ZSL Communicating Science series: Cryptozoology: science or pseudoscience?

Cryptozoology: science or pseudoscience? - a ZSL Science and Conservation Event.

Can cryptozoology, the investigation of animals such as Bigfoot, the Yeti and the Loch Ness Monster be considered a science? Although considered dubious by zoologists, recent work has suggested that presumed extinct animals can reappear years after extinction and that the inventory of even large animals is not complete. Accounts of sea monsters are actually amenable to statistical investigation and it is possible to use last reported occurrence to infer extinction date. Has the time come for "cryptozoology to come in from the cold"?

The meeting will consist of three talks on how cryptozoological data can be studied in a rigorous statistical manner, the probability of prehistoric animals being alive today and how ecological theory can be used to inform cryptozoological investigations.

Finally the floor will be opened for a discussion on whether cryptozoology should be considered a science.

Organised by Charles Paxton, University of St Andrews.

This event in the 'Communicating Science' series will begin at 6.00pm (doors from 5.00pm) and talks are scheduled to finish at 7.30pm; admission is free and open to everyone (no advance booking or registration required). This event will be held in the ZSL Meeting Rooms and seats will be on a first-come, first-served basis. A dinner with the speakers will follow this event and places must be booked in advance. A dinner booking form will be provided from the ZSL website shortly; please download for further information.

ZSL Science and Conservation Events: An essential part of ZSL's work is to communicate relevant, high-quality zoological and conservation science. The integrated ZSL Science and Conservation Events programme includes Symposia, and the new 'Wildlife Conservation' and 'Communicating Science' series. Topics cover a wide variety of zoological and conservation themes, and international experts present and discuss their research

Further Information: please contact Joy Hayward, Scientific Meetings Coordinator, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY.
Tel:+44 (0)20 7449 6227. Fax: +44 (0)20 7449 6411. E-mail: joy.hayward@zsl.org.

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