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 PSICAN CryptozoologyRobin Bellamy - DirectorWHAT IS CRYPTOZOOLOGY?Cryptozoology is the study of animals that science has yet to identify. As more species are identified, they are removed from this field and are studied by others in the fields of anthropology, biology, zoology, etc. Part of cryptozoology also encompasses animals that appear at times and places they would normally not be. For PSICAN study, these misplaced animals are not deeply studied. Our world culture is such that nearly any animal can show up in a strange place. In extreme instances. Animals who appear to be of another time would be investigated, If, for example, a pterodactyl or other presumed extinct animal should be sighted and reported, this would be of significant interest to PSICAN cryptozoologists. We are currently developing a list of those creatures to share with the public regarding ongoing study. Some cryptozoologists also study unusual creatures that are not animals. The study of unusual bugs, or cryptoentomology, is also something the PSICAN cryptozoologists are interested in. Peculiar plants are quite interesting, but because of the rapid genetic mutation in plants, PSICAN does not encompass them in their study. The resources are simply stretched too thin at this time. HOW DOES PSICAN RESEARCH THE PHENOMENON? PSICAN cryptozoologists come from varying backgrounds and greatly encompass these in a varied research method. Generally, although no degrees are required, a good working knowledge of biology, anthropology, climatology, geology, topography, and many other studies is very helpful. Certainly no one person has a wealth of information in all of those genres. PSICAN investigators spend a great deal of time learning at least the basics of these sciences. When a report comes in, staff carefully researches not only the type of creature but also fully documents they physical surroundings and whether or not that creature could sustain life in the area. Interaction and impact on humans is researched as well. Care is taken to research the history of the area to see if similar sightings have occurred or to see if unusual events could be attributed to the presence and behavior of the creature. If possible and helpful, a visit is made to the area to get a first hand look at the surroundings and gather any additional evidence such as hair or dna samples, footprints, scat, and remains. Physical evidence is logged and photographed then used in consultation with lab testing and specialists. When all data is collected, a full report is posted on the PSICAN website, as well as kept on file by the organization. WHAT DOES PSICAN BELIEVE? PSICAN is what is known as an “agnostic” and “skeptical” group. Although it sounds as if we'd like to debunk the phenomenon, that is simply not the case. Regardless of an investigator's personal belief, all evidence and research is done without any prejudice. We don't consider it our mandate to prove or disprove the existence of a creature or the credibility of a witness. We simply research and report, giving what we can for all sides of the event. WHAT DOES PSICAN EXPECT FROM TEAM MEMBERS? All PSICAN cryptozoology team members are volunteers. At the present time, since we have no sponsors, each member pays any travel or other expenses out of his or her own pocket. Generally, there is not much cost, as most of our time is spent in research. It is very rare to have a situation where the team is “in the field”. Field research involves physically goint to the area a sighting occurs. Once there, investigators take lots of pictures—both video and still. PSICAN prefers this be done with analog or 35mm film, although supporting shots from digital sources is encouraged. Sometimes sound recordings are also done, again on analog tape with a digital secondary source if possible. Investigators also collect physical evidence when possible and appropriate. After photographing the specimen—broken branches, footprints, fur or hair samples, scat, etc., the item is collected in a zip locked plastic bag. It is necessary for the investigator to have plastic or latex gloves in addition to thick work gloves. This prevents contamination, and helps keep the investigator protected and clean. Each plastic bag is labeled with the date, time, location and a case identifier, as well as the name of the person who collected it. Additionally, soon PSICAN cryptzoologists will be able to make a plaster cast of foot or hand prints found in the field. Evidence collected is then presented to available experts like universities and laboratories for analysis. The names and affiliations of these experts is noted in the final report only if the source grants permission. All appropriate photographs and reports are made available to the public or other researchers if requested. Most is published on the PSICAN website. The research element of the investigation makes up the bulk of the report. It is necessary to research and document all elements of the sighting as well as cross reverence the information from the witness with any other phenomena, animal activity, and historical references of the area. Researchers collect information about climate, weather, geology, geography, topology and indigenous botany to be included in the report. Physical characteristics of the creature sighted is diligently compared to any similarities in known animals, including animal behavior. All of these elements are included in a final report which is the, with witness permission only, published on the PSICAN website. Names of witnesses are never included and exact locations are only given as deemed appropriate. PSICAN takes great care to not enable trespassing, vandalism, or “monster hunting”. Preservation of the site is not only the responsible thing to do, it also leaves the location free for the creature's possible return—giving more opportunity for study. PSICAN receives only a handful of cryptozoological sightings each year. When investigators are not working on a case, they are strongly encouraged to contribute to web content and public education. This is most often done by writing articles about the study, other cryptzoologists of note, and the vast array of creatures being investigated worldwide. A select few may be asked from time to time to represent PSICAN with regard to media events. PSICAN is currently accepting new cryptozoological investigators. If you are interested in helping our organization please contact robin@triedit.net for instructions on how to apply. Again, this is a volunteer position. There is mo compensation for expenses at present. Reports and evidence gathered remains the property of the investigator with express intent on sharing with PSICAN. Individuals are encouraged to also use their material in other publications, and compensation or royalties received are not garnished by PSICAN. We simply request that the investigator mention our organization in some way. CONCLUSION Cryptozoology is not a new study. In the late 20th century and especially the early 21st century, the study is experiencing a great deal of popularity. As technology provides increasingly better analysis and documentary ability, the study evolves. PSICAN is fast becoming one of the most respected research groups in the world. |
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