Formal Apology

Dear Public:

perhaps you have already heard of the events of my recent presentation at Boston's Museum of Science. If you have not, then I regret to inform you that the Shabowa bird does not exist, and never has existed. I can only offer you my most sincere apologies for this charade.

I suppose I underestimated my audience members, who were quick to point out the inconsistencies in the Shabowa bird's design. I was soon inundated with questions I simply couldn't counter with legitimate answers. How can a bird with a goose bill eat a rodent? How can a mostly featherless bird survive the harsh temperatures of the Gobi Desert? How can a bird with talons run at such heightened speeds?

I am sorry that I lied. I am ashamed and embarrassed to have sullied the sanctity of my profession and my bright future therein. Cryptozoology is surrounded by enough skeptical onlookers, and the last thing I want to do is add numbers to that doubting crowd. Although you may have lost faith in me, please do not lose faith in this groundbreaking field of research. I only proceeded this way in an attempt to garner funding so that I could undertake much more organized and sophisticated research.

I explained this at my presentation and was lucky enough to be forgiven. My audience suggested that I remain committed, improve my research skills, and try again. Although I am positive that I still have much to accomplish and my name will still one day be writ across history books, I feel they are right and it is indeed time to turn a new leaf. I will do so in private. It is in my best interest to relinquish from public view for a time while this incident blows over.

Thank you.

Another Rendering

Here is another rendering of the majestic Shabowa Bird.

Field Notes for Public Viewing

Though the originals were given away to a less than trust-worthy source, I fortunately managed to scan copies of my field notes while in China.

Stateside

It feels so good to be home, back in the loving arms of Matilde. This summer has been a great victory for me!

However, I am a little insulted that I have yet to hear back from the Bigfoot Research Institute. I air mailed them a package containing priceless information a couple of weeks ago, and still no seal of approval. Frankly, I don't think they understand the gravity of the situation. Or perhaps they aren't up to the challenge of the noble pursuit that is cryptozoology after all.

I shall proceed without them.

Shabowa: The Cry of Discovery

Glorious public: I am en route to America, and I have an announcement that should bring you much pleasure! Wednesday, July 28th at Boston's Museum of Science I will present my findings in a lecture titled "Shabowa: The Cry of Discovery." I commend the Museum of Science for their acumen and foresight in showcasing my prestigious work.

Come to the Cahners Theater in the Blue Wing on Level 2 of the Museum at 3:30 to witness this historical event!

Earth-shattering news

To the Scientific Community At-large:

After having traveled to the Gobi Desert in search of the Mongolian Death Worm, I made a far greater discovery. I have uncovered a brand new cryptid, and I believe that I may be the only person ever to have set eyes on the animal.

While sifting through the dirt behind a cluster of shrubs, wondering if I should have ventured to the Alashan Plateau at all, and considering heading South, my worries were put to rest. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw something speeding towards the shrub bushes, and then I heard a squeak. I dropped my tools and stared. The creature had paused for a minute to capture its lunch: a long-eared jerboa. The bird ripped the small rodent apart and, in a beautiful burst of red, blue, and yellow plumes and bald areas, sped away, calling out Shabowa! Shabowa!

Alas, I was so mesmerized by the event that I dropped my camera, and the lens shattered! Therefore I am sadly without a camera, but I have been taking field notes ever since.

My second run-in with the animal occurred a few days after this. I was walking along the plateau, when I spotted the creature from about 100 ft behind. Again, the bird had stopped to gobble up its prey, a rodent that I have yet to identify. (However, I kept the bones as evidence.) Before I could advance upon the animal, it ran off, again crying Shabowa! Shabowa!

I have christened it "The Shabowa Bird." Now I must return to the Alashan Plateau for further research. I have only stepped into town to gather supplies and announce this zoological development.

A truly superlative cat!

Would anyone be willing to look after Matilde for a couple of months? My next expedition should prove to be rather long, and I can't take her with me.

Please send responses to DanicaNorthFranklin@gmail.com so we can set up the first interview and initiate a background check.

You would be lucky to have her stay with you.