By A. Relative
Although John and Eileen Fortgang have migrated to Cuddington, a few of you might be aware of the possibility that other Fortgangs could still be lurking within the village. Rare sightings of John’s brother Peter have been reported from time to time but this reclusive figure is thought, by some, to be only a rumour and many believe his existence to be entirely fictitious, based only on hearsay.
However, Martin the milkman claims to have seen this particular Fortgang quite often during his early morning rounds, and firmly believes that this is when the creature embarks upon its secretive expeditions, possibly hunting for food or perhaps merely seeking fresh air and exercise. Martin has even claimed to have successfully communicated with him, although he has only received mono-syllabic responses – clearly this representative of the Fortgang sub-species is verbally challenged.
Other witnesses claim that Peter Fortgang has an ‘Angel’ as a partner who responds positively to the name of Mary and that they are a successful breeding couple, having managed to raise young. It is suspected that two of the young have already fledged although there is a rumour that a third offspring (a male) has been seen from time to time at what is thought to be their lair in Sly Corner. Further studies are needed to verify whether this is indeed the case.
It is essential to embark upon a comprehensive research programme to prove conclusively whether this rare sub-species of Fortgang really does exist in the village and if they are discovered much could be learned about them in their natural habitat, although it is important not to be too intrusive as this could have a negative impact on these sensitive and nervous creatures.
Due to a complete lack of government funding to support any long term behavioural studies of the Fortgang sub-species, the extent of our knowledge about them is bound to remain sketchy at best for some time to come. However, if any new findings come to light, it is hoped that these will be published in future editions of the Newsletter.