FredT- Thank you!!
Phenomium- This is kind of a dual board- it has two topics. One is cryptozoology, which is a real study.
Cryptozoology (from Greek κρυπτός, kriptos, "hidden" + zoology; literally, "study of hidden animals") refers to the search for animals
which are considered to be legendary or otherwise nonexistent by mainstream biology. This includes looking for living examples of animals which are
considered to be extinct, such as dinosaurs; animals whose existence lacks physical support but which appear in myths, legends, or are reported, such
as Bigfoot and el Chupacabra;[1] and wild animals dramatically outside of their normal geographic ranges, such as phantom cats.
en.wikipedia.org...
The other part of the board refers to discussion about mythical beasts. Many historians and anthropologists study mythical beasts! It can range from
anything like the historical influence of vampires, or their influence on literature, to accounts of possible sightings.
"Top Secret" is a reference to anything not accepted by a specific population. For example, before the Okapi was properly sighted and identified by
scientists, people thought that animal was a joke. Some forums are related to the government on ATS, you're right, but not all of them do. The
Cryptozoology and Mythical Beasts forum is in the "Mysterious" forum category, which also includes discussions on the paranormal, religious
conspiracy, 2012, and lots more. You can view all the ATS forums
here.
So, this thread is in the right place. Many people don't consider these topics to be a waste of time, they are actually quite interesting. Look
around if you'd like! If you're not interested, not a problem.
And yes, Chimera is a topic which is covered on this board, but it is one of hundreds of possible cryptids that we discuss here.
[edit on 7/27/2009 by ravenshadow13]
You, Gemwolf, and fooffstarr among others have really
helped this forum out. I have only been a member since Dec/07 but remember when this was a highly questionable forum. I hope you continue to provide
and now facilitate excellent topics in this forum. 
