary newspaper accounts of this capture, noting the animal's rarity and supposed near-extinction. The captured wild cat is described in detail: its measurements (30 inches long, 8.5 pounds), powerful build, and distinctive markings, including sandy gray fur with yellow/buffy colors, black tiger stripes, and a raccoon-like tail. Expert opinions are cited, including Dr. J. G. Wood's "Natural History," which matches the description. The article discusses the potential origin of domestic cats and the possibility that this wild cat species was overlooked or confused in natural histories. It concludes by encouraging further evidence from hunters and trappers to confirm or disprove the existence of this animal.

Wild Cat Caught in Tinicum Twp.

This is a news report detailing the capture of a wild cat in Tinicum Swamp, Bucks County, by 16-year-old Tunis Brady. The animal is described as a rare species, possibly extinct. The report recounts how Brady tracked two strange animals, set traps, and eventually caught the male. The animal put up a fierce fight before being killed. It is confirmed to be a genuine wild cat, distinct from domestic cats or bob cats, and matches descriptions in Dr. J. G. Wood's "Natural History." The article provides specific measurements and physical characteristics of the captured specimen. The carcass is to be exhibited at an upcoming meeting. The report also mentions that for three years, residents had heard "unearthly" yells at night, attributed to this strange animal.

Distribution of the Wild Cat

This section discusses the broader distribution of wild cats, noting their presence in various parts of the world, including the British Isles, Europe, Asia, and Nepaul. It touches upon theories of their origin and the distinction between wild and domestic cats. The capture of the Nockamixon wild cat is highlighted as a significant event likely to generate scientific interest due to the rarity of such an incident and the animal's current obscurity in natural histories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of the wild, the unknown, and the historical accounts of animals in Pennsylvania. There's a blend of folklore, sensationalism (the "gorilla-man"), and more scientific observation (the wild cat). The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and preserving accounts of local wildlife, including those that are rare, possibly extinct, or have entered local legend. The articles emphasize the importance of natural history and encourage further investigation into these subjects, suggesting that established natural histories may overlook or misclassify certain species. The use of personal accounts from hunters and sportsmen lends an anecdotal yet informative tone to the content.

This issue of the Bucks County News, dated January 1922, features a discussion on the capture of a European wild cat in the Tinicum swamp, raising questions about its American nativity. The publication sparked significant interest and potential controversy among naturalists.

Tinicum Wild Cat Discussion

The main article, "Tinicum Wild Cat Discussion: Capture of European Species Raises Question of Its American Nativity," details the capture of a European wild cat by Tunis Brady in the Tinicum swamp. This event has generated considerable interest and debate regarding whether the European wild cat is indigenous to America. While contemporary American naturalists do not list it as native fauna, suggesting it might be an escape from a menagerie, some believe it was once common in early America but became nearly extinct due to hunting. These proponents argue that the animal's resemblance to domestic cats and its nocturnal habits led to it being overlooked in modern times.

Dr. Henry C. Mercer, a naturalist from Doylestown, supports the idea that the animal is indigenous, citing Oliver Goldsmith's "History of Animated Nature," which mentions Columbus being shown such a wild cat killed in America. Residents in the Tinicum swamp area have reported seeing strange animals for years, with two similar animals killed two to three years prior to this capture. The captured specimen was in the possession of Game Protector Fretz and was to be exhibited by the Bucks County Fish, Game and Forestry Association.

Miss Elizabeth C. Cox of Holicong contributes her perspective, stating that while sportsmen initially called the captured animal a "domestic cat," her research suggests otherwise. She recounts a story from an old book, "Early Settlers in Canada," about a wild cat encountered by an English family, which an experienced hunter identified as a wild cat, fiercer than a Canadian lynx or bobcat, and nocturnal. The description aligns with the Tinicum specimen. She also recalls seeing an animal labeled "Indian Devil" at the Philadelphia Zoo, which exhibited similar characteristics, including a frenzied behavior when provoked.

Further anecdotal evidence comes from a lady in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, who states that long-tailed wild cats are not uncommon on Chestnut Ridge. She describes seeing them cross roads at night and notes that while they don't attack people, precautions were taken when carrying meat in carriages. The editor of the Bucks County News commends Miss Cox's contribution and hopes for further inquiries.

Virginia Devil Monkey Reports

Authored by Chad Arment, this section delves into reports of primate-like animals in North America, termed "devil monkeys," which move by leaping on their hind legs. These creatures are linked to Choctaw tales of the "nalusa falaya" and discussed by authors like Loren Coleman and Patrick Huyghe. The article presents three reports collected by Paulette Boyd from southwest Virginia.

The first report, told by Paulette's parents (dating to 1958-59), describes an encounter on a lonely road where a creature, described as having light, taffy-colored hair with a white blaze, standing on two large hind legs with shorter front legs and no visible tail, rushed their car. The creature kept pace with the car and left three long scratches on the passenger side. They vow it was an unknown and unexplainable entity. A subsequent incident involved two nurses attacked by a similar creature that ripped their car's convertible top.

The second report is from James Boyd, Paulette's brother, who recounts a friend's sighting in 1973 between Marion and Tazewell, Virginia. The friend saw an "animal" rush his car from the woods and make a grab at his arm.

The third report, from Paulette's neighbors Cathy and Danny, describes a large creature crossing the road in front of their truck in Smyth County, Virginia. This animal, described as having shaggy, greying brown fur, a long muzzle, small pointed ears, short front legs, and much larger hind legs with kangaroo-like feet, stood about three feet high on all fours but could be five and a half to six feet tall if it stood on its hind legs. It had claws and an opossum-like tail. The creature moved with a gait suggesting an older animal.

Arment notes differences between these Virginia reports and descriptions in Coleman and Huyghe's "Field Guide," particularly the small tail in the VA reports. He suspects the animal's range might be more limited than suggested and that misidentifications are a significant issue in studying such cryptids. He mentions Mark A. Hall is expected to publish more on this apparent cryptid. Paulette also recalled her mother remarking that an illustration of a fossil lemur-like species looked very similar to what she had seen.

Scorpions in New York?

This short piece reports on sightings of scorpions in rock/stone walls in Orangeburg, New York, by a resident who had seen them twenty years prior. A local teacher also reported seeing them in northern Rockland and Putnam counties, and a member of an American Legion post saw them in Pearl River, NY. The resident noted a distinctive stinger, absent in pseudoscorpions. Cornell's co-op agency stated scorpions are not found in New York, but the species *Vaejovis carolineanus* is suggested as a possibility, though not typically found that far north.

Black Panthers in North America: Examining the Published Explanations

Authored by Chad Arment, this article examines reports of large black felines in North America. It references numerous writers and researchers who have documented sightings, with early reports from Indiana/Ohio (1948), Louisiana (1945), and Mexico (1941). Approximately 15-20 percent of sightings are reported as black. A breakdown of 615 eastern cougar reports from 1983-1989 by John and Linda Lutz indicated that 37 percent involved black felines, with Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia having the highest numbers. Greenwell estimated up to 1000 mystery cat sightings annually in eastern states, with a third involving black felines.

The article presents several unpublished reports: a sighting by two sisters in North Carolina in the winter of 1959-60 of a large, black panther-like cat near an old saw mill; a report from Matt Bille about his father seeing an unusual black feline in Maine around 1955, described as too large for a domestic cat but smaller than circus leopards; and a report from Bill Rebsamen about a friend seeing a black panther in the river bottoms of Arkansas, with a police officer also reporting a sighting in Oklahoma. A friend named Penny reported several sightings of a large black cat in Tennessee, about five feet long with a stub tail, which hunters claimed had taken deer kills.

The "Misidentifications" section discusses common explanations for these sightings, primarily offered by wildlife officials. Domestic dogs and feral cats are cited as frequent sources of misidentification, especially when sightings occur at night or from a distance. The article notes instances where supposed eastern cougar carcasses were identified as dogs, and photos of questionable black panthers showed canine characteristics. It also mentions cases where domestic cats were mistaken for panthers due to size misperceptions or optical illusions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of unusual animal sightings and the challenges of identifying them. There is a clear emphasis on presenting anecdotal evidence and exploring the possibility of unknown species or subspecies, while also acknowledging the role of misidentification and folklore. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging further investigation and the collection of data, as seen in the editor's note regarding the Tinicum wild cat and Arment's approach to cryptid reports. The magazine aims to document and analyze these phenomena, providing a platform for discussion and the sharing of diverse accounts from the public and researchers alike.

This document appears to be a section from a magazine or journal discussing the phenomenon of black panther sightings, primarily in North America. It explores various explanations for these sightings, including misidentification, hoaxes, exotic pet releases, and the possibility of a relict species.

Misidentification and Hoaxes The text begins by examining misidentifications, citing an instance where a stretched skin of a black house cat was mistaken for a black panther. It also notes that bobcats or jaguarundi might be responsible for some reports, and that Native American and early settler terms for 'black cat' can cause confusion. The author suggests that many reports are misapplied with little justification.

Hoaxes are also considered, with references to dyed mountain lion pelts presented as 'black leopards.' An anecdote from Bellucci describes how such dyed pelts can appear black in low light but reveal their true brown coloration in sunlight, highlighting the crude nature of some hoaxes.

Melanistic Cougars The possibility of melanism, an excess of black pigment, in cougars is explored. While melanism is well-documented in leopards and jaguars, it is considered very rare in mountain lions. The author notes that after reviewing numerous books, only a handful of vague accounts of melanistic cougars were found. The text delves into the genetics of melanin, distinguishing between eumelanin (black) and phaeomelanin (red-orange-yellow), and explains how variations in these can lead to different coat colors. It is suggested that if a population of cougars exists in eastern North America, melanistic individuals might occur as part of a polymorphic population, influenced by environmental factors like solar radiation and soil color.

However, a significant problem with the melanistic cougar theory is the lack of documented specimens from North America, despite thousands of mountain lions being killed over centuries. Early reports are often vague, and Native American traditions concerning black felines are scarce, with some terms like 'black devils' being ambiguous.

Exotic Releases The idea of escaped or released exotic pets is presented as a common explanation offered by wildlife officials. Melanistic leopards are highlighted as the most probable exotic species responsible, given their relative commonness in the exotic pet trade. The text discusses how private owners, zoos, and travelling circuses might contribute to such releases, noting the large number of exotic big cats kept in North America. An incident in Ohio involving an escaped lioness is mentioned. The author acknowledges that while some argue exotic pets are uncommon, the exotic pet market is large, and not all owners are responsible. The adaptability of leopards to various habitats and prey is discussed, suggesting they could potentially survive in North America.

A key problem with the exotic release hypothesis is the need for a large number of releases in specific regions to account for the wide-ranging pattern of black panther reports. While individual animals might live for years, frequent releases would be necessary.

Relict Species A more speculative theory involves a relict population of the North American lion, Panthera atrox. Researchers like Loren Coleman and Mark A. Hall have suggested that some females of this extinct Pleistocene feline might have been melanic. The primary evidence cited is a 1948 Indiana/Ohio report of two felines, one described as 'black' and the other as 'brownish' and 'shaggy.' However, the author expresses skepticism, noting that the behavior of these animals suggested they were not native. The author also points out that the size and build of reported black panthers are often smaller or stockier than extant lionesses, which doesn't align with Panthera atrox. Furthermore, early hunting tales of 'maned lions' in Pennsylvania and West Virginia describe animals that were not melanistic or had normal coloration, despite some claims of melanic females.

The author argues that accepting the Panthera atrox connection requires conjecturing the survival of an extinct species, anatomical adaptations in females for no apparent reason, and a rapid transformation to melanism in recent times, all without substantiated evidence. The lack of reports of melanistic Panthera atrox specimens, despite extensive hunting, further weakens this hypothesis.

The Historical Problem The lack of reports of melanistic felines in North America prior to the 1940s is highlighted as a significant issue. Early published accounts are vague, and Native American traditions concerning black felines are scarce. The author notes that while some Native American terms might refer to black cats, they are often ambiguous and lack clear references. The scarcity of cryptid reports before the advent of cryptozoologists and men's magazines is also mentioned, suggesting that historical records may be influenced by the emergence of these fields.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this document revolve around the mystery of black panther sightings and the scientific investigation into their origins. The author systematically debunks or questions various explanations, including simple misidentification, deliberate hoaxes, the introduction of exotic species, and the speculative relict species theory. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, demanding empirical evidence and logical consistency before accepting extraordinary claims. The author emphasizes the importance of documented evidence, such as physical specimens and clear historical records, over anecdotal accounts and conjecture. There is a clear skepticism towards explanations that lack robust scientific backing, particularly the Panthera atrox hypothesis, which is deemed highly speculative.

This issue of Cryptozoology, volume 4, issue 19, published in 1999, delves into the persistent mystery of black panther sightings in North America and explores broader themes of cryptids, invasive species, and the nature of belief.

Black Panthers: The Mystery Continues

The lead article examines the ongoing debate surrounding the existence of black panthers in North America. It acknowledges early newspaper records from the late 19th and early 20th centuries that noted strange animals, often described in the context of traveling menageries and amateur naturalism. The author notes that while folklore from areas like Indiana and Pennsylvania suggests older reports of black felids, concrete evidence for their widespread presence prior to the 1940s is scarce. A theory is proposed that the term 'panther' in early colonial American accounts might have referred to black felines, distinct from cougar stories. However, the author expresses doubt about this interpretation without further study.

The article then pivots to a more contemporary theory: the possibility of an introduced population of melanistic leopards forming a small, self-sustaining group. This section provides a detailed overview of the establishment of invasive species, outlining the key stages: arrival, introduction, establishment, integration, and expansion. It discusses factors influencing successful introductions, such as the species' native range, vagility, genetic diversity, and association with humans. The text highlights that the characteristics of the target community are as crucial as those of the introduced species, with disturbance and environmental similarity playing significant roles. The article also touches upon the genetic requirements for a viable population, citing a minimum genetically effective population size of fifty individuals and a need for around eighty to one hundred leopards for healthy adaptation. Biogeographical challenges, such as the potential for isolated regional populations versus a widespread one, are also considered.

Seeing Things by W. H. Hudson (1910)

This reprinted excerpt from W. H. Hudson's "A Shepherd's Life" offers a contemplative reflection on observation and memory. The narrator recounts a day spent in the woods, where the most memorable event was observing a hare sitting on an old oak stump. He shares this with a gamekeeper, who expresses surprise, noting he had never seen such a thing despite years in the woods. The gamekeeper emphasizes that while he observes many things related to his duties of guarding birds, other remarkable animal observations are quickly forgotten if they don't directly pertain to his business. This piece highlights the subjective nature of what is deemed 'worth remembering' and the focus that can narrow one's perception.

On Monsters by G. K. Chesterton

In this classic reprint, G. K. Chesterton critically examines the modern fascination with and interpretation of mythical creatures and the unexplained. He begins by referencing a newspaper report of a captured 'Leprechaun' in Ireland, contrasting it with the hypothetical capture of a centaur or mermaid. Chesterton argues that while ancient cultures viewed such beings as distinct monstrosities or exceptions, modern society tends to seek laws and explanations, as seen in the concept of the 'Missing Link.' He criticizes the tendency to build theories on the foundation of unproven entities, suggesting that the 'Missing Link' is merely a fabulous concept, like the centaur or mermaid, because it is missing evidence.

Chesterton distinguishes between ancient and modern approaches, noting that while Greeks and medievals invented monsters, they treated them as exceptions. Modern people, however, attempt to derive laws from these anomalies, making the 'Missing Link' a 'lawgiver' and 'father of mankind.' He contrasts this with the ancient view of hybrids, which were not used as the basis for societal structures. Chesterton expresses concern that modern society, in its pursuit of 'spiritual science,' might take aberrations like 'dual personality' as real tests or keys to the human condition, rather than as exceptions. He fears that this approach could lead to a morbid acceptance of the exceptional, potentially using half-human creatures as an excuse for being half-human ourselves. He finds the idea of studying a monster or putting a Leprechaun in a workhouse 'menacing' and 'sinister,' preferring the ancient approach of treating them as either bad fairies to be shunned or good ones to be appeased.

Concluding Remarks

The concluding section reflects on the tendencies within cryptozoological investigation. The author laments the tendency for some investigators to become overly attached to their theories, viewing critiques as personal attacks. It is suggested that good evidence for most cryptids is lacking, which is why they remain cryptids. Misidentifications and hoaxes are acknowledged as occurring. The author posits that a reason for this rigid adherence to theories might be the perception of cryptozoology as an all-or-nothing field, where only the discovery of an 'unknown species' is considered valuable. The author leans towards 'cryptogenic' explanations (species of unknown origin) rather than purely 'cryptozoological' ones, finding a known species of unknown origin to be of great interest. The explanations for indigenous felines (genetic morphs or relict species) are deemed inadequate. The author expresses a particular interest in arguments against the introduced leopard theory and evidence for a widespread history of black felines predating the 1930s or 1940s. The importance of questioning assumptions and data is stressed, encouraging writers and theorists to embrace critical inquiry for cryptozoology to progress as an investigative science.

Acknowledgements

The author thanks individuals who supplied sighting reports and comments, specifically mentioning Loren Coleman for his commentary on a draft and his interest in exploring alternative theories, despite disagreements.

Bibliography

A comprehensive bibliography lists numerous sources related to cryptozoology, black panthers, invasive species, and folklore, including works by T. N. Bailey, S. P. Carroll, H. Dingle, L. Coleman, P. R. Ehrlich, D. M. Lodge, and G. K. Chesterton, among others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of evidence, the interpretation of unexplained phenomena, and the scientific versus speculative approaches to cryptozoology. The magazine appears to advocate for rigorous investigation, critical thinking, and a willingness to consider a range of explanations, including naturalistic ones like invasive species, while acknowledging the enduring appeal of the unknown. The editorial stance encourages a balanced perspective, valuing data and reasoned argument over blind faith or rigid adherence to preconceived theories.