MUIRHEAD`S MYSTERIES: A WINGED CROCODILE IN 1698

The other day I found the following account, dating from 1698, of a winged crocodile on the southern tip of Portugal. It`s from the Flying Post Master or The Post , July 19^th 1698:

Cadiz June 24^th We hear that a Sea Monster, resembling a Crocodile, hath been seen lately on the shore near Cape St Vincent, but escaped when the Mariners went to attack it.

Later: (I mean further down the same page, though earlier in the month…)

Lisbon June 17^th  

A Sea-Monster was seen near Cape St Vincent with four Feet, was about 20 Foot in length, and had two great Wings, covered over with black shining Scales, with which it made a mighty Noise. The rest of the Body was the colour of a Whale.