Professor Paul LeBlond (retired)

Paul has had a distinguished scientific, educational and public service career, which has contributed to the marine sciences generally and specifically to many of the goals of PICES. He has authored or co-authored more than 90 primary journal publications, 20 conference proceedings, and two books spanning a wide variety of physical and biological topics. Dr. LeBlond has remained one of the world's leading physical oceanographers throughout his distinguished career, and has supervised over 40 graduate students. He has lectured at several universities throughout the world, including onboard a cruise ship travelling the South Pacific.

Sent: 23 July 2010 23:19

(Commenting on Will Elliot's Photo enhancements which clearly shows an eye in Photo 317 of the expedition. Full details at http://www.bigsnakes.net/will_elliott.htm )

Sent: Mon 31/08/2009 17:39

Dear Greg and Mike,

Thank you for introducing me to the evidence for the giant snake. I keep an open mind on the subject and encourage you to continue in your search for further evidence.

Best regards 

Paul

Sent: 31 August 2009 03:20 

Dear Greg & Mike

I have looked closely at the feature identified as "the creature" in image 315. The grayish shape seen there might possibly resemble the head of a snake, but it could also look like many other things, depending on what you have in mind. If you are to convince any one that this might be part of a snake, you will have to identify precisely the features which justify this interpretation.

Where are the post-ocular brows? Is there a mouth or other features visible? Is this a view of the top of the head? A lateral view? Compare shape with drawings or photos of actual snakes. One should not forget that there is no information at resolutions below pixel size and one can begin to see anything one likes to see. A prime example is the alleged picture of the face "of a bearded man" in the eye of the virgin of Guadalupe  (see http://www.sancta.org/eyes.html for really creative interpretations) which is in my opinion entirely in the imagination of the beholder. Blowing up or "enhancing" pictures with an eye to discovering what you are looking for is a dangerous game... Finally, your next expedition should examine the debated feature itself at ground level. I applaud your dedication and thoroughness in your search for the presumed giant anaconda, and I wish you success in gathering additional evidence.

Paul LeBlond