North American BioFortean Review - Issue 17

Magazine Overview

Title: North American BioFortean Review
Issue: Volume 7, Number 2, Issue 17
Date: July 2005
Publisher: North American BioFortean Review
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the North American BioFortean Review delves into a variety of intriguing topics, primarily focusing on zoological curiosities, unusual flora, and unexplained phenomena. The cover features a quote from Bertrand Russell: "Science may set limits to knowledge, but should not set limits to imagination," setting a tone of open inquiry.

BioFortean Notes: Zoological Fakes

The "BioFortean Notes" section begins with "Zoological Imposture," detailing a historical account from 1828 of a female bear shaved and dressed to resemble a human woman, exhibited in a caravan. This is followed by "The Tests by which a real Mermaid may be discovered" by Conchilla, which critically examines the physical characteristics of a supposed mermaid specimen seen in Holland. Conchilla argues against its authenticity by comparing its anatomy to known aquatic and terrestrial creatures, questioning its lung capacity and fin structure.

Another article, "Notice of an Imposture entitled a Pygmy Bison, or American Ox" by V., describes a small, perfectly proportioned pygmy bison specimen, approximately 7-8 inches high, valued at forty guineas. The author details how this imposture was likely created using a wooden model covered with pug-dog skin, bear skin for hair, and buffalo horn for horns and hoofs, highlighting the ingenuity of the deception.

BioFortean Notes: Odd Plants

This section presents a collection of remarkable plants. Capt. F. Kingdon Ward describes giant sorrels in Tibet that grow 8 feet high with large, yellow, overlapping leaves, thriving at high altitudes and being eaten by locals. Prof. D. Thoday discusses mangrove trees, noting their unique prop roots that act as breathing organs and their adaptations for germination in saline environments. Dr. Alex Hill recounts finding a Jarrah tree root in a cave in Western Australia, extending from the roof to a lower chamber. Prof. M. C. Potter details the genus Euphorbia, specifically E. aphylla, a leafless plant with a smooth, white, cylindrical structure adapted to arid, high-temperature Karroo conditions. Prof. F. E. Weiss describes Euphorbia multiceps, a plant resembling a beehive with conical branches. Capt. H. Hamshaw Thomas reports on finding mummified leaves of the extinct plant Thinnfeldia in North Yorkshire, estimated to be 50 million years old. Martin F. H. Sutton discusses a strain of red clover that produces leaves with more than three leaflets, suggesting its potential value for farming. Prof. F. O. Bower describes Welwitschia mirabilis, an African plant with a deep root system and a rugged, cup-shaped stem. Finally, Prof. R. H. Yapp details a Malayan fern that forms thick, encrusting masses on tree branches, creating a living ant nest with a complex system of internal galleries.

BioFortean Notes: Singing Earthworms

This section explores the phenomenon of earthworms producing sounds. An article references Professor Dr. Mangold of Freiburg, Germany, who claims earthworms possess voices and utter slight sounds in rhythmic series, resembling clicking or snapping. The sounds are described as having a distinct rhythm and are possibly used for communication. The article also includes observations from Mrs. Ruedemann and Mr. Jacob Van Deloo in America, who heard similar rasping noises from earthworms, suggesting it might be related to their mating season or the movement of their setae.

Further research by Mr. C. Merker is cited, suggesting that earthworms ascend from their burrows not for moisture, but to escape suffocation due to lack of oxygen in waterlogged soil. The text notes that light is a significant threat to these tender-skinned, eyeless creatures, causing them to seek shelter. The article concludes with a quote about a worm seeking a puddle to disturb the water and reduce light.

Another piece on "Singing" Earthworms details observations by Professor Jesse E. Hyde, who was sent an article from The Literary Digest. It reiterates Professor Mangold's findings and adds observations from Mrs. Ruedemann and Mr. Jacob Van Deloo in the US, who heard earthworms making sounds. The author infers the noise might be from setae movement or mating, while Professor Mangold suggests it's from the mouth. Dr. S. C. Bishop of the New York State Museum plans to study this phenomenon.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on "The Newest Humans: the Hobbits of Flores" and "A Survey of the Hobbit Literature," indicating coverage of anthropological discoveries. Book reviews are presented, including "Dark Woods," "Bigfoot Exposed," "The Megalodon Novels," and "Monster of God." A piece titled "Skule Skerry (classic cryptofiction)" by John Buchan is also listed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unexplained, the examination of natural anomalies, and the debunking of hoaxes or impostures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging the examination of phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, while also maintaining a critical approach to evidence, as seen in the analyses of supposed mermaids and pygmy bisons. The publication seems dedicated to presenting diverse accounts and research related to bioforteana, including zoology, botany, and anthropology.

This issue of the North American BioFortean Review, dated June 10, 1927, presents a collection of articles exploring unusual natural phenomena, cryptids, and anthropological discoveries. The content spans a range of topics from the behavior of earthworms and birds to legendary sea creatures and the recent discovery of a new human species.

Singing Earthworms

The issue opens with a piece by W. R. Walton discussing the phenomenon of 'singing earthworms,' referencing an earlier article by Dr. Mangold of Freiburg, Germany. Walton describes keeping large numbers of captive *Lumbricus terrestris* and hearing faint clicking sounds or stridulations, which he terms 'song.' While he notes the sounds continue even when worms are transferred to damp sphagnum moss, he personally finds them unmusical, comparing them unfavorably to insect songs. He speculates the sounds might be produced by the movement of worms in their burrows or the escape of air, but notes they persist even when worms are not visible. Walton also touches upon the intelligence of earthworms, citing Charles Darwin's work, and contrasts this with the 'dumb' description given by an anonymous author.

Birds Attacking Freshly Shorn Sheep

This section, contributed by S. Stillman Berry of Redlands, California, details mysterious and vicious attacks on newly shorn or branded sheep in the northwest. The culprits are identified as ubiquitous magpies. These birds perch on the sheep's rump and peck at the fresh brand mark or shearing cuts, sometimes inflicting deep and fatal wounds. As the habit developed, the birds became bolder, attacking uninjured animals and tearing into the body cavity to reach the kidneys. Berry notes this behavior has been observed over several years and is inclined to believe it is sporadic, but warns of a serious problem if it becomes a general characteristic.

The Booming Lizard of Australia

Walter H. Bone recounts an experience from July 1913 in the Cove's River Ranges, Australia, where he and companions encountered a large monitor lizard. Persuaded by his companions, Bone participated in making the lizard 'yell.' The lizard, after being poked, blew itself out and emitted a 'comically doleful bellow' that could be heard yards away. Bone also mentions a tame monitor lizard named 'Joseph' at his hunting-box on the Naltai river, which also emits a similar sound when irritated.

200-Foot Sea Serpent

This article reports on a sighting of a sea serpent in the Gulf of Mexico on June 24, near Frontera, Mexico. The officers, crew, and fifteen passengers of the steamship *Livingstone* made sworn affidavits describing the creature. It was sighted about fifty miles north of Frontera and observed for fifteen minutes at a distance of sixty feet. The serpent was estimated to be 200 feet long, with a diameter of about three feet, and was dark brown. Its head was about six feet long. As it swam away, its tail was erected, producing a rattling noise described as loud as a gatling gun.

An Elephant with Four Tusks

John M. Clarke shares an account from the district of Sheikh Ako Mangara, Sudan, dated May 18, 1917. While hunting, the author encountered a herd of elephants and observed one with four tusks. The left tusk was larger and pointed forward, while a smaller tusk grew downwards from under the larger one. On the right side, one tusk pointed downwards, and a smaller one grew in the usual direction. The author did not shoot the elephant, deeming it too valuable.

The Sea-Serpent

This section presents an extract from a report by Capt. Robert Platt of the U.S. coast and geodetic survey, dated October 25, 1878, regarding a 'sea-monster' sighted near Cape Cod. On August 29, while becalmed off Race Point, Platt and others observed what appeared to be a large round spar, about two to three feet in diameter and twelve to fifteen feet high, standing upright. It then curved and submerged. Later, it reappeared, extending twenty-five to thirty-five feet out of the water, with a dorsal fin about fifteen feet long. The creature was brownish and moved with considerable velocity. A rough sketch was enclosed.

The Newest Humans: The Hobbits of Flores

Authored by Dwight G. Smith and Gary Mangiacopra, this article discusses the discovery of *Homo floresiensis*, nicknamed 'hobbits,' on the island of Flores, Indonesia, in September 2003. The remains of at least six individuals, described as miniature humans about three feet tall with grapefruit-sized brains, have generated significant scientific controversy and interest. The discovery has stimulated research in anthropology, archaeology, paleoanthropology, biology, and evolution. The article notes that the hobbits were alive as recently as 12,000 to 18,000 years ago, placing them within the span of modern human colonization.

Taxonomic Diagnosis of the Hobbit

This section provides the taxonomic classification of the hobbit, based on fossil remains, as presented in Brown et al. (2004). It lists the order as Primates, suborder Anthropoidea, superfamily Hominoidea, family Hominidae, tribe Hominini, genus *Homo*, and species *floresiensis*. It also clarifies the classification within primate suborders and families, noting that *Homo floresiensis* belongs to the genus *Homo*.

The Hobbits in Native Folklore

This article explores the folklore surrounding miniature creatures on Flores, known as Ebu Gogo, which the natives translated as 'grandmother who eats everything.' Native descriptions depict them as miniature, human-like beings with long hair, long arms, and pot bellies, who were murmuring creatures. They were feared for stealing crops and allegedly killing and eating babies. The tales place them within the time frame of early Dutch explorers.

Other Lands, Other Hobbit Tales

This section extends the discussion of 'hobbit' or little people folklore to Australia. It mentions the Aborigines' tales of various hairy hominids, including the Yowies, Barrmi Birgoo, Ngaut-Ngaut, and Dyirri-Dyirritch. These creatures are described with varying characteristics, some being giant hairy men, others blood-sucking hominids. The article suggests these tales might represent oral traditions of encounters with relic populations of *Homo erectus* or *Australopithecus*.

Waladhegarra and Other Australian Tales

The article continues by discussing the Aborigines' tales of the Waladhegarra, described as miniature, smelly, very hairy creatures who used stones as weapons. The author suggests a close relationship between the Waladhegarra and the Indonesian hobbits due to their similar haunts, habits, and habitats. The possibility that these tales collectively suggest remnant populations of *Homo erectus* or *Australopithecus* in the Pacific Rim is raised.

A Survey of the Hobbit Literature

Dwight G. Smith and Gary A. Mangiacopra provide a survey of the literature surrounding the discovery of *Homo floresiensis*. They note the extensive stir created in paleontology, archaeology, and cryptozoology circles, and the outpouring of literature on the subject. The article highlights key references, including those by Morwood and Brown, and mentions an article by Kate Wong in *Scientific American*. It also touches upon the controversy regarding the hobbits' intelligence and the ongoing research into their brain structure.

Reaction to the Discovery

This section details the scientific and popular media's reaction to the *Homo floresiensis* discovery. Chris Stringer, a palaeontologist, suggested the fossil might rewrite anthropological textbooks. The popular media, including *National Geographic Magazine*, produced illustrated accounts. George Gee's comment about the discovery raising hopes for 'yeti hunters' and Loren Coleman's quote about cryptozoology coming 'in from the cold' are highlighted.

Intelligent Hobbits or Microcephalic Humans?

This part of the survey addresses the controversy over the hobbits' intelligence. It mentions Dr. Dean Falk's National Geographic Research Grant to create a virtual endocast of the hobbit brain based on the fossil skull LB1, and provides a web link for her analysis.

New Literature, New Perspectives

The authors predict that the hobbit discovery will lead to more forthcoming articles and suggest that students and investigators should monitor scientific journals like *Science*, *Sciencexpress*, *Nature*, and *New Scientist*. Current concerns focus on the hobbits' intelligence and their evolutionary origins, with questions about whether they are a *Homo erectus* derivative or a specialized *Homo sapiens* or *Australopithecus* relic population.

Cryptozoology Magazines and Newsletters

This section notes that cryptozoologists are actively investigating how the hobbit discovery aligns with folklore and legends of little people in the East Indies and elsewhere. It mentions that *The Fortean Times* devoted a special issue to the hobbits and that Loren Coleman listed the discovery as a top cryptozoology story of 2004.

Introducing Cryptozoologists to Hobbit Science

This part offers guidance for those interested in the scientific aspects of the hobbit discovery. It recommends starting with articles by Kate Wong and Mike Morwood, and then suggests using internet searches with terms like 'Homo floresiensis.' It specifically recommends Wikipedia as a valuable resource due to its comprehensive section and links to the latest information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained and the unusual in the natural world, with a particular focus on bio-anomalies and cryptozoology. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance, presenting reports and accounts that challenge conventional scientific understanding, while also referencing scientific discoveries and research. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between folklore, anecdotal evidence, and scientific investigation, particularly in the realm of cryptids and paleoanthropology. The editorial stance seems to be one of curiosity and a willingness to explore phenomena that lie at the fringes of established knowledge.

This document comprises several pages from the North American BioFortean Review, a publication focusing on cryptozoology and Fortean phenomena. The content includes reviews of books, literature references, and web site recommendations for further research. The issue appears to be from 2005, with some references dating back to 2004.

Content Highlights

Flores Hobbit Literature and References

The issue begins by referencing Bernard Heuvelmans's "The Little Hairy Men" and Willey Ley's "Exotic Zoology" as precursors to understanding the Flores hobbit. It then provides an extensive list of scientific and popular literature concerning the discovery of *Homo floresiensis* on the island of Flores, Indonesia. Key publications cited include articles in *Nature* and *Science* by researchers such as P.T. Brown, T. Sutikna, M. Morwood, R. P. Soejono, Dean Falk, and others. The references cover the initial discovery, analysis of the hobbit's brain, and its implications for human evolution. Several science journal web sites, including *news.nature.com* and *sciam.com*, are recommended for accessing related articles.

Book Reviews

Review: Dark Woods by Jay Kumar

Reviewed by Chad Arment, this section discusses Jay Kumar's novel "Dark Woods," a work of "cryptofiction" that deviates from typical horror tropes by focusing on realism. The novel centers on the logging industry's concerns about an unknown primate in the Pacific Northwest, drawing parallels to Bigfoot lore. Arment praises the novel's plotting and character development but criticizes its preachy tone, particularly its dismissal of vegetarian characters. He concludes that the novel is a worthwhile addition for cryptofiction fans who appreciate the intertwining of biology and speculation.

Review: Bigfoot Exposed: An Anthropologist Examines America's Enduring Legend by David J. Daegling

Also reviewed by Chad Arment, this book is described as a skeptical examination of Bigfoot evidence. Daegling's hypothesis is that the Bigfoot phenomenon is a product of "human manufacture." Arment finds the book's approach superficial, failing to address the phenomenon beyond specific regions and not effectively refuting circumstantial evidence. He expresses frustration with Daegling's assertion that a single DNA sequence could settle the matter and criticizes the book for implying that zoological discovery should be simplistic. Arment suggests that while the book offers a skeptical perspective, a current biology-based examination of the Bigfoot phenomenon is still lacking.

Review: The Megalodon Novels by Steve Alten

Reviewed by Matt Bille, this section examines Steve Alten's best-selling novels featuring the prehistoric shark *Carcharcharon megalodon*. The novels discussed are "Meg" (1997), "The Trench" (1999), and "Primal Waters" (2004). Bille notes Alten's improving skill with characters and his strength in writing fast-moving action. He acknowledges that while Alten's novels are written for a mass audience, cryptozoologists will read them with an eye on their scientific plausibility. Bille points out some scientific implausibilities in the novels, such as the Arctic-adapted Steller's sea cow being in tropical waters, and the retired submarine being instantly operational. He also critiques the premise of a hydrothermal vent ecosystem supporting a Megalodon. Despite these criticisms, Bille finds the novels enjoyable summer reading and suggests Alten apply his skills to other cryptozoological story lines.

Review: Monster of God: The Man-Eating Predator in the Jungles of History and the Mind by David Quammen

Reviewed by Ron Rosenblatt, this book is not strictly a cryptozoology text but explores the relationship between humans and large predators that kill humans. Rosenblatt notes that Quammen covers "Alpha Predators" like lions, bears, and tigers, and attempts to compile extensive information. However, he finds the book overwhelming in detail, particularly concerning the Gir Forest Lions. Rosenblatt criticizes Quammen's stance against hunting-based management programs for predator conservation, suggesting that Quammen's elitist views lead him to reject solutions that could provide financial incentives for indigenous people to protect wildlife. He argues that without such incentives, predators are more likely to vanish. Rosenblatt also disputes Quammen's gloomy prediction of a future solely populated by rats and roaches, pointing to wildlife adapting to urban environments. The review concludes that "Monster of God" is a disappointing book that offers no viable alternatives to the conservation methods it rejects.

Skule Skerry by John Buchan

This section features a narrative excerpt from John Buchan's "The Runagates Club." It recounts a story told by Mr. Anthony Hurrell, an ornithologist and explorer, about his experiences and theories regarding bird migration. Hurrell describes his fascination with birds and his quest to understand their migratory patterns, leading him to the Norland Islands and the mysterious "Isle of the Birds." The narrative delves into Hurrell's observations of the natural environment and his philosophical reflections on the mysteries of life and the boundaries of human knowledge.

Science Journal and Newspaper Web Sites

The issue provides a list of web sites for accessing scientific journals like *Nature* and *Science*, as well as major newspapers such as *The Times*, *The Telegraph*, *The Guardian*, and *The Washington Post*. These resources are recommended for readers interested in following current discoveries and news related to cryptozoology and bio-forteana.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around cryptozoology, the scientific and popular study of unknown or legendary animals, and Fortean phenomena, which encompass unusual or unexplained events. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical engagement with both the scientific community's skepticism and the more speculative aspects of cryptozoology. The reviews demonstrate a desire for scientifically grounded yet imaginative explorations of mystery animals. There is a clear emphasis on literature and research, with extensive references provided for the Flores hobbit. The reviews also highlight the importance of scientific plausibility in fictional works dealing with cryptozoological subjects, while acknowledging the entertainment value of such stories. The publication seems to advocate for a balanced approach, encouraging rigorous investigation while remaining open to the possibility of undiscovered species and unexplained phenomena.

This document is an excerpt from the 'North American BioFortean Review', issue number 31. It details a personal account of an expedition to a remote island called Skule Skerry.

The Expedition to Skule Skerry

The narrator describes his plan to camp on Skule Skerry, an island with a reputation for being 'uncanny' and avoided by locals. John Ronaldson, a local fisherman and boatman, expresses strong reservations, citing the island's ill name and the potential dangers of the weather. Despite these warnings, the narrator is intrigued by the island's mystique and its potential connection to historical sagas.

Ronaldson eventually agrees to ferry the narrator to the island. The narrator prepares by gathering his camping gear, including a tent, warm clothing, and provisions. He also ensures he has fuel for fires, bringing coals and peats in addition to relying on driftwood and a local well.

Upon arrival, the narrator notes the island's desolate beauty, contrasting with Ronaldson's palpable unease. Ronaldson helps set up camp, securing a dinghy for the narrator's use and creating a makeshift beacon. He departs with a sense of foreboding, warning of bad weather.

The Storm and Psychological Distress

Left alone, the narrator initially feels a sense of peaceful isolation, observing the natural surroundings. However, the weather quickly deteriorates. A severe storm hits, described as a 'maelstrom,' with high winds and rough seas that batter the island and threaten to sweep the narrator away. The storm destroys his tent and soaks his supplies and clothing, leaving him cold and miserable.

During the storm, the narrator experiences a profound sense of isolation, feeling disconnected from humanity and the habitable earth. This leads to a state of intense psychological distress, described as a 'black depression, shot with the red lights of terror.' He struggles to maintain his composure, attempting to make tea and consuming brandy to cope.

The Encounter

As the storm subsides, the narrator has a terrifying encounter. He describes a creature emerging from the sea, possessing a bull-like head, a wrinkled, pained face, broken teeth, a dripping beard, and a large scarlet gash on its throat. The creature moans, emitting a sound of anguish or wrath. This vision causes the narrator to faint.

Aftermath and Resolution

John Ronaldson finds the narrator unconscious three hours later. He is taken to Sgurravoe, where he is cared for and treated for exposure. The doctor believes his ailments are primarily due to the cold and hunger, and expects him to recover within a week. However, the narrator is deeply concerned about his mental state, fearing he might be going insane if the encounter was a hallucination, or that his scientific worldview would be shattered if it were real.

On the third afternoon, while recovering, the narrator overhears Ronaldson and a farmer discussing a 'wall-ross' that had washed ashore at Gloop Ness. The creature was dead and had a large hole in its throat, consistent with the narrator's experience. This confirmation allows the narrator to conclude that he is sane and that his scientific understanding is not invalidated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The narrative explores themes of superstition versus rationalism, the psychological impact of isolation and extreme conditions, and the confrontation between scientific belief and potentially supernatural phenomena. The author's personal experience highlights the tension between empirical observation and the subjective interpretation of unusual events. The 'BioFortean Review' appears to focus on unexplained phenomena and personal accounts that challenge conventional understanding.