Identifying the... Mapinguary

Megatherium reconstruction.
Image credit Sloth Sanctuary.

Given the evidence and general consensus amongst cryptozoologists, it seems unthinkable to characterise the Mapinguary as anything other than a relict ground sloth. Even so, there are theories that it is actually a type of large primate - and even it it isn't, there are still dozens of different ground sloths. The Mapinguary, if a sloth, can only be a descendant of one.

Uncontacted Tribe Discovered in the Amazon

Earlier in the month, a previously uncontacted tribe emerged from the Amazon, seeking help after a raid by a Colombian drug cartel.

In Brazil, seven naked tribesmen armed with bows emerged, asking for weapons and allies. They claimed that a group of non-Indians, probably drug dealers, attacked their tribe, massacring most of the older men. Many of the younger men caught a respiratory disease from the outsiders, a common problem.

In Peru, about one hundred natives came out from the jungle.

Amazon Expeditions Since 2010 Discover at Least 441 New Species

Caqueta titi monkey or Callicebus caquetensis, a 'purring' monkey.
Image credit The Guardian.

At least 441 new species of animal have been discovered in the Colombian areas of the Amazon Rainforest from 2010 to 2013. These discoveries include include a herbivorous piranha relative and a monkey that purrs like a cat.