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N

THE

ILLUSTllxVTED

NATURAL HISTORY.

I ;

^r ";;?;«<-.

liEY. Jr Gr WOOD, M.A.

i i

WITH rOUE HUNDUKD AND FIFl'Y OUIGINAL DESIGNS,

BY WILLIAM HARVEY.

ENGRAVED BY THE BROTHERS DALZIEL.

T, 0 N D 0 N :
GEORGE UOUTLEIG..!- & CO., EAIUIINGDON STREET.

1853.

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Although works on Natural History would seem sutH-
cioutly luunerous to deter any uew writer from veuturing
on tlie suhject, Ktill there in at present no work of a pojiuliu-
chanicter in wliich aeuurucy of inforniatioii anil systenuitic
arraniiemeut are united with brevity and Biniplicity of
treatment.

All the hest-known popidar works on Natural History
are liable to many objeetions, among which may be named
a want of correct classification, the absence of explanations
of the meanings and derivations of scientific words, the
strange inaccuracy of many of the accompanying illustrations,
and of the accounts of many animals. Nor do the conven-
tional anecdotes chronicled in tlicir ])ages evince the personal
exj)erieuce of the animal race whicli is best calculated to
prevent romance and inaccumcy. These deficiencies, it is
hoped, will be at all events partly sup))lied in the present
work.

The present volume, although exceeding the limits originally
contemplated, is but a brief digest of a large mass of materials,
derived either fi'om personal experience, from the most recent
zoological writers, or from the kindness of many friends, who
are familiar with almost every portion of the world, and to
whom my best thanks are due. The original intention was
to carry tlie work as far as the Zoophytes, but it grew so

gsifiKiii.-

IV

PREFACE.

rapidly, especially in the first two classes, the :Mammala and
Birds, that it was found necessary to conclude at the Insects,
and even then to give hut an exceedingly short and meagi-e
accoiuit of them. This was much regi-etted, as my expe-
rience had lain so much in the practical entomological part
of Natural History, tliat during the earlier stages of the work
I looked forward with some pleasure to giving a very much
fuller account of the British Insects than will be found in the
last few paires of tliis volume.

In arrangement, the order of the Catalogue of the British
Museum has been followed, with the view of rendering it a
useful companion to that most valuable collection, especially
for younger visitors. It has therefore been considered advis-
able" to commence the volume with a sketch of the theories
respecting the diflerent races of humanity, and at the same
time to mention a few of the distinctions which so widely
separate man from any other iniiabitant of the earth.

As for the Illustrations, they will best speak for them-
selves. It will, however, be well to observe that they have
all been designed expressly for the present work, and that the
combined abilities of Messrs. Harvey and Dalziel, as artist
and cngi-avers, are a guarantee for their accuracy and x>erfect
execution. For the anatomical and microscopical vignettes,
I am myself answerable, as well as for several of the later
drawings, such as the Thorny Woodcock-shell, the Leaf
Insect, the Rove Beetle, together with parts of a few others,
all of which were drawn from actual specimens.

It has been an object in the accounts of each animal,
to give as far as possible new anecdotes. In many cases, the
ane'cdotes related have never been published before, and in
manv more, they have been extracted from works which,
either from their scarcity, their co t, or tlieir nature, would
be very unlikely to be placed in the hands of general readers.

PREFACE.

the 'Maininals and
;ludc at the Iiisccty,

short and meagre
;tted, as my cxpe-

cntomi >h\L!ical part
■ stages of the work
giving a very much
will bo found in the

logixc of the British
w of rendering it a
collection, especially
'cn considered advis-
cetch of the theories
ity, and at the same
OTS M'hicli so widely
of the earth,
est speak for them-
ser\'e that they have
it work, and that the
nxd Dalziel, as artist
accuracy and perfect
icroscopical vignettes,
r several of the later
Icock-hhell, the Leaf
parts of a few others,
3cimcns.

luits of each animal,
In many cases, the
)lislied before, and in
d from works which,
n- their nature, would
,uds of generid readera.

A few errors in tlie scientific names have escaped observa-
tion, but will be found correctly given in the Systematic
Index.

I dismiss those pages with almost a feeling of regret, tliat a
task which has to me been a labour of love, should iiave come
to an end. Imleed, the only drawback experienced during its
progress was the necessary brevity of it, wliicli constrained
me to omit many creatures, not only beautiful and wonderful
in form, but interesting in habits, and to describe others in a
way so l)rief, as to render the accoimt little else than a formal
announcement of the name, country, and food, of the animal.
If, however, the perusid of the following pages slunild induce
any one to look iqion the it plan of Creation more as a
whole than merely as an aggregation of separate parts, or to
notice how wonderfully each crcatiu'c is adapted for its
pecidiar station, by Him who has appointed to each its
pi-opcr position, and assigned to each its own duties, which
could not be performed ^o well liy any other creature, or even
by the same animal in another place, my end will be attained.
Perhaps, also, tiiis volume may cause some who have hitlierto
Ijcen troubled with a causeless abhoiTcnce of certain creatures
against whicli they have nourished early prejudices, to ex-
amine tliem with a more indulgent — I siioidd perhaps siiy,
a more reverent eye. I say reverent, because it has long
given me deep pain when I have heard others stigmatizing
as ugly, horrid, frightful, those beings whom their M^-'-er
saw at the begiiming of the world, and declared very jod.
A natumlist will see as nuich beauty in a toad, spider, or
snake, as in any of those auimids whicii we are accustomed to
consider models of beauty ; antl so will those who have before
feared or despised them, if they can only persuade themselves
to examine them with an miprcjudiced eye. In tiiose three
creatures mentioned a few lines abovC; there is great beauty

y\ PnEFACE.

even on a supci-ficial examination. The movements of the
snake arc most gi-aceful, and the changing colonrs of its
varied scales leave the imitations of ai-t far behind. The
spiders too are beautiful, even in colour ; some are bright
crimson, some pale pink, some entirely yellow, some banded
with broad streaks of alternately velvety black and silvery
white ; while tiie eye of the toad is a living gom of beauty.
When, however, we come to look closer,— to watch their habits
—to note their instincts— or, by the use of the microscope, to
lay open to our view some of the details of their organization,
—then indeed are wo lost in wonder and amaze at the vast-
ness of creation, which, even in one little, apparently insigni-
ficant animal, presents to our eyes marvels— marvels which
increase in number and beauty as our power for perceiving
them increases.

Merton CoLtEGE, Oxford,

December 10, 1852.

ERRATA.

P. 12. Chimpansee,— )•«((/, TnoGLon-fTES.

— C6. Stoat,— read, Mustela.— Erniin5a.

— 72. Be.ir, — read, L'mkhe.

— 84. Kmgixvoo,— read, MacropUlfc. (C!r. Mo/fpo's, long ; wCs, a foot.)

M.VUUOl'US.

— 190. For Division, read, Class.

— 248. Robin,— mirZ, ErythXcvs * (Or. 'EpiBoKos).

— 458 Read, Div. II. INVERTEBRATA. {Luf. without ■certchrw.)

Class VI. MOLLUSCA,&c.

» This word ouRht to be spelt Ebithails, I)ut in the Urit. ^tlls. C'atalosuc
it Is spelt as above.

r.w ■•* a

lovemcnts of the
iig colours of its
far behind. The
some arc bri^lit
low, some handed
black and silvery
g gom of beauty,
watch their haliits
the microscope, to
their organization,
imaze at the vast-
ipparently insigni-
Is — marvels wli'.ch
wer for perceiving

OS, long ; vuvs, a foot.)

s)-

ithout vcrUhiv:.)

he Brit. Mus. Catalogue

§«

Dstcmatit 'Mh'i,

DiviHion I. VERTEBRATA-
Class I. MAMMAUA.
Order I. PnfMAriiS.
Family I. Homiulilre.

Genus I. Homo. Saptens, Men.

Fam. II. Simiit.lio.

Tiioi;LoiJYTFS. Xif^er, C/iinipuiisec.
RimTa. Satyrus, (h\iu;i-<>nt(iH.
Hyi.onXTKS. Af,'ili><, Ajik (iHihun.
rnKSliYTK.s. LarvTitiis, Kh/kih.

Eutelluif, Eiddhis.

CYNOCKrnAi.l.s. Mornmn, MainlriU.

Fam. III. Cebldir.

Atki.ks. raniscus, C'onita S)j!il<:r Monkey.
MycktivS. Ursimis, Ij'miiie I/oidcr.
C.vLi.lrnuix. Tonniatus, Collared Tee Tee.
Jacciius. Vulgmis, Mafuiitsnt.

Fam. IV. Lenuirldoc.

Lemub. IMacitco, IhijHcd I.cmin:
LORIS. Gractlis, Slender Lurk.

Fam. V. Vespertilionldoc.
Sub-faui. a. P/i iilloHtomlna.

VASiriKUS. Specti-um, Yawpire.
Sub-fam. c. \'e.ijierliliniilr,(i.
rLECOTUS. Auritus, lynxj-eurcd Bat.

Order II. FER.E.

Fam. I. FeHdce.
Sub-fam. a. Ftllna.
I i;o. Barbilrus, Lion.
Tianis. Kegalis, Ti;ier.
Leopaudus. VartuK, Leripard.

I'nela, (huu-e.

. . Ouca, Jo'juar.

VI :

SYSTEMATIC INDEX.

Leopaiidus.

ConcSlor, Puma.
Pnrd.llis, Ocelot.

Felis. Domestlca, Cat.

CvrScal. Meliinutis, Caracal.

Ltncus. Canadensis, Canada Lyn.r.

OuErARDA. Jubata, Chetah.
Sub-fain. h. Jf/iwiuna.

Hy.ena. Striata, Striped Ilymna.
Snb-f\un. c. T irerrhm.

VivERBA. Civctta, Clret Cat.

Gesetta. Vulgaris, Genet.

Heiu'ESTES. Ichneumon, £<ji/plian Ichneumon.
Sub-fam. d. Cunlna.

Canis. Familiaris, Dofj.

■ LupuH, Wolf.

Aureus, Jackal.

VuLPES. Vulgaris, Ftt.r.
Sub-faui. e.Mnslellna.

ilAHTES. Abiftuni, Pine Marten.

• Zibellinii, Sahle.

PutorIus. F(utTilu3, Piilccat.

MustEla. ErminCa, Utoat.

Vulgaris, Wm.iel.

Mellivoua. \ia.tc\, Jloney Rattl.

GuEO. Luscus, Ulutton.

Mkt.es. Vulgaris, Badger.

LuTUA. Vulgaris, Utter.

Fam. II. Uratdtc.
Sulj-fara. «. Urslna.

Ultsus. Arctos, Bear.

■ Horribllis, (hlzzhj Dear.

Thalarctos. Maritlnius, Polar Bear.
Snb-fam. c. Procijonlnu.

ritocvoN. Lotor, Racoon.
Sub-fam. (/. Cercolepthia.

NAsf'A. Fusca, Cuati-mnndi.

Ceucoi.ei'TEs. CaudivolvuluB, Kinkajon.

Fam. III. Tali>ldic.
Sub-fam. a. Talji'tna.

Tali'a. Eurdiaca, Mole.
Sub-fam. d. Erinaclna.

SoiiKX. AranOuH, Shrew.

Fodlen.s, Water Shreic.

EuiNAcEus. Euroi);cus, Jltdjeho'j.

Fam. IV. jSIacropWa'.
SuV)-fam. ti. Macrophia.

Machoi'US. Slajor, Kangaroo.
Sub-fam. e. Didcl/ihlna.

DioELi'iiva. Virginiaaa, Opossum.

SYSTEMATIC INDEX.

IX

Ichneumon.

lajou.

Fam. V. PhocTdiC.
Sub-fam. b. Pliodna.
Phoca. Vitiiliua. Seal.
MouuKOA. Vrolioscidda, Elephant tseal.
Sub-fiim. c. Ti-iclieciiia.
TiucuKCUS. Kosmilrus, Walrus.

Order III. C/.TJF.

Fani. I. BaUcnldro.

Bal.kna. MysticOtuM, II liale.
I'iivsEtku. Macrocephrilus, Cachalot.

Fam. II. DelphinldoB.

DemmiIsus. Delphis, Volphrn.
I'lioi .KXA. Coinmunis, Por/ioi.'te.
MoNonoN. MouoeOros, yunclud.

Order IV. GLIREH.

Fam. I. Miuldic.
S\ib-faui. «. Murlna.

Mvs. 1 )ucuniriuiis, Rat.

Miisofduf*, Home.

Sub-fam. h. Arrkollna.

CiucF/rrs. Friimentarlus, Hammer.

AuvRoi.A. AinpbiWus, ]yuter Rut.
Sub-fain. d. (ktst'irlna.

Castou. Fiber, Lkavcr.

Fam. II. Hystrictdiv.
Sub-fam. u. Ifi/sti-ichia.

Hystuix. Crititata, Porcupine.
Sub-fain. c. Dusyiirodhia.

Dasyi'Hocta. Agiiti, Agouti.
Sub-fam. d. J///dru<-h(vrhiit.

HYDK0L1I.KULS. Capybilra, tapiiOara.

Fam. III. Leporlda;.

Lepus. TimI(Uis, Hate.
Cuuiculus, Rubhit.

Fam. IV. Jerbotdiv.

Sub fam. «. ChiHcliillliia.

CiiiNCHiiJ.A. Laulger, ChtnchiUa.
Sub-fam. c. Diphni.

Dipus. yEsyptlus, Jerboa.
Subfam. </. Mijoxlnu.

Myoxus. Avellauarlus, Doiinouae.
Sub-fam. c. Hciitrhia.

Scir-nus. Eur(i\iicus, f^qmrrel. ^

Ptehomys. Alpinus, Fliiiii;j-S<imrrel.

AucTo.MYS. Manuutta, Manaot.

SYSTEMATIC INDEX.

Order V. L'NGULATA.

Fain. I. Bovliliu.
yub-fiuu. u. Jiorhta.
Bos. Tauriis, Hull.

Zchu.

HuBXr.us. Butfi'hiH, Buffalo.

Ciiff'er, t'((j'c Buffalo.

BrsON. Auioricrinus, Jiixiut.
I'oliriiXGUs. Gruuiileiis, Yak:
OvIdos. Moscbiitus, Muik Ox.
Catoblei'As. Gnu, Unuo.
PoiiTAX. Picta, Ni/h/liau.
SiRKi'.sicKno.s. Kiiilii, Koodoo.
BosKi.Xl'iius. Oreiii}, Bland.
Oryx. Leucuryx, Oriix.
Oazella. EiichOro, Sjiniigboh.

■ Ariel, (rdzellc.

Rui'LCArUA. Tniguti, Chamois.
Capra. I1)ox, Ilie.r.

Hiroua, (ioat.

Ovis. ArloH, Jtam.
Sub-fam. /(. Camclojianllna.

CAMELorAiiDAMs. Oiraffa, Uiniffe.
Siib-fain. c. Oamdlna.

Uamklus. Arablcus, Camel.

Baotriamift, Bactrkin Camel.

Lr.AMA. Pacoa, Llama.
Sub-f'aiu. d. Mo-tchlna.

MoscHUS. MosohifdruB, Musk-deer.
Sub-fam. e. Cerv'ina.

Ceuvus. C'aprculus, Ruchuvl:.

Elil]ihus, Sta;/.

CanadensiH, ii^apiti.

Axis. Maculatn, Axis.

Dama. Viilgfiri.s, Fallow-deei:

RanuIfer. Taiaudus, Rcin-decr.

Ar.cES. Piiliuatus, Elk.

Fam. II. Equldo3.

E(juus. Caballus, Horse.

AsInus. Vulgaris, Ass.

Dzigguetai, Dzvjcjuetai.

Zebra, Ztbra.

Quagga, Quayga.

Fam. III. Elephautfdre.
Sub-fam. a. Elephantlna.

Elethas. Indlcus, Indian Elephaul.

Africiluus, African EUplMut.

Sub-fam. h. Tapiihia.

Tai'Iuus. Terrestris, Ta^iir.

anid.

(int.
qilutnt.

8VSTEMATIC INDEX.

Sub-fam. c. Sutna.

Sus. Scrofii, Iloni:

BabyrimsKii, Bahyroussa.

Sllb-fiun. (/. Jlliinucciitia.

RiiiNocEnos. ITnicorniH, Khlnocerot.

. BicorniH, Ithinitxtc:

Sub-fam. e. HijqmiwIi'mUKi.

HiiToroiXMis. Amphiblus, IflppojiolKuius.

Fnm. IV. nratlyptdfc.

15hadv1'Us. Tridactybig, Sloth.

Fam. V. DaHyplda?.
Sub-fam. a. MaiiTna.

Man-is. Tetradactyla, Phntui/lii.

Pentailaotyla, Shorltaihd Manls.

Sub-fiiin. b. JhiHi/phia.

Dasvpus. So.xcinctu.H, Armadillo.
Sub-funi. c. Miinnccitiihdiftna.

Mvu.Mixoi'HACA. .Tubfitii, Ant-eater.

Diiliiiityla, Little Ant-cuter.

Sub-faui. il. OrnillKirhijiichhHi.

OR.NraioHHVX(.HLS. I'liradoxus, Ornitliorhynchus.

Cla.s,s II. AVES.

Order I. ACCIPITHE.%

Sub-order I. AccirlTUES-muRUI.

Fam. I. Gv))aottdio.

Gypaetus. Barbatus, Ldmmergeyer.

Fam. II. Sarcorhamphldnj.

SAUfORiiAMriios. Oi-}i)hoii, Comhi,:
I'ajia, Kitvj Vulture.

Fam. IK. Vult>ir(dro.
Sub-fam. n. Vulturlixe.
Grre. Fulvus, Crriffin Vultii,re.

Fam IV. Fakou'fdre.
Sub-fam. a. Ar/ailina;.

AquTla. Chry.siiL't()s, Golden Eayle.

I'AXnioN. HaliiiCtuH, (hitrey.

Hali.aetus. Leucocophalus, White-headed Eagle.
Sub-fam. c. Ihiteonlwe.

BuTEO. Vulgaris, Buzzard.
SuV>-faHi. d. Milvliia'.

PruNis. Apivurua, Ifoney-Buzzard.

MiLvus. RegPilia, Kite.

ElaxoIdes. Furcatus, Swalloiv-tailed Falcon.
Sub-fam. c. F(d(-onln(v.

Fai-co. Gyrfalco, Oyrfalcon.

XI

Xii SYSTEMATIC INPEX.

Fai.co. Perosriims, Pent/vine Falcon.

HvroTnionciiiH. Sublmtco, llMnj.

— — ^Kunliiii, Mill ill.

TiN.NU.scwi.i's. Aliuuliiriiis, Ktntrel.
Sub-fum. /. AccljiitiliKi:

AsTl'H. riiluiiil)iirHi><, (iiisha irk,

Accii'lTEU. NiriuH, Spurfow-Ilaivk.
Sub-fma. ij. Ciixhiir.

SEiirENTAHTis. Ue))tilivornj<, Secretary Bir J.

ClKCua. Cyaiiijus, Ihn-lluirki:
Sub-order II. AccifTtres-noctubni.
Fain. I. Striglilm.
fc»ub-fain. a. Siirnliur.

SuhnTa. rinla, JIairk-Oiil.

Nyctea, N'ivea, Saowij Old.

Athene. Cunioularla, Jiuvvowhi'j Old.
Sub t'ani. 6. liiihunhui'.

Ei'HiAi,TK3. Scoiis, Scoi>s Eamlmd,

Bubo. Mh-kIiuum, Great Eand-oid.
Sub-fam. (/. Sfriijliuc.

Stkix. Flaimiioa, Bani-Oid.

Order II. PASSER ES.

Tribe I. FISSIJtOSTRES.
Sub-Tribe I. FissiRo.sTiiES-.NOcicnN.E.
Fam. I. CapriinulgliliU.

Sub-fam. a. Cinn-iiDnhjhiK.
Caimumulgi!). Euroi tons, (iuat-auckei:
Sub-Tribe II. Fissirostrw-diuun.e.
Funi. II. Hiruudiuttla'.
Sul)-fam. «. Cmmdiiia:

Cyi-selus. Ajius, Sirift.
Sub-faiu. 6. JliriiiidiiiliKK.

HiRUN'UO. KustlciV, Chiiiineiiifarlln.
CotIle. KiimrTa, Saml Murtin.
ChelIdom. L'rlilca, Martin.
Fam. III. CoraciuUc.
Sub-fam. a. Ciirai-iinm.
CoracTas. Garrula, Roller.

Fam. IV. TrogouTdic.

Trogox. kespleudens, Resplendent Trogou.

Fam. V. Alcediutdre.

Sub-fam. a. Alccdiiuncp. '

AlcEdo. Hisplda, Kinrj-fisUer.

Fam. VI. ^Iero]ildic.
Sub-faui. «. Mcriijilna:
Meuoi's. Apiaster, Bec-catcr.

Fulcon.

(Ml/.

■Ihi.

'ulivl.

ttwk.

Secretary Bird,
r.

ni'bxj Ovl.

;■' ?.

OllNlSMYA.

ulowl.
'.■owl.

atsucker.

Martin,
in.

Undent Trogou.

SYSTEMATIC INDEX. «»

Tribe II. TKNITIUOSTHKS.

Fiun. I. IJi>u]i1(ln.'.
Siili fiim. ". ('iiii]iliitr.
Urri'A. Ki"i[)!<, Uooi>oe.

Faiii. II. Trochilldsc. ■ ,■ ,

Tuociiri.is. (•<ilul)ri><, Ituhfi-lhroated IlitmiDiwj-binl.
(ioiildii, (i'lidd'n Iliimminijhird.
Sapiih", J>"r-ltiiled Ilammimj-bird.

('.ira, Cora llaniniiuii-bird.

Chrvrtc.lOi.ha, Double-crested llmnmimj-

bird.

V:\m. III. Certlildw.
Sub-fain. a. CirthUi'V.

CkuthIa. Kiuniliaris, Creeper.
Sub-fiim. b. Siithiw.

81TTA. Enrol);*'!!, Nuthatch.
Sub-fiun. c. Mcuiirhiw.

TKO(ii,oin"'TES. I'arvQlim, Wren.

Tribe III. DKXTIIIUSTUKS.

Fain. I. LusoinTdio.

Siib-1'ani. (I. LuHciuJna;. ,„ ,,

('Ar,AM()i)-fT.\. Locnstella, Gramliuiiiicr Warbler.
LrsciNtA. I'hiloniOla, M'jhtiiKjale.
Syi.vIa. rn.lata, Ihirtford W'arbkr.

Oinureii, W/iitdhroat.

Atricai)illii, IHurkcap Warbla:

Kufii, Cliiff-di'iff.

llKcri.is, Cristatus, Goldcn-creslcd Wren.
Siibfii!!!. h. Knjtliac'tiac.

Kiricil.i.A. I'hcciiicura, Rahtart.
EiiYTii.Xf L-8. Kubccrda, iiedbremt.
Subfain. c. Acccvtorhim.

AcLKNTOH Modularlus, Iledjc Accentor.
Sul'-fam. (/. Piirlmv.

I'aius. Major, Crreat Titmouse.

Cu'nilous, Blue Titmouse.

Caiiaritus, Lou'j-faikd Titmouse.

Sub-faiii. e. Motacillhid'.

MoTACll.LA. Yarrellli, Pied Wa;/I(nl.

. Flava, Yellow Wof/lud.

Anthus. Prateusis, Meadow Pipit.

Faui. II. Tnrcltaip.

Sub-fain. ((. I'ormicariute.

Hyduoiiata. Cinclu.s, Dipper.
Sub-fain. 6. Turdlna:.

TURDUS. Viscivoius, Misseltoe Thriisn.

Pilaris, Fieldfare.

XIV

SYSTEMATIC IXDK.X.

Ti'liDl'.s. Mustcus, S(iiii/-Thnuh

Merfllii, liUickbiril.

OiiriiKUH. I'olyglottus, Muikimj Bid.

Subfiiin. c. Oflulliiije.
Onions. Oalbfila.

Fam. III. MiiHcicapIdir.
Sul)-t'aiii. a. Musciciiji'tiw.

Mv.slilXi'a. Orinolii, Spotted Fly-catcher.

Fain. IV. Aiiiiiflldii'.
Sulj-t'am. <(. A 111/1(111111'.
Ami'klis. Oarrtllun, Bohemian Wa-c-wtufj.

Faui. V. LaiililaJ.
Sul)-faiii. «. Lnuline.

L.\N'Its. KxiMihltor, (rreat (Ireij Shrike.

CoUurlo, Ucd-backcd Shrike.

Tribe IV. CONIUOSTRES.

Fiim. I. CorvIdiP.
Sul)-faiii. ((. (I'arndina:

(i.\ 11111": MS. (JliUKlai'lus, Jay,
Suli-fain. h. Ciirr'iiHf.

Ni'ciKR.\(iA. Ciuyocatactes, Nutcracker.

Vk.\. Crtiiilata, Ma'ijiie.

CoBVUs. Corax, Jidicn.

FrugilOgu.-i, Rimk.

Moiiudi'ila, Juckdmv.

Cprone, Crow.

Sul)-fam. C. Piirrhdcorachur.
Cou.\cIa. Onveiilii, Chouyh.

Fam. II. ParivdiaeKdie.

Paradisea. Apoda, Emerald Bird of Paradise.

Fam. III. Sturnliln!.
Siit)-tam. ((. PtilomrhynchKe.

rTiLo.NuiiuYNCi's. Sericetts, Satin Bower-Bird.
Sub-laiu. (/. Jcttr'iiice.

IcTKUUM. BiiltimOrus, Baltimore Oriole.
Sub-faiu. (/. StiiriiiniL'.

Stuhnus. Vulgaris, Starling-

Fam. IV. FriugillKlre.
Sub-fani. (/. L'mi;ii(l'tn<T.

FuiNiiii.LA. Cielebrf, Chaffinch.

CunluOli.s, (joldfineh.

. Caiinablua, Linnet.

Sjiiuus, Siskin.

Cli'.oiis, Gremfinch.

Passer. Domcutluu.-', Iloase Sparrow.

Btid.

Uj-catchev.
Wax-winr).

< Shi'ikc.
hrike.

Ucrackei:

Bird of Paradise.

[tin Bower-Bird,
re Oriole.

ch.

larrow.

SYSTEMATIC IXDF.X.

Su'i-fmn. <•. luiiherizlnfp.

KMiiDiiizA. Citriiiolla, YeWm Bunting.
HnU-dxM. f. AlditiliiKt.

Alai'Da. ArvenniH, !^kiflark.
Suli-f'iuii. </. J'l/rrtiiilliKr.

I*vKiiiiri.A. Itiiliicilln, Bullfinch.
Sulifiuii. h. iMJ-'imr.

LoxIa. CiirviriiHtrii, Crornihill,

Fnui. VU. IJufiTotlrho.

lUcKiios. llhiiiiicCrou, Rhinoceros Ilomhill.

Urdui-III. SCAXHnUE^.

I'iUii. I. IUminiihastt(l«>.
iSu'i-t'iiiii. <i, Itliaiiiihdnt'iwr.

ItiiAMiiiAsrort. Toco, Ti}i:o Toucan.

Fain. II. IVittaclilrc.

Macuoukuci's. Ariiriiuim, HlKcdiid Yellow Macaw.
I'ai.-Komnis. Toniuiitus, Jtini/td I'ltrmbtt.
Cai atTa. Sulpburia, (inut !<idjJtar Onkaloo.

Fatn. III. Picldio.
Sub-fiim. c. J'ic'iiuf.

I'icus. Major, Great Spotted Wooditecker.

Vii-rdi.-*, (I'recn Woodpecker.

Subfnm. y. VuuchHC.

Yl'n-.\. Toniiiillu, Wryneck.

Fani. IV. Cuciilldi*'.
Sub-fani. c. Ciici'lliKt,

Cucri-us. Cauorus, Cuckoo.

Order IV. COLL'MB.E.

Fain. I. Coluinlildic.
Sulifani. /*. CotiuahhirP.

C'oLU.MBA. I'aluinlius Hi/u/dore.

(FnuiH, Slockdon:

Tumi'H. Auritu.'*, Turtledove.
EcrorisTES. Migratoria, Passewjer Pi(jeon.

Order V. GALLl.WE.

Fani. 111. riiafianldre.
Siib-faui. u. J'urun'iiKP.

Pavo. Crirttiltus, Peacock.
Sub-funi. b. Phumuuiue.

AlKius. (JigantOuH, Anju* Pheasant.

I'HASIAXUS. ColchlcuB, Pheojtant.
Subfani. c. Galllnce.

(iAi.Lus. IJonie.iticna, Domestic Fowl.
Sub-t'am. d. Mckai/rinw.

Mei.kXoris. Oallopavo, Tnrketj.

Nu'mIda. Meleagris, Gainca Fowl.

f

8VBTKMAT10 INDEX.

Fam. IV. Ti'truoiililic.
Su)) fiiiii. a, J'cnliriiitr.

I'Kiiiilx. I'iiiorOii, I'livtrlhjf.
CoTiitNix. ('oiiiiiiriiiiH, l^tuiil.
Suli t'liiii. b. Tihitiiuiiiie.

TetiiXo. rroi.'nlliiM, Cit}wrcailUt,

— Tctrix, Iitai:k llniHM.
LaiiOi'L's. HcotlcuH, Ikd tiioiue.
Albus, Plarmiijun.

Finn. V. M»'f,'npo<lliliM.

'rM.KdAl.l.rs. l.ivthiimi, Ih-uiih. Tmir;/.
Mki.ai'odIus. Tumfilurt, Mound-iuakiiif/ Meyajiodc

iJrder VI. STRVTIIIOSES.

Fftiii. I. Htruthionldie.
Hull iim. (/. Slntlkiini'tna,

SruL'Tltlo. C'lUiiChiH, Ontrirh.

C\."ii'AHlr,s. Ciwoiir, ('imaowd r;/.

Duo.MAirs. Noviu-Holhmdiit', Xni'i.
Buli-fiiiii. I), Aiittrii;/hiti:

Ai'ii'.iiYX. AiiKtralis, Apteryx.
Sill I film. f. Dnliiidt.

Dinus. IiutptuH, Dudo.
Sul>fiiin. d. <ni„(v.

Otus. Tiirdii, liunlai-d.

Order VII. GIlALL.f..

Finn. I. Chiinulrldic.
Suli-t'ani. c. Vl.anidrhuv.

Vaneli.l'h. (JrirttatiiH, Lapwlny.

Fftiii. II. ArdeTdio.
Sub-faui. h. Unihue.

(iiu .s. Cinerfa, Crane.
Sulit'iim. c. ArdehKF.

AiiDKA. CiuurCa, Heron.

BoTAUKUS. Htellaris, Hiltcr».

ri.ATAl.KA. Leucorodla, White HpoonUll.
Siili fani. (/. Viciiiniin:

CiconIa. Allio, titurk.
Sub-fani. /. T'liihtlhuK.

luis. Heligioaa, Hacred lUs.

Fam. III. Scolopaclda).
Subt'aiii. a. Liinusime.

Ckacticorsis. Ari|uatus, Citrkic.
SuVifaui. ('. JlcrurviruKtrUia:

KKca'uviHosTHA. Avofctta, Arocct.
Suli-1'aiii. (/. t>voloi)(uin(F..

ScoLoi'AX. Kunticola, Woodcock.

JJ UMEN ' L ,. Kt*>lopacinus, iSn ipe.

8YSTEMATI0 INDKA

XTU

Tiiik-ni.

dmukiiKj MeijapMle.

Em '(.

';/•

(c SpooiibilL

rim:

H-ocet.

■ock.
lijie.

Suh-fani. f. Ti-inglnrr.

PiiiLOMXrid-*. I'nguni, //"f

Ffttn. IV. PftlaiDiii ''\V:
Hul>-fiilil. rt. PtirrliKC.
Pa II HA. Jaciiun, yu(.*a««.
Fain. V. Kiilltilfc.
Sub-Ciiin. ((. /{(iPhiiP.

OnYiiOMi'TiiA. Crex, Corncrc'e,
Sub-fiini. /(. lluVlttiillnm.

Oai.i.im'i.a. ChloropuB, Water JItn.
Fui-U'A. Atni, Caul.

OrAorVlll. A ^ SERES.

Fftm. 1. Anntldne.

Sut)-fiim. a. Phmi'icnptrrhia;.

Phienicoi'tkhos. Kiibrn, Flamingo.
Sub-f'iiin. c. Annerlncr.

Bkhnici-a. Loucopsw, DernicU Goou.
Sub-fam. (/. Cii'jii'iiuf.

CvdNi'S. Ulor, HuteSuan.

CuKNoris. Atrflta, Bl(u:l: Siean.
Sub-fnm. e. Aiiiitlncr.

Anas. BosfchiiH, Mallanl.

QuKnijrEDOi.A. Oecca, Teal.
Su1>-f(Hn. /. FitliipiliiKP.

SdmatkrIa. MoUisutma, Eider Duck.

Fivni. II. Cdlymbtdic
Sub-fam. //. I'uillreiilnie.

PoDlcEi'S. C;ri»tat,uH, CrcKtcd Ortbe.
Miuur, iJabchick.

Fam. III. Alcfdoe.
Sub-fam. a. Mdn(r.

FratehcCla. Arctlca, PvfUn.

Af.oa. ImYtennM, (freat Auk.
Sub-fam. c. SiihenhchMg.

Si'iiENisixH. Dcmeraus, Cape Penguin.
Sub-fam. d. I'rhire.

\jRt,\. Tri)ll(5, Guillemot.

Fam. IV. ProcellaridoD.
Sub-fam. fl. Prnccllwhicr.
PuocK(,i.AntA. Glftoialis, Fulmar Petrel.
TiiALASsmiioMA. Pelaglca, f^tormy Petrel.
DiomedEa. Exalans, Albatroa.

Fam. V. LarldsD.
Sub-fam. 6. Lar'ina.

Lauus. MarinuB, Black-backed Gull.
Sub-fam. c. SlerJihia.
SiEKNA. Hirundo, Tern.
a

I

XVUl

SYSTEMATIC INDEX.

Fam. VI. relecantdffi.
Subfam. b. PkueUmuue.

Phaeton. yEthorCuB, Tropic Bird.
Sub-fam. c. PdecanhM.

SULA. BassanCa, Gannet.

Phalacrocouax. Carbo, Cormorant.

Pf,i,kcanus. Onocrotftlus, White Pelican.

FuEOATA. Aqulla, Frigate Pelican.

Class III. REPTIUA.
OtAstI. SAVRA.
Sub-order I. Leptooloss^.
Tribe I. CYCLOSAURA.
Fam. IV. LacertinWte.

ZooTOCA. Vivipftra, Lizard.

Tribe II. GEISSOSAURA.
Fam. XV. ScinctdK. _

Anguis. FragUis, Bhndworm.

Sub-order II. Pachyuloss^.
Tribe III. NYCTISAURA.
Fam. XXII. Geckotlda>.
Gecko. Verus, Gecko.

Tribe IV. STROBILOSAURA.
Fam. XXIII. Ipiantda:.

IfiUANA. Tuberculata, Uiiiana.

Fam. XXIV. AgamldiC. _

Dbaco. Volans, Fhjmg Dragon.

Tribe V. DENDROSAURA.
Fiuu. XXV. Chamolooiitdre.

Chameleon. Vulgaris, Chameleon.

Order II. OPHIDIA.
Sub-order I. VipebIna.
Fam. I. Crotalldsc.

Uuopsoi-nrs. Durissus, Rattle-make.

Fam. II. Viperldre. „ „ , , ,

Clotho. AriCtans, Puff Adder.
Cebastes. HasaelqivUuI^, Cerastes.
PelIas. BeruH, Wper.
Sub-order II. ColubrIna.
Fam. IV. Bolda;.

Boa. Constrictor, Boa.

Bird.

nnrant.
kite Pelican,
lican.

tgon.

imeleon.

ittk-make.

ider.
Jcrastes.

iX

SYSTKSLVTIC INDEX.

Fam. XIV. Zeldic.

Zku8. Fabor, John Dory.

Fam. XVII. Syngnatbldas.

Hin'ocAMPUS. Brevirostns, Sea-horse.

Fam XXII. EcheneldiU.

EcHEsEia. Rem6ra, Suchng-fah,

Fam. XXITI. Lophildio.

Loi'Ulus. I'iacatorius, Angler.

Order II. MALACOPTERYGII.

Sub-order I. AbdominalIa.

Fam. I. Cyprinldao.

CyPBlNUS. Carplo, Carp.

Bcriius, Barbel.

. AuriituH, Oold-fah.

AbuSmis. Braiiia, Bream.
OoBlo. Fhiviatllirt, Uudjcon.
TiNCA. Vulgaris, Teueh.
Leuciscus. llutilus, Roach.
LeuciscuB, Dace.

— Cepbalus, Clmb.

Fam. II. EsocldsD.

F,sox. Lucius, Pike.

Exoc'ffiTUS. VoUtauB, Flylng-jiah.

Fam. IV. Salmonlda*.

Salmo. Salar, Salmon.
Fiirlo, Trout.

Fam. V. Clupeldas.

Cmi'EA. Filchardus, Pilchard.

Harongu.s, Herring.

Engrauus. EncrasicliOlus, Anchovy.

Suborder II. Sub-brachiata.

Fam. VI. GadldiO.

MoKUiiUA. Callarlas, Cod.

Fam. VII. Pleurouectlda!.

PsETTA. Muxluia, Turbot.
SoLEA. Vulgaris, Sole.

Sub-order III. Apoda.

Fam. IX. MuroBuTdaj.

Anguilla. Acutirostris, Shaii>-nose(l Lei.
CoNGEli. Vulgaris. Conger.

Fam. X. Oymuotldn;.

Gyasotus. Electrlcus, Ekctnc Lei.

SYSTEMATIC INDEX.

XXI

%-horse.

ih.

(?«/(.

Order III. PLECTOGNATIIL

Fam. I. Diodonttdw.

Orthaoouiscus. Mola, Short Sun-fiih.

Hub-class II. Pisces Chondropterto":.
Sub-order I. El.EUTHEUOi'o.yi.
Fam. I. Acipensertdue.

Acu'ESSEH. Sturlo, Sturgeon.

Sub-order II. Trematopnei.
Sub-section I. SQUALL

Fam. I. Scyllldaj.

ScYLLluJL Canicflla, LiUU Spotted Dog-finh.
Fam. II. Squaltdil!.

Squams. Carchartas, White Shark.

Si'HTUnIas. ZygKua, Hammer-headed Shark.

Sub-sectiou II. KAII.
Fam. I. PristldiE.

P:ilsTls. Antiquyrum, Saioftsh.

Fam. II. Rildaj.

TorpEdo. Scutata, Tnrjiedo.
Raia. Clavata, Thornback Skate.

Sub-order III. Cyclostomi.

Fam. I. Petromyzontdse.

Pethom'Tzox. Marinus, Lampre;/.
Lamtetua. Fluviatllifl, Lampern.
Myxing, QlutinOsa, Myjcine.

d.
[nchovy.

irp-nosed Eel.
trie Eel.

Division II. INVERTEBRATA.
Class VI. MOLLUSCA.

Order CEPIIA L OPODA .

Fam. OctopldiE.

OcToi'Uii. Vulgaris, Cuttle-fish.
Aroonauta. Ai'go, yautilan.

Order GASTEROPODA.

Sub-order Fulmobranchiata.

Fam. Limaclda).

Limax. Ater, Black Slug.

Fam. Kelictda).

Helix. Aspersa, Snail.

Fam. Turbinldoe.

ScalarIa. Pretiosa, lioyal Staircase Wentletrap.

xxii SYSTEMATIC INDEX.

Fam. Conildne.

Con us. GeDeriSlis, Cone.

Fam. CviiricldEC.

AiiiclA. Moneta, Money Cowry.

Fam. Buccintdas.

BucciNUM. Undatum, Whelk.

Fam. Muricldsa.

MuuEX. Tribalus, Thorny Woo(.l:')cl{.

Order CYCLOBRANCHIATA.

Fam. PfttellldsD.

Patella. Vulgata, Limpet.

Order CON CHIP ERA.

Fam. Pectinlda;.

Pecten. Jacobffiua, Scallop.
OsTiiEA. Edulis, Oyster.

Fam. Meleagrintdic.

Meleagrina. MargaratifCra, Pearl Oyster.

Fam. Mytiltdoo.

MytIlus. EduliB, Edible Mussel.

Order CIRRHOPODA.

Pektalasmis. Auatifdra, Bermcle.

Class VII. CRUSTACEA.
Sub-class I. MalacostbXca.
Order I. DECAPODA.

Suborder I. Decapoda-buachyCba.

Fam. I. Cancerldsc.

Cancer. Pagarua, Crab.
Sub-order II. Decapoda-anomoura.

Fam. III. Pagurldse.

PaqDrus. Bornhardua, Hermit Crab.

Sub-order III. Decapoda-macbouua.

Fam. v. Astactdoe.

PoTAMOBlUL. Astucua, Cray-fuh.
Astacus. Gammftrus, Lobster.

Fam. VI. CriingontdiB.

CuANooN. Vulgaris, Shrimp.

Fam. VIII. Palicmontdoe.

Paljsmon. Serratus, Prawn.

1^1 1 ** I W * ilil llW^WHi^ ""nn'i ' li— »'ii

li;ocl:

'earl Oyster.

d.

ide.

it Crab.

Uh.

SYSTEMATIC INDEX.

Clans VIII. ARACHNTdA.

Order PULMOXAJllA.

Fam. Aranetda;.

MyciXi.e. Avicularia, Bird Sadder.

Fain. Scori>iont(lnD.

ScoBrto. EuropoBus, ScorjAon.

Class IX. INSECTA.

Sub-class I. IssECTA MandibtjlXta.

Order I. COLEOPTERA.

Fam. Cicindelldic.

CiciNDEi.A. Campestris, Tiger-beetle.

Fam. CaraMda).

CarXbus. Cancellatus, Ground-beetle.

Fam. Silphtdoo.

Nucuoi'llXaua. Vo.spillo, Burying-beetle.

Fam. LucanldcB.

LucANUS. Cervus, Staff-beetle.
OEOTRurES. StercoRvrliis, Dor-beetle.
Meloi-ontua. Vulgaris, Oovh-luiffti'.

Fam. Lampyrtdic.

Lampybis. Noctiluca, Glowworm.

Fam. PtiuldiB.

AnobIum. Tessolatum, Death-watch.

Fam. Cerambyclda.'.

Ceuamdyx. Mo.schiltus, Musk-beetle.

Fam. StaphylinTdie.

Creoi'IiIlus. Maxillosus, Rove-beetle.

Order II. DERMA PTERA.

Fobficula. Auricularla, Earwig.

Order III. ORTUOPTERA.

Fam. Locustldai.

LocnsTA. Tartarloa, Locust,

Fam. Achettdfc.

Ohyli.otali'a. Vulgaris, Mole Cnclcet.
PiitllIa, Follata, Leaf Insect.

Order IV. NEUROPTERA.

Fam. Libellulldaj.

LiBELLULA. Depressa, Dragon-fly.

Fam. Myrmeleonldre.

MxRMBLEON. Fonnicarum, Ant-lion,

xxui

i<»<i iiiiiii - 1

jxiv SYSTEMATIC INDEX.

Order V. TRICIIOPTERA.

Fam. rhrj'gantdte.

PubyganEa. Gmndis, Caddi9-fly.

Order VI. nYMENOPTERA.
Fam. Ichneuinontdas.

PiMi'LA. Manifostator, Ichwumon-fly.

Fam. Formictdtc.

Formica. Kufa, Wood Ant.

Fam. Vespldte.

Vespa. Crabro, Hornet,
. Vulgaris, Wasp.

Fam. Apldtc.

Ana. Melliflca, HQuey Bee.

Sub-class II. Insecta Haustellata.

Order I. LEPIDOPTERA.

Fam. PapilionKdto. .,,7,^.-1

PapilIo. Machaon, Swallow-tailed Butteify.
AuoYNNts. Adippe, Silver-spotted Fritillary.
Vanessa. Atalanta, Red Admiral.

Fam. Sphingtdtc. , ,» .1

AcHEUoNTlA. Xtit>jiOS, Deaths-head Moth.

Fam. Arctiadfc.

AkctIa. Caja, Tiger Moth.

Fam. Geometrtdw. ^ •, j ir„,i,

Oubai'Tehyx. Sambucarta, Swallmo-tailed Moth.

Fam. Alucittda;. _, , , ,» ^i

ALUctTA. Hexadactjla, Many-plimcd Moth.

Order II. DIPTERA.

Fam. Culiddro.

CuLES. PipKens, Gnat.

Fam. CEstrtdro.

(EsTBUS. Bovis, Gad-fly.

Order IV. APHANIPTERA.

Fam. Pulicldae.

PuLEX. Irritans, Flea.

Tl
ot
ar

m-fly.

ihd Buttei-fly.
erf Fntillanj.
Iral.

i-head Moth.

allow-tailed Moth,
■plvmcd Moth.

NATURAL HISTORY.

Division I. VERTEBRATA. — {hai. jtosaeaaing vert^ce.)
Class I. . . MAMMALIA.— (Lat. mcktiny their young.)
Order!.. . PIIIMATES.— (Lat. pnmits, (mt.)
Family I. . Honunldso. — (Lat. homo, a man — mankind. )
Genua L . Homo.

Species J. Sapiens (Lat. wise), Man.

M.\N holds the foremost phice in the order of creation.
Tlie perfection of his bodily form is as far superior to that of
other beings as his intellect surpasses their instinct, beautiful
and marvellous though it be. Between man and brutes there

B

»*i*aw

2

NATURAL nisTonv.

i.an innmnablc barrier, over which man can ' '^va Sate
heaHts hope to elimb. Man, when f^^"*;" /-j^^, ' .3,,™
and depri^ved of the use of his reason, stil holds l'i« ^'M ' ^'"-^^
over the lower animaln, and is not subiect even to the most
Jlrfoct and powerful brntes. There is but one ™ o man-
kind Homo, and but one species, Sapwvs ; that is, the lationa
human belA,. Intellect, ^r reason, differs f--^^-f.
its power of accommodation to cn-cumstances; ^^helcas n
tinJtever remains nnchauged. The leaver, when cm fu^
in a catre still builds <laras in order to confine the sticam tnat

verl^sits it ; the captive squirrel when -tiat-1 sv^^^
still conceals the remnants for a future repast, althou-h it is
re ularl^^^^^^ -ith its daily meals; the magpie approaches
a dead wasp with the same caution as if it were living; and
'thtdog flic's from a recently flayed tiger «l^"^ -th no W-
ttinn if the living titrer stood before him. On the contrary,
tirpol4 of mis reason enables him to alter his habits and
a tioT according to the change ^'^-ternal cn-cum^ai.ces.
The same man c*in inhabit the bm-mng sands of the tropics
or the everlasting snows of the north pole; ^^'^^^^ f/^%t;
defend himself from the scorching heat of the one, or to set
at defiance the piercing cold of the other. „^^ ,• „ x_

The forms aiid habits of men are modified 'according to
the different climates and positions in which tl^7 f^^M"
These modifications are in some ca.ses so great that many
philosophers, and not a few natairalists, ^ave .imagined tha^^
there aJe several distinct classes of mankind, ^^>'=\^;l*^^;;'%*''^^^^^
origin from different somces. There is certomly no doubt
that the educated human being who peruses * «^f P^S J
seated in a comfortable apartment, snn-ounded w^th uxur cs
brought from almost every c mtry on the face of the earth
withhx sound of church bells, and clothed m garment fitted
to defend him from the heat of summer or the cold of Nunte ,
is far superior to the half-naked Bosjesman, who ^^s no con^
ception of a God, who lives in caves, or scrapes a I'ole m the
sand in which he crouches until he has devoured the last
"utrid morsel of the prey which he has been fortunate enou|i
?o secm-e, and which he then atendons *« ^^^^^ ^^^^ !
desert, scarcely less provident than himself. Yet this supe
riorit; results entirely from the external circumstances in

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can never fall, or
om his high estate,
lioUls his supremacy
(jt even to the most
, one genus of man-
that is, the rational
;rs from instinct in
tances; whereas in-
,ver, when confined
fine the stream that
I tsatiated with food,
cpast, although it is
e magpie approaches
it were living; and
,kin with no less fear
I. On the contrary,
, alter his habits and
ernal circumstances,
sands of the tropics,
pole ; and is able to
of the one, or to set

r.

Lodified according to
hich they arc placed,
so great that many
have imagined that
'nd, which derive their
s certainly no doubt
peruses these pages,
L-ounded with luxuries
the face of the earth,
cd in garments fitted
■ or the cold of winter,
nan, who has no con-
r scrapes a hole in the
las devcurcd the last
been fortunate enough
5 to the beastf of the
mself. Yet this supe-
rnal circumstances in

NATURAL inSTORV. o

which each is placed. Let each be transplanted into the
country of the other, and in a few generations we should fin<l
the Bosjesman civilized, and caj)able of reading iiow his former
superior, now sunk into the savage state, gains a precarious
subsistence by hunting, and passes his life in caves.

Some theorists have ventured so far as to assert that the
Ncgi'o is but an improved monkey, and tliat his reason
is nothing but a i)artially civilized instinct. That these
theorists were no anatomists is sufficiently evident, and it
would not be necessary to prove the absurdity of their
assertion, were it not that many have actually been deceived
by their flimsy, though specious arguments. Indeed, at the
present time, wlien wo find one philosopher giving what he
considers satisfactory proofs that salt is the cause of all
earthly misery, and the reason why the sun is at so great a
distance from us ; another reviving the very ancient belief,
that the earth is flat like a plate; and a third pretending to
read a sealed letter with the point of his toe, or to examine
the interior of a friend some hundred miles distant ; it is
difficult to say to what extent credulity can proceed.

We will, however, briefly examine this theory respecting
the humanity of the Negro, partly by anatomy, but mostly
by common sense. That monkey, or rather ape, whose form
most resembles that of man, is the Orang-outau. We will
compare this an'mal with the Negro. Will any one venture
to deny that the noble sweep of cranium, and the smooth
globular surface of the human skull, demonstrating the volume
of the brain within, is a proof of far superior intellect than
is indicated by the heavy ridges, the irregular prominences,
and the small capacity of the ape's skull t Tlie face of the
ape is an instnimcnt for procuring food, and a weapon for
attack and defence, while that of man is an ever-changing
index of the workings of the mind within. AVe therefore find
that the jaws of the ape are enormously developed, armed
with formidable fangs, and marked with strong bony ridges,
to which tiie powerful muscles which move the jaws are
attached. On the other hand, as man is enabled to procure
food, and to manufactui-o weapons by means of his hands,
his jaws and teeth are reduced to the smallest size compatible
with the preservation of life.

i<

4 NATUnAL HISTORY.

Tho Imbitually erect poBturo is another chamctcrmtic of
munkiml. Other animals are not fitte.l for.f 8.n«^ wi>en they
a tempt to assume that position, their head m thrust so iur
fo var.1 tliat its weight destroys their balance, and the bones
of the le, and the "pelvis are so fonue.l as to ,nve them a
totterin- u'ait. When tho ape attempts to stand erect it
balances" itself by its immensely long arms, whu'h reach to
the S.Mul assists itself along by the hands pressed on tho
cn-onnd Pcrbaps tho word "feet" should not have been
S^^ it til: 5 has no feet, properly so called, as another
Lr (.f han.is supply the place of those members riie
Fenlth and positiii of the fingc,-s on these under hand ,
p"?ont the ape from planting more than the »'^-'l "P"" ^'"^
m-onnd. It therefore hobbles along with its body bent, a
ft best can only contrive to manage an ^ncerbun ai^
vacillating shutlle ; nor docs it -er walk so ^^ell or so
2 e Illy in the erect posture rs many of the perfoiTum
ft Astley's do on their hands, which arc apparently less htted
for walking than those of the ape. , • „ iu„„ :„

The po^er of the thumb is much greater in man than m
the pes • it is by means of this instrument that man is able
riSe largo or small objects, to wield a sword or a peiv^
to cast a spear or thread a needle. There are many other
anatomical differences which need not be described,
'the intellectual power in man shows its -j-n-y;^^^^^^^
the instinct of tlu- ane in many ways. Wo will take as our
an -le of mankind, tho most abject of the buman mcc, the
BosjeLan as reprcBontod at tho ;---"^— * ^^ f^^^
chapter. Surely this is not the act of an ape No ape or
monkey was ever able to manufacture weapons for itself. It
mav hideed, take up a stick or a stone and defend itself
^ Iro ly, but it could never fonn a bow and arrow, miid
E.efleci\hat the juices of certain plants rulA,^^^^^^
of its weapons would cause inevitable death to any animal
wounded by them. Yet the diminutive Bos.jesman, who is
?u "oier in intellect, and much loss civilized than the
cdumnild Negro, boldly atcackB, -^h perfect certamtyo
success, an anim^d before which the most intelhgent ape that
ever lived would fly in helpless terror.

Neither «ui an ape procui-e fire, nor even renew it. It will

■itrv:'^wssr owuaamMiiaKijmtw

r characteristic of
; sinci', wlioii they
id is thrust so far
iico, and tlie hones
as to t,'ivo them a
to staiiil erect, it
lis, whieli reach to
ids jjressed on the
dd not liavo l)oen
callo<l, as another

0 menihers. Tlie
leso hinder liands,

tlio lioel upon the
its body hent, and
an uncertain and
idk so well or so
of tlio perfomiers
jparently less fitted

tor in man than in
nt that man is able

1 a sword or a pen,
;ro arc many other
described.

its supremacy over
kVe will tuko as our
the hunuxu nice, the
niencement of this
an ape. No ape or
apons for itself. It
le and defend itself
)W and arrow, mucli
rubbed on the points
death to any animal
i BoHJosman, who is
1 civilized than the
I perfect certainty of
t intelhgent ape that

fen renew it. It will

NATURAL niSTOUT. *>

sit delighted by a flame which a chance traveller has loft,
and spread its liands over the (.'cnial blaze ; but wiieu the
glowing ashes fade, it has not sufficient understanding to
supidy fresh fuel, but sits aud moans over the expiring
cud)ers. .

Tlie Bosjcsman makes a bow and arrow ; ho tips the arrow
with a hard substanee to make it penetrate ; he imbues the
point witli sidistances whicli he lias learned are fatal when
min.ded with the blood, and then sallies forth in search of
some animul whose skin may serve as a dress, and wiiose
flesh may furnisii him a meal. When by his unerring
weapons 'ho has succeeded in destroying the terrible and
ferocious lion, the swift antelope, or the wary ostrich, he
constructs for himself a hut by the side of his prey, strikes
fire, fetches fuel, and dresses his meat. These are actions which
no beast ever j)erft)rmed, and no ape could ever imitate.

One point of difTerence between man and brutes has yet to
be mentioned— LANT.UAOK. This one word includes almost
every distinction mentioned, as it is by the use of language
tliat we are enabled to communicate our ideas to each other,
to give the thoughts hidden in our minds an almost visible
shape, to record our experience for the benefit of others ;
in a word, it is by language that we are civilized. The ape
has no language, although there is no apparent anatomical
reiuson why apes should not speak, and therefore, the Orang-
outan in the gardens of the Zoological Society i.s no more
refined, nor does it make a nearer ajjproach to civilization,
than its ancestors in the time of Adam.

We have now seen that mankind have little in common
with brutes, and that the biu-rier between the two can
bo passed by neither : wo will now consider the (lucstion
of the unity of mankind.

It has already been stated that man is modified according
to tlie climate and position in which he is placed. There
are Bcveral of these modifications, or varieties as they are
called, but authoi-s do not agree as to their number. Some
describe the human family as divided into five varieties
or races: the Caucasian, the Mongolian, the Ethiopian,
the Malayan, and the American ; each of these being sub-
divided into families, as for instance, the Caucasian race

fi

NATUiiAi- nisToriv.

Hubdivi.lcd into the Ciiucasinn, the Celtic, the Ocrmnnic,
tlie Aruliian, the l.ibyiui, the Nilotic, uml the IiuloHtaiuc
fiunilics. The division generally received Ih that of IMckermg,
who einuneriiteH f/evni nices "/ men, all of whom he luw Keen ;
the Arabian, Abyssinian, Mongolian, Hottentot, Malay, Papuan,
Negrillo, Telingan, Etliioiiian, Australian, and Negro. He
dittoi-H from Prichanl in several points, but especially m re-
ferring the population of America to the Mongolian race,
whereas Prichard considers it as entirely separate.

The characteristics and distribution of each race arc briefly
thcHO. The Anihian race extends over the whole of Europe,
exeei)ting Lapland, abotit half of Asia, including the greater
part of India, and most of the northern third of Africa. The
complexion is light, the lips are thin, the nose is promuient,
an.l the beard thick. Number, about Sad.OOO.OOO. Ihe
Ahi/ssitiian race occupies a small tract towards the east of
Africa, including part of Abyssinia, and part of Nubia. Ihc
features arc like those of Europeans, the complexion is light,
the hair is crisp, and the beard moderate. Number about
3,000,000. The Mongolian race is remarkable for a feminine
luspect in both sexes, so that a stranger is (jften peri)lexed to
distinguish a man from a woman at a short distance ; the
hair is straight, and the beard i.s wanting. It extends over
the eastern half of Asia, except Corea, over Lapland, and the
whole of America, except the wesl'.ni coast by California,
and the upper part of South America. Number 300,000,000.
The Hottentot race occupies the southern extremity of Afnca.
The complexion is not so dark as that of the Negi-o, the hair
is woolly, and frequently grows in irregular patches, leaving a
bald spot 111 the centre of each patch. This race includes the
Bcchuanas and the Bosjesmans. The complexion of the Bosjes-
maiis, or Bushmen, is veiy light, and strongly resembles that
of an European, with a few sooty patches in-egularly placed.
Number about 500,000. The Malay race is almost amphi-
bious, and is never found inland. It is widely spread, and
inhabits the centre of Madagascar, the whole of the islands in
the Pacific Ocean, except the Fiji, New Hebrides, Solomons
Isles, Papua, and parts of the Philippines. The parts of
America not populated by the Mongolians, are also inhabited
by this race. The complexion is a dark copper, the hair

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NATU..

UISTOUV.

\p, the fJermnnie.
ul tho InddHtaiiic
1 tliiit of l'ickoriu<,',
wlioni he hiiH HL'cn ;
tot, Malay, I'apuan,
, ami Negro. Ho
lit c'Mpecially in re-
le Mongolian race,
ojiarate.

acii mcc arc briefly
0 wliole of Europe,
chilling tho greater
lird of Africa. Tho

noso is prominent,
3r)(>,O(JO,(i00. Tho
owards tho east of
art of Nnhia. The
complexion is light,
;c. Number about
kablo for a feminine

often perplexed to
short dJHtance ; the
r. h extends over
er Lapland, and tho
-oast bv California,
umber .■J00,000,000.
extremity of Africa.

tho Negi'o, tho hair
\r patciies, leaving a
Ills race includes tho
)lexionofthel?osjes-
)ngly resembles that
s irregiilarly placed,
cc is almost amphi-
! widely sjjread, and
lole of the islands in
Hcbri(les, Solomon's
ncs. The parts of
H, arc also inhabited
•k copper, the hair

straigla, when cut it Btnuds erect, and tho beard m thin.
Nunilier 1-J0,()(»(),(I0(). Tho I'upunn race inhabits about
two-third« of Pai.ua, and the Fiji Islands, where IMckering
saw the ouly imlividuals of this race who came under his
notice, Tho complexion is dark, tho hair bushy, tho beard
coiiious. The most remarkable ]ioint in this raeo is tho skin,
which is astonishingly rough and iuu-sh. Number 3,0()U,(H)0.
Tho Xi-'/rillo race is like the Papuan in colour, but the hair
is more woolly, tho stature is small, and the beard absent.
The Negrillos inhabit part of Papua, Solomon's isles, tho
northern extremities of Luzon and Suniatm, and tho Now
Hebrides. Number 3,00<),(MIO. Tho Tdingmi, or Indian
race, inhabits the eastern parts of India, especially about
Calcutta, several isolated spots in other parts of India, and
tho east coast of Madagascar. Tiie complexion is dark, (best
imitated by a mixture of red and black,) tho skin is soft, tho
features are like those of Europeans, hair straight and hue,
and the beard copious. Number GU,0()(»,t)()0. Tho Etkwpum
race is darker than tho Telingan, the hair is crisi. and fine,
skin soft, and the features are more like European features
than those of tho N(;gro. This race inhabits the uorth-eiisteni
portion of Africa, including Southern Egypt, part of Nubui,
and part of Abyssinia; a few detached spots towiwl the
north-west, and a lai-ge tract of country by Senegambia.
Number 5,000,000. The Australian race inhabits Australia
alone. The complexion is like that of the Negro, but tho
hair is not woolly like that of tho Negro. Number 500,000.
The xVer/ro nice inhabits the ccntml parts of Africa, from the
north of Ashanti to a little southward of Zanzibar. Ihe
complexion is black, the lips arc immensely thick, tho nose is
flat, and the hair is close and curly, strongly resembling wool.
Number 55,000,000. The numbers given in this distribution
ai-e of course in many cases ouly conjectural.

In the distribution of races, it is most interesting to observe
the influence of climate and vegetation on tho character ot
man. The vast tract of desert extending from the north-w^t
of Africa, through Arabia, part of India and Tartary, as for
as Mongolia, is inhabited by nomadic, or wandering, tribes,
who depend principally on the milk of their domesticated
animals for subsistence.

8 NATURAL niSTOBY.

The intcrminablo and tracklesa woods of North America
develop tribes whose faculties arc moulded to the exigencies
of their position. To their practised senses the tiingled forests
are as clear aa the highway ; the moss on the trees, the sun
by day, the stars by night, the rushing of the wind, or the
sounds of animal life, are as broad roads and legible signs to
them, where we should discover no means to escape from the
wilderness of trees. Dependent in a great measure on hunt-
ing for their subsistence, their keen eye marks the slightest
trace of the expected prey ; a di'ooping leaf, a twisted blade
of grass, a bent twig, a ripple in the stream, are all- noticed
and all understood. Ever eagerly bent on the destruction of
inimical tribes, and deeming the number of " scalps " attached
to their di-ess, each designating a slain enemy, as the best
mark of nobility, they learn to track an enemy by his foot-
steps with unexampled patience and untiring a-ssiduity. No
bloodhound ever followed his prey with more cert.aiuty than
the American Indian when on his "war-path" tracks his re-
tiring enemies, and when near them his approach is silent as
the gliding of the serpent, his blow as deadly as its fangs.

The Malay I'ace, whose lot is thrown amid islands and
coasts, are as crafty and fierce on the waters as the American
Indians in their woods. Accustomed to the water from their
earliest infancy, able to swim before they can walk, making
playthings of waves that would dash an ordinary swimmer to
pieces against the rocks, their existence is almost entirely
passed on the water. As the American Indians are slayers
and robbers by land, so are the Mr ays murderers and pirates
by sea. They have been known to capture a ship in the
midst of a storm by swimming to it and climbing up the
cable, and many instances of their crafty exploits in ship-
taking are on record. For a full account of their ferocity,
cunning, and endurance, the reader is refeiTcd to Sir James
Brooke's reports on the Borneo pirates.

The Esquimaux, situated among ice and snow, where mer-
cury freezes in the ojien air and water becomes ice within a
yard of a blazing fire, pass an apparently inactive life. They
actually form the ice and snow into warm and comfortable
houses ; wrapped up in enormous fur garments that almost
disguise the human form, they defy the intensity of the frost,

an

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E

NATUBAt HISTOUr.

9

of North America
1 to the exigencies
1 the tangled forestH
the trees, the sun
if the wind, or tlie
md legible signs to
to escape from the
; measure on hunt-
larks the slightest
af, a twisted blade
am, are all- noticed
I the destruction of
' " scalps " attached
3nemy, as the best
enemy by his foot-
ing assiduity. No
lore certainty than
lath " ti'acks his re-
pproach is silent as
dly as its fangs,
t amid islands and
Ts as the American
lie water from their
J can walk, making
'dinojy swimmer to
is almost entirely
Indians are slayers
iirderei-s and pirates
iture a ship in the
id climbing up the
ty exploits in ship-
it of their ferocity,
EeiTcd to Sir James

d snow, where mer-
iconies ico within a
inactive life. They
m and comfortable
rments that almost
itensity of the frost,

and place their highest happiness in the chance P0«» «^^
a whale, which will furnish them with food, clothing, and
light, through their long winter.

''All these races, although they differ in haUts and externa
appearance, are but varieties of one species. There is not so
marked a distinction between the European and Negro, as
()etween the light and active racer and the heavy brewers
horse; yet no one attempts to deny that these are one species.
The varieties in man ai-e permanent,; that '«- f^fj^^^^^ ^J
Negro parents ^-ill be a Negro, and the child of Malay parents
will be a Malay, but that is no proof of a distinct spec es as
precisely the same argument may be used with regard to the
horse. The mind is the important part of ^'-vn not the
body: and though the outward bodies of men diftei, the
mind is the same in all, and in all capable of improvement

'^Ittei^treasytask to prove the unity of mankind by
Scriptural proofs, but I have thought it better to use rational
arcniments, as so-called rea^son was the weapon used to dis-
prove the facts which the Scriptui-es asserted, bufficient, 1 _
tnxst, has been said to show that man "has dominion over
the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air,_ and over
evei-v living thing that moveth upon the earth ; and also
that the whole of mankind forms one gi'cat family, precisely
according to the Scriptural assertion, that Lve was the

"" Th?miOTatiou"ol' the human race, or their progress from
one part of the world to another, is a question of consideralik
difficulty. Many parts of the earth, such as islands, coula
not be reached without some artificial means to enable men
to cross the water. This implies some degiH^e of "^I'^^^^re
as boats or rafts are the result of much thought and some
skill. The question is yet to be answered, lickering has
published a map containing the probable route ot mankind
fhrough the earth. He appeai-s to think that the o* mooted
problem of the population of America is not very difficult of
LTution, a. the Aleutian Isles form a cha m of -V^t. .^^J
traversed by the skin-covered canoes which are still in use
among those islands.*

* Pickering's Races of Man. Hall's Edition, p. 298.

10

NATURAL niSTORT.

All nations which have preserved traditions of past events
agr:!c in many points in a very remarkable manner. All have
some traditions of a creation, not always of a world, hnt of
that particular part in which they reside. The Fiji islanders
believe that one of their gods fished up Fiji from the bottom
of the sea, by entangling his fish-hook in a rock, and that the
island would have been higher had not the line broken. The
fish-hook is still preserved as a proof, but they do not state
where the god stood while fishing. A traveller asked one of
the priests why the hook, an ordinary tortoishell one, did not
break 1 " Oh ! it was a god's hook and could not break."
But why then tUd the line break? Whereupon the man,
according to the prevailing system of argument in those
countries, and perhaps in a few others, threatened to knock
him down if he abused the gods any more. Most nations
have dim notions of a deluge which overwhelmed the whole
world, and from which only a few individuals escaped, by
whom the earth was repeopled. Nearly all believe in a
good and an evil power continually at warfare, and that the
good will finally subdue the evil. Many savage nations, in
consequence, seek to propitiate the evil power with prayei-s and
offerings, feeling sure that the good one will not injiu-e them.

All nations, (except one or two, such as the abject Bosjes-
man, who can form no idea of what he cannot see, and whose
answer when told of a God, is " Iict me see him,") believe in a
future state. Their belief is invariably modified according to
their habits. Some of the debased diu-k raros believe that
after death they become white men and have plenty of
money ; the Mahometan considers his paradise as an abode
of everlasting sensual indulgence ; the savage believes that
when he leaves this world he will pass to boundless hunting-
fields, where shall be no want of game, and where his arrows
shall never miss their aim ; the Christian knows his heaven
to be a place of unsi)eakable and everlasting happiness, where
the power of sin shall have ceased for ever.

The mind of man is much influenced by outward objects
and the society by which it is sun-oimded. If a man be con-
fined to one spot, or within certain bounds, his mind becomes
feeble in proportion to the isolation. The rustic, whose ideas
never wander from the fann on which he works., and whose

HC?"

NATURAL HISTORY.

11

ions of past events
manner. All have
of a world, bnt of
The Fiji islanders
ji from the bottom
rock, and that tho
line broken. The
they do not state
'eller asked one of
oishell one, did not
could not break."
lereupon the man,
vrgiiment in those
ireatened to knock
ore. Most nations
whelmed the whole
'idiials escaped, by
ly all believe in a
rfare, and that the
savage nations, in
,'er with pray era and
1 not injure them.
i the abject Bosjes-
nnot see, and whose
3 him,") believe in a
odified according to
I raros believe that
nd have i)lenty of
iradise as an abode
iuvage believes that
boundless hunting-
rid where his aiTows
1 knows his heaven
ng happiness, where
r.

by outward objects
L If a man be con-
is, his mind becomes
e rustic, whose ideas
le works., and whose

travels are circumscribed by his native village or at most
bj a casual visit to the nearest mai-ket town, exlnbjts a nund
^4ich has received a certain set of ideas, false .is ^^ell as luc
and which refuses aUke to admit new notions or to give up

any of the old. . xi ■ i *u„f on

So great is the inauence of society on the mind, that an
experienced clergyman, while examining some f ^"^^^ J_\t^;« ^^^
Confirmation, observed that the Oxford ^'l^'ldr^'} ,^'\^:"
vears in advance of those of the same age who had been bied
in the country. So with music, a town child is accustomed
; tar street music, and readily catches the air, -hilo he
country child, whose notions of music ai-e conhned o the
dismal hosannas and lugubrious psalmody of the village
church, is usually devoid of musical ear, but is gi-eat in imita-
tion of rooks, cows, pigs, and donkeys.

The most perfect case of isolation known, was that of e
^lebrated Kaspa^ Hauser, who had been confined for the
fii-st fourteen or fifteen years of his ife m a f 'kj^^;' ^'^^^
wa. never permitted even to see his keeper. /« ^l^^^*^'
when he at length left his dungeon, his m.iul was that of an
nfout, his body that of a man. It would have been a mos
u eistkig and important experiment to watch the gradual
fvrpment of his mind, but, unfortunately for science, an
TkiZr dagger reached his heart, and this mj-s enous
victirof a hitlen plot perished, k.vM^
unsolved and the development of his intellect unhnished
TMs fm-nishes us •..•ith another distinction between man and
beasts. When the mind of Hauser was released fiom its
bands, it at once began to expand, aiid every day gave it
fj^sh powers. Not so with the ape, whose brain is rapidly
developed when young, and receives no further mcrease as it
grows in stature.

BKOLL OF MAN.

12

NATURAL HISTORY.

FamUy II. Simiadoe.— (Lat. Simla, an ape— Ape kind.)
Troqlodytes.— (Gr. rpdyXv, a lio^f i '"'"i to creep.)

Niger (Lat. black), the Chimpansee.

The section Quadnimana includes the apes, bahoons, and
monkeys. The name of Quadruman;! is given to these animals
because, in addition to two hands like those of man, their feet
are also formed like hands, and are capable of gi-asping the
branches among which most monkeys pass their lives.

Apes are placed at the head of the Quadrumana because
their instinct is mostly superior to that of the baboons and
monkeys, of whom the former are usually sullen and ferocious,
and the latter volatile and mischievous.

The Chimpansee and the Orang-outan have been con-
founded together by the older natiu-alists, whose error has
been repeated even to the present time. That they are really

disi
pro
tol(
]
anc
fur
drl
pri
mu
isi
grc

int

an(
fev

th
th

Pt

hi
in
fe
m
tl
le
w
w
T

e — Ape kind.)
w, to creep.)

NATURAL UlSTOItY.

13

apes, baboons, and
ren to these animals
ie of man, their feet
,ble of gi-asping the
s their lives,
uadrumana because
)f the baboons and
sullen and ferocious,

in have been con-
hs, whose error has
That they are really

distinct animals a glance at the skull of each will at once
prove. The Chimpansee is a native of Western Africa, and is
tolerably common on the banks of the Gambia and in Congo.

Large bands of these formidable apes congregate together
and unite in repelling an invader, which they do with such
fury and courage that even the dreaded elephant and lion are
driven from their haunts by their united efforts. They livo
principally on the ground, and, as their name imports, spend
much of their time in caves or under rocks. Their height
is from four to five feet, but they are said not to reach this
growth until nine or ten years of age.

Several young chimpansees have been recently imported
into this country, and' have shown themselves veiy docile
and gentle ; but, had they lived, they would probably in a
few ycai-s have become fierce and obstinate, as apes almost
invariably are when they reach their full growth.

BTtULL 01' CUKJIANSKK.

SKULL OF OBANO.dUTAN.

THE OKANG-OUTAN.

The Orang-outan inhabits Borneo and Sumatra. In Borneo
there are certainly two species of orang, called by the native's
the Mias-kassar and the Mias-pappan. Some naturalists sup-
pose that the Sumatrau orang is also a distinct species.

This is the largest of all the apes, as it is said that onvngs
have been obtained from Borneo considerably above five feet
in height. Tlie strength of this animal is tremendous ; a
female snapped a strong spear asunder after having received
many severe wounds. Its arms are of extraorduuu-y length,
the hands reaching the ground when it stands erect. This
length of arm is admirably adapted for climbing trees, on
whfch it principally resides. Mr. Brooke, the Rajah of Sara-
wak, gives the following account of the orangs of Borneo.
There appears also to be a third species, the Mias-ivmbi : —

iijmifjjimBesmaima

14

NATUUAI. HISTORY.

" On the habits of the orangs, as far as I have been able to
observe them, I may remark that they arc as dull and as
slothfiU as am well be conceived, and on no occasion, \vhen
pursuing them, did they move so fast as to preclude my keep-
ing pace with them easily through a moderately clear forest;
and even when obstructions below (such as wadmg up to

simTa.

Satjrus (Gr. Sdrvpos, a satyr), the Ormyoutan.

the neck) allowed them to get away some distance, they were
sure to stop and allow us to come up. 1 never observed the
slightest attempt at defence ; and the wood, which sometimes
rattled about our eaiu was broken by their weight, and not
thrown, as some persons represent. If pushed to extremity,
however, the pappan could not be otherwise thai^rmidable;
and one unfortunate man, who with a party wlT trying to
catch one alive, lost two of his fingers, besides being severely
bitten on the face, whUst the animal finally beat ofl his pur-

I have V)ecn able to
are as dull aud as
a no occasion, when
) preclude my keep-
erately clear forest ;
;h as wading up to

Oramj-outaii.

le distance, they were
1 never observed the
ood, which sometimes
heir weight, and not
pushed to extremity,
•wise thaiviprmidable;
I party yW trying to
besides being severely
lally beat off his pur-

NATDRAL HISTOIIT.

15

Kucrs and csca{)cd. When they wish to catch an adtilt, they
cut down a circle of trees round the one on whicii he is seated,
and then fell that also, and close before he can recover him-
self, and endeavour to bind him.

" The rude hut which they are stated to build in the trees
would be more properly called a seat, or nest, for it has no
roof or cover of any sort. Tlie facility with which they form
this seat is curious ; and I had an opportunity of seeing a
wounded female weave the branches together, and seat her-
self in a minute. She afterwtu-ds received our fire without
moving, aud expired in her lofty abode, whence it cost us
much trouble to dislodge her.

" The pappan is justly named Satyrus, from the ugly face
and disgusting callosities. The adult male I killed was seated
lazily on a tree ; and when approached only took the trouble
to interpose the trunk between us, peeping at me and dodg-
ing as I dodged. I hit him on the wrist, and he was after-
wards dispatched. T send you his proportions, enormous
relative to his height; and until I came to actual measure-
ment my impression was that he was nearly six feet in
stature.

" The great difference between the kassar and the pappan
in size would prove at once the distinction of the two species;
the kassai- being a small slight animal, by no means for-
midable in his appearance, with hands and feet proportioned
to the body, and tliey do not approach the gigsuitic extremi-
ties of the pap])an either in size or power ; and, in short, a
moderately strong man would readily overpower one, when
he would not stand a shadow of a chance with the pappan."

When young the Orang-outan is very docile, and has been
taught to make its own bed, and to handle a cup and saucer,
or a spoon, with tolerable propriety. For the former occu-
pation it proved itself particiUarly apt, as it not only laid its
own bed-clothes smootli and comfortable, but exhibited much
ingenuity in stealing blankets from other beds, which it added
to its own. The young Orang in the collection of the Zoolo-
gical Soci^ evinced extreme hon-or at the sight of a small
tortoise, Sm, when the reptile was introduced into its den,
stood aghast in a most ludicrously ten-ified attitude, with its
eyes intently fixed on the frightful object.

IG

NATUHAL HISTORY.

Htlobates.— (Or. uAt), a wood; daivu, to traverse.)

AgTlis (Lat. «e/iic), the Afjik Gibbon, or Oungha.

The Agile Gibhon is a native of Sumatra. It derives its
name of Agile, from the wonderful activity it displays in
lauucliinf,' itself through the air from branch to branch.
One of these creatures that was exhibited in London some
time since, sprang with the greatest ease through distances of
twelve and eighteen feet; and when apples or nuts were
thrown to her while in the air, she would catch theia without
discontinuing her course. She kept up a succession of
springs, hardly touching the branches in her progress, con-
tinually uttering a musical but almost deafening cry. She
was veiy tame and gentle, and would permit herself to bo
touched or caressed. The height of the Gibbon is about three
feet, and the reach of the extended arms abom six feet.
The young Gibbon is usually of a paler colour than its parent.
There arc several species of Gibbon, amongst which some

to traverse.)

or Ouiitjl-a.

itra. It derives its
ivity it displays in

branch to branch.
;d in London some
through distances of
pples or nuts were

catch theiii without
up a succession of
n her progress, con-
deafening cry. She
jcrmit herself to be
iibbou is about three
irms aboflt si.K feet,
olour than its parent,
unongst which some

NATURAL niSTOllY.

17

naturalists include the Sianiang, a monkey chiefly celebrated
for the pains it takes to wash tlio faces of its young, a duty
which it conscientiously jierforms in spite of the struggles and
screams of its aggrieved offsjiring.

J'liESDYTES.— (Qr. irpcarBirn!, nn old man.)

LarvatuH (Lat. mask-ed) Kahau, or Proboacia Monkey.

The Kahau is a native of Borneo. It derives its name
from the cry it utters, which is a repetition of the word
" Kahau." It is remarkable for the extraordinary size and
shape of its nose, and the natives relate that while leaping
it holds that organ vnWx its paws, a})pai'ently to guard it
against the branches. The length of its head and body is
two feet.

18

NATURAL HI8T0KY.

!li

Entellus (Lat. A proper name), the Entellus Monkey.

The Entellus, or Hoonuman, is a native of India. It is
astonishingly active in the capture of serpents. It steals
upon the snake when asleep, seizes it by the neck, runs to
the nearest stone, and deliberately grinds down the reptile's
head until the poisonous fangs are destroyed, frequently in-
specting its work and grinning at the impotent struggles of
the tortured reptile. When the snake is rendered harmless
the monkey casts it to its young, who, after tossing about and
exulting over their fallen enemy for some time, finally destroy
it. The length of its head and body is about two feet two
inches.

Seven genera are omitted on account of want of space.

•lis

ioci

exl
bej
goi

I

tri
rer
Its
sea
noi
hii
bri
vU
isi
of
exi

SCA

.H&lKlkBAk>

itcllus MmJeey.

itive of India. It is
serpents. It steals
)y the neck, runs to
ds down the reptile's
royed, frequently in-
mpotent struggles of
is rendered harmless
'ter tossing about and
e time, finally destroy
is about two feet two

of want of space.

NATURAL HISTORY.

19

CtxocbphXhjs— (Or. kvuh, a dog; Ht>t>a\v, a \H'M^.)

Mormou (dv. Mopudv, a bugie), the Mandriil.

We now arrive at the Baboons. This tribe is principally
listinguished from the apes by their short and insignificant
looking tails. The baboons are the only mammalia which
exhibir brilliant colours ; on these, however, nature has
bestowed vivid tints hardly to be surpassed even by the
gorgeous plumage of the tropical birds.

The Mandrill, which is the most conspicuous of the baboon
tribe, is a native of Guinea and western Africa. It is chiefly
remarkable for the vivid colours with which it is adorned.
Its checks are of a brilliant blue, its muzzle of a bright
scarlet, and a stripe of crimson runs along the centre of its
nose. These colours are set off by the purple hues of the
liinder quarters. It lives principally in forests filled with
brushwood, from which it makes incursions into the nearest ->s.
villages, plundering them with impunity. On this account it |
is much dreaded by the natives, who feel themselves incapable
of resisting its attacks. It is excessively ferocious, and easily
excited to anger; indeed, Cuvier relates that he has seen
several of these animals expire from the violence of their fury.

i

INMNI

no

NATURAL H'.STOnY.

The greenish brown colour of the hair is caused by alteraatc
JiaiidH of yellow and Mack, which exist on each hair. The
l)rilliant colours referred to above belong to the skin, and fade
after death, or when the animal is not in perfect health.

Family III. «Cobtd«B.— (Or. iffl/Sj», a monkoy. Monkoy kind.)
AreLKS.— (Or. irtK^t, imperfect )

Pftni«cu8 (Or. XlvwiaKos, dim. of nay, a little Pan), the Voaita Spider

Monkey.

The Amkuican Monkeys, or Cebidre, are found exclusively
in South America, and are never seen north of Panama. Their
tails are invariably long, and in some genera, prehcnsdo.

The Coaita is one of the Spider Monkeys, so called from
their long slender limbs, and their method of progressnig
amoncr the branches. ' Tlic tail seems to answer the purpose
of a fifth hand, as it is capable of being used for every purpose
to which the baud could be applied; indeed, the Spider

* Pionounce Kebida.

Mo!
whc
use
rou

HUH]

imji

the

sent

thei

pur

sho

rem

or

war

the
liai

caused by ivltcnintc
on each hair. Tlic
to the Hkiji, and fiulc
perfect health.

ey. Monkey kind. »
eet )

■,v

Pan), the Coaita Spider

arc fo\ind exclusively
th of Panama. Their
nera, prehensile,
iikcys, 80 called from
ethod of progressing
0 answer the puqiose
ised for every purpose
J indeed, the Spider

NATUKAL IIIBTOBT.

21

Monkeys nro said to use this member for linoking nut objects
where a hand conld not bo inserted. The tail is of considerable
u.se in climbing among the branclu^s of trees ; they coil it
round the boughs to lower or raise them.selvcs, and often will
suspend themselves entirely by it, and then by a powcrftil
impetus swing off to some distant branch. The habits of all
the Spider Monkeys are very similar. They are extremely
sensitive to cold, and when chilly are in the habit of wrapping
their tail about them, so that this useful organ answers the
jmrposo of a boa as well as a hand. They will also, when
shot, fasten their tail so firndy on the branches, that they
remain suspendeil after death. The genus is called Ateles,
or imperfect, because in most of the species the thund) is
wanting. The Coaita inhabits Surinam and Uninea.
Several genera are omitted.

MtcEth3.— (Or. nvKrirris, a howler.)

Uwlmis ^Lat. Trsa, a bear— Bearhkej, the Ursine Uowkr.

Tlio Howling Monkeys are larger and more clumsy than
tlic Spider Monkeys, and are chiefly remarkable fcr the pecu-
liarity from w^hich they derive their name. These animals

22

NATURAL HISTORY.

possess an enlargement in the throat, which renders their cry
exceedingly loud and mournful. They howl in concert, prm-
cipally at the rising and setting of the «un ; one monkey
begins the cry, which is gradually taken up by the rest,
precisely as may be observed in a colony of rooks. I hey are
in great request among the natives as articles of food, tlieir
slow habits rendering them an easy prey.

The Ursine Howler, or Araguato, is common in Brazil,
where forty or fifty have been observed on one tree. They
generally travel in files, an old monkey taking the lead, and
the others following in due order. They feed principally on
leaves and fruit ; the tail is prehensile like that of tlie bpider
Monkeys.

The genus Cebus is omitted.

ine
off
pri
de

CallIthbix —(Or. koAo's, beautiful ; flpi'C, balr.)

fiil

,^v^, ^Si^^^^-

Torquatus (Lat. torquii, a necklace-Collared), the Collared Tee Tee.

The beautiful little animals here represented belong to the
Squirrel Monkeys, so called on account of their large bushy

f Riils

The Collared Tee Tee, or White-throated Squirrel Monkey,
is found to the east of the Orinoco. It lives on small birds,

03
0(

h^
ei
ci
n
b
1(

ch renders their cry
Dwl ill concert, prin-
! sun ; one monkey
en up by the rest,
of rooks. They are
rticles of food, their

common in Brazil,

on one tree. They

;aking the lead, and

y feed principally on

ke that of the Spider

; flpi'j, Iwir.)

d), the Collared Tee Tee.

resented belong to the
t of their large bushy

oated Squirrel Monkey,
it lives on small birds,

NATURAL HISTORY.

23

insects, and fruits. Its habits are, apparently, mild and in-
offensive, but its acts belie its looks, for when a small bird is
presented to it, it springs upon its prey like a cat and speedily
devours it.

Jauchus. — (Gr. 'Iokx"'. Bacchus.)

Vulgaris (Lat. cotiimon), the Marmoset.

IS

The Marmoset is a most interesting little creature. It
exceedingly sensitive to cold, and when in England is usually
occupied in nestling among the materials for its bed, which it
heaps up in one corner, and out of which it seldom emerges
entirely. It will eat almost any article of food, but is espe-
cially fond of insects, which it dispatches in a very adroit
manner.* Its fondness for insects is carried so fax-, that it has
been known to pinch out the figures of beetles in an entomo-
logical work, and swallow them.

Several genera are omitted between Collithrix and Jacchus.

» The beautiful little marmoset in tbe Zoological Gardens ate a great number of
Hies which I caught and presented to it. Ite little eyes sparkled with eagerness earn
time that it saw my hand moving towards a fly settled out of its reach.

iHH

m

2i NATURAL HISTORY.

Family IV. Lemurldtc.— (Lat. lemnres, ghoBta— Ghostlike.)

LEMUR.

Macaco, the Ruffled Lemm:

The Lemurs derive their name from their nocturnal
habits, and their noiseless movements. The Ruffled Lemur is a

LOUIS.

native of Madagascar. It lives in the depths of the forests,
and only moves by night, the entire day being spent in sleep.

It!

it
L(

111
ni
th

fo
m
hi

th

se

mr

sts— Ghostlike.)

n their nocturnal
J Ruffled Lemur is a

fes:?^

r Loris.

pths of the forests,
)eing spent in sleep.

NATURAL HISTORY.

25

Its food consists of fruits, insects, and small birds, which latter
it takes while they are sleeping. This is the largest of the
Lemurs, being rather larger than a cat.

The Si.ENDKU LoRis* is a native of India, Ceylon, Ac. It,
like the Lemur, seldom moves by day, but prowls about at
night in search of food. No sooner does it espy a sleeping bird,
than it slowly advances until within roach ; then putting
forward its paw with a motion slow and imperceptible as the
movement of the shadow on the dial, it gradually places its
fingers over the devoted bird ; then, with a movement swifter
than the eye can follow, it seizes its startled prey.

Two genera are omitted between Lemur and Loris, and
several more between Loris and the Vespertilionidto.

Family V. . . VespertilionldiC.— (Lat. wspertilio, a bat. Bat kind.)
Sub-fomily a. Phi/llostomlna.— {Or. <pi\\ov, a leaf ; ctto^o, a mouth.)
Vampikus {"mid bi/ Adelun;/ to be of Servian oi-i</iii.")

Spectrum (Lat. a s}>ectre), the Vampire Bat.

We now an-ivc at the Bats, or Cheiroptera. This name is
derived from the singidar manner in which their fore-paws, or

• See preceding page.

20

NATURAL HI8T011Y.

hands, .irc developed into wings. If the fingers of a man
were to be drawn out like wire to about four feet in length, a
thin membrane to extend from finger to finger, and another
membrane to fall from the little finger to the ancles, he would
make a very tolerable Bat.

The usual food of Bats is insects, which they mostly capture
on the wing, but some, as the Vampires, suck blood from
other animals, and a few, as the Kalongo, or Flying Fox, live
upon fruits, and so devour the mangoes, that the natives are
forced to cover them with bamboo baskets to preserve them
from the ravages of these animals, who would soon strip the
fruit-trees without these precautions. Even the cocoa imt is
not secure from their depredations.

The membrane of the Bat's wing is plentifully supplied
with nerves, and is extremely sensitive, almost appearing to
supply a sense independent of sight. Spallanzani cruelly
deprived several Bats of their eyes, and then let them fly loose
in his room, across which he had stretched strings in various
places. The unfortunate Bats, however, did not strike against
the strings or any other obstacles, but threaded their way
among them with a degree of accuracy perfectly wonderful.
Many Bats possess a similar membrane on the nose; which is
apparently used for the same purpose.

There are five tribes, or sub-families, of Bats, according to
Gray, each tribe including many genera. The Britisli Museum
possesses seventy-seven genera.

The Vampire Bat is a native of South America, where it is
very common, and held in some dread. It lives on the blood
of animals, and sucks usually while its victim sleeps. The
extremities where the blood flows freely, as the toe of a man,
the ears of a horse, or the combs and wattles of fowls, are its
favourite spots. When it has selected a siibject, on which it
intends to feed, it watches until the animal is fairiy asleep.
It then Ciirefully fans its victim with its wings while it bites
a little hole in the ear or shoulder, and through this small
aperture, into which a pin's head would scai-cely pass, it con-
trives to abstract sufficient blood to make a very ample meal.
The wound is so small, and the Bat manages so adroitly, tha,t
the victim does not discover that anything has happened until
tlie morning, when a pool of blood betrays the visit of the

fingers of a man
ar feet in length, a
nger, and another
tie ancles, he would

ley mostly capture
,, suck blood from
)r Flying Fox, live
lat the natives are
to preserve them
uld soon strip the
sn the cocoa nut is

ilentifully supplied
most appearing to
spallanzani cruelly
n let them fly loose
1 strings in various
d not strike against
threaded their way
)erfectly wonderful.
I the nose) which is

' Bats, according to
?be British Museum

America, where it is
t lives on the blood
/ictim sleeps. The
s the toe of a man,
ties of fowls, are its
subject, on which it
nal is fairly asleep.
R'ings while it bites

through this small
icai'cely pass, it con-

a very ample meal.
iges so adroitly, that
T has happened until
ays the visit of the

NATURAL HISTORY.

27

Vampire. Darwin relates, that while travelling in Chili,
" We were bivouacking late one evening near Coquimbo, when
my servant, noticing that one of the horses was very restive,
went to see what Wius the matter, and fancying he could dis-
tinguish something, sudtlcnly put his hand on the beasts
withers, and secured a Vampire. In the mornuig, the spot
where the bite had been inflicted was easily distinguished, from
being slightly swollen and bloody." This Bat is placed among
the Phyllostomina, because the membrane on its nose re-
sembles a leaf. The length of its body is about six inches.

SKOLL OF BAT.

HAIR OF BAT.

THE LOIfG-EARED BAT.

The LoNG-KARED Bat is found in most parts of Europe, and
is common in England. It may be seen any warm evening
flying about in search of insects, and uttering its peculiar
shrill cry. It is very common on Hampstead Heath. The
ears are about an inch and a half in length, and have a fold
in them reaching almost to the lips, from which jicculiarity
the genus is called Plecotus. These Bats are very caaily
tamed, and will take flies and other insects from the hand.
One that I had in my own possession used to hang by the
wing-hooks during the whole of the day, and could hardly be
persuaded to move, or even to eat ; but when the evening
came on it became veiy brisk indeed, and after carefully
combing itself with its hind feet, it would eageriy seize a fly
or beetle and devour it, always rejecting the head, legs, and
wings. It was then very impatient to be released from the
cage, and would show its uneasiness by climbing about the
cage and fluttering its wings. It unfortunately died before
further investigations could be made, but during the short

' Magnified about 200 diameters.

MMH

28 NATURAL n:3T0RY.

time that it survived, it seemed very gentle, and only bit mc
unee, altliongh I used frequently to handle it.

Subfamily c. Vespertilioiiina.
\'l. _v.TU3.-(Gr. TlKiKo), I foia ; oZt. au ear.)

Auritus (Lat. anvin, an ear— Eared), t/w. Lunyciircd Bui.

m.

Order II. . . . FER^E.—il^^i. ferus, wild. Wild beafits.)
Family I. . . . FoUdaj.— (Lat. felu, a cat. Cat kind.)
Sub-family a. Felina,

The former sections have been characterised by the number
and properties of the hands. In the section tliat we are abont
to consider, the hands have been modified into feet. At the
head of the quadrupeds, or four-footed animals, are placed the
carnivora, or flesh-eaters, and at the head of the carnivora, the
Felida), or Cat kind are placed, as being the most perfect and
beautiful in that section. The Felidte all take their prey by
creeping as near as they can without observation, and then
springing upon their mifortunate victim, which seldom suc-
ceeds^in making its escape, as the powerful claws and teeth of
its enemy usually dash it insensible to the ground. The jaws
and teeth of tho'Telida) are very different from those of the
animals already described; their jaws are more powerful, and

, and only bit mc
it.

an ear.)

ony-eured Bat.

Wild beasts.)
at kind.)

3ed by the number
1 tliat we are about

into feet. At the
nals, are placed the
f the caruivora, the
le most perfect and

take their prey by
lervation, and then
which seldom siic-
l claws and teeth of

ground. The jaws

from those of the
more powerful, and

NATURAL HISTORY.

20

their teeth longer and sharper. Their claws, too, are neces-
sarily very long and sharj), and to prevent them from benig
injured by coming into contact with the ground, they are con-
cealed, when not in use, in a slieath, wliich ott'ectnally guards
them and keeps them sharp. The tongne of the Felidie is very
rough, as may be jn-ovcd by feeling tlio tongue of a cat. This
n)ughness is occasioned by inniunorable little ho(jks winch
cover the tongue, and all point backwards. These arc used
for the i)urpose of licking tlie flesh off the bones of their prey.
The bristles of the mouth, or wliiskers, are each com ted
with a large nerve, and are exceedingly useful in indicating
an obstacle when the animal prowls by night. Tlieir eyes are
adapted for nocturnal vision by the dilating power of the pupil,
which expands so as to take in every i-ay of light.

THE LION.

The Lion stands at the head of the wild beasts. His noble
iuid diffnified bearing, the terrific power compressed into his
comparatively small frame, and the deep majesty of his voice,
have gaineil for him the name of "king of beasts." Tlie Lion
inhabits Africa and certain parts of Asia, such as portions ot
Arabia and Persia, and some parts of India. It vanes m
appeai-ance according to the locality, but there is little doubt
that there is but one species. We are indebted to Mr. Cummings
for many interesting notices of this noble animal, observed
dm-ing his residence in Southern Africa, and from his book
manv extracts will bo given in the coui-so of this work, as by
his cool and daring courage he has been enabled to watch tlie
liabits and actions of the most ferocious beasts in the depths
of their own haunts. , . , , ^

The Lion is barely four feet high, and eight in lengtli, yet
he can, with little difficulty, dash the girafte to the eartn, or
overcome the powerful buffalo. He hius been known to cairy
off a heifer in his mouth, and although encumbered with such
a burden, to leap a broad dyke, apparently with the greatest
ease. No animal willingly molests the Lion, and there are
but very few which he cannot overcome. Tlie rhinoceros and
elephant are almost the only quadrupeds he dare not meddle

m.

NATURAL HISTORY.

with, but he does not seem to stand in much fear of them.
Gnoos, zebras, and antelopes, seem to be his favourite prey,
Klthough one of the antelopes, the oryx, or gemsbok, not

Leo.— il.nt. a Llov.)

■ ■if
if

DiirljaiuH {Lat. Jkrct), th

unfrequently avenges its own death by the destruction of its
pursuer, its long straight horns impaling the Lion from side
to side. The two skeletons have been seen lying together
The roar of the Lion is one of its chief peculiarities ; the best
<lescriptiou of it is in Cumming's Adventures :—

» One of the most striking things connected with the Lion
is his voice, which is extremely grand and peculiarly striking.
It consists, at times, of a low, deep moaning, repeated five or
six times, ending in faintly audible sighs ; at other times he
startles the forest with loud, deep-toned, solemn roars, repeated
five or six times in quick succession, each increasing m loud-
ness to the third or fourth, when his voice dies away m five
or six low, muffled sounds, very much resembling distant
tliundeft At times, and not unfrequently, a troop may be
heard roaring in concert, one assuming the lead, and two.

thi
sin

nu
tlu
In
hei

a 1
an
sul

en
wl
Tl
th
in
lio
mi
fei
foi
ad
n)(
wl

sp
br
its
pi
pc

of
m

th
m
ti;

St

at

NATURAL niSTonV.

31

ch fear of them,
i favourite prey,
)r gcmsbok, not

destruction of its
»e Lion from side
jn lying together,
diavities ; the beat
es : —

ited with the Lion
)eculiarly striking,
g, repeated five or
at other times he
inin roai-8, repeated
ncreasing in loud-
1 dies away in five
•eserabling distant
y, a troop may be
,he lead, and two,

three, or fonr more regiUarly taking up their parts like persons
singing a eatch."

" As a gcuenvl rule lions roar during the night, their sighing
moans commencing as the shades of evening envelope the
the forest, and continuing at intervals throughout the night.
In distant and secluded regions, however, I have constantly
heard them roaring loudly as late as nine and ten o'clock on
a bright sunny morning. In hazy and rainy weather they
ai'e to be heard at every hour in the day, but their roar is
subdued."

The opinion that lions will not touch a dead animal is
erroneous ; as they were frecjuently shot by Mr. Cumming's
while devouring gnoos, &c. that had fallen by his rifle.
Those lions wlio have once tasted human ilesh are generally
the most to bo dreaded, as they will even venture to spring
in among a company of men, and seize their victim. These
lions are called Man-eaters. During the latter part of Cum-
ming's residence in South Africa a dreadful instance of their
ferocity occuiTcd. — While the hunting party was encamped
for the night in the territory of the Balakahuri, a lion, taking
advantage of the stormy night, suddenly sprang upon two
men, Hendrick, the driver, and Kuytcr, the Bosjesman tracker,
who were wrapjiod in the same blanket, by the fire. It seized
Heuch-ick by the neck, and dragged him into the bushoH. in
spite of the blows which another man gave it with a burning
brand, leaving Ruyter unhurt except by a few scmtches with
its claws. Next morning it was shot by Mr. Gumming, who
placed its skin in his magnificent collection, where Kuyter
points it out with great glee.

The Lioness is much smaller than the Lion, and is destitute
of the magnificent mane which is so great an ornament to her
mate. As a general rule she is more fierce and active than
the male, especially before she has had cubs, or while she is
suckling them. She has usually from two to four cubs at a
time. They are beautiful playful little things, and are slightly
striped. They have no mane until about two years old.*
While her cubs are small the Lioness knows no fear, and will
attack a company of men or a herd of oxen if they come too

* Some years since, one of the keepers at Wonibwell's placed a pair of lion cubs in
iny anus. Xliey were ratlier larger than cats, anil almost unpleasantly playful.

32

NATURAL niSTOUY.

near her den. Her mate also ably Hoconds her endeavours,
and luiH liocn known to keep tlie hunten^ tit bayuntd she lias
wiilidruwn her cnhs to a place of safety, after wlneh he bounds
off in the direction which she has takiii.

The Lion when young is easily tamed, and shows a stroiif;
attnehment to its koeiwi . Those who have seen Van Amburgi.
will know Nsliat intluence nian may obtain over this powtifu
creature. Many aneedotcs have been told of the celebrated
lion "Nero" who would suffer even strangers to caress
him. and carry children on )us back with the greatest good-
nature. . , , . « , f. „

Many naturalists, of whom lluffon is the chief, have fallen
into eiTors concerning the contradictory dispositions of the
lion and tiger. " The lion unites wilii a high degree ot
fierceness, courage, and strength, the more admirable (,uahties
of noblc..es.s, clemency, and nuignanimity. Walking with a
gentle stei), he does not deign to attack man unless provokec
to the combat. He neither quickens his step nor flies, and
never pursues the inferior animals except when urged by
hunger," while the tiger " presents a compound of meanness
and ferocity ; he seems always thirsty for blood," &c. &c. JSow
nothing can be more erroneous than these sentences. I lie
tiger is as tameable as the lion, the tiger and lion seize their
prey with equal ferocity, and neither will attack a man or any
other animal when satisfied with food. „ , ,. ,

There is a small hook or daw at the extremity of tne lion s
tail which has been represented as the means by which the
animal lashes itself into fury, using it as a spur. This is im-
possible, as the claw or prickle is very small, not fixed to t u;
bone as the claws of the feet are, but merely attached to tlie
skin, and falls off if roughly handled. It is not present in all
lions, as Mr. Wood only discovered it once out of numerous
specimens which he examined.*

• In the Nineveh Sculptures this claw is very strongly inarkeU.

J hor endeavours,
bay until she h.m
• which he bounds

id shows a Httona
[•en Van Ambvirgh
)ver tliis powerful
of the celebrated
rangers to caress
the greatest good-

! chief, have fallen
lispoaitions of tin
a high degree of
idmirablc ((ualities
Walking with a
m unless provoked
step nor flies, and
)t when luged by
lound of meanness
sod," &c. ifec. Now
ne sentences. The
find lion seize their
ttxick a man or any

■emity of the lion s
cans by which the
spur. This is im-
dl, not fixed to the
ely attached to the
is not present in all
;e out of numcro<is

itrongly marked.

XATUHAL HISTORY.

Tjohis.— ( Lnt. II Tic/tr.)

38

Regulis (Lnt. »•'»/,(/), i/u T!;/fi:

This mairnificent animal is found onlv in Asia, Hindostan
being the piirt most infested by it. In size it is almost eriual
to the lion, its height being ♦V,.m three to four feet, and its
length rather more than eight feet, it has no mane, but to
compensate for this deficiency it is decoi-.ited with black
.stripes, upon a ground of red(li»,h yellow fur, which liecomes
almcst white on the under parts of the bodv. The chase of
tile TiGKU is among the most exciting nnd favourite sports in
India. A numlier of huntera aK.somble, mounted on el«phants
tmined to the sport, and carry with them a supply of loaded
rifles in their howdahs, or carriages mounted on the elephantV
backs, j'lms armed, they proceed to tlie spot where a tiger
has been seen. The animal is usually foii id hidden in the long
gras.s or .jungle, wliich is frequently eight or more feet in
height, and when roused, it endeavours to creep away under

34

NATUBAI. nWTOUY.

the LmisH Tho movement of the leaves betrays h.m, and he
oCa l,y a rifle ball ai.ne.l at him thru.iKli the jungle.
lin<i « hat\e eanu..t cseape without being seen, ho turns
oS a" I'viugH at the nearest elephant en.leavuunng to
amber up it. ami attack the party in the how.luh. This s
hTml Lgorous part of the proeeeaings as mju^y e gun s
will turn r-.und and nui away, regardless of the eHorts ot
Ue r dnve s to make them faee the tiger. Should, howeve
h^ele h.mt .tand firm, a well-direeted ball eheeks the jr
n his spring, and he then endeavou,-s agiun t<. oseape but a
vol ey. rifle balls from the baeks of the oth.r elephants j^^ho
bv this time have come up, lays the savage u.nmal prostiate
and i, a very short tiu.S his skin decomtes the succej^h
marksman's howdah. These hunts are not aur.ed on w.thou
rijJSle danger, as in some cases the t.ge.-^h^-ed
in reaching tho howdah, and more than one hunte. U.is i.ten
kn wn to'overbalance bin.self in ^is -x.ety to got a sh^^^ .^
Lis tmrne and hfw fal' .1 into the very claws oi tlo cnraf^u
t u^ oL a wouuaed tiger sprang at a ^-f y !»--
elenhant who immediately turned round and made oft Tlu
t^er siicceeded in roivching the elephant's tail, which it
nfandrrSd uUy, but could climb no higher, partly on
Snfonts wou^lds, and partly throngli the e^^^^^^^^^^
•1 native who kept it back with a spear. I he tigtr i»"iV"
m^ay for theater part of a mile, when another hu te
S^^ccoeded in overtaking tho terrified elephant, and with a
s ngle bail freed the pom- animal from its tormentor

TLrei-sare usually tiiken by the natives in pitfalls, at the
bottorowh eh is planted a bamboo stake, the top ot which
tllrpenod into a point. Tho animal falls on the pomt and

'" Thototral notion that tigers cannot be tamed is erroneous
Thiy can be tamed as easily _.xs the lion ; ^ut great eauto^
LJt be used with all wild animals, as in a moment ot irrita-
S theirsavl^o nature breaks out, and the eonsequeiiees
wo moi^ Tan once proved fatal. The melancholy death o
t^e " iTon Queon," in Wombwell's Menagerie, is a recent

^Tt; bSi^ K- are three cubs bred between a lion
. vnda tigr^ . They are not unlike lion cubs, but the stripes
:;^ much darker, and tho colour of the fmr is brighter.

[
u
f<

a.

Ci

w
a:
n
ti

St

,gi

IK

rc
«

11:

UI
01
CC

If

trays him, and lu>
roii^'H tho juuglo.
ing Boon, ho turiw
, oiiilciivoiii'ing to

howdiih. This in
(iH many olovhuntH
3 uf tho otlorta of

Shonhl, however,
11 chocks the ti^'or
ill to escaiio, hut ii
ther olophants, who
B animal jirostnito,
ates the successhil
aivried on without
tiger has succeeded
lie hunter has lioen
L'ty to get a shot at
laws of tho enraged
it a hadly trainoil
md ni.ido o^'. The
.iit's tail, which it
) higher, partly on
gh tho exertions of

The tiger hung in
hen another hunter
cphant, and with a
tormentor.
» in pitfalls, at the
ic, the top of which
ills on the point and

B tamed is erroneous.
; but great caution
a moment of irrita-
id the conso(iuences
melancholy death of
magerio, is a recent

1 bred between a lion
cubs, V)nt tho stripes
;ur is brighter.

n.vtuha;- history. .'),'»

Leopabdus.— (Lot. <<o, a lion; pardm, u panther.)

¥.

ViiHus (L,". iiMleil), lie Ltojiurif, or Pdiilher.

Tiio LEoi'Ann is , i..: „oitant of Africa, India, and tho
Indian Islands. A o.ack variety inhabits Java, and is not
uncommon there. Its height is about two foot. This and tho
toJlowing Fehda) are accustomed to live much on trees, and
iu-e on that account called Tree-tigors by tho natives. Nothing
ovn be more beautifnl than the elegant and active manner in
which tho leopards sjjort among tho branches of the trees •
at one time they will bound from bmneli to branch with such
mpidity that the eye can soarcely follow them; then, as if
tired, they will suddenly stretch theiuselves along a braiicii
so iis to be hai-dly distinguishable from the bark, but start up
agiun on the slightest provocation, and again resume their
gi-aceful antics. It is easily tamed, and expresses great fond-
ness for Its keeper, and will i)lay with him like a cat. A
remarkably beautiful one in WombwellVs Meiia"erie was ox-
wodmgly fond of playing with tho tuft at the extremity of a
iioii s tad, and from the familiar manner in which he patted
and bit it, ho evidently considered it as manufactured for his
own particular onteitainraent. The Leopard and Panther are
considered aa the same animal, on the authority of Mr. Cray

3G

NATURAL HISTORY.

LEOPARDUS.

ilMll

M$M^.

< 11

Uncta (Lat nmm, an ounce), </«; Omct.

The Ounce =^ a native of India, and has been cftcn con-
founded with the Leopard. Its fm- is inuch more ^ough ban
that of the leopard, and the tail i8 almost '^"shy 'jspc, la Ij
l.iards the eltromity. Its body is marked with irregnlai
wavv stripes, and the head is adorned w,th black si^ts. T.ie
y;encral colour is a yellowish grey. ,, , , .,,^ hv

" T, ,s easy to distinguish the Ounce from the ^f "f^h^
the uidistinctiveness of the markmgs. and also by the rough-
ness of the fur, which latter distmction, m the opnnon ot
some naturahsts, shows that it lives in "^"^"t^^''^^^^^"^"
The hiibits and history of tliis annual are but little known.

P
h

o

li

a

a

o

i>

a

u

a

ii

<- It

bo

Junce.

s been often con-
\ more I'ough than
t bushy, especially
ked with iiregulai-
black si»ots. Tne

n the Leopard, by
also by the rough-
in the opinion of
ountainoiis regions,
but little known.

NATURAL HISTORY.

LEOPAUDUS.

37

Onca (Gr. OfKa, a proper name), the Jaguar.

The Jaguar inhabits America. It is larger and more
powerful than the leopard, which it resembles in colour, but
has a black streak across the chest, and a black spot in the
centre of the rosettes. It is fond of climbing trees, and finds
little diflficulty in ascending, even when the trunk is smoi >th
and destitute of branches. It chases monkeys successfully,
and is said to watch for turtles on the beach, and to scoop
out their flesh by tm-ning them on their backs and inserting
11;; paws between the shells. It often makes feai-ful havoc
among the sheep-folds, and is said to depart so far from the
usual habits of the Felidaj, as to enter the water after tish,
and to capture them in the shallow water. There have been
instances of the domestic cat acting in the same manner.

38

NATURAL H18T0RY.

LE0PAKDU8.

A-

/•y

Conc5lor (Lat. of the same colowr), the Pmui.

The Puma inhabits the whole of America, where it is held
in much dread by the natives. Its colour is an uni.orm
<vrev, fading into white on tlie under parts of its body , tins
similarity of colour is the reason that the name « concolor
lias been given to it. It lives much on trees, and usually lies
along the branches, where its uniform dusky fur renders it so
like the bark that it can scarcely be distinguished from the
branch. Tlus habit it preserves when m captivity, antt
many pei-sons pass its den in the r..ological Gardens fancy-
ing it empty, while the puma is lying along its shelf un-
observed. , . . , .l xV,„..

The Americans always speak of this animal as the panthei,
or "painter," as it is more familiarly pronounced; and niaiiy
authors still term it the " cougar," a word contracted trom
the original elongated unpronounceable Mexican name.

e Pmna.

;a, where it is held
)ur is an uniform
3 of its body , this
5 name "concolor"
!es, and usually lies
ty fur renders it so
nguished from the
in captivity, and
cal Gardens, fancy-
along its shelf un-

tnal as the panther,
lounced ; and many
rd contracted from
Mexican name.

NATURAL HISTORY.

LEO PA RHUS.

3!)

Parddlis (Or. irdpSaMs, a pard), the Ocelot.

The Ocelot, one of the Tiger-cats, is a native of Mexico
and Peru. Its height is about eighteen inches, and its length
about three feet. It is a most beautiful animal, and is easily
tamed. Wlien in a wild state it lives principally on monkeys,
which it takes by stratagcui.

THE CAT.

The domestic Cat was formerly supposed to be the same
animal as the wild Cat, but it is now proved to be a distinct
species, and the difference is seen at once by the form of the
tail. That of the domestic cat is long and taper, while that
of the wild cat is bushy and short. The cat is an animal
which, whether lying curled up on the hearth-rug fast asleep
and immersed in dreams of shadowy fat mice, or leisurely
pacing the room, and complacently muttering its self-satisfied
puiT as it brushes softly against the legs of the table or chair,
certainly succeeds in giving a great air of comfort to a room.
On this account it is a general favomite, especially in houses
where there are no children. Pussy, however, is not only
ornamentid, but useful also, as she is eager and successful in

40

NATURAL UISTOHY.

the pursuit of rats and niicc. So strou<>', indeed, is the passion
for hunting in the brcixst of the Cat, that she sometimes dis-
dains mice " and sucli small deer," and trespixsses on waixens
or preserves. A lar^'e ttibby cat, residing at no great distance
from White Horse Vale, was accustomed to go out |)oaching
in the preserves of a neighbouring nobleman, and so expert
was she at this illegal sport tlmt she constantly returned
bearing in her mouth a leveret or a partridge, which she in-
sisted on pi-csenting to her mistress, who in vain endeavoured
to check her marauding propensities. These exploits, how-
ever, brought their own punishment ; for one diiy, when iu the

FELIS.

''(^'f

"■ >*

Doruestlca (Lat. domestic), the Cat.

act of seizing a leveret, she found herself caught in a vermin
trap, which deprived her of one of her hind legs. This mis-
fortune did not damp her enthusiasm for hunting, as although
the loss of a leg prevented her from chasing hares, kc, she
would still bring in an occasional rat.

This instinctive desire of hunting seems to be implanted in
cats at a very early age. I have seen kittens but just able to
see, bristle up at the touch of a mouse, and gi'owl in a ten-ific
manner if disturbed. Weissenboni iu his Magazine of Naturnl
History gives the following interesting account of the propen-
sity of the cat to hunt, and of the mice to escape, both being

at
he

is

St:
sh
R
sii
at
ar
til
in
e.i
tl:
bi
m
n(
di
n(
tr
vi
it

SI

oi
fc

1>'
w

bi

ui

Ol

ti

C(

w

d

ai
k
n
ai
k

leed, is tho piission
she sometimes dis-
jpiisses on warrens
j no great distance
0 go out poaeliing
lan, and so expert
justixutly returned
dge, which she in-
vain endeavoured
lesc exploits, how-
le divy, when in the

Cat.

caught in a vermin
id legs. This mis-
unting, as although
sing hares, &c., she

, to he implanted in
ens but just able to
i gi'owl in a temfie
(lagazine of Natural
onnt of the propen-
) escape, both being

NATURAL IIISTORTt.

41

at an age rendering it imnow'^il'le that any instriiction could
have been given them by tlieir parents.

" That instinct is an inherent or innate (juulity of animals
is clearly proved bv experience. The cat possesses the in-
stinct of catching a.id eating mice, and the mouse that of
shunning the oat as its most dangerous enemy. Once, in
Rome, I happened to open a dmwer which I seldom had occa-
sion to use, when I sa\f a mouse jumping out nf it, and found
among the pajicrs a nes;; with five young mice, naked and lilind,
and of a pale flesh-colour. I placed them on a table, handled
them, &c., and they evinced no symptoms of fright, ucjr any
inclination to get away, but only appeared eager to apiiroaeh
each other for the sake c f warmth. There happened to be in
tlie house a very young cat who had never tasted anything
but milk. I placed it njar the little mice by way of experi-
ment, but to my astonishment it did not even look at them,
nor perceive them, even when I turned its eyes in the proper
direction, until at last, wh.'u I had repeatedly approached its
nose to the mice, it suddenly caught a scent which made it
tremble with desire. The propensity became more and mt)re
violent, and the cat smelled at the mice, touching them with
its nose, when all at once the pide-coloured creatures became
suffused with blood, and began to make gi-eat exertions to get
out of the vmy of imminent danger, whilst the cat as eagerly
followed them."

Tho Cat displays a gi'eat affection for her kittens, and her
pride when they first run about is quite amusing. AVIiile I
was an undergraduate at College, a cat belonging to the
baker's department formed a great friendship for me, and
used to come every morning and evening to obtain her siiare
of breakfast and tea. She continued her attentions for some
time, but one morning she was absent from her accustomed
corner, nor did she return until nearly a week had passed,
when i}\Q came again, but always seemed uneasy unles.s the
door were open. A few days afterwards she came up as usual,
and jumped on my knee, at the same time putting a little
kitten into my hand. She refused to take it back iigaiu, so I
restored it to its brothers and sisters myself. A few hours
afterwards, on going into uiy bedroom, I found another black
kitten fast asleep on the bed.

42

NATURAL niSTOBY.

There are several varictie.s <n' the dorae«iic cat, among which
the An^oi-a cats, with tl'-Mr boinuifnl lo,i- fur. And the Manx
cats of the Chartreuse bri'd, ^liich have no tailn, 've the most
conspicuous.

^■M^ ';A;r,s.*

• _

The Caracal i.-^ found in niosl pans of Awia luid Africa. It
derives its name fion. the blar;^- tips of its cure, which render
ii a very conspicuous auimal. U is one of the group of the
Lynxes, and is generally supposed to be the animal refen-ed
to by several ancient authors under tlie name of Lynx. It
lives on the smaller nuacb-upeds and birds, -which it i)ui-sues
even to the tops of tiie trees. There are no records of its
being tamed, as in exaj instance when confined it snarls at
those who approach its cage. Tlie length of its body is about
two feet, and its heiglv* about fourteen inches.
CAUAC.vr„— (Turk. Hack ears.)

MelanOtis (Gr. filKas, black ; oSj, an ear), the Caracal.

* 1 Tail of Domestic Cat.

2. Tail of Wild Cat.

ic cat, among which
^ Air, iuwl the Manx
10 tailh., lire the most

' Awia ivnd Africa. It
ts ean4, which render
of the gi'oup of the
the animal refen-ed
name of l^ynx. It
d&, which it pumies
re no records of its
confined it snarls at
1 of its body is about
iches.

ear), the Caracal.

NATURAL HISTORY.
Lyncus.— (Or. Auyi, a Lyux.)

43

lil of Wild Cat.

Cauadensis (Lat. of Canwia), the Canada Lynx.

The Canada Lynx is a native of North America, and is re-
markable for its gait. Its method of progression is by
hounds from all four feet at once with the back arched. It
feeds principally on the American hare, as it is not coiu-ageous
enough to attack the liu'gcr quadiiipeds. Its length is about
three feet. The natives t,omctimcs eat its ilesh, which is
white and firm, and not unlike that of the American hare
itself Its skin forms an important article in commerce, and
between seven and nine thousiuid are imported yearly by the
Hudson's Bay Company, by whom aie grey specimen in tlie
British Museum was presented.

THE CHETAH.
The Chetah, or Hunting Leopard, as it is sometimes
called, is one of the most elegant and graceful animals known.
It i.s a native both of Africa and India, but it is only in tlie
latter country that it is used for hunting game, as the
Africans appear not to possess sufficient ingenuity to train
the animal. The method of emjjloying it is usually as
follows :— The Chetah is either led blind-folded in a chain,
or placed upon a hackery, or native cart, and taken as near

44

NATUnAL, HiaTORY.

as possible to the place whore antelopes or fleer are fecdiuj:.
When close enough, the hnnter takes the hand from its eyes.
and (hrects its head towards the game. Directly the ('hetah
sees the deer, it creeps off the cart, and miikes toward.s them
lus mpidly and silently as it can, carofidly availing itself of
the accidental cover of a bush, (jr stone, precisely as a cat
does when stealing after a bird. When it lias succeeded in
unoljservedly approaciung the unsuspecting herd, it makes
two or three tremendous springs, and fastens on the back of
one unfortunate deer, brings it to the ground, and waits

Jubata ^Lat. crested), the Gxtali.

until its keeper comes up, who induces it to leave its prey
by a ladle-full of the blood, which he takes care to have
ready. The Chetah is tl .on hooded and led back to his cart.
It is so easily tameable ai d so gentle that it is frequently led
about the streets by a string for sale.

It is rather larger than the leopard, and differs from it in
tlie length of its paws, its inability to climb trees, and the
crispuess of its fur. It is therefore placed in a different
genus from the leopard. It derives its name of "jubata,"
from a thin mane running down the neck.

dal

se\

as

tic

are

esi

wli

til!

in

(JOl

in
si a
till
de
ex
ox
sti
th
H

)r deer are feeding',
hand from itH oyos,
directly the ('hetuli
Hikes towards them
iy iiviiiling itself of
(, precisely its .i ciit
it luus suceecded in
;ing herd, it miikes
eu8 oil the buck of
grouud, and waits

ietaJt.

it t(3 leave its prey

takes cure to liave

led back to his cart.

it it is frequently led

ud difters from it in
climb trees, and the
)laced in a different
8 name of "jubata,"
ik.

NATURAL HISTORY.

.Sub-fiimily b. J/yenina.
HTiKNA.— (Qr.'Toii'a.)

4d

Striata (Lat. striped), tlic Striped Hyama,

The Hyknina, or Hv.r.xAS, arc remarkable for their pre-
datory, ferocious, and withal, cowardly habits. There are
several Hysenas. the striped, the spotted, and the villosc, but
as the habits of all arc verj' similar, only one will be men-
tioned. The Hyseiiiis, although very rei>ulsive in appearance,
are yet very useful, as they prowl in search of dead animals,
especially of the larger kinds, and will devour them even
when putrid, so that they act the same part among beasts,
that the vultures do among birds, and are equally uninviting
in aspect They not unfrequently dig up recently interred
(M)rpses, and in Abyssinia, according to Bruce, they even flock
in numbcra into the village streets, where they prey on
slaughtered men who arc thrown out unbm-ied. One of
these animals attacked Bruce in his tent, and was only
destroyed after a severe Vnittle. Their jaws and teeth ai-e
exceedingly powerful, as they can crush the thigh-bone of an
ox with apparently little effort. Their skull too is very
strong, and furnished with heavy ridges for the support of
the muscles which move the jaw. The hinder parts of the
Hya-na are very small, and give it a strange shambling

K5

NATURAL HI8T0RT.

apiM imuco when wulking. Tlic Hyrena is onsily tnined, and
oven iloraeHlicatfil, so that the tales of its uutiuii. ;itilc "lis-
{xmition arc entirely crronoous.

The Htri]'<(l Hyoena i« t'ouiul in many parts of A i and
Africa, where it is lioth a lienelit and a pest, for when dead
animals fail it, the flocks and herds ore ravuired, and even
man does not always escape.

SuL) family r. Vinnrina. — (Lat. tfieerra, a Kerrui.)

VIVEHBA.

spi
ant
Co
fro

sice
fro

Civetta (Arabic Zibttta, acent), the Civet Cm.

The ViVEKUiNA, or Civets, nvo active little anin i-, avcnif.'-
ing ahout two feet in lengtli The whole group is celehrati-il
for 1 perfume which is secreted in a glanrlular pmoh near
the tail, and is of some importance in coi lerce. If tin. Civet
is kept alive, the perfume is obtained 1 losing it in a loufx

narrow box so that it c umot turn round, .tnd then scm ntig
the secretion fi-nM the | ouch with a s-^ oon. If the en •>'
is killed, the euu jiouch is u^ lly out off, and sell >>r a
higher sum than when the perfusuo is sold separately.

The Civet i.- only found in North Africa, especially in
A yssinia, where it takes up its abode on uncultivated and
1 rren hills. It feeds upon 'i^rds and (ho smaller (|uadrut "ds,
svhich it take.i by surprise. As it pur les its prey 'ly mght
only, its eyes are formed for .seeing in l dark, and gleam as
do those of a cat.

rip

an

Hz

ensily tamed, and
ts uutanii mIiIc ilis-

jmrts of A I and
test, for when dead
ravacred, and even

I, A Kun-ft. )

r

Civet Cat.

Ale anil).: Is, avcrajr-
group ib celebrated
andular p'ni.^h near
merce. If the t'ivet
closing it in a long
, and then Kcr;:
m. If the CI
off, and sell r a
d sepa lately.
Africa, especially iii
)n uncultivated and
smaller ((uadriu "ds,
f!S its prey by mght
dark, and gleam as

NAICUAL HISTORY.

Oknktta. — ^Fr. O'eiietle.)

47

Vulgaris (Li\t. common), Ike Oeuct.

The Genet slightly resembles the cat, particularly in its
spots, and the [)o\ver of climbing trees. It inhabits Africa,
and is not imfrequently foiuid in the south of France. At
ConstiUitinoplc it is domesticated, and keeps the houses free
from rats and mice, h are said to be unable to endure its

- /ent, but it is mucli ..i.)re probable that it frees the houses
trom mice by devouring them.

TiERPESTES.— (Ur. ii>irn<Trifis, a creeper.)

lohneunion (Gr. Ix^tvuuf, a trucker), the EgnptUtn Ichnenmon.

The i> [iNEUMONs, or Mangousts, well deserve their name
t'eepers, for witli their long bodies and snouts, their short
limit , and slender tails, they insinuate themselves into ever}-
crevice in their \vay in search of their expected food. Feu-
animals are more useful than the Ichneumons. Snakes,
lizards, crocodil<'=' eggs, or even young crocodiles themselves,

48

NATUUAL msTonv.

form their principal food, and their activity is ho great that
when these sources fail, they are able to sccuro birds, and
oven tlio swift and wary lizards, whieii, when alarmed, dart
off like a streak of gi-een light glaMcing through the bushes.

1'he Egyptii'u Ichnenmon, or Tiianvoh's Itiit, ah '• is some-
times called, is a native of North Africa, and i ften do-
mesticated for the jairpose of destroying the vai-ious snakes,
and other reptile annoyances, wliich are such a pest in the
houses of hot countries. It principally seeks its prey by
night, ereeping along with such noiwlosa and sniiko-like
progn ss, that not a soinid warns the uu.^uspecting victim of
its ilan-er. Its slender snout iiiables it to suck out the
contents of I'g.s with ease, and it destroys serpents by ereeii-
ing behind them, and then suddenly leaping on their heads,
which it instant! \ crushes between its shai-p teeth. Its length,
without the tail is about eighteen inches.

About twelve genera are omitted.

THE DOG.

We now an-ive at the Dog Family, which includes the
Dogs, Wolves, Jackals, and Foxes. The first of the Dogs is
the Kolsiui, or Dlialc, which inhabits Bombay and Nepaul.
It hunts in packs, as most of the dogs do even in a wild
state, and has been known to destroy tigers and chetahs.
hvt us ])a8s to a more interesting animal, the Newfoundland
Dog. This magnificent creature was originally brought from
Newfouuilland. It is often c .umnded with the Labrador
Dog, a larger and more powerlid animal. Hoth these logs
are trained by their native masters to draw sledges and little
CiU-riagcs, and on that account are highly esteemed. The
Newfoundland dog is well known as a most faithC'd guardian
of its master's property. It is remarkably fond the w ator,
and will fetch out any aiticle which its master indicates, and
lay it at his feet. Many instimces are known of this noble
animal saving the lives of people that have fallen into the
water, and must have perished but for its timely aid. There

NATUnAf, HISTORY.

49

;y 18 HO great that
Mccuro lurds, iiml
hen iilariucd, di\rt
oiigli tho bushca.
Ilrtt, iiH 't is some-
, and In >fton do-
;ho various sniiltCM,
jiich (I pest in tho
HCt'kB its [)rcy by
iHs and snako-like
Lispcctin^ victim of
: to 8uok out tho
; serpents by creep-
ing on tlieir heads,
1 teeth. Its length.

which incUides the
irst of tlio Dogs is
imbay and Nepaul.
do even in a wild
timers and chctahs.
, the Newfoundland
inally brought from
with tho Labrador
. lioth these logs
iw sledges and little
bly esteemed. The
)st faithf'd guardian
y fond ' the ^^ ater,
laster indicates, and
;nown of this noble
lave fallen into the
1 timely aid. There

is an anccdot- related of one of tiicso dogs leaping over tho
parapet of a bridge, and rescuing a baby who had sprung from
its nurse's arms into the river. A gentleman who just came
up, and was caressing the dog after its exploit, discovered,
on set'ing the ciiild, that it was his own. Ho otfered a large
sum for the noble creature, but his master refused to part
with hiui on any terms.

Sub-fiimily d. C'aninn.— (Lat. Canu, a Dog.)

CAN IS.

Familiaria (Lat. Jamiliar), the Newfoundland Dog.

This is one of tho largest of the dogs, as it stands nearly
two feet two inches in height.

The Water Spaniel, as its name denotes, delights in
plunging into water, especially if any game is to be found
among the rushes that fringe the rivers. It is a most useful
iwjsistant when shooting wild ducks, or water hens, as, when
wounded, they conceal themselves so etlectually, that, witliout

50 NATUnAI. HISTORY.

a dog, discovery is almost impossible. It can also dive to
some depth, and bring up in its mouth any small object
from the bottom.

THE WATKH RPANIBL.

The King Chables's Dog is a diminutive breed of spaniels,
firstbrought into notice by Charles the Second, who dehghted
in being accompanied by them in his walks, and was accus-
tomed to admit them into his bedchamber, and even permitted
them to lie on his bed.

can also dive to
(my small object

re breed of spaniels,
cond, who delighted
Iks, and was accus-
, and even permitted

NATIRAL IIISTOKY.

01

THE liLOODHOaND.

There are several varieties of this animal, inliabiting Cuba,
Africa, and England. They all are endowed with a wonder-
fully acute sense of smell, and can trace a man or animal
with almost unerring certainty. Tlic Cubtui Bloodhound was
formerly emplojed by the Spaniards to hunt down the
natives while endea^^oiuing to esciipe from their invasions.
A few years since, one of these dogs saved the life of its
master, an American hunter, by boldly attacking a j)uma
which had sprung on him in the dai'kness, and was lacerating
him in a di'eadful manner. The sagacious animal had been
tied up at home, but apparently knowing the dangers of the
forests through which his master was about to pass, he liroke
his cliain, and arrived barely in time to save the hunter from
a horrible death.

The English Bloodhcjund is frequently mentioned by the
older historians. Bruce was repeatedly chased l>y blood-
hounds, and at one time he was so closely pressed that he
barely escaped by leaping into a brook, and wading a con-
siderable disttmce up the stream, knowing that running
water would not retain the scent. The bloodhoimds led his
j)ursuers as far as the place where he entered the watoi', but
the stratagem of Bruce baflled them, and the pursuit was

ijig^it^.&t,'*S'i^^it£z

im

r>2

NATURAL HISTORY.

■iljandoncd. The voice of these dogs is peculiarly deep, and
,nav be heard at considerable distance. Not very long snice,
a siieepstealer was detected by a bloodhound when every other
means had failed. The dog, on being shown the foot>steps ot
the thief, at once set off on the track, and dashed nito a
cottage, where the unsuspecting robber was busily employed
in skinning the sheep which he had stolen. Tim height of
this sr.lendid animal is about two feet four inches, and its
colour a reddish tan, becoming almost black along the back.

liWi

THE iOSLlOUNU.

The Foxhound and Beagle are not veiy dissimilar in form
or habits. They both follow game by the scent, and are used
ill hunting. The Foxhound, as its name implies, is used for
hunting the fox, and enters into the sport with extraordinary
eagerness. These dogs are trained with great care : whole
books have been written on their education, and men are
engaged at high salaries to train them to the sport. England
possesses the finest breed of foxhounds in the world, ami
.•ertainly no expense is spared to improve them, as one kennel
is siiid 'to have cost nearly twenty thousand })ounds. Ihe
height of the foxhound is "about twenty-two inches.

niliarly deep, and
it very long since,
when every other
a the footsteps of
lid (lashed into a
i bnsily employed
1. The height of
ur inches, and its
k along the buck.

•y diiisimilar in form
scent, and are nsed

implies, is used for
, with extraordinary

great care : whole
ation, and men are
the sport. England

in the world, and
them, as one kennel
isand jiounds. The
;wo inches.

NATURAL HISTORY.

.03

The Beaoi.e is used principally for hare hunting. It is
much smaller than tiic foxhound, and not nearly so swift.
but its scent is so perfect that it follows ever}' track of the
flying hare, unravels all her windings, and seldom fails to
secure her at last. Sportsmen usually prefer the smallest
beagles olitaiuable. The most valuable pack of thewc dogs
known, used to be carried to and from the field in a pair of
panniei-s slung across a horse's back. Unfortunately, this
pack was so well known, that numerous were the attempts U>
gain possession of it. One ill-fated evciaing, as the dogs

THE BEAQLF,.

were returning in their pauniera after the day's sport, the
keeper was decoyed away by some stratagem, and when he
returned, his dismay was great to find that the dogs, panniers,
and horse were all missing. No traces of them wpre discovered,
and it was conjectured that they must have been sold on the
Continent. It is a comiiion custom in the military schools
and sometimes at the universities, to follow the beagle on
foot.

54

NATURAL HISTORY.

II

P
il

ii

THE rcirrsK.

i

The Pointer is used by sportsmen to point out the spot
where the game hcs. It ranges the fields until it scents the
hare or partridge lying close on the gi-ound. It then remains
still as if carved in stone, every limb fixed, and the tail
pointing straight behind it. In this attitude it remains
until the gun is discharged, reloaded, and the sportsman has
reached the place where the bird spnmg. It then eagerly
searches for the game, and brings the bird in its mouth,
TliCre are many anecdotes of its intelligence, among which
the following is not the least interesting.

In 1829, Mr. J. Webster was out on a shooting party
near Dundee, when a female pointer, having traversed the
field which the sportsmen were then in, proceeded to a wall,
and, just as she made the leap, got the scent of some
partridges on the opposite side of the wall. She hung by
her fore-feet until the sportsmen came up ; in which situ-
ation, while they were at some distance, it appeared to them
that she had got her leg fivsteued among the stones of the
wall, and wa-s unable to extricate herself. But, on coming
up to her, th.3y found that this singular circumstance pro-
ceeded from her caution, lest she should flush the birds, and
thus suspended herself in place of completing her leap.

si

g
o

c

a
a
I

e
1

(]

S'

I]

)oint out the spot
until it scents the
I. It then remiiinw
ixed, antl the tail
titude it remains
the sportsman has
It tlien eagerlj-
lird in its moath.
nee, among which

a shooting partj'
ving traversed the
roceeded to a wall,
ho scent of some
ill. She hung by
ip ; in which situ-
. appeared to them

the stones of the
But, on coming

circumstance pro-
uah the birds, and
iug her leap.

NATURAL HISTOnr.

55

When badly trained, this dog is apt to make very absurd
mistakes. A young pointer belonging to a friend disap-
pointed him by most perversely pointing at a pig ; and ou
another occasion was discovered feasting on a dead sheep
instead of attending to its business.

<!<?'*■

THE UASTIFF.

The group of the Mastiff dogs is distinguished by the
shortness of the nose and the breadth of tlae head. This
gi'oup includes the Mastiff, the bull-dog, and the almost
obsolete absurd little pug-dog. The breadth of their heads is
caused by the large muscles which move the jaw.

The English Mastiff is generally employed as a house-dog,
as its powerful frame and deep voice are well fitted to scare
away marauders, or to repel them if they approach too near.
It is by far the most sagacious of the whole group, and
exliibits much more attachment to its master than the others.
This animal has been called by sever,al names, of which " Ban-
dog " is the best known. Bewick thinks that the ban-dog is a
sepai-ate species, of a lighter make than the ordinary English
mastiff.

^rmr-

56

NATURAL HISTORY.

r'Si

The Bull-dog is provorbial for courage and endurance.
Unfortunately its .social qualities are by no means pleasing,
as, although it hsA.s some attachment to its master, yet it is
not always safe even for him to disturb it. This dog was
extensively used in the cruel sport of buU-baiting, a recreation
now extinct. When opposed to the bull, the dog would fly
at its nose, and there hang in spite of all the infuriated animal s
.struggles. So firm is its hold, that the owner of a bull-dog
laid a wager that when his dog had seized a bull he would
cut off all hir feet in succession ithout inducing the poor
beast to loose his hold. The experiment was made, and the
cruel master, who deserved a similar fate himself, won his
wager.

The Pug-dog looks like a bull-dog in miniature. It was
formerly in great request as a pet, but is now seldom seen.
Its tail is curled over its back so tightly, that it is not very
difficult to believe the story of a pug-dog being lifted off his
hiud-legs by the curhness of hiii tail.

ar
Sc
us
th
Oi
ea
bi
te
th
w:

01

ht
d(
tc

C£

so
e(
ol
si
la
a]
tl

;e and endurance.
10 means pleasing,
s master, yet it is
it. This dog was
aiting, a recreation
the dog would fly
infuriated animal's
vner of a bull-dog
i a bull he would
inducing the poor
was made, and the
! himself, won his

niniature. It was
5 now seldom seen,
that it is not very
being lifted off his

NATURAIi IIISTOUY.

57

THE ENOLISII TEIIHIEB

The Terkiers never grow to any considerable size. There
are several breeds of terriers, among which the English and
Scotch are most conspicuous. These dogs are principally
u-sed for destroying rats or other vermin, and are so courageous
that they do not hesitate to unearth the fox or the badger.
Otters are also hunted by them, but prove by no means an
easy prey, as their snako-like body, sharp teeth, and amphi-
bious habits, render them very difficult to seize, and their
tenacity of life will frequently enable them to escape when
the doe: considers them dead. The Scotch Terrier is a rough,
wiry ai*1o dog, with hair hanging over its eyes, so that tliose
organs & « I : :dly visible, and when it is in the water its wetted
hair quite >i jcures its vision. There is a smaller breed of these
dogs called the " Skye Terrier," whose principal beauty seems
to consist in its ugliness.

Terriei-s are extremely attiched co *hoir master, and are
capable of learning m;:.nv itnuaing tricks. I had a temer,
said tc be of Irish brc -L .. ' lO had 'mbibcd many of the
eccentricities of the Irish criai i.o,Tt r Ho was particulai'ly fond
of terrifying lapdogs, a specks of animal which he held in
supreme contempt. On one occasion, ho met a very fiit
lapdog, the property of an equally ftit old lady, waddUng
along the street. Roiy looked at it for a short time, and
then gave it a pat which rolled it over on its back. Its

58

NATURAL niSTOBY.

mistress immediately snatched it up, and put it on her mufl',
whereupon llory erected himself on his hind-legs, an art
which he possessed in gi-eat perfection, and walked along by
her side, making occasional snatches at the lapdog. The

THB SCOTCH lEHttlER.

terrified old lady struck at him with her boa, which Rory
immediately caught in his mouth, and dashed off with it
down the street in an ccstacy of delight, ever and anon
tripping over it and rolling head over heels. He had learned
to shut the door, ring the bell, bring the slippers, or put
the cat down stairs, which he accomplished by pushing her
with his nose down each successive stair. During his residence
at College he was accustomed to sit, dressed in a cap and
gown, at the breakfast table, where his deportment was
always most exemplary, and afforded a good example to
many of the guests.

The Shepherd's dog is a rough, shaggy animal, with sharp
pointed ears and nose. It is an invaluable assistaut to the
shepherd, as it knows all its master's sheep, never suffers
them to stray, and when two flocks have mixed, it will
separate its own charge with the greatest certainty. It
understands every look and gesture of its beloved master,
and drives the flock to any place which he points out. This
is the dog alluded to by Bm-us in the following beautiful

pas

no

woi

wit

lie

(ibc

poT
anc
cou
Chi

]>n:

ist

hui

itt

of]

wh

in

bla

was

fori

int

'Hf^fw

put it on her mufi',
hind-legs, an art

d walked along by
the lapdog. The

r boa, which Rory
dashed off with it
ht, ever and anon
.8. He had Icai-ned
he slippers, or put
led by pushing her
During his residence
essed in a cap and
is deportment wis
, good example to

■ animal, with sharp
ble assistant to the
sheep, never suffers
lave mixed, it will
itest certainty. It
its beloved master,
e points out. This
following beautiful

NATTOAIi HISTORY.

39

passage: — " Man," said ho, " is tlic trod of the dog; he knows
no otlicr ; he can understand no other. And see how he
worships him ' • ith what reverence he crouches at his feet !
with what love I.c fawns upon him ! with what <lcpendence
lie looks up to him ! and with what cheerful alacrity he
obeys him ! His whole soul is wrapt up in his god ! all the

I HE 8HEPUEUD 8 J.OG.

powers and faculties of his nature are devoted to his service !
and these power.! and facidties are ennobled by the inter-
course. Divines tell us that it ought just to be so with the
Christian ; but the dog puts the Clu-istiu. . to shame."

The GuEYHOUND is the swiftest of all the dogs, and is
principally used in the pursuit of the hare, which amusement
is termed coursing. It has but little delicacy of scent, and
hunts almost entirely by sight. The hare endeavous to baffle
it by making sliai-p turns, which the dog cannot do on account
of its superior size, and has therefore to take a circuit, during
which the hare makes off in another direction. At Ashborne,
in Derbyshire, there is a public-house sign representing a
black and white greyhound chasing a hare. One greyhound
was a little in advance of the other, and struck the game so
forcibly with its nose that the haro was thrown over its back
into the jaws of the other greyhound. This animal has been

NATURAL HlSTOnY.

knovm to cxctt rather :<. uiioxpcctod talent, viz., retracing a
jouniiy dm iii;_' which it lad 'ii a close itriHoncn-.

" Tlie celebrated grcj iiouiul ick-cyed Susan, was brought
to Ediiibury;h from Glasgow iii ;.lie l)Oi t of a coach, on tlie
night of Wednesday, the l.'Hh May, 1S3J. On tlic following

I 1 1 i'

Sunday evening she made her escape, orty-eight houra

reached her kennel, eight miles beyoii'.t lilu gow, being fifty-
two miles in all. The road between Glasgow and Edinburgh
she hiul never travelled on foot, and from the time taken she
cannot have come direct ; but by what r-nite or process this
animal made her point good it is in vain to conjecture."

THE WOLF.

Ferocity, craft, and cowardice, arc the well-known traits
of the Wolf. \Uhough one of the dog tribe, it is held in
utter abhorrence by the domesticated dogs. The stronger
pursue and destroy it, tlie weaker fly from it in ten-or. In
the earUer part of English history it is frequently mentioned
as a common uud dreaded pest. It was finally extirpated in
England about 1350, in Scotland about IGOO, and was not
enttrely destroyed in Ireland until the beginning of 1700.

Tti
\\>

'J
bail
pur
.ire
at 1
dar
guii
pro

ofl

wir
anc
tra"

r

imi
seii
she
is 1
thn
bill

It, viz., retraciiij^ :i
[irisoiirr.

Siisau, was broil ■'
of a coach, on i ■
Ou the foUowuig

I nt forty-eight houi-s
Ula gow, being fifty-
jgow and Edinbui-gh
1 the time taken she
route or process this
to conjecture."

10 well-known traits
'r tribe, it is held in
dogs. The stronger
om it in teiTor. In
requuutly mentioned
I finally extirpated in
t IGOO, and was not
beginning of 1700.

NATUHAT, niSTORY. 61

iiirts of France, Russia, o whole of

in

^t is till fonnii
W' rn Asia.

'1,.lso formi'laliii troatnrcs almost invunaiily hunt
I'ands, and display very ;4roat cunning in waylaying and
piir8uin<r their prey. Winter is the time of ycai- most
rcadcil y lioso who live in countries where wolves exist, as
at that :i8on hunger rendei-s them oxceedinLcly ferocious anil
daring, llioy will then attack sledges, or eamugcs, even when
guarded by armed men. They arc vei) wary, and dislike ap-
proaching any tiiingat all rcscmbl ,^' a tmi' A traveller, n ware
of this habit, saved his life by trading a o
window. The wolven thought that tin- "'
and before they had quite made uyi
traveller reached a station where lie
The bite of the wolf is extremely
immensely strong, and it generally
>oizes. When young, the wolf v.
shows as gi-eat attachment to its ma

is very tenacious of life. Pariy relates an anecdote of a wolf
that was caught in a trap, and after being pierced witli three
tiullets, and several thrusts of a sword, sprung at one of the
icers, and actually succeeded in escaping, although its hind-
kiw were firmly tied together.

Canis. — ^Lat. a Dmj.)

\ from his carriage
! ' "'! 3u.spicious,
il)out it, the
ly.

, as its jaws are

..-, away the part it

sily be tame<l, and

IS any dog will. It

4L3fc-

Lupup <■' it. a Wolf), the Wolf.

NATOHAL HISTORY.
OAJflS.

r^-M-V^Nv-

AurQua (Lat. ijulden), tlis Jackal.

This animal is found lu North Africa, Poi-siu, and India.
It derives its name " aureus " from the yellow tint of its skin.
It, like the w(jlf, unites in bands to hunt, and tiie prey whicli
the pack has taken so much pains to secure is not uufrcqucntly
confiscated by the lion, who keeps the reluctant huutci-s at
a distance until he has satisfied his own royal appetite. The
Jackals, however, often retaliate by assisting at the demolition
of the larger prey whicii the liou destroys. It is very usefid
in the Eiiat, as it acts as scavenger, and constuues the offal
which, in those not very cleanly towns, is cast into the
streets, and would inevitably cause a pestilence, were it not
for the assistance of the jackals and other ci-eatures.

It is OAcessively fond of gi-apes, and makes dreadful havoc
in the vineyards, so that the fable of the Fox and the ( Irapes
might be quite as appropriately related of this animal.
While hunting, it utters most piercing shrieks, which have
been compared by those who have heard them to the wail-
ings of evil spirits, an sissociatiou which the oriental tombs
and ruins which it frequents, recalling to mind the mysterious
Arabian Nights, are most fitted to produce.

Til ere are several kinds of Jackals, one inhabiting Senegal,
and another the Cape of Good Hope. They are rather liu-ger
than the fox, but do not possess uearly so bushy a tail as
that " brush," wherein sportsmen take so much delight.

htl.

, Poraia, and Imliu.
illow tint of its Hkin.

au'l tlio proy which
D is not unfrcquuntly
eluctant hunters at
oyal appetite. The
[ig at the- demolition
s. It is very usefnl

consumes the oft'al
is, is east into the
atilenco, were it nut

■ creatures.

lakes dreadful havoc
Fox and the tJrapes
ed of this animal,
shrieks, which have
i them to the wail-

the oriental tombs
mind the mysterious
ce.

inhabiting Senegal,
liey are rather liu'ger

■ 80 bushy a tail as
much delight.

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Microfiche

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CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
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Canadian Institute for Historical MIcroreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques

NATURAL niSTORY.
VuLPES. — (Lat. a Fox.)

Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Fox.

This terror of hen-roosts and delight of sportsmen is found
in most parts of England, and many other countries. It
varies veiy much in colour and size, according to the countiy
where it lives.

The habits of this animal are mostly nocturnal. It lies
by day concealed in its burrow, if it be fortunate enough to
possess one, or in the depths of some tliicket, if it is not a
householder. Towards evening it sallies out in search of
food, and woe to the unfortunate hare, rabbit, pheasant, or
fowl that comes in its way! Reynard does not attempt to
chase the hare, for it is too swift for him, or the rabbit, as it
would immediately dive into its hole ; nor does lie run at
the pheasant, which would fly away, and probably only leave
a tail feather in the fox's mouth. He knows his business too
well. He creeps very quietly and slowly to some place where
hares or rabbits are likely to pass, and then springs on them
as they run by him. Sometimes he steals into the hen-roost,
destroys and carries off" most of its inmates, some of which
he devours on the spot, othei-s he carries home, and the
remainder he buries for a future repast.

When irritated, the fox gives out a strong disagreeable

64

NATURAL HISTORY.

scent which lies so long on the ground that it may be
nerceivTfor nearly unlionr after the fox ha« rassod.
ffiy on this aeeount, and partly on aecotint of its jed^
Pndurance and cunning, the chase of the fox is one of the
it Sred English s^rts. Many tales are related o is
..nnniu" when pursued, such as driving another fox out ol its
Sr^nd forchig it to substitute itself aa the chase, diving
S^Vheap of Svnure, so that the dogs could not ix^rceive
ts scent^umping over a wall, running a little way coming
Ineka^iinS lying under the wall until all the dogs had
prssedSnd then Lp'ing a second time over the -- place
where it had passed before, and making off on its old tracK.
A fox hrbeen known to leap through a kitchen wnidow
and hideltself behind the plates on the dresser, without b^
o servation of the cook, to whose terror and consternation
'JioVseven dogs have leaped through the same wandow, and
fli~i<rwd the fox from its lurking-place. , ., , ■

^Kctic Fox changes its fur, and becomes white during
the winter.

Sub-family e. MmteUna.-{l^^^. Mmtila, a Weasel.)
Maktes.— (Lat. a Marten.)

AbiCtum (Lat. of the Pine-tree), the Phie Marten.
The MusTELiNA, or Weasels, are easily distinguished by theii-
long slcnSer bodies, short muzzle, sharp teeth, and predatory

hi

Pi
g<
it
al

1"

fa
M
tc
T

U(

ill

w
Si
is
ti
tl

HC

ni
pi

t€

tv

A

tl

ai
a(

L

NATUrJVL HISTORY.

65

that it may be

fox has passed,
unt of its speed,

fox is one of the
are related of its
ther fox out of its
the chase, diving
iould not ijerceive
ittle way, coming

all the dogs had
jr the same place
' on its old track.
I kitchen window,
resser, without the
and consternation

same window, and

iomes white during

"ine Marten.

iistinguished by their
teeth, and predatory

habits. They inha!)it almost every part of the world, and
l)rocure their food by creeping on the unsuspecting victim,
gcneiTilly a rabbit, rat, or bird, and then suddenly darting at
it and piercing its neck with their sharp teeth. Almost
all the weasels devour the brain and suck the blood of their
prey, but seldom touch the flesh.

Two kinds of Martens inhabit England, named, from their
fiivourite haunts, the Pine and the Beech Marten. The Pine
Marten is not uncommon in Derbyshire, where it is much
too fond of chickens and ducklings to be a desii'able neigiibour.
This animal, as well as the Sable, is much sought after on
account of its skin, which furnishesa beautiful fur, not much
inferior to that of the Sable.

The Sable, long famous for its costly fur, which is thought
worthy to adorn the coronation robes of a monarch, inhabits
Siberia. The chase, or ratlier the search, after these animals
is attended with dreadful hardships and gi'cat danger. '^, n e-
times a sable will not be seen for days ; sometimes the bait of
the trap is eaten by other animals, such aa gluttons, «kc. ;
sometimes the hunter's provisions fail ; he spends days and
nights in the midst of snow, siurounded by interminable
pine forests, and exposed to the riercing blasts of the
tempest. Many hunters lose their lives in these terrible soli-
tudes, overwhelmed by snow-storms, or famished with hunger.

A species of Sable, {Martes leucopus,) inhabits North
America. The hair of the sable will turn either way, and in
this respect differs from the fur of other animals. The skins
are very valuable, vaiying from one to ten pounds in price,
according to the quality.

MARTES.

*

Zibellina, tlie Sable.
F

66

Ni .TUBAL HISTORY.
PCT0RIU3. — (Lat. from puteo, to stink).

Foettduf (Lat. fetid), the Polecat.
The Polecat, fitchet, biilmart; or " fommard," as the farmers
call it, is very commou in most parts of England. It is
dreadfully destructive to the poultry, and destroys both old
and young. William Howitt relates an interestmg anecdote
of his dog unearthing a polecat, and afterwards bringing out
of its hole an entire brood of ducklings that had most
unaccountably disappeared from the premises of a farmer.
Winter is the usual time for its appearance in the farmyard,
as in the summer it obtains its food with less risk among the
warrens.

The Ferret is supposed to be a domesticated variety of
the polecat and a mixed breed is generally preferred by
i-at-catchors, who use the ferret, first muzzling it carefully,
to drive the rats out of their holes, when they are either
struck down with sticks, or killed by terriers, who keep a
sharp watch for them. The hair, called Fitch, is much used
for making paint brushes.

,-«#!>... -If,

Ebminea. — The Stoat.
The Stoat, or Ermine, is also another common English
animal. It is less than the polecat, but its habits re

sea

to

pel

pai

tip

the

its

US(

mi
th(
trf
Or
bu
do
ch
cai
an^
del
wl
da

on
pr
an

I

ink).

I

It.

ird," as the farmers
f England. It is
destroys both old
teresting anecdote
yards bringing out
js that had most
aises of a farmer.
e in the farmyard,
ess risk among the

sticated variety of
rally preferred by
zzling it carefully,
en they are either
n-iers, who keep a
'itch, is much used

sr common English
but its habits re

NATURAL HISTORY.

67

scarcely less predacious. Hares and rabbits fall easy victims
to their little enemy, who despatches them with a single bite,
penetrating the brain. During the winter, the stoat becomes
partially white, in northern countries wholly so, except tho
tip of the tail, which remains black. In this state it is called
tho Ermine, and is killed in groat numbers for the sake of
ita beautiful and valuable fur.

MustEla (Lat. a Weaiel).

Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Weasel.

The Weasel is the least of this tribe. It is excessively
useful to farmers, as it wages unrelenting war on rats and
mice, and 'n an incredibly short space of time extirpates
them from a bam or stack. It hunts by scent like dogs, and
tracks the imfortunate rat with the most deadly certainty.
On this account some farmers encourage it on their premises,
but the generality destroy it, and nail its body on the barn
door, forgetting that although it does sometimes abstract a
chicken or an egg, yet it will not touch them as long as it
can find rats or mice. It is a most coiu^geous little animal,
and will even attack men, who have found it by no means a
despicable antagonist, as it invariably dashes at tho throat,
where a bite from its long sharp teeth would be very
dangerous.

THE HONEY RATEL.

The Ratel is a native of South Africa, and lives principally
on the combs and honey of the wild bee, although it is very
probable that much of its subsistence is derived from flesh
and roots. It is said to be guided to the bee's nest by a bird

68

NATURAL HISTORY.

called the Honej -guide, which, as the natives assert, being

very fond of honey and unable to attack the hive by itself,

Mellivoba.— (Lat. mel, honey ; voro, I devour.)

Ratel, tlie Uorieij Ratcl.

seeks for the honey-ratel, and admonishes it by a peculiar
cry that the desired honeycomb is not very far distant.

The Wolverine, Glutton, or Carcajou, inhabits North
America. Accounts vary respecting the habits of this animal.
The older naturalists say that it ascends trees, and drops on

GuLO. — (Lat. a QluMou.)

Luscus (Lat. blinking), the Wolverine.

the neck of any unfortunate deer which happens to pass
beneath, and that having once secured its prey, it never

Ici
mi
fol
ae.
he
ro
sa
til
of

di

oi

it
le
ii

itivcs assert, being
the hive by itself,

I deTour.)

les it by a peculiar
ry far distant.

ou, inhabits North

labits of this animal.

trees, and drops on

dverine.

ich happens to pass
d its prey, it never

NATURAL HISTORY.

69

leaves it until the last moi-sel is consumed. Bo thm as it
may, the (.lutton is known i. hunt after its prey, which it
follows for many miles at a slow but persevering pace, and
seldom fdls of bringing it down at last. It is especially
hated by the sable hunter, as it will follow him in his rounds,
robbing the traps of the baits as it proceeds, and should a
sable bf. cauglit it generally tears it to pieces, or buries it lu
the snc.w. The hunter has some slight revenge in robbing it
of its skin, as the fur is in some request, but the mischief it
does him is not by any means counterbalanced by the value

It is a very determined animal, and when attacked defends
itself vigorously, proving more than a match for a dog. The
length of the glutton, without tlie tail, is about two feet six
inches.

Several genera are omitted.

Meles.— (Lat. a Badger.)

Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Badger.

This harmless and much injured animal (which is often
subjected to such ill treatment that the term "badgering" a
person is used to express irritating him in every possible
way) is found throughout Europe and Asia. It is not now
veiy common in England, but is frequently found in Scotland,

70

NATURAL niSTORT.

whore it is tcnncd the " Brock," a name familiar to us all,
through the means of Dandio Dinmont, who also immortalized
the pepper and mustard ten-iers.

The Badger lives at the bottom of deep burrows which it
excavates, and in which it passes all the day, sleeping on a
very comfortable bed of hay and grass. When the evening
approaches it seeks ita food, consisting of roots, fruit, insects,
and sometimes young rabbits. It is also said to attack the
wild bee, and boldly to devour the honey and combs, its thick
hair and skin rendering it utterly regardless of the stings of
the enraged bees, who "might as well sting a barber's
block."

The cruel sport of baiting the badger is still continued.
The poor creature is placed inside a kennel, and dogs set at
it, who are not unfrequently worsted by the badger, as its
bite is terrific, and its skin so tough, and hair so thick, that
the bites of the dog do not take full effect. The pleasure of
this " sport," as in many other diversions of the sporting
world, appears to consist in trying whether the dogs or the
badger will be most mangled in a given time.

Its skin is rather valuable, tlr hair being extensively em-
ployed iu the manufacture of bri^jhcs, and its fur being in
some request for holsters. The omnivorous and thrifty
Chinese eat its flesh, as indeed they will that of most animals,
and consider its hams a very great dainty. The length of the
badger is about two feet three inches.

THE OTTER.

The Otter seems to play the same part in the water as
the polecat and the other weasels on the land. Like the pole-
cat, it is excessively rapacious; bke the polecat, it destroys
many more creatures than it can devour ; and as the polecat
only eats the brain and sucks the blood, so the other daintily
eats the flakes at the back of the fish's neck, and leaves the
remainder for less fastidious animals. In Scotland, where the
otter aboimds, it is not uncommon to find a large fish, such

NATURAL inSTOBY.

71

Hmiliar to ur all,
also immortalized

burrows which it
lay, slecpiug ou a
/^hcn the evening
)ots, fruit, insects,
aid to attack the
i combs, its thick
3 of the stings of
sting a barber's

s still continued.
I, and dogs set at
he badger, as its
uair so thick, that
The pleasure of
s of the sporting
er the dogs or the
e.

ig extensively em-
l its fur being in
irous and thrifty
t of most animals,
The length of the

as a salmon, lying on the bank, perfectly fresh and entire,
except a few inches along the back, wliich the otter has bitten

" It is extremely interesting to watch the actions of this
almost amphibious creature. It slides noiselessly into the
water, turns and twists about below the surface with the same
,jr greater ease than a fish, then, with a griiceful sweep of the
body it glides to the surface and ascends the bank with almost
the same motion. While below the surface it bears a gi-eat
resemblance to the seal, the method in which it disposes its
hind-feet greatly assisting the effect. Its rapid and easy
movements in the water are mostly performed by the assist-
ance of its powerful tapering tail. . „ „ , ,

Otter hunting is a very favourite sport m Scotland, where
almost every stream is furnished with its otter. At the sight
.,f the footsteps of the animal the population round is in a
commotion, the dogs lu-o assembled, guns and spears provided,
and the hunters go out in sufficient numbers and witli sutti-
ciont arms to kill a tiger ; and from all accounts it is quite as
difficult an animal to destroy; for by diving, and biting, ami
hiding among stones, added to its great tenacity of lile, it
gives the hunters no little trouble to secure it-

The otter is easily tamed, and its predtxtory habits turned
to account, as it is sometimes trained to catch fish and bring
them to shore, precisely as the falcon is trained to catch
terrestrial game.

Several genera are omitted.

LuTUA. — (Lat on Otter).

't in the water as
d. Like the pole-
lolecat, it destroys
and as the polecat
the other daintily
3k, and leaves the
Scotland, where the
I a large fish, such

A'C'h.

^m

£

:.\\!j

,^^im^

Vulgaris (Lat. common), 'he Otter.

r

72

NATUn.VIi niSTOHY.

Family II. . . Unnidn (Lat. ur»iM, a bear ; Bear kiud.)
Sub-family a. Unlna,

trnaus.

Arctos (Or. 'ApKToi, a bear), the hear,

Tho Bears and their allies aro mostly heavy, and walk witii
the whole foot placed flat on the gi-ound, unlike tho cats, dogs,
&c., who walk with merely their paws or toes. All tho bears
are omnivorous, that is, they can eat either annual or vegetable
food, so that a leg of mutton, a pot of honey, a potato, or an
apple, aro each equally acceptable.

Tho Brown Bear inhabits the north of Europe, Switzerland,
and tho Pyrenees. It has been extirpated from B^ngland for
many centuries, but is recorded to have been found in Scot-
land so late as 1057. The inhabitants of Northern Europe
hunt it with much skill, and take it in traps and pitfalls,
availing themselves of its love for honey. It is said that there
exists a practice of placing the hive in a tree, and planting
long spikes round its foot. A heavy log of wood is then sus-

pci
tm

1(H

sni
W
inj
asi
rei
th
to
he
av
th
it
in
bl
b(

ur i Bear kind.)

Jieai;

javy, and walk with
nlikc the cats, dogs,
oes. All the bears
animal or vegetable
aey, a potato, or an

lurope, Switzerland,
I from England for
)een found in Scot-
' Northern Europe

traps and pitfalls,
It is said that there

tree, and planting
if wood is then sus-

NATunAt nisTonr.

73

pcndcd by a cord juHt before the ontranco of the hive, and the
trai) is complete. The bear scents the honey and coines to
look at the tree. The spikes rather astonisli him, but ho
sniffs his way through them, and commences the ascent.
When he has reached the hivo, ho is checked by the log hang-
ing before the entraiKO : this ho finds is movable, and pushes
nsulo, but it is just so long that a mere push wdl not entirely
remove it, so ho gives it a tremendous pat, and looks in at
the entrance. Just as he has succceiled in putting his nose
to the hive, the log returns and hits him very hard on the
head. Tliis makes him exceedingly angi-y, and he pokes it
away harder than c^er, only to return with a more severe blow
thau before. Ho now has a regular fight with the log, bittiug
it first to one side and then to the other, the perven;o block
invariably striking his head every time, imtil at last a severer
blow thau usual knocks him fairly off the tree on to the spikes

'^in the time of Queen Elizabeth the bear used to bo baited,
but this cruel sport is now happily extinct.
Two genera aro omitted.

THE GRIZZLY BEAR.
The Grizzly Bear is a native of North America. It is
the most ferocious and powerful of its family. The American
Indians fear it so much, that a necklace ot its claws which
mav only bo worn by the individual who destroyed the bear,
i8 a decoration entitling the wearer to the highest honour..
It is able to overcome and carry off the enormous bison,
and to dig a pit in which to bury it.

THE POLAR BEAR.
The Polar, or White Bear, called Nennook by the Esqui-
maux lives in the Arctic regions, where it feeds on seals, hsh,
and even the walrus, but it dares not attack the latter animal
openly It is a formidable antagonist either by land or water,
as it dives with great ease, and is able to chase the seal amitl

74

NATURAL HISTORY.

the waves. Nelson nearly lost his life by imprudently
attacking one of these animals with no weapon but a rusty
musket, which could not be induced to fire ; and indeed had
he not been separated from the infuriated bear by a cleft in
the ice, he could hardly have escaped its claws. As the seals
frequently crawl out of the water upon rocks or .fragments of
ice, the Polar bear is forced to swim after them, but lest they
should observe him he makes his approaches by a succession
of dives, and contrives that the last dive brings him directly
under the unsuspecting seal, who is immediately grasped and
killed. Richardson states that these bears are often drifted

Hombilis (Lat. horrible), the Grizzly Bear.

from Greenland to Iceland on fields of ice, and that they find
the flocks and herds so very delicious after a long course of
seal diet, that the inhabitants are forced to rise in a bodyund
put an end to their depredations.

To give this animal, who is constantly running over fields

L

life by imprudently
) weapon but a rusty
fire ; and indeed had
ted bear by a oleft in
! claws. As the seals
rocks or fragments of
sr them, but lest they
aches by a succession
'e brings him directly
aediately grasped and
ears are often drifted

NATURAL HISTOHY.

7.-)

•izzly Bear.

ice, and that they find
after a long course of
1 to rise in a body ujid

ly running over fields

of ice, a firm footing, the soles of its feet are thickly covered
with long hair, on the same principle that elderly gentlemen
in the winter are forced to tie list round their shoes.

Thalabotos.— (Or. from eiXaffaa, the Sea, and ooktos, a Bear.)

.'<, i*''^'

,/^y^'^

Maritlmus (Lat. belonginff to the sea), the Polar Lear.

THE RACOON.

The Racoon is an inhabitant of Canada and other parts of
America. It derives its name, lotor, from the habit it is said to
possess, of washing its food before eating it. It is about the
size of a large fox. Its skin is very valuable, and is much
sought after by American huuters, who pride themselves on
their skill in shooting this active and wary animal. Ihere
is a story related by the Americans, of a hunter who was so
exceUent a marksman that when he entered a wood the coons
came down of their own accord, knowing that escape was im-
possible : but we must class this tale with the account of the
man who could grin the bark off gum trees, and the swift

F

7G NATURAL HISTORY.

Indian, who could run so fast round a tree that he somotimes
saw his own back.

The food of the Racoon is' princij[)ai'ly small animals and
insects. Oysters are also a very favourite article of its diet.
It bites off the hinge of the oyster, and scrapes out the animal
in fragments with its paws. Like a squirrel when eating a
nut, the racoon usually holds its food between its fore-paws
pressed together, and sits upon its hind-quarters while it
eats. Poultry are very favourite objects of its attack, and it is
said to be as destructive in a farm-yard as any fox, for it only
devours the heads of the murdered fowl. Like the fox, it
prowls by night.

When taken young it is easily tamed, but veiy frequently
becomes blind soon after its capture. This eifect is supposed
to bo produced by the sensitive state of its eyes, which are
only intended to be used by night ; but as it is frequently
awakened by daylight during its captivity, it suffers so much
from the unwonted glare, that its eyes gradually lose their
sight.

It has been mentioned that the name in general use among
the Americans of the present day is " 'Coou," a word which
strangely contrasts with its ancient Mexican name of Cioatla-
macazque. — Two genera are omitted.

Sub-family c. Procyonina.
PRoc-foN. — (Gr. npoKuoii', a conatellation.

a1
r(
t(
u

tl
a
a
t
I

'J
I
(

Lotor (Lat. a vianher), the Racoon.

that he Bometimes

im'all animals and
article of its diet,
.pes out the animal
•rel when eating a
iveen its fore-paws
.-qviarters while it
its attack, and it is
my fox, for it only
Like the fox, it

)ut veiy frequently
s effect is supposed
its eyes, which are
as it is frequently
, it suffers so much
^adually lose their

. general use among
oon," a word which
an name of Cioatla-

illation.

fiff

oon.

NATURAL HISTOKT.

Sub-fiimily d. Cercolept'ma.
Nasua.— (Lat. from nanus, a nose.)

77

Fusca (Lat. fuscw, dusky), the Coati-mondi.
The peculiarly long snout of the Coatis distinguishes them
at once from the Racoons, which they resemble in some other
respects. Their snout is very moveable, and is of great use
to them in routing out the worms and insects which they dig
up. The nostrils are placed on a sort of disk at the end ot
the snout, and give the whole head a most extraordinary
aspect. The Coatis live upon birds, eggs, insects, and worms,
and sometimes they will eat roots. They are nocturnal in
their habits, spending most of the day in sleep, rolled up in a
ball. In descending a tree they walk with their heads (lown-
wards, like the cat, which, however, they siu^ass m activity.
These animals inhabit the warmer parts of America, but do
not appear to be much sought after by hunters. The Brown
Coati-mondi is the species represented; there is another
species, the Red Coati.

THE KINKAJOU.
The KiNKAJOU is also an inhabitant of Southern America.
It is not unlike the Coati in its habits, but is more active, as
it possesses a prehensile tail, which it uses in the same way
that the Spider Monkeys use theirs. The tongue of the
Kinkajou is capable of being inserted into crevices, and draw-

78

NATURAL niSTOBT.

ing out any insects that may be lying concealed beyond the
reach of its paws. The Spanish niissionarics givo it the name
of Honey Bear, because it is a great devastator of the nests of
the wild bee, using its long tongue to lick the honey out
of the cells. When in captivity it is very tamo and gentle,
and will play with an acquaintance as a cat will. It displays
great address in capturing flies and other insects with its
tongue, and it is amusing to watch how its eyes gleam directly
that a fly settles within its reach. During the earlier part of the
day it will not move, but towards dusk it becomes very brisk
and animated, climbing about its cage, and swinging from the
top bars by its tail and hind paws.
A sub-family is omitted.

Cercgleptes. — (Gr. Kipxas, a tail ; Atirrdi, thin.)

Caudivolvfilus (Lat. twisted tail), the Kinkajmn.

Family III .
Sub-family a.

TalpTdso.-
Talplna.

-(Lat Talpa, a mole. Mole-kind.)

THE MOLE.

Many ridiculous stories of the Mole and its habits may be
found in several authors, among whom ^sop stands very con-
spicuous. This much maligned animal is said to be deprived
of eyes, to undergo unheard-of tortures in forcing its way
through the earth, and to spend a life of misery in subter
ranean damp and darkness. So far from being a miserable
animal, the Mole seems to enjoy its life quite as much as any
other creature. It is beautifully fitted for the station which

iti
dai

the
iuii
un
cy(
coi
an(
is '
no
pai
tw.
str

th.
th
of

su

W(

gr
til
to
ca
ha
to
nc
or

icealed beyond the
8 giva it the name
vtor of the nests of
ck the honey out
r tame and gentle,
; will. It displays
r insects with its
jyes gleam directly
e earlier part of the
jecomes very brisk
swinging from the

rroj, thin.)

NATURAL niSTOBT.

79

Kinkajou.

lole. Mole-kind.)

d its habits may be
3op stands very con-
said to be deprived
in forcing its way
if misery in subter
a being a miserable
lite as much as any
)r the station which

it fills, and would be unhappy if removed from its accustomed
damp and darkness into warmth and light.

The eyes of the mole are very small, in order to prevent
them from being injured by the earth through which the
iuiiraal makes its way ; indeed larger eyes would be useless
undergi-ound. When, however, the mole requires to use its
eyes it can bring them forward from the mass of fur which
conceals and protects them when not in use. The acute ears
and delicate sense of smell supply the place of eyes. Its fin-
is very fine, soft, capable of turning in any direction, and will
not retain a particle of mould. But the most extraordinary
part of the mole is the paw or hand with which it digs. The
two fore paws are composed of five fingers, armed with sharjj,
strong nails, in order to scrape up the earth, and to prevent

TALPA.

Europea (Lat. belonging to Europe), the Mole.

the accumulated mould from impeding the mole's progress ;
the hands are turned outwardly, so as to throw the earth out
of its way.

The Mole is a most voracious animal, and is incapable of
sustaining even a slight fast. Its principle food is the earth-
worm, in chase of which it drives its long galleries under-
ground ; but it also will eat insects, bits of meat, and some-
times birds, which it takes by surprise, and then rapidly tears
to pieces with its powerful claws. This ravenous appetite
causes it to suffer from thirat if a supply of water is not at
hand. For this reason the mole always makes a tuiniel
towards a pond or brook, if there is one near. If no water is
near, it digs a number of little wells, which receive the rain
or dew, and enable it to quench its thii-st.

80

NATUnAL HISTORY.

It is II good swimmer, and can pass from bank to bank, or
from the shore to an island, and when the fields arf inun-
dated by floods it can save itself by swimming.

The construction of the mole's habitation is very smgular
and interesting. Each mole has its own habitation and
hunting ground, and will not permit strangers to trespass
upon its preserves, which it guards, not by " man-traps and
Bprin<'-guns," but by its own claws and teeth.

In order to construct a fortress, the mole selects a secure
place, as the foot of a tree, or the side of a high bank It
then throws up a heap of earth, which it presses firmly to-
gether, as within this mound its fortress has to be made. It
commences by running a circulai- gallery near the summit ot
the moimd, and another larger one near the bottom. Ihese
two giilleries it connects by five descending passages. In the
very centre of the mound, and at the level of the ground, it
now di<^ a circular hole, which it connects with the upper
eallery''by three ascending passages. Lastly, it makes a
number of passages from the lower gallery, and connects the
circular chamber with the largest of them, or high road, by a
passa<vethat first bends downwards, and then rises into the
liigh road a little outside the large gallery. In the circular
chamber the mole sleeps, and can escape into the high road
either by the upper gallery or by the road from the bottom

of its dormitory. , , . j i

Moles vary in colour, the usual tint being a very deep brown,
almost black, but they have been seen of an orange colour,
and a white variety is not uncommon. Those who have
watched its habits state that it alternately works and rests at
intervals of three hours. There are several moles known,— the
Shrew Mole, the Changeable Mole, the Cape Mole and the
Star-nosed Mole, tu-e the most conspicuous.

MOLE UILL.

1

but
wiii
wor
anil
will

triei
the
oft
sinj2
sud(
recf
T
falsi
com
littl
over
was
shrc
thei
sam
a w(
certt

bank to bank, or
le fields ar|i_iuuu-
ng.

II is very singnlar
Q habitation and
mgers to trespass
y " man-traps and
;h.

•le selects a secure
a high bank. It
presses firmly to-
ns to be made, li
lear the summit of
he bottom. These
; passages. In the
il of the ground, it
;ts with the ui)per
laatly, it makes a
f, and connects the
, or high road, by a
then rises into the
y. In the circular
nto the high road
d from the bottom

f a very deep brown,
f an orange colour.
Those who have
f works and rests at
moles known, — the
Cape Mole and the

IS.

NATURAL IIISTOny. 81

Sub-fauiily d. Erinacina. — (Lat. from Erinaceus, a Hedgehog.)
SoHEX. — (Lat. n Hat.)

AranCus (Lat. a Shrew), the Shrew Mcmae.

This pretty little animal is very like the common mouse
but is easily distinguished from it by the length of the nose,
which is used for grubbing up the earth in search of earth-
woi-ms and insects, A peculiar scent is diffused from these
animals whicli prevents the cat from eating them, although she
will readily destroy them.

Many species of shrews are known, inhabiting various coun-
tries. There are, besides the common species, the Oai-ed and
the Water Shrew, all three inhabiting England. The formation
of their hair, as seen under a powerful microscope, is most
singular, and differs from the hair of most other animals by
suddenly diminishing in thickness, and, after an interval,
recovering its former size.

This is one of the mmierous animals that have suffered by
false reports, and have been treated with great cruelty on ac-
count of those fables. Rustics fomierly believed that the poor
little hai'mless creature jjaralyzed their cattle by running
over them, and that the only way to cure the diseased animal
was to place a bough of shrew-ash on tlie injured part. The
shrew-ash was made by boring a hole into an asli-tree, and
then plugging up in the hole a living shrew-mouse. By the
same process of reasoning a shrew cut in half, and placed on
a wound supposed to be caused by its bite, was cousidered a
certain remedy.

)<•) XATUllAL illSTonV.

The Water Shrew frciueuts brooks and clear nmuing cUtchcs.
in the banks of Nvhich it lives. It swima and cl.vcs w.t .
grout ca«e, and when under water appears as it it had u.tu

■.V -s 1 J-.li Si' Ki),'.V

speckled over its entire surface with silver, from the bubbles
"^ air which adliere to its fur. It eats the ^-^:^^^
aquatic insects, digging xhein out of the '""^Wj 1 ^nk. « tl
its b iout It is not very common, but I have seen immliLr.
StiietidiabitingabrLk near Little Hinton in Wdt^nn^^
and often watched their elegant movements and gambols
through the water.

One or two genera are omitted.

RiUNACEUS. -V bat. a Hedfjchoy.)

Europa.'us ^Lat. hdw.,wi) to Enroi^t), the Ihdijdi^xj.

IMic Hedgkuog is remarkable as being our only Knghsii
animal that is guarded with spikes. These spikes ai-e nxod
into the skin in a very beautiful and simple manner. When
the Hedgehog is annoyed it rolls itself u}), and the tightness
of the skin causes all its spines to stand firm and erect, bidcUng

deli
dog
the
pus
imr
it t

1

CiUS

agii
dis
thu
im
he(
do'
slo
the
a (
wli

sec

a

i;a

til

br

th

se<

th

th
pe

Ui

a

to

sj

re

larnumiug ditches,

IB ami divos vvitli

iis if it luul berii

J^.

, from tlio bubl)ics
.0 gmbs of various
nmddy banks with
liavc seen numbers
lintou iu Wiltsliiro,
lents and gambols

the IhdijJt'i'j.

ig our only Knglisli
hesc spikes are rixed
iple manner. When
up, and the tightness
rui and ereet, bidding

NATURAL HISTORY.

83

detinnce to an uni)rotcctcd hand. While rolled uji, even the
dog and the fox are Ijafiled by it ; but their ingenuity enables
them t()-overcomo the ditlieuRy by rolling it along until they
imsh it into a i)nddle or pool, when the astonished hedgehog
immediately unrolls itself to see what is the matter, and before
it ean close itself again is seized by its crafty enemy.

Many more fortunate animals have outlived the aspcrsicjns
ciist upon their character by ignorant persons, Imt the prejudice
against the hedgehog is still in full vigotu- iu the agi'icultural
district-s. Scarcely a farmer ov lab(jurer will be per.suaded
that the hedgehog does not suck the cows. Now this is an
im])08sibility for the hedgehog, but I have seen pigs— not
hedgepigs, but real bacon pigs — suck the cows whilst lying
down. Among other creatures accused of this theft, are the
slow-worm, a creature with an extremely small mouth, and
the goatsucker. Really when a man relates that a bird sucks
a cow, it reminds one of the brother philosophei-s, one of
whom milked a bidl while the other held the ytail.

The food of the hedgehog consists not of cow's milk, but in-
sects, snails, frogs, mice, and snakes. Dr. Buckland placed
a snake in the same box with a hedgehog. The hedgehog
gave the snake a severe bite, and then rolled itself up,
this pr(X!ess being repeated until the spine of the snake was
broken in several places ; it then began at the tail, and ate
the snake gradually, as one woidd eat a radish. White has
seen it bore down ami cat the roots of the plantain, leaving
the leaves iuid stem untouched.

The tlesh of the hedgehog is said to be good eating, and
the gipsies fre(|uently make it a part of their diet, as do the
peo])le iu some parts of the continent.

During the winter it lives in a torpid state, in a hole well
lined with grass and moss, and when discovered looks like
a roimd mass (jf loaves as it rolls itself among the fallen
foliage, which adheres to its spikes. The engraving of the
spine, or (piill, of this animal shows the method by which it is
retained in the skiu.

SplNli OF QiCDGKIIOO.

S4

NATUriAI. mSTOUY.

Family V. . . MncroplilPD.— (Or. MoKpis, large; «i|/, an vyu.)
Sub-fainily b. Maavjyina.

macr5pub.

Miijor (Lat. taiyn), Ihc Aaiujaioo.

Til tlio mole we saw that the power of the body was placed
chic-fly in the forc-lcgs ; we now come to a family which han
the i)rincipal power placed in the hinder part of the body.
In the Kangaroos the hind-legs are very long and immensely
powerful ; the forelegs are very small, and used more as hands
than for walking ; the tail also is very thick and strong, and
assists the animal in its leaps.

Tlie Great Kangaroo inhabits New Holland and VanDiemen s
I.and. Its singular formation, peculiarly adapted to the
country, calls forth a corresponding degree of ingenuity on
the part of the natives, who live much on its flesh. Its method

of

assi

feel

I.0I

or

ino

Th

flu

it

i-et

\m

Ml

bn

thi

an

CO

de

In
H

CO

til
ai
el
'1'
w
T
K
a'
a
tl
n
k
s

I
e
\

i-gej &i|«, an cje.)

NATURAl- IlISTOUY.

80

the body was placed
a family which hax

r part of the body.

long and immensely
used more as hands

lick and strong, and

nd and VauDiemens
■ly adapted to the
rce of ingenuity on
s flesh. Its method

„f progrcsHion is by immense leaps from its long Imul legs
assisted by its tail. The length ..f each leap is about fifteen
feet Of course tliis swiftness would soon leave its pursuers
l„.hind, but the Australian is able to break one of its limbs
,„• strike it insensible to the ground with his boomemng, tlie
most wonderful weapon that uneivili/.ed man ever produced.
This extraordinary missile is a Hat curved piece of wood, vv h.cl.
the Australian natives can wield with wonderful skill, making
it describe circles in the air, or rush at an object, and then
return to its owner's feet ; or throw it at the ground and
make it leap over a tree and strike an object at the other side.
Many boomerangs have been made in Kugland from models
brou^dit from Australia, and it is not very difhcu t to learn
the turn of the wrist necessary to inake them describe a circle
and return, but no one excei)t an Australian can pertonn tlie
complicated evolutions whicli the natives force the weapon to

describe. . , , .

The Kangaroo, except when feciling, stands upright on his
hind legs, and can then sec over the tops of the rank herbage.
Hunting this animal is a very favourite sirort with both
colonists and natives. The natives either knock it down with
the iKH.merang, spear it from behind a bush, or unit« togetlier
and hem in a herd, which soon fall victims to the volleys of
clubs, speai-s, and boomerangs which pour in on al sides
The colonists either shoot it or hunt it with do^^s, a herd ot
which is trained for that purpose just as wo tram fox-hounds.
The "old man," or "boomer," tvs the colonists call the U-eat
Kan'-aroo, invariably leads the dogs a severe chase, always
att^'inpting to reach water and escape by swunmimg. It is
a formidable foe to the dogs when it stands at bay, as it seizes
the dog with its fore-legs, and either holds him under water
until he is drowned, or tears him open with a well directed
kick of its powerful hind feet, which are armed with a very

sharp claw. i • i <•

The female Kangaroo carries its young about m a kiiul oi
T.ouch, from which they emerge when they wish for a ittle
exercise, and leap back again on the slightest alarm. All the
kangaroos and the opossums have xhis pouch, from which they
are called " marsupiated " animals, from the Latm word mar-
supium, a purse or pouch.

i''!' .VATl II.M. IIIMTOIiV.

Tlic kf:;ith of th" drout Kiiiigiirfio is nlxjut five fei't without
till' tail, tlio len^rtK ♦' wiiicli i.s alioiit llircc t'oi't.

Thcrr arc many sjh h'h of kauuaroo, tlic inoMt cxtraonlinarv
iic'iii}.' tlie Tieo Kangnroo, whicli can iioj) a'jont on treoM, ami
lian curved clawH on its fore jiaws, like tluMc of tlie sloth, to
enaiile it to hoM on Hie liranchcs.

Seveml '.'encra and two suh-taniilies are uinittcd.

Siili-t'ninily c f)lil,lj:li!iia. — (Or. Ait, iloublo : StKipvt, ii |iimi'!i.»

pinKM'lIYS

Virginiilna (Lat. UIudijiiuj tit Vinjinin), tin iijiontntm.

Tliis auiiual inhabits North Anierici, and is hunted with
.•ilniost as much ])ei'scveranee as the racoon, not, however, for
the sake of its fur but of its flesh. When it perceives the
iiimter, it li(!S still between the bmnehcs, but if disturbed from
its hiilinji place, it attempts to e8caj)e by drojjpin}^ amoufj; the
herl)age and creeping silently away.

Its food consiists of insects, birds, eggs, kc, and it is very
destructive among the hen-roosts. The Oi.vs'um nseK its tail
for climbing and '.\*inging from branch to hmncl- as the
spider monkeys use theii-s ; but the Ope,-ii ns's . tail iu
a manner that tho monkeys have never >ci uccu observed to

Alt five foot vvithmit
i> tl'i't.

iiidst oxtiiionliimrv
about on trec'N, mi' I
lono of the nlotli. tn

dill

itteil

: itKipfJt, :l pcitli'll.

//« Ojiim.fiim.

md is hunted witli
11, not, however, t'oi'
en it perceives the
ut if disturbed from
Iroppin^ iunoiijj; the

, &c., and it is very

h A^HU^i nsen its tail
I to hnuieli as the
su!' ud"h iIh tail in
;t utLU observed to

X.\rri!AI. IIISToItY.

M7

,1.,. that IS. makin, it a mipi-.t for its vouii^, who sit .■" its

Imek iukI twist tlieir tails n.aiid thiir niotherrt m ..r<Ui t.

.ve hem fiMiii falling,' olV. Lawson. i.i a pn^sap; snoted

. eu.-i of Animated Nature, yives the toll-svin,

.an ae a It .,f this animal :-" If a cat has nme hves this

Eu V Movlv has nineteen ; fbr if y>n hreuk --X ';;;";

heir skin ^1^ niash their skull, leavni- them Inf -lead, yai

.;.!;,. .., hour after, and they will he nmte ^o.je a.^^

......perhaps, you may meet them ereepmg -^y.^^J^^!^

,,™tv- n the wilderness eaten ot them, llu.ir tksh is n.i>
Sdunnd well-tasted; but their ugly tads put me out -t

""'Iv l^nlih'i'i^e Opossum is about twenty-two niches
mult height about that ..f an ordinary cat. ^V hen disturlKul
„r alarmed, it ^dves out a very unpleasant odoiii.
Several L'cnera arc omitted.

Family V. . . rhoridn'. -(Gr. *«<cr,, a Seal. Senl kind.,
Sub-1'atuily L. I'hucliiii..

I'Hut'A.

•t<i'i;*

,^yi^-

Yituliua (Lat. btlonifing to a calf). Ike Seui.

The CoMM<?N Seal inhabits the coast of Europe and is not
uilequeX found ii many parts of the bcotUj eoasB^
whpro seal-hunting is a favourite amusement. He young
;;ro laken by Htrotdiing nets across the nanw straits which

88

NATUKAI, HlSTOBr.

tliey frequent, hut, the older and stronger animals arc shot or
knocked down with clubs when they attempt to scramble uito
the sea, as a blow on the nose instantly disables them.

The fore-feet of the Seal are used as fins, and the two
liinder feet almost as the tail of a fish, to assist and direct its
course. On land the movements of this animal arc very
clumsy ; it sliuffles along by means of its fore-feet, or rather
paddles, and drags its hind-feet after it.

This seal, when taken young, is eiusily tamed. Edmonstf)n
gives an amusing account of a seal named Finna, which he
kept for about six months. " We had her carried down daily
in a hand-barrow to the sea-side, wlierc an old excavation
admitting the salt water was abundantly roomy and deep for
her recreation and our observation. After sporting and
diving for some time, she would come ashore, and seemed
perfectly to undci-stand the use of the ban-ow. Often she
tried to waddle from the house to the water, or from the
latter to her apartment ; but finding this fatiguing, and seeing
pi'eparations by her chairmen, she would of her own accord
mount her palanquin, and thus be can'ied as composedly an
any Hindoo princess." This interesting animal, after living
in the house for about six months, at last was decoyed away
by some wild seals and did not return again. A young seid
was tamed liy the guard of a small island in the Frith of
Foi-th above Edinburgh. It seemed quite to consider itself
one of the party, would accompany their boat across the
water, and when the vessel was made fast, it used to take its
station inside, and watch untd the owners returned. It had
the plajrful mannei-s of a water-dog, and would snatch a stick
from its master's hand and dash into the sea with it, where it ,
would toss and tumble about, sometimes approaching close
to the sliore, and swimming off again when its master at-
tempted to gi'asp the stick, but it invariably brought back
whatever it had taken. It would also bring fish out of thp
water and give them to its owners.

The length of the Common Seal is about four or five feet,
and its weight often two hundred and twenty- four pounds.
When surprised basking on the shore, it scrambles off towards
the water ; l>ut if intercepted, dashes at its antagonist, ovei-sets
him if possible, and makes its escape as fast a« it can.

1

r animals arc shot or
imptto scramble into
Usables them.
IS fins, and the two
assist and direct its
his animal arc \ery
ts fore-feet, or rather

tamed. Edmonston

lied Finna, which ho

er carried down daily

re an old excavation

■ roomy and deep for

After sporting and

ashore, and seemed

baiTow. Often she

water, or from the

flitiguing, and seeing

d of her own accord

ed as composedlj- as

', animal, after living

it was decoyed away

igain. A yoimg seal

land in the Fiith of

lite to consider itself

lieir boat across the

it, it used to take its

•s returned. It had

would snatch a stick

sea with it, where it ,

BS approaching close

when its master at-

iriably brought V)ack

jring fish out of tlip

out four or five feet,
twenty- four pounds,
scrambles off towards
8 antagonist, oversets
fast a^ it can.

XATUR.VL niSTOUY.
MOBUNOA.

89

rns Bi.Ei-H^Nr sk^al

Proboscidea (Gr. that has a proboscis or truuk.)

The Elephant Seal inhabits the Atlantic, Pacific, and
Southern Oceans. It is veiy much larger than the Common
Seal, being from twenty to thirty feet long. It derives its
name from the long snout, something like the proboscis of
the elephant, or rather the tapir, whicli it thnists forward
when angry, and snorts loudly. Only tlie males have this
proboscis, and they do not attiiiu it until they are three years
old. Although its appearance is very formidable, it does not
attempt to attack men ; but if it cannot frighten them by
opening its mouth and displaying its teeth, it makes off
towards the water, but with great deliberation, as when in good
condition it is so fiit that its body trembles like a mass of jelly,
and will furnish seventy gallons of oil. This oil is the prin-
cipal object of the South Pacific seal fisheries ; but the skin
of this seal is also very valuable for its strength, and is used
in making harness. The seal skin is often used as fur.

It is a migi-atory animal and changes its residence several
times in the year, the fii-st migration taking place in June.^

There are manv seals known, among which are the Sea
Leopard, a spotted" species ; the Hai-p Seal, so called from the
markings on its back something resembling a lyre ; and tlie
Sea Lion.

no

XATUHAL HlSTOnV.

Sub-family c. Trichrnna.
Tmriircrs.— ((Jr. C-V'^ Hiiir: rv«. ' '"^^■'^•'

Uosmftnis (Lat. Bxmmary), tite Waliun, or Morse.

The Walrus inimbits the northern seas, hut has been
known to visit <nir coasts. Three instances of this have
happened, one in 1817, one in ISi.^i at the Orkney Isles, and
a third in 1839 at the mouth of tlie Severn. The most
reniiu-kable point in the Walrus is the great length of two of
itK upper teeth, which extend downwards for nearly two feet,
and resemble the tusks of the elephant. They furnish verj'
tine ivorj', and are extensively used by dentists in making
artificial teetii, as teeth made from them remain white much
longer than tliose made from the tusks of elephants. These
tusks are used by the Walrus for climbing the rocks or hea]*
of ice, and also for digging up the sea-weeds on which the
animal mostly subsists. It will, also eat slu-imps and young

The Woli-us is often himted for the sake of its oil, its flesh,
its skin, and its teeth. It is generally found in troops, and
if one is wounded, its companions rush to its rescue and
attack the enemy with their shai-p tusks, which they have
lioen known to drive through the bottom of a boat. Then'

haw.)

XATViJAT. msTonv.

ni

skin is so strong and slii.ptry that it is very diffionlt to .Inve
the l.avpoon through it, and even a shar]. weapon fretine ..Iv
.didcs oW without injiu-iiig the animal. The great enemy <.t
Hie wah-u« is the polar hear, who does not always venture ..n an
open battle, as when a eoml.at takes plaec, the walrus det.Mxls
himself most vigorously witli his curved tusks aiK of en
inliiets fearful gashes on the bear, forcing it to Mbundon the

contest. ,• » ..1

The head of this animal is very small ni proportion to the
remainder of its body, and often deceives people as to its
size, which is difficult to ascertain without examination. lie
.stuffed specimen in the British Museum, although in bad
Tirescrvatlon, will give a tolerable idea of the animal. Ihe
expression of its countenance is veiy ferocious, principally on
account of the enormous size of the upper lip and tiie thick
bristles with which it is covered. The length ot the W alms
is about fifteen or sixteen feet, and it yields from twenty to
thirty gallons of excellent oil.

, 0)' Morse.

as, but has been
nccs of this have
: Orkney Isles, and
levern. The most
,t length of two of
or nearly two feet.
They furnish very
lentists in making
emain white mucli
elephants. These
the rocks or heaj^
eeds on which the
ihrimps and young

of its oil, its flesh,
und in troops, and

to its rescue and
s, which they have
1 of a boat. Their

Order III. . . CETE.—{(iT. KrJTos, a Wh.ile, or sea nionster.)
h-uiuily I. . . . Baljcnida}.-((Jr. BaAo.va, ii Whalr. Whak- kiml. i

THE WHALE.

Till- Cetacea, or Whai.e tribe, closely resemble the fishes,
iind have often been placed among tliese animals by natu-
ralists. They, however, are distinguished by possessing warm
blood, and in consequence, being forced to rise at intervals m
order to breathe the air, instead of se].arating from the water,
by means of their gills, sufficient air for supporting lite

The great Greenland Whale is found in the Noi'thern
Oceans, living amid ice and perpetual cold. I^hmy ships are
annually fitted out for the capture of this creature which
unhappily for itself, furnishes oil and whalebone. Ihe oil
i« obtained from the thick layer of fatty substance called
blubber, which lies immediately under the skm ; and tlie
whalebone— which, by the way, is not bone at all-- is obtained
from the interior of the mouth, where it fnnges the .piws aii.i

92

NATUnAL HISTORY.

acts as a sieve for the Whale to strain liis food through. The
throat of tlic GreenUiud Whale is very small imleeil, unci its
food consists of a little creature about an inch and a half
long, called Clio borealis. The Whale, when it wishes to
feed, rushes through the water with its inunense jaws wide
open, enclosing a lujst of little sea animals, aud a few hogs-
heads of water. As the Whale only wants the animals, and
not the water, it shuts its moutii, aud drives ull the water out

A
si
h
a
li
s
t
c
e
t

Mysticetus (Or. Miirrai, a moustache; k^toi, a sea monster), the Whak.

through the fringes of whalebone, leaving the little creatures
in its jaws. Tiie sailora, who always use forcible expressions,
say that a penny loaf would choke a whale.

For the capture of this animal, a number of ships leave
England, France, and other countries, reaching the Polar
SeaB about the end of April. When arrived at their destina-
tion, a cai-eful look-out is kept from the mast-head for " fish,"

I through. The
indeed, and its
inch and a Imlf
ion it wishes to
nenso jaws wide
and a few hogs-
tlie animals, and
ull the water out

?!^

^'^■■

nonster), tlie WfuUe.

he little creatures
rcible expressions,

ber of ships leave
aching the I'olar
d at their destina-
st-headfor "fish,"

NATURAL HISTORY.

93

which are usually first obserred by the column of steam and
water that the whale sends into the air from its nostrils.
At the welcome sound "There she bh.ws," the whole crew
starts into activity; the boats, which are always kept
hanging over tb.e side of the ship, furnished ready for action,
are instantly manned and lowered into tlie water, and the
boat springs ott' in chase of the whale. The harpooner, whose
station is in the bow, examines his implements caretully, tnes
the edge of ti>e hiirpoon, and sees that the rope is i)roperly
coiled, as an entanglement would probably uiiset the boat, or
even drag it below water. It will V)e as well just to notice
the ditferent weapons used in tlie whale-fishery. 1 he first
and most important is the harpoon, a kind of spear with a
lar.--e barbed head, the shape of which is not verj' unlilce tHe
flukes of an anchor. The edges of the barbs are kept very
shaqi, as otherwise the harpoon would not penetrate beyond
the blubber, and the whale would consetpiently e8ca|)e. Ihe
head of the hai-poon is not made of steel, as most would
imagine, but of soft iron, so soft that it can be scraped to an
ed-'e with a knife. This is fixed to a wooden handle, by
which the harpooner holds it. In some vessels the harpoon
is fired at the whale from a small cannon placed in the bow
of the boat. There are some veiy ingenious harpoons in the
United ScitIcc Museum, one of which, intended to Iw fired
from a gun, has its barbs joined to the head by a hinge and
held apart with a spring, so that when a whale is struck the
barbs collapse until the force of the blow is expended, when
the spring expands them and holds the whale firmly. Uie
common harpoon, however, is the weapon usually employed.

To the harpoon is fastened a long and very tough line,
about 4,000 feet in length. This line is coiled up at the
head of the boat, and gi-eat care is taken to prevent it from
being entangled. It runs over a kind of pully, oh the fnction
is so great when the alarmed whale starts off, that the rope
when out of its place has repeatedly set the giiuwalo of the
boat on fire. A bucket of water is therefore always kept at
hand to throw on the rope. At Deptford, some years back,
micrht be seen a boat, the head of which had been quite cut
oft-"by the rope. When a whale is struck it sometimes runs
out with tho whole of the line, in which case the line ot

94

XATURAl. HisTonr.

another lioat is fustened to it, fuul soinetimos a whale Iuvk
carried oft' three miles of Hue with it. , , i i ■

The use of the harpo(Mi is merely to hold the wliale ; it
does not enter deep, and causes the animal but little meou-
venienee, a.s a whale has often broken its hue and escaped
with the hiu-poon stickin- in its back, and been afterwards
reciuitured, api)arently none the worse for its adventure. In
order to kill the whale the fishermen have another weapon,
called a " lance." This is a long, slender, steel weapon, with
a very sharp head, without biu'bs, as the men have to with-
(buw the lance a.s fast as they can after it has pierced a vital
part With these few and simple weapons the fishers contrive
to secure the monster of the waters— a beautiful instance ot
the superiority of reas(jn over brute strength ; for as the expert
under secures a hu-e and strong fish with a single hair, utterly
inadc(iuate to V)ear half the weight of the creature it holds, so
the whale-fislier, with a few small weapons, achieves a task
which imiy be compared to a mouse attacking and kilhiig a
wolf with a reel of thread and a crochet needle.

Tlie boats always approacli the whale from behind, lest
the expected prey should see them and escape. When withm
a few yards the harpooner throws his weapon at the whale,
so iu> to pierce through the mass of blubber, and hold fost m
the fiesh The wounded animid instantly dashes off, taking
the line with it. When it has been mider water for some
time, it is forced to come to the surface to breathe. Iho
fishers mark tlie place where it rises, and thrust their Cng
huices deep into its body, indicting mortal wounds. Blood
mixed with water is now discharged from the whale s nostrils
or " blow-holes," a sure sign that it will soon die. Presently
streams of blood ai-o thrown up, colouring the sea and tre-
quentiy drenching the crews of the boats, and after a lew
violent struggles tlie whale turns over on its side and dies

The enormous carcass is now joyously towed to the ship,
and preparations ai-e made for "flensing," or cutting off tlio
useful pai-ts. Strong ropes are attached to the head and tail,
and men wearing shoes armed with spikes, to prevent slipping,
commence the process by fastening ropes to its head and tail.
A strong hook is then fixed into the fat near the neck, calle.l
the "kent," as it is used for " keuting," or turmng the

N.VTCUAL HISTOnV.

!l."i

nes a wlnile luw

Id llio wlmlo ; it
but little iiiciiu-
iiue and escai)od
been aftcrwiirds
s adventure. In
iiuother weiiptm,
teel weapon, with
on have to with-
as pierced a vital
lie fishers contrive
Litiful instance of
; fur ivs the expert
;ingle hair, \itterly
caturo it holds, so
s, achieves a task
ting and killing a
;dle.

from behind, lest
pc. When within
pen at the whale,
■, and hold fost in
dashes off, taking
er water for some
to bi'eathe. The
tlu-ust their long
,1 wounds. Blood
,hc whale's nostrils
ion die. Presently
g the sea and fre-
s, and after a few
ts side and dies,
towed to the ship,
or cutting off the
a the head and tail,
to prevent slipping,
to its head and tail,
car the neck, called
f," or turning the

whale over. In tiiis hook is fastened a rope passing through
a pulley at the niaiiniuist head, and fi.Kcd to a windlass on
deck. The blublmr is then taken off the upper side by
"blubber spades." The blocks of blubber, called "slips,"
ai-e then hauled up on deck by means of ropes called " speck
tackles,' speck being the German word for fat or baton.
When the blubber is all stripped from the upper side, the
men turn the whale partly rountl by hauling at the rope
fastened to the " kent." they then cut out the whalebone
with knives luadc for that purpose. Lastly, the " kent "
itself is stripped olV, and the whale left to the sharks and
gulls, who have been helping themselves very liberally wliile
the flensing was going on. 'i'he shovel-nosed shark sometimes
scoops out semicircular pieces as large a.s a man's liead.

When the crew have time, the blubber, which has been
stowed away in a place with a not very jjolished name, is
" made off," that is, carefully stripped of the pieces of skin
and muscle adhering to it, cut into moderately sized pieces,
and packed in casks until wanted. The oil is extracted by
boiling the blubber in large coppers ; a m(wt unsavoury
occupation, but a very pleasiuit one to the crew, if they take
that duty upon themselves. The refuse blubber is used as
fuel, so that there is no waste.

It is curious to see how one whale will yield to a suigle
liarpoon loosely fixed, while another will break away and
escape with five or .six in his back, and two miles or so of rope
trailing behind it. Some instances have been related of whales
being killed without being struck at all. Scoresby tells us
that after a boat had killed a whale, it sunk as whales
sometimes will do. While they were hauling it up, the line
sometimes pulled, and sometimes came in easily. At last
they drew up a whale with a coil of tiio rope round it,
which they naturally thcaight to be the animal struck by
thena. After disentangling it they found to their surprise
that the line still descended into the sea, and di-aggcd as if
there was a weight at its end ; and so there was, for they
found their harpooned whale still fixed to the weapon, and
discovered that the other unfortunate animal had contrived
to entangle itself in the line, and been drowned. " A whale
was struck from one of the boats of tlie ship Nautilus, in

96

NATURAL IIISTOUY.

Dayis' Straits. It was killed, and as is usual after t le
capture, it was disentangled from the line connected with the
first 'fast boat,' (the tii-st boat which had struck it,) by
(lividinK it at the splice of the foreganger, (the part ot tlie
rope fastened to the hai-poon,) within eight or mno yards of
the harpoon. The crew of the boat from which the hsli
wixs first struck, in the meantime were employed m heaving
in the lines by means of a winch fixed in the boat for the
purpose On a sudden, however, to their great astonishment,
the lines were pulled away from them with the same force
and violence as by a whale when first struck. They repeated
tlieir signal indication of a whale being struck ; their ship-
mates flocked towards them, and while every one expressed
a similar degree of astonishment with themselves, they all
agreed that a ' fish ' was fast to the line. In a few minutes
they were agi-eeably confirmed in their opinion bv the rising
of a lar"-e whale close by tliem, exhausted with fatigue, and
having "every appearance of a ' fast fish.' It permitted
itself to be struck by several harpoons at once, and was
speedily killed. On examining it after death, they found the
line belonging to the boat in its mouth, where it was still
firmly fixed by the compression of its lips. The occasion of
this happv and puzzling incident was therefore solved. Ihe
end of the line, after being cut, was sinking in the water— the
' fisli ' in question, engaged in feeding, was advancing with
its mouth wide open, and accidentaUy caught the bne between
its extended jaws— a sensation so utterly unusual as that pro-
duced by the line, had induced it to shut its mouth and grasp
the rope which was the cause of its alarm so firmly between
its liT)s as to produce the effect just stated. This circum-
stance took place many years ag-, but a similar one occuiTed
in the year 1814."*

The dangei-8 undergone in this pursuit are very great.
Sometimes the boat isdashedto pieces by a blowfrom the tail of
the enraged whale ; sometimes the crew are left on the ice tor
many hours, wet and frozen ; sometimes the ice-fields stnke
tocrether, and crush the ship between them, although the
vessel is strengthened in every possible way by cross-beams
and ti-eble sheating ; sometimes a fog comes on and the boat

• Scuresby's Arctic Regions, vol. ii. p. 264.

NATURAL HI8T0UY.

97

usual after tlio
)nnectcd with the
id struck it,) by

(the part of the
or nine yards of
which the ' fish '
ihiycd in lieaving

tlie boat for the
•eat astonishment,
h the Slime force
k. They rejjeated
iruck ; their ship-
■ery one expressed
emselves, they all

lu a few minutes
nion bv the risin<,'

with fatigue, and
1.' It permitted
at once, and was
,th, they found the
where it was still
The occasion of
efore solved. The
' in the water — the
!V8 advancing with
ht the line between
nusual as that pro-
ts mouth and grasp

so firmly between
;ed. Tliis circum-
milar t)ne occuiTcd

it are very great.
)low from the tail of
e left on the ice for
the ice-fields strike
hem, although the
(\ay by cross-beams
icB on and the boat

X 2G4.

and ship are sepcrated, neither having any means of knowing
whore the other lies, for sound is much im])eded by fog, and
even cannon are not heard when fired comparatively close.

The Whale shows great attachment to its youug, which
is called the odi, and on the approach of danger, seizes it
with its fin or flipper, and carries it down out of danger. The
Whale has no fins, properly so called, as it is not a fish. Its
flippers, which supply the place of fins, are in fact forelegs,
furnished with a kind of hand covered with a thick skin.
They seem to be principally employed in balancing the
animal. The hind-legs are concealed under the skin, as are
those of the boa constrictor. The length of this AVhale
aveiages sixty feet. Its tail is placed transversely, and not
vertically, as in the fishes.

FLIPI'KR OF THE WUALE.

THE CACHALOT.

The chase of the Cachalot is similar to that of the
Greenland whale, and need not be described. It is attended
with more danger, as the terrific row of teeth with which the
lower jaw of the Cachalot is armed, is not unfrequently
employed iu biting the boat. In the Ashmolean ISIuseum at
Oxford is an under jaw-bone of this whale, sixteen and a half
feet in length, containing forty-eight huge teeth. Besides
this method of defence, it has a very unpleasant habit of

H

98

NATUUAL IIISTOIIY.

"

swimming off to a iliHtnnco, ami then mailing at tho luuit
wittl its licad, tliorohy knocking it to pieces. Ono of these
whales actually sank a ship by three or four l)lows fr<>n>
its houu.

l'iiYsr:Ti:it.-((}r. -tufrrirrip. i lil'uv-iiiiu'. or liollowH.t

Macrocephi'ihis (,Gr. Mok/juj, huge ; K«t>aKv, a head), the Cachalot, or
Spermaecti Whale.

Spermaceti is obtained from tho head of the Cachakt, and
it is this substance that causes the immense size of the head.
When the whale is killed, a hole is made in the upper part
of the head, and the spermaceti is baled out with buckets.
When just procm-ed it is almost fluid, but is rendered solid
and transparent by being first drained of its oil, then boiled
in water, and lastly set to cool in wide pans, where it soon
assumes the white flakv nppearaneo so well known in tiiis
country. The layer of blubber is thin, but yields a fine and
valuable oil.

NATURAL III8T0UY.

w

ling ivt tilt' limit
s. Olio of theso
four blows from

1' lioHiiws. I

^ '"

. --'^h:

\d), the Cachalot, or

the Cachalot, and
le size of the head,
in the upper part
out with buckets.
it is rendered solid
its oil, then V)oiled
ans, where it soon
,'ell known in this
xt yields a fine un<l

ArabcrKris, so long a riddle to all inquirers, is now fonml
to be jirodueod in the interior of the Cachalot. This sub-
stance is of the consistency of wax, inflaniniablo, and ^'iv's
out a kind of musky odour. It was once in gi'cat rejnUe .is
a medicine, but is now only used as a perfume.

The Cachalot, although an inhabitant of the arctic seas,
1ms sometimes been foiuid and captured oH' our coasts. 'Hie
length of this whale is about seventy feet.

lAW OF iiKKi' Ni.A-:n •.villi. ;•

Fiunily IT. UelpLinlda}.— (Or. AfA<>.(i, a Dolphin. Dolphin kiml.)
Delphinus. — (I.at. o Di)ljihin.)

Delphis, tJie Dolphin.

Those readers who have formed their ideas of Dolphins
from the very gi-aceful and elegant creatures represented
under that name in the pictures of the " old masters" or the
statues of the ancient sculptors, will find that the real animal
difl'ers as much from the ideal, as the red and green lions
wearing golden collai-s, represented in heraldry, differ fi'om the
lion of Africa. Sad to say, almost the whole history of the
Dolphin is imaginary — very poetical, but very untrue. T)ie

100

NATUHAIi HIBTOnV.

red Hiul Miio colours of the heralilic lion aro not loss fiilinlous
than the clmiiging tints of the dyiyg <l<ili.hin ho dear to
poetiy AIuh! «mr vrnpoetieid l)oli)hin, when wo have hiir-
xM.ncd and »)iou^dit him on deck, is only hUick and white,
un<l idl the chanj^e that he niukes, is that the hlack becomes
brown in time, and the white ^n-ey.

We will leave poetry and its heantiful orrors, and pass on to
facts. The Dolphin is, like the whale, a wann-hloodod animal,
suckles its young, and is forced to come to the surface m
ortler to breathe. Us snout is very long, and is apparently
used for capturing such fisli, &c. aa live in the mud.

The leiK'th is from six to ten feet. Several species ot
Dolphin are known, of which the British Museum possesses
Hix.

PuoC«NA.— (Or. *wKaiva a Porpoise.)

<■'''

*^^..f

Coinmnnis (Lat. coiuhloii), the Pui-imim.

These animals may be ol)Scrved in plenty playing their
absurd antics oft' every coast of England. There aro numbers
of them off the Norc, a place which they freciuent greatly, as
it is at the mouth of a river, and they find more tood there
than in the open sea. They tumble at the surfefio of the
water for the purpose of breathing.

In the olden times, when glass windows were considered
an ertcminate luxury, and rushes supplied the place of carpets,
the flesh of the Porpoise constituted one of the standard
delicacies of a public feast, but it has long since been deposed
from its rank at the table. Like most of the cetacea, its tiesh
has a very strong oily flavour, which, however relished by an

nut loNx rubiiloUH
[ihiii HO (kiir to
L'U wti liiive Imr-
)liii;k iintl white,
10 bliick lieconiCH

re, and poHB oil to
i-l(loodo(l nuiiiml,
;o tho Miirfueo in
lid is apparently
10 tnml.

evcrul Hpecies of
luHouiu possesscH

r-

Jl,-r-

jiiih

uty playing tlicir
rhcre arc numbers
reciucnt greatly, a«
I more food there
bhe surface of the

'8 were considered
he place of carpets^
,0 of the standard
since been deposed
lie cetacea, its liesh
ever relished by an

N Air UAL IlISTOKY.

Kil

Ksquinuuix, is not a'rr.vublo to the palate of an Kugll^h
uiiioure of tho present day.

Tht! voracity of tlio Vorpoise \% very great. It feeds on
various tishos, but its groat feasts are iu'ld wlieu tho periotlieul
shoals of herrings, i)ilchanls, and t)liior Hsli arrive on the
cua.sts. Ill the pursuit of its prey, it fre.piontly ventures
some distance up a river, and is then often taken in nets by
the fiwliermen.

The teeth of this animal are very numerous, and mterhuk
when tho jaws are closed, so that tlio fish wlieii onec seized
cannot escape. Its length is about Hve foot, its col.Mir a rich
black ; becoming white on the under side.

THE NARWHAL.

Although the Narwhal has not sntfered from f^ilse reports
so much aa many other animals, yet it has unwittingly con-
tributed to propagate a very old error. Tho spiial tu.sk of
the Narwhal was accustomed to be sold as the real horn of
tho unicorn ; and as an accredited part of that animal, forming
direct proof of its existence, it used to fetch a very high
price. Of course, when the whale fisliery was established, the
real owner of the horn was discovered, and tho unicorn left
•still enveloped in mystery.

The name Monodon ia not strictly correct, as the Narwhal
possesses two of these tusks, one on each side of its lieail.
Only the left tusk projects, the other remaining within tho
head. Sometimes a specimen has been found with both tusks
projecting, and some think that when the left tusk has l)een
broken off by accident, the right ono becomes large enough
to supply its place. .

The use of theso tusks is not known ; some supposing that
they are employed to dig up sea- weeds, Ac, on which the
Narwhal feeds, and some imagining that the living prey is
first transfixed and then eaten. Be this as it may, as ii
weapon the tusk is not to be despised, as the strength and
rapidity of tho Narwhal are very great. Instances are on
record, of the thick oak timbers of a ship being pier^^d by tho

10-2

NATURAL HISTORY.

i\ory tusk of this creature. The Grecnlandcrs employ this
ivorj- in the mixnufacturc of spears, aiTows, hooks, &c. They
take the Narwhal by a kind of harpoon attached to a line,
with a buoy at its extremity. The use of the buoy is to
harass and retard the Narwhal when struck, 'ind to give
notice when it is about to rise. Immediately that it reaches
the surface, a lance is thrust into it, which generally proves

MoNODON. — Or. MoVos, solitary ; oiois, or oSuv, -a tooth.)

Monoceros (Gr. K6vos—K4pas, a horn), tU Narichal.

its death-blow. The adventurous Greenlander finds it a
niost welcome prey, as he obtains from it oil, food, weapons,
and ropes.

Although an inhabitant of the northern seas, it has several
times visited our coasts. Its body is from thirty to forty
feet in length, and its tusk from five to nine.

The Manatees and Dugong omitted.

ludcrs employ this
, hooks, «&c. They
attached to a line,
of the buoy is to
:ruck, md to give
tely that it reaches
;h generally proves

oStiv, a tooth.)

, the Nanchal.

inlander finds it a
t oil, food, weapons,

n seas, it has several
rom thii'ty to forty
ine.

NATURAL HISTORY.

Order IV. . . Oi/fliX— (Lat. Gits, a Dormouse.)

Family I. . . . Murtdte.— (Gr. MSi, « Mouse. Mouse kind.)

Sub-family a. Muriiia.

Mrs.

103

Decumanus ^Lat. tenth or large), the Bat.

We now arrive at the Rodentia, or gnawing animals, so
culled from their habit of gnawing through, or paring away,
the substances on which they feed. For this purpose their
teeth are admirably formed, and by these teeth it is always
easy to ascertain a member of the Rodents. They have none
of those sharp teeth called canine, such as are seen in the lions
and in tliose animals which seize and destroy living animals,
but in the front of each jaw there are two long flat teeth,
slightly curved, and having a kind of chisel edge for rasping
away wood, or other articles. The constant labour which
these teeth (called incisors, from the Latin word, incido,
I cut,) undergo, would rapidly wear them away. To coun-
teract this loss, the teeth are constantly growing, and being
pushed forward, so that as fast as the upper part is worn
away, the tooth is replenished from below. So constant is
this increase, that when an unfortunate rabbit, or other
rodent, has lost one of its incisors, the opposite one, meeting
nothing to stop its progress, continually grows, until some-
times the tooth curls upwards over the lips, and prevents the
wretched animal from eating. An example of this preter-
natural growth may be seen in the vignette under the article
Rabbit. The sketch was drawn from a specimen lu the
Anatomical Museum at Oxford.

The Rodentia include the mice, beavers, rabbits, squirrels,
and porcupines.

104

NATURAL HISTORY.

The Brown Rat, sometimes called the Norway liat, is the
species usually found in England. It was soino years since
imported into this country, and from its superior size, strength,
and ferocity, has so completely established itself, and expelled
the original Black Rat, that it is very difficult indeed to find
a Black Rat in any part of England. Watertou's sympathies
are much excited in favour of the original rat, and his anger
is great against the invader. He says of the Brown Rit :—

" Its rapacity knows no bounds, while its increase is pro-
digious, beyond all belief. But the most singular part of its
history is, that it has nearly worried every indi^-idual of the
original rat of Great Britain. So scarce have these last-
mentioned animals become, that in all my life I have never
seen but one single solitary specimen. It was sent, some few
years ago, to Nostell Priory, in a cage, from Bristol, and
i received an invitation from Mr. Arthur Strickland, who was
on a visit there, to go and see it. Whilst I was looking at
the little native prisoner in its cage, I could not help
exclaiming, ' Poor injured Briton ! hard, indeed, has been
the fate of thy family ! in another generation,^ at furthest, it
will probably sink down to the dust for ever ! ' " *

The same amusing naturalist, being considerably annoyed
by the depredations on his provisions, and the unceasing
clatter that they kept up behind the panels of his sitting-
room, after trying various plans to extirpate them, at last
thought of a method, rich in the same humour with which
most of his actions are tinged, and as efficacious in its oi)era-
tion as amusing in its idea : — ,■ , ■

" Having caught one of them in a box trap, I dipped its
hinder pai-ts into warm tar, and then turned it loose behind
the hollow plinth. The othei-s, seeing it in this condition,
and smelling the tar all along the run through which it had
gone, thought it most prudent to take themselves off: and
thus, for some months after this experiment, I could sit and
read in peace, free from the hated noise of rats. On moving
the plinth at a subsequent period, we found that they had
actually gnawed away the corner of a peculiarly hard-burnt
brick, which had obstructed their thoroughfare."

* Waterton's Essays, p. 212.

NATURAL HISTORY.

106

orway liat, is the
some years since
rior size, strength,
:self, and expelled
alt indeed to find
rton's sympathies
rat, and his anger
e Brown Riit : —
3 increase is pro-
ngular part of its
indi^ndual of the

have these laat-
life I have never
vas sent, some few
from Bristol, and
;rickland, who was

I was looking at
could not help

indeed, has been
on, at furthest, it
r ! '" *

siderably annoyed
nd the unceasing
lels of his sitting-
jate them, at last
amour with which
icious in its oi>era-

trap, I dipped its
;d it loose behind
in this condition,
ugh which it had
eraselves off: and
it, I could sit and
rats. On moving
md that they had
uliarly hard-burnt
ifare."

.MUS.

Muaculus (Lat. a Utile mouse), the Afouse.

The Common Mouse is so well known, that a description
of its form and size is useless. It almost rivals the rat m its
attacks upon our provisions, and is quite as difficult to extir-
pate It makes a kind of nest, where it brings up its yonng.
When a board of long standing is taken up in a room, it is
not uncommon to find under it a mouse's nest, composed ot
rags, string, paper, shavings, and everything that the ingenious
little architect can scrape together. It is a round mass,
looking something like a rag ball vcrj- loosely made. When
opened, seven or eight little mice will probably be found in
the interior-little pink, transparent creatures, three of which
could go into a lady's thimble, sprawling about m a most
unmeaning manner, apparently greatly distressed at the sudden
cold caused by the opening of their nest.

The Mouse is said to be greatly susceptible of nausic. An
anecdote is related of a gentleman who was playing a violni
seeing a mouse run along on the floor and jump about as it
distracted. He contuiued the strain, and after some time tho
mouse, apparently exhausted with its exertions, dropped dead
on the floor. An instance occun-ed to myself veiy recently,
similar in all respects but that of the aeath of the little
animal, which only scampered back to its hole when the
music ceased. We afterwards found that it was a partially
tamed one which had escaped. ,^1 nr

Everv one has heard of the fable of the Lion and the Mouse,
but from the following account from Basil Hall's In-agments,

106

NATURAL IIISTOKY.

WO must conclude that, whntcver the lion mij.'ht have done
under the circumstances, the tiger at all events \\vM\ not
have availed himself of the proflercd assistance. He relates
of a tiger that was kept in a cage at Mysore : —

"But what annoyed him far more than our poking him up
with a stick, or tantalizing him witli shins of Iwof or legs of
mutton, was introducing a mouse into his cage. No fine lady
ever exhihitcd more teiTor at the sight of a spider than this
magnificent royal tiger betmyed on seeing a mouse. Our
mischievous plan was to tie the little animal by a string to
the end of a long pole, and thrust it close to the tiger's nose.
Thn moment he saw it, he leaped to the opposite side ; and
when the mouse was made to nin near him, he jammed
himself into a corner, and stood trembling and roaring in
such an ecstasy of fear that wc were always obliged to desist
from sheer pity to the poor brute. Sometimes we insisted
on his passing over the spot where the unconscious little
mouse ran backwards and forwards. For a long time how-
ever we coidd not get him to move, till at length, I believe
by the help of a sipiib, we obliged him to start ; but instead
of pacing leisurely across his den or making a d6tour to
avoid the object of his alarm, he genemlly took a kind of
flying leap, so high as nearly to bring his back in contact
with the roof of his caare."*

□ AIR OF UnuSK

A white variety of mouse is tolerably common, and is
usually bred in cages. As it is very tame and beautiful, it
is in great repute as a pet.

The Harvest Mousp:, the smallest of the British quadrupeds,
discovered and described by Wiiite in his " Selborne," is very
much smaller than the ordinary mouse, a halfpenny weighing
down two of them when placed in a pair of scales. Its nest

* IliiU's Frugments, pert iii, page 96.

NATURAL IIISTOnr.

1(1|

m mij^lit luivc done
11 events \vo"Ul not
iistant'c. He relates
ore : —

I our j)oking him up
us of l)ecf or lejjp of
H cage. No fine lady
jf a sjiider than this
ing a mouse. Our
ninuil by a string to
3 to the tigtir's nose.

op])08ite side ; and
ir him, he jammed
ling and roiu-ing in
ijs obliged to desist
metimes wo insisted
10 Tinconscious little
)r a long time how-

at length, I believe
a start ; but instead
nnking a d6to»ir to
ally took a kind of
his back in contact

I

ily common, and is
mc and beautiful, it

u British quadrupeds,
1 " Selborne," is very
I halfpenny weighing
■ of scales. Its nest

[e!Mi.

is miscd abovit a foot and a half from the ground, and
supported on two or three straws. It is made of gi-uss, about
t lie size of a cricket-ball, and very compact.

The Field Mouse is as great a pest in the open air as the
Common Mouse within a house. It not only devoui-s the
corn, but strijis the bark off young trees, doing gi-eat mischief.
The kestrel or windhover hawk lives almost exclusively on
the Field Mouse, and ought always to be encouraged.

Several genera are omitted.

SuMainily fc. ArriiiAlnn.
tiiuKTrs.

''^^.

Fnimontarius (Lat. heloiujimj to harvest), the JJamalir.

The Hamsteh Rat is a native of parts of Germany. It is
a terrible pest there, as it not only devours the corn, ttc. m
tlic summer, but lays up a large store for the winter. It is
a most furious little animal, and will attack a man or a horse
und even a waggon wheel if it approaches too near the spot
which the Hamster considera its own property, lints, mice,
lizards, birds, and even its weaker bretliren, are eaten by tins
ravenous little animal.

It lives in holes underground, and to escape attack has
several passages from its chamber leading in different direc-
tions. The skin is of some value, and the hunter who spoai-s
it usually opens its granaiy for the sake of its store, which
is fiu- from being inconsiderable, a hundredweight of beans
having been found in one granary.

108

NATURAL HISTORT.

AnvicoLA. — (Lat. An'um, a field ; coin, I inhabii.)

Amphiblus (Gr. 'A,u(()/, on both sides ; Pi6a, I live), tlie IVaier-mt.

The Water Rat is a native of England, and very common
en the banks of rivcra, brooks, (fee. It digs holes in the bank,
and is reported to cat fish, frogs, &c., but this is very doubtful.
They exist in jxreat numbers round Oxford, and I have re-
peatedly watched them feeding. I never saw thera eating fish,
nor found fish-bones inside their holes, except when a kingfisher
has taken possession ; but I have fi'equuntly seen them gnaw-
ing, the green bark from reeds, which they completely strip,
leaving the mark of each tooth as they proceed. I shot one;
wliile feeding, and at first thought that the marks of its
teeth were caused by the shot, for until that time I had
supposed that the Water Rat fed on fish.

Subfamily d. Cantonna,

THE BEAVER.

North America is the principal country where the Beaver
is found, but it is also common on the Euphmtes, and along
some of the larger European rivers, as the Rhone and the
Danube. In former yeai-s, when the wolf and bear inhabited
England, the Beaver followed its architectm-al pui-suits along
the rivers ; but they have not been seen in this country since
1188.

sti
ab
til
to
dc

Wf

Ti
dc
Tl
tl

wwiMiitMjyiisa^MiMfcWP'JWJi.iaiJr.iJs^

""gc;ftbj;.^-j?y'g?vffifey^i;!i,v'fe^j;iJHSii*-^sssa«

Uo, I inhabit.)

I live), tite Water-rat.

id, and very common
igs holes in the bank,
this is very doubtful,
ford, and I have re-
saw them eating fish,
cept when a kingfi.sher
ntly seen them gnaw-
hey completely strip,
proceed. I shot one
at the mai'ks of its
itil that time I had

ry where the Beaveii
Euphi-atcs, and along
1 the Rhone and the
)lf and boar inhabited
3ctm'al purauits along
in this country since

NATURAL HISTORY.

109

The houses of the Beaver arc built of mud, stones, and
sticks. They are placed in a stream, and then- entrance is
always below the surface. As a severe frost would freeze up
their doors, it is necessary to make the stream deep ouougli
to T)revent the frost from reaching the entrances. 1 his is
done by building a dam across the river, to keei) back the
water imtil it is sufficiently deep for the beaver s purposes.
These banks are made of branches which the Beaver cuts
down with its strong sharp teeth, and of mud and stones.
The Beavers throw these branches into the water, and sink
them to the bottom by means of stones ; by continually

Castob.— (Gr. Kd<rT«p, a Beaver.)

Fiber (Lut. a Beaver), the Beater.

throwing in fresh supplies a strong embankment is soon made.
As many Beavers live together in one society, the formation
of a dam does not take very long. By their umted efforts
they rapidly fell even large trees by gnawing them round the
trunk, Ld always taking care to make them Ml towards the
vlr so that they can transport the logs easily The mud
and stones used in their embankments are not carried on
their tails as some say, nor do the Beavers use their tails as
to" L t kying on the mud, the fact being that the stones
and mud are carri.,4 between their chm and fore-paws, and
the mistake respecting the tail is evulencly caused by the

iP»l,,= J..-.a..

no

NATUnAL HISTORY.

slnp that Beavers give with that member when they dive.
In order tliat their pond may not be too deep, they always
leave an openinj^ in tlio dam to let the water escape when it
rises above a certain height.

They cut most of their wood in the summer, taking care
to choose trees above their houses, so that the stream floats
them down to the place where they wish to use them. They
also lay up stores of food for the winter, by cutting a number
of green branches and sinking them near the door of their
habitations, where tl.ey are held firm by stones laid on the
summit of the heap.

During the severe winter, their mud-built houses freeze
quite hard, and prevent the wolverine, their greatest enemy
except man, from breaking through and devouring the inmates.

The fur of the Beaver is exceedingly valuable, especially
for tiio manufactuHJ of hats, and is greatly sought after. The
hunting season is in wuiter. when the beavers are quietly in
their houses. The hunters, armed with spears, «fec. break tlie
lops of the houses. The alarmed beavers instantly rush out
and pass under the ice to certain hiding-places in the bank.
The hunter tlien discovers the position of the hole in the
bank by the sound of his spear struck against the ice ; he
then breaks a hole and spears the animal in its place of
fancied security. A substance called Castor was formerly
obtained from the Beaver and much used in medicine, but is
now discai'ded.

When in captivity the Beaver soon becomes tame, and will
industriously build dams across the corner of a room with
brushes, boots, fire-irons, books, or anything it can find.
When its edifice is finished it sits in the centre apparently
satisfied that it has made a beautiful structure to dam uj) the
river — a proof that the ingenuity of the Beaver is not caused
by reason but by instinct.

The fur of the Beaver, like that of many other animals,
consists of a fine wool intermixed with long and stiff hairn.
The hairs are useless, but the peculiar construction of the fur
causes it to penetrate and fix itself into the felt which forms
tlie body of a hat. The length of the Beaver is about three
feet and a half.

Several genera are omitted.

NATURAL HISTORY.

Ill

icr when they dive.
10 deep, they always
ater escape when it

summer, taking care
at the stream floats
to use them. They
jy cutting a number
ir tlie door of their
y stones laid on the

[-built houses freeze
heir greatest enemy
vouring the inmates,
valuable, especially
y sought after. The
lavers arc quietly in
spears, ifec. break the
•s instantly rush out
-places in the bank,
of the hole in the
against the ice ; he
mal in its place of
Castor was formerly
I in medicine, but is

jomes tame, and will
ner of a room with
jrthing it can find,
le centre apparently
cture to dimi up the
Beaver is not caused

oany other animals,
long and stiff hairf».
nstruction of the fur
the felt which forms
leaver is about three

Family II. . . . HystricTdic. -fTixTpif, a Porcupiue. I'oiviipine kiu'I.)
Sub-family a. ffi/atridnn.

IIYSTnlX.

Cristilta (Lat. a-csted), the Poixaiune.

The CoMMO^f Porcupine is found in Africa, Tartary, Pei-sia,
India, and some parts of Europe. It lives in holes which it
digs in the ground, and only comes forth at night in order t(j
feed. It eats vegetable substances only, such as roots, bark,
&c. The array of spines or quills with which this animal is
covered forms its principal means of defence. If it cannot
escape, it suddenly stops, erects all its quills, and runs Vmck-
wards against its adversary, striking the quills against him by
the weight of its body. Occasionally a looser quill than
usual remains in the wound or falls on the ground, which
evidently gave rise to the foolish error that the Porcupine
could dai-t its weapons at its adversary from a distance.
There are two kindf of these quills,— one kind long and
curved, the other short, thick, and pointed. These last
are the weapons of defence, as the former are too slender to
do much service. When the Porcupine walks, its quills make
a kind of rustling sound, caused principally by those arranged
on the tail, which are large, hollow, and supported on long

112

NATUBAL HlHTOaV.

Hleudur stalks. The American Indians nwj the (inilla cxtmctcd
from the Canada Porcnpine, a species living on trees', for
ornainonting various ])i(rtH of their (h-ess, especially their
mocassins or skin shoes. In En},dand tiio (piills are mucli
used by anglers for making fine floats. The length of tlie
Torcupiue is about two feet, and its spines or ipiills are from
six to fourteen inches long.

Sub-family f. Dasyproctina.
D.vsYi-nocTA.— (Or. AoffiJi, rough ; irpaKrdi, hindquftrtors.)

Aguti, (At Ai/iiali.

The Agouti lives in Brazil, Guiana and Paraguay. It is
about the size of a rabl)it, and like that animal is generally
found in company. In Brazil and Guiana, the Agouti is
much sought after for the sake of its flesh, but it appears tliat
in Paraguay the flesli is not eaten. When pursued, it runs
for a short time witli much rapidity, but soon endeavours to
conceal itself in a hole or under the roots of a tree, wlieu it
will suffer itself to bo captured without any resistance,
merely uttering a plaintive cry. It feeds on vegetables,
especially yams and tubers, but in the West India Islands it
devours the sugar-canes, and is a great pest to the plautei"s.

) the (luillM uxtmctcd
iviiig on trcef. for
288, especially their
he quills lire much
The length of the
!8 or quills arc from

V, hind-qunrtors.)

u(l Paraguay. It is
animal \h generally
liana, the Agouti i»
1, but it appears that
!ien pursued, it runs
t soon endeavours to
)t8 of a tree, when it
lout any resistance,
feeds oil vegetables,
Vest India Islands it
est to the plantei-s.

NATURAL niSTOUY.

Sub-family d. Ilydrochmvina.
IIydhoch^hus.— (ar.'TSwp, water; x"'?"- 1 rejoice.)

lia

Capybdra, the Vapyhdra.

The Ca I'DARA or Chiguira is the largest of all the Kodentia.
At fii-st sight it looks very like a pig, and its skin is covered
thinly with hairs like bristles, which add to the resenibhmce.

It inhal)its the borders of lakes and rivers iu many i)artK
of Southern America. During the day, it hides among the
thick herbage of the banks, only wandering forth to feed at
night, but when alarmed, it instantly makes for the water,
and escapes by diving. It is hunted for the sake of its flesh,
which is said to bo remarkably good. The Jaguar appears to
be of the same opinion, for he is the most terrible enemy of
this creature, destroying immense numbers. The food of
the Capybara consists of grass, vegetables and fruits. Its
lengtli is about tliree feet six inches.

Tlie Guinea-pig or Cavy belongs to the sub-fiimily Caviino.
It was originally brought from South America, and is fre-
quently domesticated in England. Its beauty is its only
recommendation, as it shows little intelligence, and is never
used for food. Children, however, and jjarticulnrly schoolboys,
ai-e fond of keeping Ciuinea-pigs, as they are wonderfully pro-
lific, easy to manage, and do not make much noise. They
are popularly supposed to keep off rats, and are therefore
usually patronized in coimexion with rabbit-hutches.

lU

NATURAL lliaTOUY.

Family III. Leporidic.— (Lat. Lepiu, a Hare. Haro kind.)
upua.

,,-<v->^^/V:

Timldua (Lat. timid), tlie Hare.

Tho Hare is one of our most common quadrupeds. It is
constantly hunted both for tlic sport and for its flesh. When
hunted with greyhounds, tho amusement is called coureini^.
Beagles are also used, but they do not catch the Haro by
spceti, but by patiently following its track, until the wearied
owimal is no longer capable of escuping. It comes under the
denomination of giuue, and is protected ^ y the Game Laws,
as art pheasants amt partridges.

It is exceedingly like the rabbit, but its colour is slightly
different, and the black spot on the extremity of its ears is a
simple method of dislinguishinu it. The Hai-e does not
burrow like the rabbit, but makfb a kind of nest of grsiss and
other materials. In this nest, called a " form," the Hare lies,
and trusting to its concealment will often remain quiet until
the foot of an intruder almost touches it. Many people can
distinguish it by the sparkle of its eye.

Flaru kind,)

qiiadrupecls. It is
for its flosii. When
is called coursing,
catcii the Hiuo by
i, until tlie wearied
It comes under the
\>y the Game Laws,

;s colour is slightly
uity of its ears is a
'he Hiu-e does not
of nest of grass and
mm," the Hare lies,
I remain quiet until
Many people can

NATUnAI. IllHTOUY.

li:»

Inuumeralde foes besides man surround this aniniul.
Foxes, ferrets, stoats, and all their tribe are uumercitul
enemies, and sometimes a large hawlt will destroy a leveret,
as the young Hare is called. Although destitute of all meuis
of defence, it is often enal)ied to escape by tlio (piicltness of
its heiu'ing and sight, whicli give it timely warning of the
a]>proach of an enemy, and enable it to escape to a place
of safetv.

In cold countries, the ilarc changes its fur during winter,
and becomes white, like the Arctic fox and tlie ermine. The
Alpine Hare, inhabiting the nortliern jjiirts of Scotland, is a
good example of this change.

LEt'US.

CunicQius (Lat. n litll< R'lhhU),

The well known IUbbit is i.uuer smaller than the hare, but
closely resembles it in form. It lives in deep holes, wliieh it
digs in the ground. When a number of these holes or
burrows occui* near eadi other, the j)lace is called i warren.
A loose dry soil, such ns the soft red sandstone, is tiio delight
of these animals, w' n may be seen frisking about in great
numbei-s outside tLcu- holes, but diving in on the slightest
alarm. Poachers often take them in gi-eat numbers by
spreading nets over the mouth of the holes, and sending a
fen-et carefully muzzled down one of the burrows. The
terrified mbbits rush out at the sight of their dreaded enemy,
and are c:uii,'ht in the nets. If the ferret were not nuizzled,

IIG

NATURAL HISTORY.

it would kill the first rabbit it caught, and remain in the
hole, suckii!g the blood of its victim.

The female Rabbit forms a soft nest at the bottom of her
burrow, composed of fur torn from her body, of hay and dried
leaves. Here the young rabbits are kept until they are
strong enough to sliift for themselves and make their own

burrows.

The tame Rabbit is only a variety,
rendered larger by careful feeding and
attendance. There are many breeds
of domestic rabbits, some, as the
fancy or lop-eared rabbits, being often
of considerable value, thirty guineas
having been refused for a particularly
fine one. When tame rabbits are

suffered to go free, they speedily return to their wild habits

and instincts.

I'.'EB-QROWN TEETH CF
KABBIT.*

Family IV. . . Jerboidso. —{Jerboa hind.)
Sub-family a. . ChinchiUina.

CHINCHILLA.

Lanlger (Lat. wool-bearing), tlie Chinchilla.

This pretty little animal is an inhabitant of the valleys in
the mountain districts of South America. In such situations
the cold is often very intense ; but the long soft fur of the
Chinchilla forms an effectual protection against the frosts.
The fur is extensively used for clothing, and celebrated for its

• From the Anatomical Museum, Oxford.

t, and remain in tlic

at the bottom of her
lody, of hay and ckied
kept until tliey are
and make their own

abit is only a variety,
ijy careful feeding and
lere are many breeds
■bbits, some, as the
d rabbits, being often
value, thirty guineas
used for a particularly
3n tame rabbits are
L to their wild habits

boa kind.)

.inchilla.

litant of the vallej's in
ca. In such sitiiations
ho long soft fur of the
ion against the frosts.
5, and celebrated for its

3, Oxford.

NATURAL HISTORY.

117

soft and warm texture. Numbei-s of tlieso animals are
annually destroyed for the sake of their skins. Coqmmbo
appears to be tlie place where they are taken m the
greatest numbers. . .

The Chinchilla lives in society like the rabbit, and resides
in burrows dug in the ground. Its food is entirely vegetiible,
and principally consists of bulbous roots. In captivity it is
quiet and inoffensive, but seems to betray no particular
attachment to its keeper; neither does it seem p aytul. Us
tail, covered ^s-ith long bushy hairs, is usually held turned up
over its back, like that of the squirrel, and probably tor tlio

same rcasou. . . ^, ■ 4. • *

From the various specimens of fur sent to this country it
would appear that there arc two species of Chinchilla, but it
is not quite certain. The length of tlie Chinchilla is about
nine inches, exclusive of its tail, which measures about hve.

Sub-family c. Bipina.
DiPUS.— (Or. A(s, double ; irois, a foot.)

-Egyptius (Lat. belonging to Egypt), the Jerboa.

The Jerboas are celebrated for their powers of leaping.
Their long hind-legs enable them to take enormous springs,

118

NATURAL HISTORY.

(luring wliich their tails serve to balance 'ihcni. Indeed, a
Jerboa, when deprived of its tail, is afraid t) leap. At first
sight the Jerboa seems to alight on its hind-feet, as well as
spring from them, but the fact is, that it alights on its fore-
feet and draws up the hind legs ready for tlic next Icajj
with such rapidity that the eye can scarcely follow the
movement.

In the history of the polar bear it was mentioned that its
feet wore prevented from slip])ing on the ice by a coating of
thick hair. The foot of the Jerboa is defended by long
bristly hairs, which not only give the creature a firm hold of
tiie ground for its spring, but also defend the foot from the
burning soil.

Tiic timidity of the Jerboa is very great, and on the
sliglitest alarm it instantly rushes to its burrow, but if inter-
cepted, skims away over the plain with such rapidity that it
seems to fly, r,nd when at full speed a swift gi-eyhound can
scarcely overtake it.

Grain and bulbous roots are its chief food ; while eating, it
holds the food with its fore paws, and sits upright on its
liaunches, like the squirrels and marmots. Tlie Jerboa does
not bear confinement well ; it always appears uneasy and
distrustful ; it remains hidden during the daj% and even
when it emerges from its concealment towards the evening is
always ready to retreat at the least alarm.

There are many jerboas ; the Egyptian Jerboa is rather
small, being about the size of a large rat ; its colour is a
tjxwny yellow.

THE DORMOUSE.

The Dormouse is very common in all the warmer parts of
the Continent, and is often found in this country, especially
in the southern and midlaiul counties. It lives in copses
and among brushwood, through which it makes its way with
such rapidity that it is very diflicult to capture. During the
winter it lies torpid, but takes care to have a stock of food
laid up, on which it feeds during the few interruptions to its
slumbers. A warm day in winter will usually rouse it, but

NATUBAL niSTOnV.

Hit

3 {hern. Indeed, a
[ t^ leap. At first
lind-fect, as well ixn
alights on its furo-
for the next leaj)
carcely follow tlie

mentioned that its
ice liy ii coiiting of
defended by long
itnre a firm hold of
the foot from the

great, and on the
arrow, bnt if inter-
ich rapidity that it
vift gi-ey hound can

od ; while eating, it
sits iij)right on its
. The Jerboa does
ippears uneasy and
the da}', and even
rards the evening is

an Jerboa is rather
•at ; its colour is a

Sub-family d. Myoxina.
Myoxus.— (Or. Mi»o{<!j, or nvviis, a DormouHe.)

the warmer parts of
I country, especially
It lives in copses
makes its way with
ipture. During the
lave a stock of food
interruptions to its
isually rouse it, but

Avellanarhw (Lat. from Avellaris, filbert), the Dormome.

durinc the r ,■ u^ather it lies rolled up, with its tail curled
round it - i" this torpid state, a sudden exposure to

heat kills ;.„ -u. a gentle w^u-mth, such as holding it m the
and, rouses it without injury. It lives pnnc.pally on nuts
aeon s and grain. It brings up its young m a nest composed
of kaves and hay, and seems to be fond of society m its
household labours, as ten or twelve nests have been -en
close to each other.

THE SQUIRREL.

The Squirrkl is a very common animal in woods where
numbei-s may be seen frisking about on the branches, or
TnSg up and down the trunks. If alarmed it springs up
the tree Jith extraordinary activity, and hides behind a
branch. By this trick it escapes its enemy the hawk, and by
conlntly' slipping behind the large benches frequ^^^^^^^^
tires him out. The activity and daring of tins little animal
are extraordinary-. When pursued, it makes the most astonish-
hig taps from branch to branch, or from tree to tree, and

,S apparently some method of altering its direction whde in
the ail' possibly by means of its tail acting as a rudder.

120

NATURAL BISTORT.

Sub-family e. Sciurlna.
SoiuRns.— (Or. Skki, a shadow ; oipi, a tail.)

Europajus (Lat. European), the Squirrel.

It is easily domesticated, and is very amusing in its habits
wlieu suffered to go at large in a room or kept in a spacious cage;
but when confined in a little cramped box, especially in one
of the ci-uel wheel cages, its energies and playfulness are quite
lost. The colour of the English Squirrel is a deep reddish
brown, and its tail so large and bushy as to shade its whole
body when carried curled over its back, from whence it derives
its name of Sciurus, or Shadow-tail.

THE FLYING SQUIRREL.

The Flying Squirrels are well known by their powei- of
making enormous sweeps through the air. They arc enabled
to make these leaps by a fold of skin at each side, which, when
spread by the extended paws, foVms a kind of parachute,
that supports them in their passage through the air. When
they wish to pass from one tree to another, they spring
downwards from a lofty branch, stretch out all their legs, and
sweep to their mark witli an upwai-d curve. The species of
Flying Squirrel here represented is a native of the Rocky

d, a tail.)

uirrel.

lusing in its habits
t in a spacious cage;
{, especially in one
liiyfulness are quite
I is a deep reddish
to shade its whole
a whence it derives

by their power of
They are enabled
h side, which, when
Liud of parachute,
jh the air. When
>thcr, they spring
b all their legs, and
i^e. The species of
tive of the Rocky

NATURAL HISTORY.
PTKnoMYS. — (Or. UTfpSv, a vying ; nvs, a mouse.)

121

^ .^ ^^ X

Alpinus (Lat. Alpine), the Flyimj Siiuind.

Mountains in America, where it lives among the dense pine
forests that abound there. Its colour is yellowish brown, and
its length about a foot.

AucTOJiYs. (Gr. 'ApKTos, a bear ; /*0j, a mouBe.)

Marmotta, the Marmot.

The Alpine Marmot is common in the mountainous
districts of Europe. It lives in burrows dug in the ground.
These burro\\ ^ are something in the shape of a Y,. one of the
forks leading to its habitation, a kind of chamber lined with

122

KATUnAL HISTORY.

dry gnvRH mul mosses, and the oihcr fork sciTing ns a store-
house for food, iis ii provision agni.iot the winter niontiis. wiien
it retires to its hole, closes the entrance, and becomes torpid
until the commencement of spring, Wlien it firet retires foi-
tiie winter, it is very fat, and is tiien killed and eaten in great
numbers. Tiic skin is also of some service.

Many may bo seen in England, caiTied about by the Savoy-
ard boys, wlu) catch them when young, and tame them. When
domesticated they are mild and inottensive, but no instruction
entirely overcomes their abiiorrenec of a dog.

When feeding in its native country, it is very suspicious,
and always stations one marmot a.s a sentinel, and on his
giving the alarm, tiic remainder instantly seek the protection
iis their holes, closely followed by the faithful sentinel.

THE OX.

Thk lluminantia, or animals that chow the cud, include
the oxen, sheep and goats, deer, giraffe, and camels. They
have a pecidiar construction of stomach, which receives the
fresli-gathered food, retains it for some hours, and then passes
it back into the mouth to bo re- masticated.

Tiie Ox is spread widely over the earth, scarcely any
country being without its peculiar breed. In this countrj^
where it is our most useful domesticated animal, there are
nearly as many breeds as counties, generally distinguished by
the length or shape of their horns. There is the " long-horned
breed" from I^uca.shire, the "short- horned" from Durham,
the " middle-horned " from Devonshire, and the " polled," or
hornless, breed. Each of these breeds has its particular
value : some fatten easily, and are kept especially for the
butcher ; others give milk, and are valuable for the dairj-.
The best dairy cow is the Alderney, a small, short-horned
animal, furnishing exceedingly rich milk.

In some parts of England, oxen ai'e used to draw waggons,
or to drag the plougli. They are not so strong as horses, and
their movements are much slower.

Formerly, the cruel sport of bull-baiting was much practised

rk scn'ing as a storo-
wiiitcr niontlm, wlicii
i, and becomes torpid
hen it first rotirca for
ed and eaten in great
ice.

about by the Savoy-
id tame them. When
ve, but no instruction

dog.

it is very suspicious,
sentinel, and on his
y seek the protection
itliful sentinel.

icw the cud, include
, and camels. They
1, which receives the
lours, and then passes
ed.

earth, scarcely any
id. In this countrj-,
;ed animal, there nve
•ally distinguished by
•e is the " long-horned
raed" from Durham,
and the " polled," or
ds has its particular
pt especially for the
luable for tlie dair}-.
I small, short-horned

sed to draw waggons,
strong as horses, and

ig was much practised

< «riler V. . .
Kamily I. . .
Suli-fiunily a.

XATUK.VL HISTORY.

UNGULA r^i.— (Lat. possessin;/ hncf;).)
BovtdiB.— (Lat. Doit, aii ox. Os. kiiul.)
Boriiia.

BOB.

123

TauvuB (Lat. a Bull), the Ou:

in England, and bull-rings, that is, large iron rings firmly fixed
in the ground, may be seen in the market-place of many
towns. The i)oor bull was fastened to the ring by a strong
rope, and mangled by the repeated attacks of large and fierce
dogs. Sometimes the rope did not prove strong enough to
res'train his frantic struggles, and the tortured animal chased
and scixttercd the terrified spectators. In Spain, bull-baiting
is a very popular sport. The Spaniards do not confine tho
animal with a rope, but turn him loose into a large areni^
where several men, armed with spears and darts, first goad
liim into madness, and then slaughter him. The death (jf
the bull is, however, considered as a compliment due to the
valour and endurance of the animal ; for if a bull is soon
overcome, or refuses to attack his opponents, he is driven out
of the arena amid the hisses of the spectators, and sutfered to
prolong an ignominious existence.

124

NATURAL HISTORY,

Every part of the Ox is of value. Wc cat his flesh, wc wcfir
shoes soled with his skin, our candles are made from his fat, our
tables ni-e joined with gluo made from his hoofs, the mortar
of our walls is mixed with his haii-s, his horns arc made into
combs, knife handles, drinking cups, »fcc., his bones are used
instead of ivory, and the fragments gi'ound and scattered
over tiic fields as manure, and soup is made from his tail.

The young ox is called a calf, and is quite as useful in its
^vay as the full-grown ox. The flesh is called veal, and by
many preferred to the flesli of the ox or cow, which is called
beef: jelly is made froa its feet. The stomach is salted and
dried, and is called rennet. Cheese is made by soaking a
piece of rennet in water, and pouring it into a vessel of milk.
The milk soon forms curd, which is placed in a press, and the
watciy substance, called whey, squeezed from it. The cmvl
is colom'cd and salted, and is then cheese.

W'hen a number of cows are kept in the same yard, the
oldest cow always takes precedence, and pushes the others
with her horns if they interfere with her. She chooses her
own rack, and if she sees another rack better furnished, she
<iispossesse8 the original proprietor, and with an air of ridi-
culous complacency approjiriates it to herself. None of the
junior cows attempt to leave the yard or enter it until she
has preceded them, and so jealous is she of her authority,
tliat if any enter before her she refuses to move until they
have been turned out. She then looks round in a dignified
manner, and marches in, followed by the rest of the troop.

At Ciiillingham Park there is a breed of wild cattle, ap])a-
rontly the descendants of the origimd race that overran Eng-
land in former years. They still retain their wild habits, and
when any of them must be killed, thirty or forty men go out
armed with rifles. A keeper mounted on a swift horse
sepaiutes the victim from the herd, and drives it by the
concealed marksmen, who speedily lay it prostrate. The
colour of the Chilliugham breed is always white with dai-k
red ears.

cat his flesh, wo wear
nado from his fat, our
lis hoofs, tho mortar
horns arc made intcj
, liis bones arc used
round and scattered
ide from his taih
ijuite as useful in its
i called veal, and by

cow, whicli is called
itomach is salted and

made by soaking a
into a vessel of milk.
3d in a press, and the

from it. The cm*d

I the same yard, the
d pushes the others
r. She clioosca her
better furnished, she
with an air of ridi-
erself. None of the
or enter it until she
he of her authority,
s to move until they
round in a dignified
rest of the trooj).
of wild cattle, appa-
ce that overran Eng-
:heir wild habits, and
or forty men go out
1 on a swift horse
id drives it by the
it prostrate. The
iys white with dark

NATURAL HISTORY.

125

Ti:lE HEHU.

The Zebu or Brahmin Bull is a native of India. It is
a very coubpicuous animal on account of the hump on its
shoulders. There are diflerent breeds of it, some larger
than the English cattle, and some hardly larger than an
ordinary hog. The Hindoos treat it with great reverence,
and will not suffer it to be molested. It is in consequence so
tame imd fomiliar that it will often walk down the streets,
examine the shops, and perhaps help itself to some sweet-
meats ; or it will lie down in the narrow street ; but no one
must disturb it, they must either proceed by another roatl or
wait until the sacred animal is pleased to rise. \V ith singular
inconsistency the Hindoo, although he honours the bull witli
such absurd reverence, yet has no pity on the ox While the
consecrated bull wanders with impunity through the streets,
widks into shops, (china shops or otherwise,) and resents with
a peevish push of its horns the slightest atfront, the ox is
fastened to the plough, urged on by the goad, and put to every
kind of labour. The Zebu-cow, although not quite so well
treated as the bull, yet enjoys more forbearance than the ox.

126

XATCRAL niSTOKY.

BUI1X1.D8. -((!r. B'wBa\os. a, Biiffiilo.)

BuffClus, the Buffuh.

The Asiatic Buffalo is a larjie and powerful animal with
onormous horns. It closelv resembles the domestic ox, but.
is larger and stronijer. Its strength is so great that it is a
t'oi-midable enemy even to the tiger. Captain Basil Hall
gives an account of a battle between a buffalo and a tiger.
The tiger, however, seemed to have been alarmed at the very
nnu.sual scene into wiiich he had been transfeircd ; but thi^
readiness of the buftlilo to attack, proves tliat it did not fear
the tiger.

" We were promised a grand day's sp(jrt one aftei-noon,
when a buffalo and a tiger were to be pilted agiiinst each
other. The buffalo entered the ring eo. posedly enongii ;
but after looking about him, turned to one side, and rather
pettishly, as if he had felt a little biUous. overturned a vessel

fliilo.)

NATURAL ni8T0n\.

127

ir- ^

)Owciful aiiiinal with
tlie doniCHtic ox, but;
so great tlmt it is a
Captain Basil Hall
buffalo and a tigur.
alarmed at the very
transfeired ; but tlii^
J tluit it did not fear

sport one aftci-noon,
} pitted against eaeh
cg: 'posedly enough ;
one side, and rather
ij. overturned a vessel

of water placed there expressly for his use. The tiger refused
for a long time to make his appeariuee, ami it was not tdl
his don was filled with snK.ke and tiro that he siirang out.
TIh' butlhlo eharged his enemy in a moment, and by one
fm-inus push capsizi'd him right over. To onv great dis-
appointu'ient, the tiger ])ocketed this insult in the shabbie.st
manner imaginable, and passing on, leajjed furi(ju.sly at the
ropes, with which his feet beeame entangled, so that the
l.utlido was enabled to punish his antagonist about the rum],
most irgloriously. Wlien at length the tigc got loose, he
slunk otf to a distant i>ait of the area, lay duwn, and pre-
tended to be dead. The boys, however, soon put hnu ui.
again, and tried to bring him to the scratch with s(iuil>s and
erackci-s ; aTid a couple of dozen dogs being introduced at the
same moment, tiiey all set at him, but only one ventured to
take any liberty witli the emuged animal. This bold dog
actually caught the tiger by tlic tail, but a slight pat of the
mighty monster's paw cnished the yelping cur as flat as a
board. The buffalo, wiio really appeared anxious to have
a fair stand-up tight, now drove the dogs off, .and re])eatedly
poked the tiger with his nose, ai.d even Turned him half over
sevcnU times with his horns.

" We had then a fight between two buffaloes, which ran
their heads against each other with a crash that one could
fancy shook the palace to its very foundation indeed, the
oidy wonder was how both animals did not 1^ 1 down dvad
witli their skulls fractured. But there appcai-s to be a
wonderful degree <jf thickness or hardness in this part of the

animal."* . , . ^ v i

The Buffalo has long been domesticated in Imlia. iuul
from its gi-eat strength is exceedingly useful. In its wild
stat(> it is always found in marshy gi-ouuds, where the air is
sufficiently pestilential to destroy most animals. There it
will luxuriate through tlu hottc-st part of the day, with its
entire body immei-sed in the muddy water, only leaving its
muzzle above the surface.

The hide of this animal is particularly thick and strong,
and is in great request for making harness.

• Hall's Frai-'mints. jiart iii. p. f'S.

128

NATURAL I118T0IIY.

BUBALUI.

5i"

Caffer, the Cape Buffalo.

The L'ave Buffalo is a native of Southern Africa. It is
oxceediugly ferocious and cunning, often hiiking among the
trees until an unsuspecting traveller approaches, and then
rushing on hira and destroying him. The ferocious crciiture
is nut content with killing his victim, but stands over him
mangling him with its liorns, and stamping on him with its
feet. Gumming shot several of these animals, and once ur
i A'ico had narrow escapes from them, aa they are difficult to
kill. His descrijjtiou of their asjKJct is very good, and 1
ciumot do better than give it in his own words.

• Their horns reminded me of the rugged trunk of an oak-
trtf. Each honi was upwards of a foot in breadth at the
bime. and together they effectually protected the skull with
a niiUrisivo and impenetrable shield. The horns, descending
and spreading out horizontally, completely overshadow the
animal's eyes, impai'ting to him a look the most ferocious and
sinister that can be imagined. "

NATUnAL IllSrOHV.

12»

BUOK.

iitbcni AfricOi It iw
1 lurking among the
ipiiroachcs, and then
ho ferocious crcatiu'e
but kUuiLs over him
ping on him with itK
luimals, and once or
they arc difficult to
B very good, and i
words.

ged trunk of an oak-
ot in breadth at the
ected the skull witli
he horns, descending
itely overshadow the
be most ferocious and

Americanua (Lat. American), the Biton.

The Bison inhabits the plains or prairies of North America
iu countless multitudes. Its enormous and heavy mane, its
tierce eyes and lowering appearance, give this animal a most
terrific aspect. The American Indians constantly hunt the
Uison, which they call Buffalo. Their weapons are principally
hows and aiTows, apparently weak and small, but which,
when wielded by a skilful hand, will strike the huge bison to
the heart. In Catlin's account of his travels among the North
American Indians are many most interesting accounts ()f
" butliilo hunts." Mounted on a swift horse, and armed with
a spear and bow and arrows, the Indians kill great numbers
of these animals. They ride up close to the bisou, and with
the greatest apparent ease bury an arrow \i[> to its feather in
the creature's body. Indeed many instances are known where

K

I

130

NATURAL HISTORY.

the slight Indian bow, drawn without any perceptible effort,
liaa thrown the arrow completely through the body of the
huge animal. When only wounded it is a most dangerous
antagonist, and rushes on its enemy with the most determined
ferocity. Richardson gives an instance of its fury when
wounded.

" Mr. Finnan M'Donald, one of the Hudson's Bay Com-
pany's clerks, was descending the Saskatchewan in a boat, and
one evening, having pitched his tent for the night, he went
out in the dusk to look for game. It had bccomo nearly
dark, when he fired at a bison bull, which was galloping over
a small eminence, and as he was hastening forward to see if
his shot had taken effect, the wounded beast made a rush at
him. He had the presence of mind to seize the animal by
the long hair on its forehead as it struck him on the side with
its horn, and being a remarkably tall and powerful man, a
struggle ensued, which continued until his wrist was severely
sprained, and his arm was rendered powerless; he then fell,
and after receiving two or three blows became senseless.
Shoi-tly afterwards he was found by his companions lying
bathed in blood, being gored in several places, and the bison
was couched beside him, apparently waiting to renew the
attack had he shown any signs of life."

THE YAK.

The Yak inhabits Tartary. Of this animal in a native state
little or nothing is known. The name of "grunniens," or
grunting, is derived from the peculiar sound tliat it utters.
The tail of the Yak is very long and fine, and is used in India
as a fan or whiik to keep off the mosquitos. The tail is fixed
into an ivory or metal handle, and is then called a chowrie.
Elephants are sometimes tauglit to carry a chowrie and wave
it aV)out iu the air. From the shouldei-s of the Yak a mass
of long hair falls almost to the gromid, something like the
mane of a Lion. This hair is applied to various purposes by

J.

any perceptible effort,
)ugh the body of the
; is a most dangerous
li the most determined
lice of its fury when

! Hudson's Bay Com-
tchewan in a boat, and
for the night, he went
It had becomo nearly
ich was galloping over
3ning forward to see if
i beast made a rush at
to seize the animal by
;k him on the side with

and powerful man, a
I his wi'ist was severely
powerless; he then fell,
lows became senseless.

his companions lying
1 places, and the bison

waiting to renew the
fe."

NATURAL niSTORY.

131

animal in a native state
me of "grunniens," or
vr sound tliat it utters,
ne, and is used in India
uitos. The tail is fixed

then called a chowrie.
rry a chowrie and wave
Idei-s of the Yak a mass
nd, something like the

to various purposes by

PoEPnSoDS.— (Gr. ndrj, graaa ; <piiya>, I eat)

Grimntena (L'at gmntiny), the Yak.

the Tartare. They weave it into cloth, of which they not
only make articles of dress, but also tents, and even the ropes
wliich sustain the tents.

THE MUSK OX.

The Musk Ox is a native of North America, and is not
very \mlike the Yak in appearance. It is covered with very
long hair, which re- rhes almost to the ground. Its ilesh is
tolerably good when fat, but at other times it smells strongly
of musk. The horns of this animal are united together at
their base, forming a kind of shield or helmet covering the
forehead. When the hunters wish to shoot the Musk Ox they
conceal themselves, and fire without permitting the oxen to
see them. The -^oor animals seem to fancy that the report
of the guns is thunder, and crowd together in a mass, so that
they atford a good mark. If, however, they catch sight of
one of their assailants, they instantly charge at him, and then

NATURAL HISTORY.
OviBOS.— (Lat. Sheep-Ox.)

Moschatus (Lat. lamky), the Mmk Ox.

are very dangerous enemies. Both this animal and the Yak
are small, scarcely equalling in size the small Highland cattle,
but the thick hair which covers them makes them look larger
than they really are.

THE GNOO.

The Gnoo, or Wildebeest, inhabits Southern Afric- At
first sight it is difficult to say whether the horse, buffalo, or
.■intclope predominates in its form. The horns cover the top
of the forehead, and then sweeping downwards over the face,
turn boldly upwards with a sharp curve. The neck is fur-
nished with a mane like that of the horse, and the legs are
formed like those of the stag. It is a very swift animal, and
when provoked, very dangerous. When it attacks a,n oppo-
nent it drops on its knees, and then springs forward with such
force that, unless ho is extremely wary and active, he cannot
avoid its shock. When first alarmed, its movements are very
grotesque

Jiailiiii4I.MW8Jilii8iWi^

isk Ox.

animal and the Yak
(lall Highland eattle,
kes them look larger

outhern Afrir" At
:he horse, buffalo, or
horns cover the top
iwards over the face,
>. The neck is fnr-
se, and the legs an*
ery swift animal, and
1 it attacks an oppo-
igs forward with such
and active, he cannot
i movements are very

NATURAL HISTOKT.
Catoblepas.— (Gr. KorwiSA^wai', looliing down.)

I3;i

Gnu, the Chwo.

• When tlic hunter approaches the old bulls, they commence
whisking their long whito tails in a most eccentric manner ;
then springing suddenly into the air, they begni prancmg and
capering, and%ursue each other in circles at the- utmo«
speed. Suddenly they all pull up together, to overhaul tht
intruder, when two of the bulls will often commence fightmg
in the most violent mamier, dropping on their knees at eve^
shock : then quickly wheeling about, they kick up their hoc s,
whirl their tails with a fantastic flourish, and scour across tlie
r)lain enveloped in a cloud of dust."*

The size of the Gnoo is about that of a well-grown ass, that
is, about four feet in height. Its flesh is in great repute both
.imong the natives and colonists.

• Cumming's South Africa, vol. i p. 181

134

NATURAL niSTOKr.

PoniAX.— (Gr. Vdfna(, n Calf.)

'-5[[^

Pi(;ta (Lat. painteil), the Nylijhau.

The Nylghau, one of the largest and most magnificent of
the Antelopes, inhabits the forests of India. It is extremely
vicious, and cannot be approached without danger. Its method
of attack is similar to that of the gnoo, namely, dropping
upon its knees and then springing violently forward. The
tiger is its great enemy, and often destroys it in spite of its
comago. During the day the Nylghau conceals itself in the
forests, and at night leaves its coverts to feed, often doing no
inconsiderable harm to adjacent cultivated lands.

The colour of this creature is a slaty blue ; it has however
Siiveral white spots, and from its throat and shoulders hangs
a dense bimch of hair. It is abo\it the same size as the
gnoo, standing about four feet high at the shoulder.

r.)

fiost magnificent of
a. It '8 extremely
danger. Its method
), namely, dropping
ntly forward. The
ys it in spite of its
jneeals itself in the
feed, often doing no
1 lands.

ue ; it has however
id shoulders hangs
e same size as the
shoulder.

NATURAL HI8T0UT.

135

Stbepsickros.— (Gr. 2Tp.'v|-ir, a twistin,'; iclpo?, a horn.l

Kudu, the Koodoo.

The Koodoo is a native of South Africa, living along the
wooded borders of rivers. It is chiefly remarkab o for itn
rutifuUy shaped horns, which are about four feet ni length-
X visted into a large spiml of about two turns and a hall.
1 bolfr dge runs along the horns and follows the.r curva-
fure When hard preyed it always takes to the wa er, and
endeavours to escape by its powei-s of swunmnig. Although
a laie animal, neLly four feet in height, it can leap with
wonderful acti;ity. The weight of the horns is very con-
Xable, and pitly to relieve itself of that weight, and
paXto giiard them from entanglement in the bushes among
which it lives and on which it feeds, it carries its head back-
wards, BO that the horns rest on its shouldei-s.

13C

NATURAL HISTORY.

BoselXphus.— (Or. Ox-ntag.)

Oreas (Or. 'Opuds, belonging to the mountainB), the Eland.

Tlie best and fullest accounts of the Eland and the Oryx
are to be found in Harris and Cumming's Adventures in South
Africa. An extract from Gumming will bo both interesting
:md accurate. Of the Eland, ho writes : —

" This magnificent animal is by far the lai-gest of all the
antelope tribe, exceeding a large ox in size. It also attains
an extraordinary condition, being often burthened with a very
large amount of fat. Its flesh is most excellent, and is justly
esteemed above all others. It has a peculiar sweetness, and
is tender and fit for use the moment the animal is killed.
Like the gemsbok, the Eland is independent of water. It is
generally diffused throughout all the wooded districts of the
interior where I have hunted. Like other varieties of deer
and antelope, the old males may often bo found consorting
together apart fi-om the females, and a troo^) of these, wheu

NATURAL HISTORY.

137

. K

tains), the Eland.

.AND and the Oryx
Ldventiircs in Houth
bo both intei'csting

5 lai-gest of all tlie
50. It also attains
rthened with a very
iellent, and is justly
diar sweetness, and
lie animal is killed,
int of water. It is
led districts of the
!r varieties of deer
0 found consorting
oop of these, wheij,

in full condition, may U likened to a herd of stall-fed

oxen. 1 1 4 ii

" I havv -epcatedly scon an eland drop down <lca(l at tne
end of a severe cha.se, owing to his plethoric habit. Iho skni
of the eland I had just shot emitted, like most othe^r ante-
lopes, the most delicious perfume of trees and gi-ass.

Oryx.— (Gr. 'Opi/(, a word from Herodotus denoting a gazelle.)

^m^

,v4-

/'.'/V

/'A

v1>~

LeucOryx (Or. the white Oryx), the Oryx.

The Oryx, also a South African animal, is weU known
among hunters as the only antelope that revenges itself ou
the lion. When the lion springs on it, it lowers its sharp
horns, receiving the lion on tiieir points. It invariably

* Vol. i. p. 263.

138 NATUnAI. HISTORY.

perishes by the shock, but the lion also perishes with it.
Their skeletons have been seen lying together bleached on
the ])ltiin.

" The oryx, or gemsbok, to which I was now about to direct
niy attention more particularly, is about the most Ixjautifnl
and rcmiirkablo of all the antelope tribe. It is the animal
which is supposed t) have given rise to the fable of the
unicorn, from its long straight horns, when scon in profile, so
oxactly covering one another as to give it the appearance of
having but one. It possesses the erect mane, long sweeping
black tail, and general ajipcarance of the horse, with the head
and hoofs of an antelope. It is robust in its form, stpiarely
ainl compactly built, and very noble in its bearing. Its
height is about that of an ass, and in colour it slightly
resembles that animal. The beautiful black bands which
eccentrically adorn its head, giving it the appearance of
weiu-ing a stall collar, together with the manner in whicli the
rump and thighs are painted, impart to it a character peculiar
to itself The adult male measures 3 feet 10 inches in height
at the shoulder." '*

THE SPKINGBOK.

Again an extract from Gumming must supply the place of
description. During his early travels in South Africa, the
first object that met his eyes on waking one morning, was
a herd of SmiNGDOKS, which he thus describes :t

" On the 28th I had the satisfoction of beh dding, for the
first time, what I had often heard the Boers ailude to, viz. a
" trek-bokken," or grand migration of springboks. This waa,
I think, the most extraordinary and striking scene, as connected
with beasts of the chase, that I have ever beheld. For about
two hours before the day dawned I had been lying awake in
my waggon, listening to the gnmting of the bucks within
two hundred yards of me, imagining that some large herd of
springboks was feeding beside my camp ; but on my rising
when it was clear, and looking about me, I beheld the ground

• Vol. i. p. 97. t Vol. i. p. 121.

> pcrisheH with it.
;ether bleached on

now about to direct
the most l)eautifiil
It is the animal
a the fable of the
a seen in profile, bo
t the appearance of
lane, long sweeping
lorse, with the licad
ri its form, wruiarely
I its bearing. Its

colour it slightly
black bands which
the appearance of
lanner in whicli the
a character peculiar

10 inches in height

iifiy iiiMifigiiiirrtntH>>iiii

supply the place of
a South Africa, the
y one morning, was
ribes :t

f beholding, for the
jers ajlude to, viz. a
ingboks. This was,
g scene, as connected
beheld. For about
been lying awake in
(f the bucks within
; some large herd of
; but on my rising
I beheld the ground

1. i. p. 121.

NATURAL niSTORY.

(lAZBLLA.

13t»

EuchOro (Gr. e3, well ; xop"'. tlnnce), the Sjfrinyhok.

to the northward of my camp actually covered with a dense
living mass of springboks, marching slowly and steadily along,
extending from" an opening in a long range of hills on the
west, through which they continued pouring, like the flood ot
some great river, to a ridge about a mile to the north-cast, over
which they disappeared. The breadth of the ground they
covered might have been somewhere about half a mile.
I stood upon the fore-chest of my waggon for nearly two
liours, lost in wonder at the novel and wonderful scene which
was passing before me, and had some difficulty in convincing
myself that it was reality which I beheld, and not the wild
and exaggerated picture of a hunter's dream. During this
time their vast legions continued streaming through the neck
in the hills in one unbroken compact phalanx.

" Vast and surprising as was the lierd of springboks which
I liad that morning witnessed, it was infinitely surpas^d by
what I beheld on the march from my vley to old Sweirs
camp ; for on our clearing the low range of hills through
which the springboks had been pom-ing, I beheld the bound-

140

NATURAL HISTORT.

1. ,.-, i^U.iiR, 1'' )Von the hill huIos which Rtrotchcd awny on
overj .side of me, thickly covered, not with herds, but with
Olio vast herd of spriuf^hoks ; as far as tl»o eye could Htraiii
the landscape was alive with them, until they softened down
into a dim red mass of living creaturoH."

The Springbok is very fearful of man, and if it has to
cross a path over which " »^ " ^as passed before, it does not
walk over, but tnk'i a txCiULaur ua Icni, ten or twelve feet
liigh, and about tiftcon long, at the sixmo time curving its
back in a most extraordinary manner. It is from this habit
of leaping tliat the Dutch Booi-s who inhabit the Cape have
given it the name of Springbok.

OAZELI.A.

Ariel (Or. praper name), the Gazelle.

The r;,\zELLE, so fanousin Oriental poetiy, inhabits Arabia
and S^Tia. Its eyes ai,' very large, durk and lustrous, so that
the Oriental poets love to con pare the eyes of a woman >
those of a gazelle, just , ; Homer constantly npplied V

Htrotchod away on
th lunls, but with
10 eyo coulil Mtniiii
hoy Boftoued down

iind if it has to

before, it does not

ten or twelve feet

a time curving its

is from this habit

ibit the Cape huvf

izelle.

itry, inhabits Arabia
md lustrous, so that
3yeH of a woman o
stautly applied t1

NATURAL nisTonr.

141

.nuhot ox-cycd (/3o5i7r«) to the more majestic goildcsscs. such

r Juno and^Iinl.rva. It is easily tamod when yomjg a.ul ^

frenucutly H«rn domesticated in the courtyards of hous.;« in

Syria Its swiftness is so great that even a greyhound cannot

overtake it, uui the hnnters are forced to make use ot hawks,

wS arc traine.1 to strike at the head of the ^f'^^^i

thus confnso it, and retard its speed so as to P^rm' the dogs

to come up. In sevend parts of Syria, the ga/.e le is taken

bv driving a herd .nto a large enclosure surrounded by a dee .

,luch A few paps are made, through winch the tenihed

animals leap, and fall into the ditch, when they are eamly

taken. The heiglit of the gazelle is abo.it one foot mne

mches ; its colour a dark yellowish brown, fadn.g mto wh.te

on the under parts.

Ul iiCAPitA. — (Lat. Roch-i/onO

r

: 'iv.

"•<*»

TiMgiis (Or. Tpdyos, a He-goat), the Uhamois.

The Chamois is found only in mountainous regions, esiw-

lallv the Alpine chains of Eur. and Westijrn Asia. It

lives on the loftiest ridges, displaym, wonderfal activity, and

leaping with certainty and seourity ■ p aces Avhere the eye

cln h.^dly discern room for its fe. The Chamois hunters

iwr^

142

NATURAL UISTOnr.

nre exposed to tlie moHf frif/htful dan^^ers, to fulls down terrifif;
prcciiiices, to Imager iiud cold, ami ovcry imaginal)lo hardship
Umt (la.vH sjMjnt uinoiig Alpine precipices can suggest. Yet a
kind fascination urges them on, although few Chamois
huuLci ^ escape the diuigers tlmt Hiuround them. The -ikin of
the Chixniois is used oxtousivoly by shoemuki rs.
Several gouem a»'e omith-d.

Cai'iia. — (Lat. tt Guilt.)

Ibex, t/ie Ihex, or SU'mhok.

The Ibex inhabits the Alpine regions of Europe and Western
Asia. It is instantly recognised by its magnificent horns,
which c\irve with a bold sweep from the head almost to the
haunches. The honis are sun-oimded at regular intervals
with rings, and are immensely strong, serving, as some say,
to break the fall of the Ibex when it makes a leap from a
lieight.

When chased it is a dangerous animal, as after it lias led

;() fulls down terrific
mngina))lu hanlNliip
ail HUggost. Yot a
ough few Chamois
tlicin. The skin ol'
ikcrs.

Surope and Western
magnificent horns,
head almost to the
bt regular intervals
'ving, as some say,
lakes a leap from a

as after it has led

NATUHAI. IIIOTOnY.

u;j

it» nui-suer over dangcroiiH heights and fcarftd chasms, it will
frequently turn on him, and unlcas ho can slioot it betoro it
reaches him, will hurl him over the precipice. It is very
wai-y, and, like many other animals, posts a sentry to keep
watch : when ho sees a suspicious ohjeet, he gives notice by a
kind of whistlo, when the whole of the hor.l i'.'^t.ui.ly dash otT
to the highest point thoy can find. The height of the l.tx
is two foot six inches ; the length of its horns often three
fcot. „ .

CAFRA.

HirouB (Lat. a Heyuat), the Goat.
The common Goat is not in much request in England,
but in some other countries, as Syria and Switzerland, herds
of goats are kept for the sidie of their milk, and m fac almost
entirely take the place of the cow. The most celebra ed
variety of this animal is the C««hmir goat, which funnshos
the beautifully fine wool fi-om which the costly tashnur
shawls are made. The shawls bear a high value even in their
own country, but in Europe the price is much increased by
the various taxes which are paid in every stage of the manu-
facture —the average number of taxes paid on each shawl being
about thirty, several of which are limited only l.y the pleasure
of the collector.

144

NATURAL HISTORY.

Ovis. — (Lat, a Slieep.)

Aries (Lat. a Earn).

There are many kinds of Sheep, among which the common
sheep, the long-tailed sheep, and the Wallachian sheep are
the most conspicuous. Next to the cow, the sheep is our
most useful animal. England produces better wool than any
country, for although the wool of the Spanish sheep is finer
than ours, it is much less in quantity. The Merino, as this
sheep is called, i? annually conducted from one part of the
country to another, and back again. The distance travereed
is upwards of four hundred miles, and the time necessary to
complete the journey about six or seven weeks. The pro-
prietors of the flocks think that these periodical journeys
improve the wool ; but it is in all probability a mistaken
notion, as the stationary flocks of Leon and Estramadura pro-
duce quite as fine a fleece. Of course such a body of sheep—
nearly six millions— do great damage to the lands over which
they pass, and many fivll victims to fatigue or are destroyed
by wolves.

The long-tailed sheep inhabit Syria and Egypt. Its tail is
so large and so loaded with fat, that to prevent it from being

NATURAL HISTORY.

145

Qg which the common
Wallachian sheep are
sow, the sheep is our

better wool than any
Spanish sheej) is finer

The Merino, as this
from one part of the
rhe distance traversed
the time necessary to
ven weeks. The pro-
;e periodical journeys
robability a mistaken
and Estramadura pro-
udi a body of sheep| —
) the lands over which
tigue or are destroyed

md Egypt. Its tail is
prevent it from being

injured by dragging on the ground, a board is fastened to the
under side of it, and wheels are often attached to the board.
The peculiar fat of the tail is considered a great delicacy, and
is so soft as to be frequently used as butter. The weight of
a large tail is about seventy pounds. .

The Wallachian or Cretan sheep is found in Crete, VVallachia,
Hungary, and Western Asia. Its horns are exceedingly large,
and twisted in a manner resembling the horns of the Koodoo.
It is very strong, and extremely vicious and unruly. In this
and several other sheep the fleece is composed of wool and
hair mixed. The hair of the Wallachian sheep is long and
silky like that of a spaniel, and of great length, falling almost
to the ground.

THE GIRAFFE.

This beautiful and extraordinary animal is found only in
Africa. As the gr.oo seems to combine the properties of the
antelope, horse, aiid buffalo, so the Giraffe appcara to bear
the characteristic.' of the antelope and the camel. In the
opinion of modern naturalists, it holds a place by itsclt
between the deer and antelopes ;--it forms, at all events, a
<n'oun to wiiich no other animals belong.
" The height of the (iiraffe varies from thirteen to eighteen
feet Its iieautiful long neck enables it to browse on the
leaves of the trees on which it feeds. It is veiy dainty while
feedincr, and plucks the leaves one by one with its long and
flexible tongue. On its head uve two veiy remarkable pro-
jections, closely resembling horns. These projections are not
horns, but only thickenings of the bone of the skull, covered
with skin, and bearing a tuft of black hair at the extremity of
each. The fore-legs at first sight appear longer tiian the
hind ones, but this apparent diiTerence is only caused by the
gi-eat length of the shoulder-blades, as both pair of legs are
of the same length at their junction with the body. Its eyes
are very large and prominent, so that the animal can see on
every side without turning its head. Just over and between
tlie eyes is a bony prominence resembling the projecting
enlargements of the skull, called horns. The use of these

L

U6

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family 6. Camelopardina.
CAMELOPAUDALia— (Gr. Ka, iT)A.os, a camel ; TropSoAis, a pard.)

Giraffa (Arabic, Zaraplia), the Qiraffe.

projections is not veiy well known, as although in play the
Oimffe will swing its head round and strike with it, yet wlien
it wishes to repel an assailant it has recourse to violent and
rapid kicks from its hind-legs. So light and swift are these
kicks that the eye can scarcely follow them, and so powerful
are they that the lion is not unfrequently driven off by them.
Vaillant relates that a Giraffe which he was hunting, kept oft'
his pack of dogs by its rapid kicks. Indeed, if it wore to
venture its head too near the lion, a blow from his tremendous
paw would in all probability lay the animal prostrate.
The Giraffe has much difficulty in reaching the ground

iropSoAtj, a pard.)

NATURAL HISTORY.

147

Oiraffe.

ilthougli in plaj' the
ike with it, yet when
ourse to violent and
; and swift are these
iiem, and so powerful
y driven off by them,
was hunting, kept off
Indeed, if it vera to
r from his ti'emendous
nal prostrate,
reaching the ground

with its mouth, nor does it often attempt to do so, imless it is
bribed with something of which it is very fond, siich as a
lump of sugar. It then straddles widely with its fovc-legs,
and with some trouble succeeds in reaching the object aimed
at. This attitude was noticed and copied in the rreuiestine

pavement. . . , ■ •

The appearance of this animal in its native haunts is very
magnificent. "These gigantic and exquisitely beautiful
animals, which are admirably formed by nature to adorn the
forests that clothe the boundless plains of the mterioi-, are
widely distributed throughout the interior of Southern Atrica,
but are nowhere to be met with in great numbers. In
countries unmolested by the intrusive foot of man, the Ciratte
is found generally in herds vai7ing from twelve to sixteen ;
but I have not unfrequently met with lierds containing thirty
individuals, and on one occasion I counted forty together ;
this, however, was owing to chance, and about sixteen may
be reckoned as the average number of a herd. These herds
are composed of Giraffes of various sizes, from the young
Giraffe of nine or ten feet in height, to the dark chestnut
coloured old bull of the herd, whose exalted head towers
above his companions, generally attaining to a height ct
upwards of eighteen feet. The females are of lower stature,
and more deMcately formed than the males, their heiglit
averaging from sixteen to seventeen feet. Some writers have
discovered ugliness and a want of grace in the Girafte, but 1
consider that he is one of the most strikingly beautitul
animals in the creation ; and when a herd ot them is seuu
scattered through a grove of the picturesque parasol-toppecl
acacias which adorn their native plains, and on whose ujjper-
most shoots thev are enabled to browse by the colossal height
with which nature has so admirably endowed them, he must,
indeed, be slow of conception who fails to discover both grace
and dignity in all their movements. There can be no ujubt
that every animal is seen to the gi-eatcst advantage in the
haunts which nature destined him to adorn, and among the
vai-ious living creatures which beautify creation, i have
often traced a remarkable resemblance between the animal
and the general appearance of the locality in which it is
found.

148

NATURAL HISTORY.

" 111 the case of the Giraffe, which is invariably met with
anions venemble forests, where innumeniblo bla.sted and
weather-beaten trunks and stems occur, I have repeatedly
been in donbt as to the presence of them, until I had recourse
to my spy-glass ; and on referring the case to my savage
attendants I have known even their optics to fail at one time
mistaking these dilapidated trunks for camelopards, and agam
confounding real camelopards with these aged veterans of the

"The movements of the Giraffe are very peculiar, the liml)s
of each side appe^ixing to act together. It is very swift, and
..an outrun a horse, especially if it can get among broken grouiid
;ind rocks, over which it leaps with a succession of fiog-hkc

"*\u this country it endures the chmate well. There are
several (Mmffes in the Zoological Gardens which were boru
an.l bred in this country. They seem very healthy .m<
are exceedingly tame, examining the hands of their visito^^^^^^^
following them round the enclosure. They eat herbs, such ^
.^r.uss, hay, carrots, and onions. When cut grass is given to
S they eat off the upper parts and leave the coai-se
stems.

BKUI.L OF THE OIRAfPE

THE CAMEL.

There is much confusion about the names of the Camels.—
The R'OTRiAN Camel is distinguished by bearing two humps
o.. , " back, the Arabian Camel by bearing on^y one The
Arabian camel is sometimes, but erroneously, called the Uro-
nltvj, m the Dromedaiy or El-Heirie is a lighter variety oi
that animal, and only used when despatch is required.

♦ Cumming's Adventures, vol. i. pp. 269, 270.

m

ivariably met with
srablc blasted and
I have rei)eatedly
until I had recourse
case to my savage
s to fail, at one tiroe
lelopards, and again
igcd veterans of the

■ peculiar, the limbs
[t is very swift, and
mong broken ground
ccession of frog-like

te well. There ai-e
18 which were born
1 very healthy and
i of their visitors, and
ley eat herbs, such as
jut grass is given to
ad leave the coai-se

mes of the Cainels. —
ly bearing two humps
iring only one. The
jusly, called the Dro-
is a lighter variety of
ch is required.

p, 209, 270.

NATURAL HlSTOnY,

Sub-family c. CamcUna.

CamElus.— (Gr. KdMTiXos. a Camel.)

149

AraMcus (Lat. Arabic), the Camel.
The Camel forms the principal wealth of the Arab : without
it he could never attempt to penetrate the vast deserts where
1 vel^ its remarkaWe power of drinking enough water a
one draught to serve it for several days ^^^^'^?^}^^^'^^.
from station to station without requiring *« 'J"^^. .^/J^^
wav The peculiar structure of its stomach gives it this niost
ZIm power. In its stomach are a great number of deep
"SrirSo which the water passes, and is then preven ed ^ m
Pscanins bv a muscle which closes the mouth of the cellh.
mertC^amel feels thirsty, it ha. (he power of castjng sorne
of the water contained in these cells into its mouth, il e
Imbits of this animal are very interesting. A recent travelle ,
the Rev. J. H. Pollen, most kindly forwarded to me the fol^
lowing interesting and amusing account of the habits of the
Camel: —

loO

NATURAL HISTORY.

" My principal experience in camels has been during my
travels through the Arabian desert. I followed, after some
interval of time, the route of the Hajji — the Mecca pil-
grimage.

" The temper of the Camel is in general not very amiable.
It is unwilling, jealous, and revengeful to the last degree. Of
this latter quality curious tales are told : one, which was fully
behoved by the Arab that nan-ated it to me, was as follows.
A certain camel driver had bitterly insulted (i. e. thrashed in
some ignominious way,) the animal under his charge. The
camel showed a disposition to resent, but i.he driver knowing
from the expression of its eye what was passing witiiin, kept
on the alert for several days. One night he had )-«tired for
safety inside his tent, leaving his striped abbaya or cloak
spread over the wooden saddle of the camel outside the

tent.

" During the night ho heard the camel approach the object,
and after satisfying himself by Fmell or otherwise that it was
his master's cloak, and believing that the Siiid master was
asleep beneath it, he lay down and rolled backwards and for-
wards over the cloak, evidently much gratified by the cracking
and smashing of the saddle under his weight, and fidly per-
suaded that the bones of his master were broken to pieces.
After a time he rose, contemplated with gi-eat contentment
the disordered mass, still covered by the cloak, and re. .red.

" Next morning, at the usual hour for loading, the master,
who had from the interior of his tent heard this agreeable
I)rocess going on, presented himself to the camel. The dis-
appointed animal was in such a rage, said my informant, on
seeing his master safe before him, that he broke his heart, and
died on the spot.

" I had once to cross a very high range of rocks, and we
had very great difficulty in getting our camels to face the
steeper part of the ascent, though any horse would have made
very light of it. All the riders had to dismount, md the
laden animals made the bare rocky solitudes ring to the coii-
tinual and most savage gi-owls with which they vented their
displeasure. It is well on these occasions to keep out of reach
of their long necks, which they stretch out and bring their
teeth within dangerous proximity to the arm or side of any
one but their master.

NATURAL HISTORY.

l.^l

as been during my
Dllowed, after some
i — the Mecca pil-

J not very amiable,
the last degree. Of
one, which was fidly
> me, was as follows,
ted (i.e. thrashed in
r his charge. The

iho driver knowing
passing within, kept
t he had retired tor
!d abbaya or cloak

carael ouLsido the

approach the object,
therwise that it was
he Siud master was
backwards and for-
ified by the cracking
ight, and fidly per-
•e broken to pieces.
I gi'eat contentment
zloak, and re. ired.
loading, the ma,ster,
leard this agreeable
he camel. The dis-
d my informant, on
broke his heart, and

ige of rocks, and we
camels to face the
rse would have made
dismount, ind the
idcs ring to the con-
:h they vented their
to keep out of reach
out and bring their
arm or side of any

" Wh'le being laden they testify their dislike to any packet

which looks xn^tisfactory in f^'^V^f ^^''«;; j£;^v.;lk
can-ied past them, although when it is once on their bacRs
^y contimie to bear it with the patient expression of coim-
tenance which I fear passes for more than it ^^^tk AU
camels are loaded kneeling, and can go from twenty-four to
Sty hours without rest, or more than a few mouthfuls of
looi which they can crop off a thorny bush as tl-y pa-, or
•I handful of barley given them by their master. Parts ot the
;£rt Ire sLewn l^th small d^'^rab-c^loured ? ^^^^^^^^
and otherwise, which the camels continue to crop as they
walk ierkintr the rider not a little. ,

"They "re very sparing of drinking I have taken cameh^.
for eleven or twelve days without a drop of water^ All of
them did not drink even when we came to water nor did any
dS a large quantity, or seem disturbed by the w^nt «nt
although the sun was very powerful, and we travelled twelve

"'• .^^fi'th^Sfficult to ride. The -1^ --1. ^^hUe
the animal is kneeling, and sits like a lady, -^thjhe ^ht ^^^^
round the fore pommel of the saddle. In rising, the Lamel
suddenly straigMens its hind-legs before 7^;|,?j*^7 -f,*^^
fore-legs, so that if the rider is ^^Vr^VJ^^\^^.J'\^^^^'^;
over its ears It mo -• '. the legs of each side alternately,
"ILioL" a'long undu-'l... notion, which swayB the rider
STd frSfrom^he loins. he motion however, is soon
learned, and when fatigued, the rider can change sides, or shift
his postiu-e in various ways. f.r. m.. wifp and

"Sometimef. a traveller P^'^^^^ b^^,?^^«^ j^ ^^ hfr '^^^^^
children, in one pannier fastened to the «^* Pf ^^7^^^;^
in another pannier fastened on the oppo, >.u nue, and tnen
falls iu with a caravan and accompames it. „. ,ig„UaYe

"DROMEDARi.v.s-the finer and better bred '-'^-f^ jve
sDirer frames and more endurance, and are pri.: • p"!. iy i^a oy
tKeto of the desert. They also object either to going

'^^i^:S of kneeling at night just behind the ring of
Arabs Jio squat round the fire, aud they Btretch their hc^ds
over their masters' shoulders to snuff up the heat and smoke,
which seems to content them vastly.

152

NATOHAL HISTOKY.
CAMKLl'S.

fiactriilnuB (Lat. Bacti-ian), the Buctrian Camel.

" Between Cairo and Suez I saw more than one camel dead
or dying. They seem very tenacious of life, as they remain
unable to rise trom a broken limb or o*'her cause for very
many days. I more than onco wished to go up and shoot
the poor creatures to put them out of their misery, but the
Arabs have superstit'.ous notions on this point, and would not
suffer it. I did once find a camel that had been stabbed by
its master, and once only. The poor beast had been exhausted,
and the long, broad dagger struck into his heart. It must
have been a very short time before I reached the spot, as the
blood was almost fresh.

"The Camels at Grand Cairo are remarkably large and
powerful, and my informant told me that they are very
proud, and will only eat their food from their master's hand —
preferring to stai-ve rather tlian receive it from any other
source."

The foot of the Camel is admirably adapted for walking on
the loose sand, being composed of large elastic pais, which

NATURAL HISTORY.

l.-)3

Ian Camel.

mil one camel dead
ife, as they remain
her csiuso for very
9 go up and shoot
3ir misery, but the
aint, and would not
d been stabbed by
lad been exhausted,
is heart. It must
led the spot, as the

larkably large and
lat they are very
3ir master's hand —
it from any other

)ted for waJkhig on
elastic pa<.isi. which

spread as the foot is placed on ti,. . -ound. To giiard it wlu-n
it kneels down to be loaded, the parts of its body on which
its weight rests are defended by thick callosities, ihc largest
of these callosities is on the chest, the others ai'o placcil on
the joints of the legs. m ■, ^ i

The Bactriau (darnel inhabits Central Asia, Thibet and
China. It is distinguished from the Arabian camel l)y
possessing two humps.

hLMiA.— {Peruvian name.)

Paces (Peruvian), the Llama.

The Llamas, of which there are several species, inhabit
America, and are used for the same purposes as the camel.
When wild ;>iey are very timid, and fly from a pursuer the
moment that ihey see him; but their curiosity is so gi-eat tliat
the hunter often secures them by lying on the ground and
throwing his legs and arms about. The Llamas come to see
what the extraordinary animal can be, and give the hunter
an opportunity of firing several shots, which the astonished
animals consider as part of the performance. „ . . ,

The Llamas, like the camels, have a series of ceUs in the
stomach for containing water, and can go for several .lays

1 ^

1.'54

NATURAL HlSTOnV.

without ref|iiinnp; to drink. If too heavily laden, or wlieri
they are weary, they lie down, and no threats or punishment
will induce them to rise, so that their uuisterB mi ^ forced to
iinloml them. When offended they have a ry unpleasant
hahit of spitting at the object of their anger. Formerly it
was supposed that their saliva was injurious, and prodi jd
blisters if it touched the skin.

The fleece of the Lliuna is very long and tine, more re-
scmblin,' silk than wool. It isvery valuable, and is e onsivel y
imported into this country for the purpose of making lioth
and othin- fabrics. The fleece of the Alpaca is conbidored the
best, as it is sometimes twelve inches m length and very fine.

In Chili and Peru the natives domesticate the Llama, which
in a state of captivity frequently becomes white. 1 is b^ no
means a large animal, as it measures about four feet six in
height. In general shape it resembles the camel, but lui no
hinnp on its back, and its feet are proviiled with sharp hoofs
for climbing the rocky hills among which it lives. In Peru,
where it is most commonly found, there are public shambles
established for the sale of iu flesh.

Sub-family d. Moachina.
MoscHUs. — (Or. M(J(Txo». Musk.)

MoBchif'''ru8 (Lat. mxiik-hcaring), the Miitk-dcer.

The Musk-deer inhabits many parts of India, and is
famous for the scent which it produces. This scent, called

M'i-''' '■■'"nyjH

ily laden, (»i when
saUs or jiuiii-hment
isterH ill '' forced to
(I ry unplefisaut
agcr. Foniiorlv it
ouH, and prodn ed

and fiui', moro ri'-
?, and in e\ ensivc'y
so of making t hjth
ca is considci'ed thi*
ingth and very fine.
^0 tho Llama, whicli
white. 1 is b> ■»>
)ut four feet six in
3 c^mel, but has isu
id with sharp hoofs
it lives. In Peru.
ire public shambles

,k.)

Mitih-iJier.

i of ludia, and is
This scent, called

ItAI. 111!-

lor,

Muhk ..s sccivted n> a ku.d of pouch, and i. so vciy strong
when recent, tha' U,e hunter, ;UYer killing tlu) animal, is
forced to I ndhis mouth ul nostrils with linen hofore he
ventures t. open the pou> I., as the scent is so mtolor,il.l.>
powerful that it causes violent bleeding at the nose. Wlieii
the merchir ' ^ traffic for musk, they remain in thf nen .ur,
liolding a 1. . -erchief over their faces,
and oven wiili tliese precautions it often
..mses headaches. The musk is never
imported pure into this country, being
ulwavs adulteraU'<l by tho mercimuts.
lti8\cryeofitly,aad foims an important
article of coinmerti in tho East. The
Musk-deer aboxit two feet in height
at the shouldti-8. The male possesses two exh'aordinan i i-nc,
teeth in th.' opper jaw, which project from tho lips at eaeli side
of tho raoutli. ^_

■i J family e. Ccnina.
Ceuvus.— (Lilt, rt Stti'j.)

CapreOluB (Lat. a Wild Buck), the P biwJc.
The Roebuck was foi-merly common tiuoughoiit the whole
of England, but is now only found in Scotland, north ot the

106

NATURAL niSTonr.

Forth. It is the Iciist ami itkihI hctmtifnl of our llritish dcor.
It is not at all adajitod for contincment, as it is nevur iiuUuod
to bo familiar with its keeper, and will sometimes attack auy
object vvhicii it dislikes with its horns and hoofs. It does not
live in herds like tlio Fallow-deer, but singly, or in pairs,
driving,' off its yoiuif^ when they are about nine or ten mouths
old. It is vei-y cunning, and when huutod, sonietinies baffles
the dogs by making a few enormous leaps, waiting until the
dogs have passed, and then returning on its previous track.
Its height is about two feet ; its horns are divided into three
Hmall branches, anu are seldom more than a foot in length.

CEBVUS.

Elaphus (Gr ."EXaipos, a Stag), tlic Stay.

The RED-nEEU, or Stag, is the largest of our deer. In the
language of hunters, it bears ditferent names according to the
size of its horns, which increase year by year. All the male

I

t4S">

of our firitish door.

s it Ih never induct'd

inetiincH attack any

. hoofn. It does not

Hiugly, or in piiirH,

nine or ton months

■d, sonietimeB hiiffles

|)H, waiting until the

itH previous track.

e divided into three

11 a foot in length.

»4^S,^~'

lie Stay.

of our doer. In the
mes according to the
year. All the male

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Corporaiion

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(716) 872-4503

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CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

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CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques

NATURAL HISTORY.

ir.7

deer have horns, ^vhich they slied eveiy year, and rent^
again. The process of renewal is most mterestnig. A kin^
HVIed with arteries, covers the projections on ^^hif ^ «\« J^^^^^^
rest. This skin, called the " velvet," is engaged m c»»t'n^^f >
depositing hone on the footstalks, -hich mpid Y mcreay^^^^^
size. As the budding horns increase, ^^o velvet incre^xses
also, and the course of the arteries is marked o^^the horn bj
long funws, which are never obliterated, /^hen *he '^™
hasVched its full growth, it cannot be used, '^^he velvet ^
very tender, and would bleed pi-ofusely 'V'Tw formed
velvet cannot be suddenly removed, as t|^^ l'\"^''i/.'f * ™,7
the ai-teries would rush to the brain and destroy the animal.

CEUVUS.

,:^^

S^.

Canadersis (Lat. belonging to Canada), ih' Wapiti.

A ring of bono forms round the root of eacii horn, leaving

ims^e. through which the arteries pass. By degrees, these

rsScs become naiTow, and finally close entirely, thus

mduSy shutting off the blood. The velvet, bemg deprived

158

NATURAL HISTORY.

of its nourishment, dies, and is peeled off hy the deer, by
rubbing against a tree, leaving the white hard horn beneath.
Hiuiting the Stag is a very favoui-ite amusement in this
countiy, and packs of hounds, called Stag-hoiuids, are kept
expressly for that purpose.

The Wapiti is one of the largest of the deer tribe, often
gi-owing to the height of our largest oxen. It inhabits
Canada and other parts of North America, and has been
confounded with the Moose. Its horns are very large,
nieasuring nearly six feet from tip to tip. It is very fierce,
and boldly attacks an antagonist.

Axis.— (Lat. the Axis Deer.)

Miiculata (Lat. spotted), the Axis.
This beautiful Deer is an inhabitant of India, especially
parts by the Ganges. It has frequently been domesticated
in England, and thrives well even in open parks. The horns
ai'e slender, and are divided into three branches. Its usual
colour is a fawn yellow, spotted regularly with white, and
a black stripe runs down the back.

L

off by the deer, by
lard horn beneath,
amusement in this
g-hounds, are kept

16 deer tribe, often
oxen. It inhabits
rica, and has been
lis are very large,
It is very fierce,

of India, especially
been domesticated
parks. The horns
ranches. Its usual
ly with white, and

NATUR.VL HI8T0UY.
Dama.— (Lat. aX'eec.)

l.-)9

Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Fallow-deer.

The Fallow-deer are usually seen "\P^y^«'. ^^'''!^ *S
cong^^Sg' e in large herds, and form a most pl'^'^^J^S jf /* ^ ^
o thelaudscape when theyare seen reposing under the t.^^^^^^
or chasing one another in graceful v^-y. One V^'^f'^l'l
Le buck always takes the lead, and n-s "oae but a few
Surite does to approach his ''^^g-^i'. :/^ J^dZ
become familiar with those who treat f j^^^^cre o4rd
and will eat from their hands. At ¥,'^8'^'^^,^" <^«^J'f ,,j^„^^^^^
where there are some of these deer, it used to be a common
practice to let down a crust of
bread by a string from one of the
windows that overlooked the
park. The deer would speedily

anproach, and it was singular to . vf+in tnmitbs

see how ihey would take a large crust m their lit le moi^hs
and continue to bite it until they contrived to eat the whole
of it without once lettmg it drop.

EAIB OK CEKH

T

160

NATURAL HISTORY.

ranoTper.

d'

TaranduB, tlw- Reindeer.

The Reindeer is found throughout the Arctic regions of
Europe, Asia, and America. The finest animals are those of
Lapland and Spitzbergen. The Laplander finds his chief
-wealth in the possession of the Reindeer, which not only
serves him as a beast of burden, but furnishes him also with
food and clothing. A Laplander in good circumstances pos-
sesses about tliree or four hundred deer, which enable him to
live in comfort. The subsistence of one who only possesses
one hundi-ed s very precarious, and he who has only fifty,
usually joins his animals with the herd of some richer man,
and takes the menial labom-s upon himself

The gadfly {(Estrus Tarandi) annoys the Reindeer so much,
that the Laplander is forced to make periodical migrations
to tlie mountains in order to escape the dreaded gadfly, and
the equally dreaded mosquitoes, which are more ferocious in
the cold cUmates than in the Troi)ics. The Reindeer feeds

T

he Arctic regiotis of
animals are those of
ider finds liis chief
eer, which not only
nishes him also with
i circumstances pos-
which enable him to
e who only possesses
who h'M t>nly fifty,
of some richer man,
ilf.

!ie Reindeer so much,
periodical migrations
I dreaded gadfly, and
ire more ferocious in
The Reindeer feeds

NATURAL HISTOUY.

ICl

principally on a kind of lichen, which it scrapes from beneath
the snow. During the winter, its coat thickens, and assumes
a lighter hue, many deer being almost white. Its hoofs are
divided very high, so that when the animal places its foot on
the ground, the hoof spreads wide, and as it raises the foot, a
snapping noise is heard, caused by the parts of tiic hoof
closing together. When harnessed to a sledge, it can draw
from 250 to 3U0 pounds' weiglit at about ten miles au hour.

Alces.— (Or. 'AAkt), an Elk.)

Palmatus (Lat. /jainiei/), the Elk.

The European Elk inhabits the northern parts of Europe.
It was considered at one time to be identical with the Ame-
rican Elk, but naturalists now believe it to be a distmct animal.
Its usual pace is a high awkward trot, but when frightened,
it sometimes gallops. It is very strong, and can destroy a
wolf with a single blow of its large and powerful horns. In

M

\T

162

NATURAL HI8T0RT.

Sweden it was formerly usc.l to draw sledges, Init on account
„f the facility of escape ottered to criminals by its great speetl,
tlie use of it was forbid.len under high penalties. I he skin o
the Elk is so tough that a regiment of soldiers was furnishec.
with waistcoats made of its hide, which could scarcely be
peneti-ated by a ball

Family II. Equidte.— (Lat. Eqtim, a Horse. Horse kiud.)

E(iUUS.

Caballus (Lat. a Saddle-hone.)
We now arrive at the Pachydermata, or thick-skinned
animals, wliich do not chew the cud. The firs on the list is
t^e Ho^E, an animal too well known in all its vaneties to
need much description. The ancient war-horse, so magnifi-
cently described in the book of Job, is well represented by
S mit woilrful head in the British Museum, a fragment
from r Templo of Minerva at Athens. The ancients never
aprTared to ride on the horse to battle, but to fight from small
o^eu chariots, to which two or more horses were harnessed.

ges, but on account
s by its grcivt si)oed,
laltios. The skin of
Idiurs wa.s furnished
1 could scarcely be

le. Horse kiud.)

irse.)

ita, or thick-skinned
rhe first on the list is
in all its varieties to
yar-horsc, so maguifi-
3 well represented by
I Museum, a fragment
The ancients never
jut to fight from small
rses were harnessed.

NATUKAL UISTOUY.

10:5

The Arabian Horse is a model of elegance and beauty,
Tlic Arab treats his horse as one of his family : it lives in the
same tent ^sith him, eats from his hand, and sleeps among his
children, wlio tumble about on it without the least fear.
Few Arabs can be induced to part with a favourite horse.
The llev. V Monro relates that an Arab, " the net value of
whose dress and ace )utremeni.t might be calculated at some-
thing under seventeen pence lialfpenny," refused all otters
made to purchase a beautiftil mare on which he rode, anil
declared that he loved the animal better than his own life.

The plains of La Plata and raraguay are tenanted by vast
herds of wild horses. These are captured by the lasso, bitted,
moimted, and broken, within an hour, by the daring and
skilfid Gauchos.

The ponderous and powerfu' dray-horse is of the Fhmders
breed. These huge animals, as they slowly pace along the
streets, conducted by men who seem to be a Flanders race also,
never fail to attract the attention of admiring foreigners.

Wales and the Shetland Isles produce a breed forming a
great conti-ast to the Flanders horse. The Sheltic, as it is
called, is veiy small, its height sometimes being only thirty-
four inches ; but it is very strong and sure-footed, carrying its
rider with perfect safety along the most terrific precipices,
and almost invariably choosing to walk on the veiy edge.

The Race Horse is supposed to have been originally derived
from the Arabian breed. The Godolphin Arabian, and the
Flying Childers, are two of the most celebrated racers. The
skeleton of Eclipse, another celebrated racer, is now in the
Ashmolean Museum, Oxford.

T H E A S S.

The humble and hardy Ass is scarcely less servi ;eable to
man than the more imposing horse. In this countrj', where
it meets with harsh treatment, is scantily fed, and only used
for laborious tasks, it is dull and obstinate ; but in the East,
where it is employed by the rich nobles and is properly treated,
it is an elegant and spirited animal, with good action and
smooth coat. White asses are always used in the East for the

kr'

lUl

NATURAL niSTORT.
AsTnus.— (Lat. an'Ais.)

Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Ass.
especial seiTicc of bearing persons of distinction, a custom of
jji'eat antiiiuity, as appears from Judges v. 10,— bpeak, ye
that ride on white asses."

ASIND8.

IJ/.igguetiii, (he JJzJi/r/ttetai.

In Persia and other countries there are herds of wild asses.
They are so fleet that no horses can come up to them, and

e Am.

istinction, a custom of
es V. 10,—" Speak, ye

tetai.

I are herds of wild asses.
come up to them, and

NATURAL IimTOUV.

Iti.-i

oven with rifles the ch.u« is very uncertain. /"« I~
esteem its flesh very highly, c.nH.denng .t ""^' " '^-^^J ^jf ^ •
delicacies. Sir H. Ker Vorter gives an '^'»." "\«/^^^^;;, "^^^
an imsuceessful cha.e after a w.ld ass, ^vl'>eh 1^ o 1 not
..vertake, although mounted on a very swift ^"^1 '; "'^.j
This animal, called the Dzigguetai, is also found m India, and
is nnite as difficult to secure as its relations in 1 ersia

There is a mixed b.ee.l between the Horse and the .\ss,
called the Mule, an animal in no very great rcq est m tins
c mrv but okensively used in the Kast for r.dmg, and m
S «h?t i he estiddished beast of burden. It is very sure-
JS, and is on that account employed in the Andes mstead
of the Llama.

ASINU8.

Zebra, the Zebra.
The Zt:'>. is found in South AWov. This bcautiM

with which fts whole body is covered even down to the hoots
U Is'iry wild and suspicious, carefully placing sentmels to

If

mmm

I'w;

NATL'UAL, IIIMTOHV.

liiok out for danger. NotwithHtnndiiig those jtrccautionH
Ncveral zehnis liavo been taken alive, ami wonic, in K])ite of
their vieioiiH hahitu, have been trainei' to dvaw a carriage.
In all probability it mifiht bo doniestuatod like the a.ss, as
the black cross on the back and shoulders of the latter
animal jirovc the affinity between them. The voice of the
Zebra is very peculiar, and can hardly b-; described.

.XSINCS.

'****NW^-

Quaggn, the Qva'jyu.

The QtiAOGA is also a native of South Africa. It bears
some rescnililanco to the Zebm, V)ut is at oneo distingiushcd
fi'om that animal by the paucity and dulness of tlie stripes,
which do not reach to the hind ciuartcrs or legs at all, and
only faintly mark the liack, its head and neck bearing the
deepest stripes. It is not formed ipiite so gi'aceially as the
zebra, its hind (juartcrs being slightly higher than its shoulders.
The natives occasionally tame it for the purposes of draught,
but it is not to bo depended on, being vicious and very
wild.

these ju'ccautionH
il Bomo, in t*I>ito of
to draw a fai'ria;,'e.
tod like the a.ss, as
Idi'fH of the latter
The voiee of the
descril)ed.

th Africa. It bears
it once distinguished
idness of the stripes,
rs or legs at all, and
11(1 neck licaring the
• so gracciiilly as the
lor than its shoulders,
lau-poses of draught,
ig vicious and very

NATURAL HitiTORT.

ir.7

,„,,■,,,,„. . Klo,.hantld.o.-(Gr.-E^i<^a,.anKUThant. Klophantkin.U
Subfamily ((. IJleiJiantina.

InchcuR (Lat. Tndiu,,), the Imlkm J-hj>ha,il.
Of this magnificent animal, whose form is fanuliur to cve|7
eve two speciT^s are known, the Indian and he Afncan The

w ncerful mamier in which its upper hp and "'^'^^^^
C»„i m„»di, ouablmg .1.0 Elopha,,. '» *«rt™;^»S J
3. th uglliS. W"<1« - b^ <ta»n by ..,ct,o„. If

'Sil

-J-! I

168

NATURAL HISTORY.

the ]Clc[)hant wishes to drink, after drawing the liquid into its
trunk it inserts the end of the i)robt/scis into its mouth, and
disfluirges tlie contents down its throat ; but if it merely
wishes to wash itself or play, it blows the contained liquid
from the trunk with gi'eat violence. Through the trunk the
curious tnimpet-like voice of the Elephant is produced. At
the extremity is a finger-like appendage, with which it can
pick up small objects. In order to sustain the muscles of
the jaw imd neck the head must be very large : were it solid
it would be very heavy. The skull is therefore formed of
a numbei' of cells of bone, fonning the necessaiy expanse
without the weight, leaving but a very small cavity for the
brain.

The Indian Elephant is almost invariably taken from its
native haunts and then trained. The Indian hunters proceed
into the woods with two trained female elephants. These
advance quietly, and by their blandishments so occupy the
attention of any unfortunate male that they meet, that the
hunters are enabled to tie his legs together and fasten him to
a tree. His ti-eacherous companions now leave him to struggle
in impotent rage, until he is so subdued by hunger and fatigue
that the hunters can drive him home between their two tamo
elephants. When once captured he is easily trained. Bribes
of sugar and arrack, a kind of spirit, are the usual means of
inducing an Elephant to attempt some new art or t(j labour
with particular assiduity. In its wild state it endeavom-s to
gratify its taste for sweets at the expense of the sugar
planters.

" The Elephant has a natural partiality for sugar, which he
finds abundant means to gratify in the plantations of sugar-
cane. A curious instance is recorded of liis liking for sweet-
meats, and of a method adopted in his savage state to gi'atify
this propensity. It chanced that a Cooley, laden with jaggery,
wnich is a coarse jirepna'ation of sugar, was surprised in a
narrow pass in the kingdom of Candy by a wild elephant.
The poor fellow, intent upon saving his life, threw down the
burthen, which the elephant devoured, and being well pleased
with the repast, determined not to allow any person egress or
ingi-ess who did not provide h'm with a similar banquet.
The pass formed one of the principal thoroughfares to the

NATURAL HISTORY.

100

ig the liquid into its
into its mouth, and
; but if it merely
;lie contained liquid
•ough the trunk the
it is produced. At
, with whicli it can
itain the muscles of
large : were it solid
tlierefore formed of
; necessaiy expanse
small cavity for the

ably taken from its
lian hunters proceed
0 elephants. These
icnts HO occupy the
they meet, that the
3r and fasten him to
eave him to sti'ugglo
y hunger and fatigue
ween their two tame
sily trained. Bribes
the usual means of
lew art or to labour
ite it endeavom's to
pensc of the sugar

' for sugar, which he
lautations of sugar-
liis liking for sweet-
vage state to gi-atifj'
, laden with jaggery,

was surprised in a
by a wild elejjhant.
ife, threw down the
d being well pleased
any person egress or

a similar banquet,
horoughfares to the

capital, and the elephant, taking up a formidable position at
the entrance, obliged every passenger to pay tribute. It soon
became gencriilly known that a donation of jaggery would
ensure a safe conduct through the guarded portal, and no
one presumed to attempt the passage without tlie expected

" It has liefore been mentioned that the Indian elephant is
trained for tiger hunting. When the tiger spnngs, the
elephant always raises his proboscis out of reach of the tigers

claws and teeth. , , . j.- ,„„

In captivity, it is very docile and gentle, but sometimes,
when provoked, will take a very ample revenge. Of tins
propensity, many anecdotes are told. i i „^

" \ very chamcteristic action of DMeck, the famous elephant
of M. Huguet, was latci- near costing tlie life of a young man,
a native of Bmges. o elephant, it is well known, is very
fond of sweetmeats, and this young man amused himseit at
Madame D'Jeck's expense, baulking her by offering her some,
which, whenever she reached out her tnink to take, he
immediately withdrew. This trick having been noticed by
M Hu<ruet, he obsei-ved to the young man how foolish such
conduct was towards an animal at once so susceptible and
vindictive. But not taking warning from this remai-k, the
Belgian again invited the elephant to approach, and not on y
again deceived her, but gave the sweetmeats to Mademoiselle
Betsy. Madame D'Jeck now lost her patience, and, regardless
of the presence of her master and a numerous assemblage ot
spectators, lifted her trunk and knocked the young man
down, tearing open his cheek, and rending his clothes to
tatters. Happilv, M. Huguet interposed his authwity, and
the elephant left her hold, but the imprudent sufferer was
lon<- confined to his bed from the effects of his absurdity.

The tusks and teeth of the ele])hant furnish exceedingly
fine ivorj', which is used for various pm-poaes, such ;i« knite
handles, combs, billiard balls, &c. Sometimes a musket ball
has been found imbedded in the tusk without any aperture
or mark to show how it got there. In these cases tlie bal
has penetrated the root of the tusk, and been pushed forward
by successive growths of ivory, as the tusk increased in size.
A spear head has been found in the same position.

170

NATURAL HISTORY.

All elephants arc fond of the water, and sometimes suli-
mcrgc themselves so far that nothing but the tip of their _
proboscis remains above the surface.

The following accoimt of Elephant catching in Nepal was
sent me by a medical gentleman residing at Segouly.

" The whole batch, tame and wild ones, then rushed into a
deep river close by, where it was a splendid sight to see them
swimming, fighting, diving, ])lunging, kicking and bellowing
in a most frantic manner ; the mahouts (the riders on the
tame ones) sticking to tliem like monkeys, and dexterously
taking the opportunity of the confusion to secure the dreaded
noose round their necks.

" One of the wild elephants in the struggle got half drowned,
and then entirely strangled ; she just staggered to the shore,
and then dropped dead without a struggle. It was really
quite piteous to see her poor little young one, about ten days
old ; she kept \,-alking round the body, pushing it, and trymg
to coax her dead mother to rise up ; then uttering the most
heart-rending cries, and lying down by her side as it were to
comfort her.

"When the contest was over, and the other elephants, tame
ones, were brought up near the corpse, the poor little thing
with the most indignant, though, of coui-se, unavailing valom-,
charged on all sides at any elephant who came near, deter-
minecl, evidently, to defend its mother, even though dead, to
the last. The tame ones of course were too sagacious to hurt
it with their tusks, and looked on with the most curious air
of pity and contempt, as they gradually, despite its violeiit
stmgglcs, pxished it away from its mother to a place where it
couUf be properly secured and taken care of Keally its moans
and endeavours to remain with its mother were quite aflccting.
It is too young to be weaned with safety, and will probably
die ; at least I am very much afraid so. I shall always feel
an interest in the poor little animal in future, should it live.
It was so devotedly and heroically brave ; never attempting
to leave its mother, in order to procxnx its own escape, \vhich
it might easily have done luiseen during the confusion."

On' this occasion Jung Bahadoor, the Ncpaulese aiubassador,
distinguished himself greatly by his dexterity and coiuage, and
securtnl several elephants with his own hands.

', and sometimes suli-
; but the tip of their

catching in Nepal was
ig at Segoiily.
ics, then rushed into a
sndid sight to see them
kieking and bellowing
iits (the riders on the
ikeys, and dexterously
1 to secure the dreaded

uggle got half drowned,
staggered to the shore,
ruggle. It was really
mg one, about ten days
, pushing it, and trying
then uttering the most
ly her side as it were to

le other elephants, tame
5C, the poor little thing
nxvie, unavailing valoiu',
, who came near, deter-
r, even though dead, to
re too sagacious to hurt
;h the most curious air
lally, despite its violent
>ther to a place Avhero it
■are of. Kcally its moans
ther were quite affecting,
afety, and will probably
so. I shall always feel
u future, should it live,
rave ; never attempting
re its own escape, which
ing the confusion."
le Nepaulese ambassador.
Bxterity and coiuage, and
n hands.

KATURAL HISTORY.

i;i r.l'ii.vs.

171

Africilnus (Lat. Afyimn), the Afrkun £hj,haiil.

This species is distinguished from the Indian Elephant by
the markings of its teeth and some differences ui form. ^Iueh
interesting information respecting tl»f '^"^"^s of this amina
has been given by Cummiug, from whose work the followmg

'''^" The African ELErnANT is widely diffused throng) i the
va.st forests, and is met with in herds of various numbers.
The male is very much larger than the female; consequently,
much more difticult to kill. He is provided ^vlth two caor-
mous tusks. These are long, tapering, and beautifully lu-chcd
their length aveniges from six to eight feet, and they weigh
from sixty to a hundred pounds each.

" The females, unlike Asiatic elephants in this respect, are
likewise provided with tusks. The price wludi the largest
ivoiy fetches in the English mai-ket is from 28^. to HI. pel

172

NATURAL HISTORY.

hundred-and-twclve pounds. Old bull elephants arc found
siuulv or in pairs, or consorting together in small herds, vary-
ing from six to twenty individuals. The younger bulls rcmani
for many years in the company of their mothers, and these
are met together in largo herds of from twenty to a hundred
individuals. The food of the Elephant consists of the branches
leaves, and roots of trees, and also of a variety of bulbs, ot
the situation of which he is advised by his exquisite sense ot
smell. To obtain these he tvirns up the ground with his tusKs,
and whole acres may be seen thus ploughed up. Elephants
consume an immense quantity of food, and pass the greater
part of the day and night in feeding. Like the whale m tlie
ocean the Elephant on land is acquainted with and roams
over, wide and extensive tracts. He is extremely particular
in always frequenting the freshest and most verdant districts
of the forests, and when one district is parched and barren he
will forsake it for years and wander to great distances m
quest of better pasture. f „,>

" The Elephant entertains an extraordinary lioiTor ot man.
and a child can put a hundred of them to flight by passing at
a quarter of a mile to windward ; and when thus disturbed,
they go a long «-ay before they halt. It is surprising how
soon these sagacious animals are aware of the presence of a
hunter in their domains. When one troop has been attacked,
all the other elephants frequenting the district arc aware ot
the fact within two or three days, when they all forsake it,
and migrate to distant parts."* j i j„j

" They choose for their resort the most lonely and seclurtecl
depths of the forest, generally at a very great distance trom
the rivei-s and fountains at which they drink. In dry aiK
warm weather they visit these waters nightly ; but in cool
and cloudy weather they drink only once ov;ery third or fourth
day About sundown the elephant leaves his distant middaj
liaunt, and commences his march towar.is the fountain, whicli
is probably from twelve to twenty miles distant. i'V^ "»-'
.generally reaches between the liou.-s of nine and midnight ,
when, having slaked his thirst and cooled his body by spouting
larse volumes of water over his back with his trunk, he re-
sumes the path to his forest solitudes. Having reached a

» p. .WJ.

NATURAL HISTORY.

1-:$

elephants arc found
in small herds, vary-
younger bulls remain
V mothers, and these
twenty to a hundred
nsists of the brunches'
I variety of bulbs, of
his exquisite sense of
^ouud with his tusks,
T^hed up. Elephants
and pass the greater
Like the whale in the
utcd with, and roams
s extremely particular
most verdant districts
marched and barren he
to gi'eat distances in

•dinary hoiTor of man.
to flight by passing at
when th\is distm-bed.
It is surprising how
•c of the presence of a
■oop has been attacked,
e district arc aware of
.en they all forsake it,

ost lonely and secluded
sry groat distance from
ley drink. lu dry and
s nightly ; but in cool
cc every third or fourth
aves his distant midday
iirds the foiuitain, which
iHilcs distant. Tliis he
of nine and midnight ;
led his body by spouting
: with his trunk, he ro-
les. Having reached a

Si. alvlap .Iccpl, l.«Fi..ta\ i» the svom.d. l-rovug tl..t

they lie ..pen their «<1««- , . , j^ i„coiiccivaUy

"The appearance. ef *^."''V;°f"™,,ht ,md coloM.il

Z edges, and transfixing the whole on a pon.ted ^^,uul,

» p. 3.-.i).

SKOLL OF THE ELEPUANT.

171

VATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-fiimily b. Tapiriiiu.

Terrestris (Lat. Lelutujinj to tli^ earth).

The Tapir forms one of the links connecting the elephant
with the hog. The snout is lengthened into a kind of
])robo8ciB like that of the elephant, but it is couiparativcly
short, and has no finger-like append;ige at the extremity.
Many of the remaining links are supplied by the various
species of the fossil geiuis Palaiotherium.

The Common Tapir is spread throughout the warmer
regions of South America. It sleeps during the day, and
wanders about at night in search of its food, which consists of
water melons, govn-ds, and other vegetables. It is very fond
of the water, and can remain below the surface for a consi-
derable period. It is a very powerful animal, and as it is
furnished with a very thick hide, it phmges through the
brushwood, breaking its way through any obstacles that may
oppose its ])rogress.

Its disposition is gentle, but when annoyed it sometimes
ruslies at its antixgonist and defends itself vigorously with

hi earth).

•nnectinq; the elephant

Diicd into a kind of

ut it is comparatively

ige at the extremity.

pplied by the varions

n.

■oughout the warmer

during the day, and
food, which consists of
ibles. It is very fond
le surface for a consi-
\\ animal, and as it is

plunges through the
my obstacles that may

annoyed it sometimes
itself vigorously with

NATURAL UTSTORY.

its T,owcrful .ecth. The jaguar fre.iuently springs on

is often dislodged by the activity of the tapu-, wlio

through the bushes immediately that

it feels the claws of its enemy, and

enileavours to brush him off against

the thick branches. The height of

the Americiin Tapir is from five to
six feet. The Malay Tapir is some-
what larger, and is known by the ^^^^, ,„ ,,,..,
"Tovish white colour of the loius and
hind quarters, which give the animal an appearance
white horsecloth had been spread over it.

Sub-family c. Sittim.
Sus.— (Lat. a Sow.)

it, but
rushes

iVlll.

as if a

Sorofu ^Lat. an old Sow), the Boar.

The animals composing the Hog tribe are foimd in almost
every part of the globe. Their feet are cloven and externally
resemble those of the Ruminants, but an examnmtion of the
bones at once points out the dift'crence.

The WiLU Hog or BoAit inhabits many parts of liiUroi)e,
especially the forests of Germany, where the chiv*e of the
wild boiu- is a common amusement. It has become extmct
in this country iov many years. Its tusks are temble

176

NATURAL HISTORY.

woiiiionH. and capable of being used with fiitul effect. They
curve outwards li-om tlio lower jaw, and are sometimes cigiit
or ten inches in length. In India, wiiere tiie l?oar attains to
a gi-eat size, the horses on which the hunters are mounted
often refuse to bring their riders within sjjcar stroke of the
infuriated animal, who has been known to kill a horse and
severely injure the rider with one sweep of its enormous tusks.

The DoMKSTic Hog scarcely needs any description. It is
by no means the unclean and filthy animal that moralists love
to represent it. It certairdy is fond of wallowing in the mire,
ns are the elephant, tiipirs, tfec, but no animal seems to enjoy
clean straw more than the Hog. Wo shut it up in a dirty
narrow crib, give it any kind of refuse to eat, ami then abuse
it for being a dirty animal and an unclean feeder. While,
iiowever, it shoidd bo rescued from these unjust imputations,
it shoidd bear the weight of an accusation never before made.
I have seen pigs suck the cows in a fivrmyard while they were
lying down and chewing the cud, nor did the cows attempt
to repel them.

BUS.

Babyroussa (native word, llog-iUer), the Babyroima.

The Babyroussa inhabits the Molucca Islands, and Java.
It is remarkable for possessing four tusks, two of which
proceed from the upper jaw, and do not pass out between the
lips, but through an aperture in the skin, half way between
the end of the snout and eyes.

;li fatal effect. They
iii'o sometimes eight
•0 tlio Hoar attaius to
hiiuters are niouuted
1 spear stroke of the
1 to kill a horse and
)f its ouoriiious tusks.

ly doscriptiou. It is
iial that moralists loA'e
/allowing in the mire,
inimal seems to enjoy
ihut it up in a dirty
(I eat, and then abuse
icloau feeder. While,
le unjust imputations,
an never before made,
iiyard while they were
lid the cows attempt

the Bahyromsa.

ca Islands, and Java,
tusks, two of which
, pass out between the
in, half way between

N.VTUIUI. insToiiv.

Sub-family (/. Rhtnocerimt.
Rhinoceros.— (Or. 'Ply, or (Us, a no»o ; nipat, a horn.)

17:

Unicornis (Lftt. Lhius, one; coniu, ii horn), tlu lihlnwaoa.

There arc, apparently, six species of this formidable animal
Their chief peculiarity, the so-called horn, is a mass of fibres
matted together, and closely resembling the fibres ot whale-
bone. Their feet are divided into three toes, incased in hoots.
The best description of the various species of the African
Uhinoceros is given in Gumming, vol. i. p. 2.)0.

" Of the Rhinoceros there are four varieties in SoutJi Atricu.
distinguished by the Bechuanas by the names of the ' borule,
or black rhinoceros, the 'keitloa,' or two-horned black rhino-
ceros, the ' muchocho,' or common white rhinoceros, and the
' kobaoba,' or long-horned white rhinoceros. Both varieties
of the black rhinoceros are extremely fierce and dangerous,
and rush headlong and unprovoked at any object which
attracts their attention. They never attain much fat, and
their tiesh is tough, and not much esteemed by the Bcchuanas.

N

178

NATtJIlAL HI8T0UV.
RII1N0CCR08.

Bicrirni!* ^Lat. his, twice; cornu, a hoiti), the Two-JIunicd Wdnocerua, or

Hhincutei:

Their food consists almost entirely of the thoi-ny branches of
the wait-a-bit thorns. Their horns are much shorter than
those of the other varieties, seldom exceeding eighteen inclies
in length. They are finely polished with constant rubbiuij;
against the trees. The skrdl is remarkably formed, its most
striking feature being the tremendous thick ossification in
which it ends above the nostrils. It is on this mass tliat tlie
horn is supported. The horns are not connected with the
skull, being attached merely by the skin, and they may tlius
be separated from the head by means of a shai-p knife.
They are hard, and perfectly solid throughout, and arc a fine
material for various articles, such as drinking cups, mallets
for rifles, handles for turners' tools, &c. &o. The horn is
capable of a very high polish. The eyes of the rhinoceros
are small and sparkling, and do not readily ol)Scrve the
innitcr, provided lie keep to leeward of them. The skin is

NATUUAL III8T0UY.

17U

eo-IIomcd JUunoceive, or

i thorny brandies of
mucli shorter than
■dUig eighteen inelies
th constant rubbing
.bly formed, its most
thick ossification in
in this mass that the
connected with tlie
1, and they may thns
3 of a shai-p knife.
;hout, and arc a fine
inking cups, mallets
c. «kc. The horn is
es of the rhinoceros
readily observe the
' them. The skin is

extremely thick, and only to be penetrated by bullets hardenetl
witii solder. During the day, tlie riunoceros will be found
lying asleep, or standing indolently, in some retired part of
tlie forest, or under the base of tiie mountains, sheltered from
the power of the sun by some friendly grove of lum irelia-topped
mimosas. In the evening, they coimnence their nightly
nimble, and wander over a great extent of country. They
usually visit tiio fountains between tiie hours of nine and
twelve o'clock at night, and it is on these occasions tiiat tiiey
may bo most successfully hunted, and with the least danger.
The black rhinoceros is subject to iiaroxysms of unprovoked
fuiy, often ploughing up the groiuid for soveml yiuds with
its lioru, and assiwlting large bushes in tlie most violent
manner. On these bushes they work for hours with their
horns, at the sjime time snorting and blowing loudly ; nor do
tliey leave them in general imtil they have broken tliem into
pieces. All the four varieties de'ight to roll and wallow in
mud, with which their rugged hides are generally encrusted.
Botli varieties of the black rhinoceros are much smaller and
more active than the white, and are so swift that a hoi-se
with a rider on its back can rarely overtake them. The two
varieties of the white rhinoceros are so similar in habits, that
the description of one will serve for both, the principal
diflerenco consisting hi the length and set of the anterior
horn ; that of the common white rhinoceros aveniging from
two to three feet in length, and pointing backwards ; while
the horn of the long-homed white rhinoceros often exceeds

torn- feet in length, and inclines foi-wai-d from the nose

"Both these varieties of rhinoceros attain an enormous
size, being the animals next in magnitude to the elephant.
They feed solely on grass, carry much fat, and their flesh is
excellent, being preferable to beef. They are of a much
milder and more inoffensive disposition than the black rhino-
ceros, rarely charging their pursuer. Their speed is very
inferior to that of the other vafieties, and a person well-
mounted can overtake and shoot them." The description of
the famous rhinoceros birds is very interesting.

" Before I coidd reach the proper distance to fire, several
' rhinoceros birds,' by which lie was attended, warned him of
his impending danger, by sticking their bills into his car, and

180

NATUUAL I'lSTOKY.

iitteriiij.' their hmith, ^nntiiiji cf. ThuH iuoiisod, lie Hiulilenly
spruiiK to hiH feet, iiml emnliwl ii.viiy tlnoiiKh the jungle iit

11 mpiil trot, and I kuw nn nuire i>f liii"

"These rhiuoceroH hinlH are eonHtant atten<lantH niton the
hinpoiiotamns and tho four varieties of rhinoeero», then
object being to feed ui)on the ticks and ..ther jMvrasitie
insects that swarm ni).)n these animals. They are of a
greyish colour, and are nearly as large as a connnoii thrush:
fheir voice is very similar to that of the mistletoe thrush.
.Many a time have these cvor-watchful birds disui^pointed tuc
ill my stalk, and tomiited mc to invoke an anathema upon
their devoted heads. They are tho best friends ', lie rhmoceros
has. and rarely fail to awaken him, even in his soundest nap.
' Ohukuroo' perfectly undei-stands their wm ning, and, spring-
ing to his feet, he generally first looks about him in every
direction, after which he invariably makes oti"."

The liKlian Rhinoceros is chielly remarkable for the very
deep foldings of tho skin. Coblets, madi; of its horn, were
formerly iu high estimation us preservatives against poison.
The Indian kings were accustomed to have their wine served
up iu these goblets, as they imagined that if any poison were
introduced into tho cup, tho liipiid would bod over, and
Ix'tray its presence.

Tho njiper lip is used by tho rhinoceros as an instrument
of prehension, with which it cau grasp tho herbage on H-hich
it feeds, or pick up small fruit from the ground. The very
tame rhinoceros iu tho Zoological (iardens will take a piece
of bun or biscuit from a visitor's hand, by me-us of its flexible
iiplicr lij).

'^,

':^

SKHIX OF lUli UU11J0„.'.B''

UOllNCtl, lie HUlldoilly

loiij^h thu jimglo lit

iittondantH iiixni tlii'
of rliiiiocoros, tlu'ii
ami other juvnwitic
lis. 'I'hi-y iiri) of n
s II coiuintm thniHh :
lie iui«tletoo thitisli.
ihIh di(*ui'|»)intt'<l »iii'
I ail anallieuiii upon
frioiids' lie rhii'iJceroH
in ]\\h Hoiindest naji.
wivtning, and, HpriiiK-
alxiut him in every

GH otl'."

arkiihle ft>r the verj'
ido of itH horn, wuro
itives agiiinst poiwon.
ivc their wine served
at if any i)oison were
^uuld Iniil over, and

ro8 iw an instmment
he herbage on vyhich
10 ground. The very
ons will take a pieec
ly meruB of its flexible

J

NATVmAI. ui-Tonv.

Hub-fmnily i. /fii.popoiamina.
HrrmroTXMliH. (Or Iirirnt. .. H-rHe ; (Torapo'j, a Uiver.i

181

AmphiWuB (Gr. 'A^i<pl 0i6w), the llippopotamm

There it*, in all probability, but one spceics of th. Hippo-
potamus. It inhabits Afiica exclusively, and is t and «>
plenty on the banks of many rivers, where it may e seen
.'ambolinL' and snorting at all times of the day.
° They are quiet and inoffensive while undisturbed, but if
attacked they unite to repel the invader, and hav been
known to tciu: several planks from the side of a boa , and
sink it. They can remain about five or six minutes mcler
water, and when they emerge they make a loud and very pecu-
liar snorting noise, which can be heard at a great distant

The hide is very thick and strong, and is chiefly use tor
whips. Tlie well-known " cow-hides" are made of tlus i ite-
rial. Between the skin and flesh is a layer of fat, whi- i is
salted and eaten by the Dutch colonists of Southern At ica.
When sidtcd it is called Zee-koe speck, or Sea-cows b. on.
The flesh is also in some request.

,r.-.iii T.Briiiriaifi-^-ii ■

182

NATURAL HISTORY.

The Hippopotamus feeds entirely on vcgetfxljlo substances,
such as grass and brushwood. The fine animal now in the
possession of the Zoological Society oaAs all kinds of vegetables,
not disdaining roots. This animal is peculiarly interesting
from being tlie firat Hippopotamus brought to Eiu'ope for
many hundred ycai-s, and in all probability the fii-st that has
ever readied this country.

In Harris's Sports of South Africa, a very good and accxirato
account is given of the habits of the Hippopotamus.

" This animal abounds in the Limpopo, dividing the empire
with its amphibious neighbour the crocodile. Throughout
the night the unwieldy monsters might bo heard snorting
and blowing during their aquatic gambols, and we not imfrc-
Huently detected them in the act of sallying from their reed-
gi'own coverts, to graze by the serene light of the moon ;
never, however, venturing to any distance from the river,
the strongViold to which they betake themselves on the
smallest alarm. Occasionally, during the day, they were to
be seen basking on the shore, amid ooze and mud ; but shots
were most constantly to be had at their uncouth heads, when
protruded from the water to draw breath ; and, if killed, the
body rose to the surface. Vulnerable only behind the ear,
however, or the eye, which is placed in a prominence, so as to
resemble the garret window of a Dutch house, they require
the perfection of rifle practice, and after a few shots become
exceedingly shy, exhibiting the snout only, and as instantly
withdrawing it. The flesh is delicious, resembling pork in
flavour, and abounding in fat, which in the colony is de-
servedly esteemed the greatest of delicacies. The hide is
upwards of an inch and a half in thickness, and being scarcely
flexible, may be dragged from the ribs in strips like the
planks from a ship's side."

Cumming relates that the track of the Hippopotamus may
be distinguished from that of any other animal by a line of
unbroken herbage which is left between the marks of the feet
of each side, as the width of the space between the right and
left legs causes the animal to place its feet so considerably
apart, as to make a distinct double track.

This is supposed by many to be the animal called Behemoth
in Scripture.

vegetable substances,
animal now in the
1 kinds of veiietablcs,
)eciiliarly interesting
light to Europe for
ity the fii^st that has

ry good and accurate
popotamuB.
I, dividing the empire
codile. Throughout
t bo heard snorting
Is, and we not unfre-
^ng from their reed-
light of the moon ;
,nce from the river,

themselves on the
lie day, they were to
and mud ; but shots
uncouth heads, when
1 ; and, if killed, the
only behind the ear,

prominence, so as to
1 house, they require
• a few shots become
nly, and as instantly
, resembling pork in
in the colony is de-
cades. The hide is
88, and being scarcely
js in strips like the

B Hippopotamus may

r animal by a lino of

the marks of the feet

letween the right and

i feet so considerably

c.

imal called Behemoth

NATUBAL HISTORY.
Family IV. Bradypidjc— (Gr. BpaSils, slow; iroiii, a foot.)

BB.VDYPUS.

^^/^-,

183

TridactyiuB (Gr. Tp.5(iKTu\oi, three-fingered), the Sloth.

The Edentata include the ant-eaters and the pangolins,
which possess no teeth at all, and the sloths, armadillos, &c.,
whose teeth are small and of peculiar stnicture.

The Sloths form the fii-st division of the Edentatar-the

leaf-caters. ,0^1. • *

The Sloth or Ai is another example of the errors into
which even great naturalists are led from hafity observation^
The gieat Cuvicr himself condemns the Sloth as a degraded
and iniserable animal,moving with pain,and misshapen in form.
Yet no animal is more fitted for its position than the Sloth.
"The Sloth," says Waterton, "in its wild state spends its
whole life in the trees, and never leaves them but through
force or accident, and what is more extraordinary, not upon
the branches, like the scpxii-rel and monkey, but under them.

M

184

NATURAL UI8T0RY.

He moves suspended from the branch, he rests suspended
from the bmncli, and he sleeps suspended from the branch.
Hence his seemingly bungled composition is at once accounted
for."

To render it fit for this singular mode of life, its long and
jtowcrful arms arc furnished with strong curved claws, which
hook round tiic branches, and keep the animal suspended
without any effort. When on the gi'ound, these claws are
very inconvenient, and it can barely shuffle along ; but when
it is among its native branches, it moves vfith exceeding
mpidity, particularly in a gale of wind, when it passes from
branch to branch and from tree to tree witli an activity which
its movements on the ground by no means portend.

Family V. . , DASTPtD.E. —(Gr. AoffiJi, hairy ; tou'j, a foot. Hairy -footed.)
Sub-family a. Manilla.

M.\NIS.

Tetvadactyla (Gr. Ttrpa^dinvKoi, four-fingered), the Phatagin, or Long-
tailed Manis.

The Manid^ or Pangolins are immediately known by the
peculiar, strong, honiy plates with which their bodies ai*e de-
fended, giving them the appearance of an animal enveloped in
a suit of scale armour. When attacked, they roll themselves

he rests suspended
id from the branch,
is at ouce accounted

of life, its lon^ and
curved claws, whicli
2 animal suspended
nd, these claws arc
[le along ; but when
ives with excocdinj;
vhcn it passes front
th an activity which
IS portend.

!r,afoot. Hairy footeil.)

natur.vi- history.

IS^

the Phatayin, or Lonrj-

lately known by the
their bodies are de-
animal enveloped in
they roll themselves

„„ wrap their tails roun.l them, and raise the whole array oi
L-p' dl scales with wluch their body is covered, and 1..
tL^^ almost any eno:ny except --»• /^-J j^J,;" ^
and termites, orwhiU. ants, as they are ^^^ll*^^' ^^ ^ ^k Ih ch
bv thinistiu.. their long slender longue among the ants, ^n Inch
Sht to^t^.,y a g.m.S.y .diva. When the tonj^. ,s eovx..
it is rapidly retracted, and the ants swallowed^ , w' to tear
ants the Pangolins arc furnished with powerful claws to ttu.

dowai the dwellings of their prey. ,k,.,>„„i, Africa

The Long-tailed Manis is widely scattered tb»« 'gl',^;";^;
l.ut is not very common. The length of its body is about
two feet, and that of its tail ratlier more than throe.

MAMS.

Peutadactjla (Gr. n.^a!<(KTvXo., five-fingered), tU Short-taikd M<mu.

Tlie Short-tailed Manis, or Bajjcrkeit, is very common in
India. Its entire length is about four feet.

THE ARMADILLO.

The Armadillos live exclusively in the warmer parts ol
America. They cat carrion, insects, and sometimes fallen
fr^ r The armour that covei-s them, instead of resembling
sSe armour like that of the Manis, forcibly romm J^ the
observer of the modified plate armour worn in the time ot
Clmrles 1 They bnnow with great rapidity, and can only

]<>i(i

NATURAL niSTORV.

Sub-family h. Danypina.
iMsvpus.— (Or. Aaais, hairy; wois, a foot.)

Sexciuctus (l^at. ni-x-banded), the x\ nuaUillo.

lie forced from their refuge by smoke or water. The natives
and colonists consider them great dehcacies when roasted in
their shells.

The Armadillos are all small except the Gigantic Armadillo,
which is well described in the following extixict. " I found
that an Armadillo of gigantic size had caused the commotion.
It was lying a round, misshapen mass, its head piirtly biu-ied
luidcr its armour, the feet draAvn together, and its body pierced
by immerous arrows. It offered not the slightest resistance to
its tonnentors, whom I desired to end its sufferings by a heavy
stroke of a club. Two men were required to cariy it, and
Mr. Schomburgh estimated its weight at from 110 to 12(1
pounds ; its height was about three feet, its length five and a
half. Its tail was about fourteen or eixteen inches long, and
its root nearly as thick as a man's thigh, tapering very ab-
ruptly. The middle one of the five toes of the fore foot was
seven and a half inches iu length. In size it greatly surpasses
the largest Giant Armadillo known {Dtuypus yiganteus, Desm.),
though Mr. Schombxugh does not mean to assert it is a dif-
ferent species from the giganteus ; yet its enormous size will
attract the attention of naturalists and geologists to the fossil
genera,"

na.

roi/f, a foot.)

e Aiiiiudillo.

)r water. The natives
cacies when roasted in

he Gigtuitic Armadillo,
ng exti-act. " I found
^used the commotion,
its head partly buried
Br, and its body pierced
3 slightest resistance to
;8 sufferings by a heavy
uired to carry it, and

at from 110 to 120
it, its length five and a
xteen inches long, and
ilgh, tapering very ab-
les of the fore foot was
size it greatly surpasses
11/pus (/iganteus, JDesm.),
in to assert it is a dif-
t its enormous size will

geologists to the fossil

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family c Myi-mecophafjinu.
MvRMECOPHXo,v.-(Or. Wiptivl nu Ant; <payi:v. to mt.)

1^7

Jubata (Lat. crested), the Ant-eater.

This curious animal inhabits Guiana, Brazil, and Paraguay .
As its name imports, it lives principally upon ants and
termites, which it procures in precisely the same manner as
was related of the Manis. Its short legs and long claws
would lead an observer to suppose that its pace was slow and
construined. When chased, however it runs off ^vith a
peculiar trot, and with such rapidity, that it keeps "^ h«rse *
its speed to overtake it. Schombiu-gh relates that a tame
Ant-eater, in his possession, by no means restncted itselt to
ants, but devoured meat, when minced, with m«ch avidity.
The same naturalist also discovered a Julus, or Mi"ipede, in
the stomach of an ant-cater, which he dissected. The ordinary
length of this animal is about thi-ee feet seven inches, and its
height about three feet.

188

VATUnAL iiisTonv

Didact Jla (Ur. AiSoiktvAu;, two-fingero<l), tlic Litlle A nl-cafa:

The Little Ant-eateu also inhabits Guiana ami Hrazil.
The principal characteristics of this animal are the shortness
oi' its muzzle, and the prehensile power of its tail, which it
twists round the branches on which it principally resides.
It often attacks the nests of wasps, pulling them to pieces
with its claws, and devouring the grubs. The length of its
body is ten inches.

THE DUCK-BILLKD PLATYPUS.

Australia, where everything seems to be reversed, where
the thick end of a pear is next the stem, and the stone of
a cheiTy grows outside, is the residence of this most extra-
ordinary animal. When it was first introduced into Europt;
it waa fully believed to be the manufacture of some impostor,
who with much ingenuity had fixed the beak of a duck int"
the head of some imknown animal.

It lives by the banks of rivers in which it bmrows like tlic
water rat. It feeds upon water-insects and shell-fish, always
rejecting the crushed shells after swallowing the inhabitant.

(1), the Liflle Anl-caler.

lits Guiana and Brazil,
inimal are the shortnesis
ver of its tail, wJiich it
1 it principally resides*,
pulling them to pieces
lbs. The length of its

lATYPUS.

to be reversed, wlierc
stem, and the stone ol'
nee of this most extra-
ntroduced into Europe
,cture of some impostor,
he beak of a duck int"

hich it burrows like the
ts and shell-fish, always
[owing the inhabitant.

N'ATUn.Vl. HISTORY.

.^l^t)-t'a^lily d. (irnMiirhynrhina.
OilMTHonilYNrrs.— (Or. 'Odcis, a bird; oiivx"*. " •*l^nU.^

i.sy

l'iinicli'.\.u.s {Ui.t. tiuzzlinii), the lin,i--hllli<l I'latifpus.

Mr. Bennct attempted to rear sonic young Oknithouvnchi
at Sydney, but they died in a short time. They were ver\
fond of climbing between a press and the wall, placing their
hacks against the press and their feet against the wall. They
used to dress their fur with their beak and feet, just as a
duck prunes its feathers.

The male has a spur on its hind feet.

1*KUI.L OF inB PLfeTVl'.s.

190

NATURAL HISTORY

lliviaion II, AVE9.— (Lat. Birds.)
Order I. . . ACCIPItRES.— (Lat Ifawls.)
Sub-order I. Acoii'ITRES diuhni. — (Lat. Uaieks of the day.)
Family I. . . Oypaotidic— (Or. Ttii^, a Vulture ; "AtTifj, an Eagle.
Vulture-eaglo kind.)

ovr.vETrs.

HarbatuH ^Liit. beardul), (Iw Bearded Vidture or Liimmerijcijer.

UiUDS arc immediately distinguished from the Mammaha
liy their general form, their feathery covering, and by pro-
diiciug their young enclosed iu eggs.

Tlie different orders of birds are principally known by the
character of the claws and beak, examples of which will be
seen in the progress of the work. Before wo pay attention
to any individual species, we will first examine some of the
structures common to all birds.

One of the first great marks of distinction in birds is the
wing. This i^rgan is a modification of the arm or forelinib
of mammalia, clothed with feathers instead of hair.

'h.)

Hawks of the day.)
ilture ; 'Atriij, an Eagle.

NATUIUL HISTOBY.

I'Jl

llure or Ldiiimerijei/ei:

I from the Mammalia
covering, and by pro-

ncipally known by the

aploB of which will be

eibre we pay attention

examine some of the

notion in birds is the
f the arm or forelinib
tead of hair.

The bones of adult birds are not filled with marrow like
the bones of mammalia, but are hollow and filled with iiir,
and are therefore rendered very light, a bono of a goose
being barely lialf the weight of a rabbit's bono of the same
size, after the marrow has been extracted. In this formation,
strength as well as lightness is consulted, an a tubular rod is
well known to bo very much stronger than the same tjuantity
of matter formed into a solid bar. The bones forming the wing
are worthy of notice for tlie beautiful manner in which they
arc jointed together, and arranged so as to give great strength
together with lightness. In the following figure, the liml)8
of a man and of a bird are compared, the coiTcsponding
divisions of each being marked by similar lettei-s.

/

y

-i-.-^'

As many impoi-timt characteristics are drawn from the
plumage, it will be neces.sary to give a figiu-e, (p. 192,) exhi-
biting" the feathers of the different parts, together with then-
names:— a, primaries, or great quill feathers of the wing;
H, secondaries ; c, tertials ; d, lesser coverts ; e, greater coverts ;
F, winglet, or bastard wing ; o, scapularies ; H, upi)er tail
coverts ; i, under tail coverts ; k, rectrices or tail-feathei-s.

In the above engraving is also a figure, showing the method
by which birds hold on the perch while sleeping. It will bo
seen that the great tendon a, which is connected with all tlie
toes or claws, passes over the joints in such a manner that
when the leg is bent, the tendon is shortened and the claws
drawn together, so that the weight of the bird while perched,
pressing on the tendon, holds it firmly on the branch. 'I'hi^*

192

NATURAL HIHTOHY

action of tho tendon iseaHily observed liy watching a common
fowl walk. At each stop that it makes, on lifting itH foot, tho
claws are seen to bo drawn together. When an eagle wishes
to (b-ivo his claws into its prey, ho perches on it, and then
sinks down with tho whole weight of his body, by which
movement tho tendon ia Bhorteued and the chiws forcibly
pressed together.

As the wing presents a very broad snrfacc to tho air, it is
necessary that very powerful muBcles must be used to move
it with sufficient rapidity. The pectoral muscles are therefore
enormously developed, extending almost the whol j length of
tho body, v^ oveiy one who has carved a fowl must have
seen, and in order to form an attachment for these immense
mu-scles, the ridge of the breast-bone is equally enlarged. It
is the want of these enlarged muscles that prevents man
from flying, even when he has attached wings to his ai-ms.

Cl.AW iHD BEAK Oi RM".CtVV<- H1H1>

IHIIU-t.lJIU.^lWIJtt-rt-'i.

y watching a common
on lifting its foot, the
When an eagle wiHhes
rches on it, and then
his body, by which
id the claws forcibly

urfacc to the nir, it is
iiuBt be used to move
1 muscles .are therefore
it the wholj length of
ed a fowl must have
jut for these immense

equally enlarged. It
?s that prevents man

wings to his arms.

NATURAL niSTOnV.

10:5

The TiAMMisitoRYEii, ((!erm. Lnmhs-cnulr,) or Hi'.AiiDK.n Vn.-
ruiiK, inhal)its most mountain ran'j;cs, and is very conuuun
in the Alps of Switzerland and (Jermany, wJiero, from its
(leprcdations on the kids and lambs, it has earned its name
i)f Lainmergever.

Altiiough call.Hl tlie ncarded " Vulture," it is not strh^tly
a vulture, as its head and neck are feathere<l, and it rejects
jiutrid tlesh, unless hard pressed by hunger.

It destroys hares, and yo(uig or sickly sheep and goats,
nor, when rendered fierce by hunger, does it fear to attack
tlic adult chamois, or even man. It is said to destroy the
larger animals by watching until they are near the brink of
a precipice, an(rthen suddenly driving them over the rocks
l)y an unexpected swoop. In this manner the strong and
swift chamois falls a victim to the craft of its wingcil foe, and
instances are not wanting where the chamois Inmter himself
has been struck from a naiTow ridge into the valley beneath
by a blow from this ferocious bird.

It is exceedingly bold, and shows but little fear of man.
While Bruce was preparing his dinner on the summit of a
numntain, one of these birds, after scalding its feet in seyenil
unavailing attempts to extract some meat out of the boiling
water, actually seized a piece from a platter, and went off

with it.

The name of " Bearded " Vulture is given to it on account
of the long tuft of hairs with which each nostril is clothed.
The length of its body is about foiu- feet, and the expanse of
its wings from nine to ten. The second and third primary
feathers are the longest.

It lays two eggs,— white, marked with brown blotches.

THE CONDOR.
Tlie Sarcorhamphida) arc distinguished by a fleshy tuft
gi-owing on their beaks, somewhat resembling the wattles of
a turkey. The genus Sarcorhamphos includes the Condor,
the King Vulture, and the Califoniian Vulture. These birds
are distingmshed bv the wattles on their beaks, their naked
necks, and the size of the ntistrils. The third primary
feather is the longest.

104

NATL' HAL HlHTOllV.

Fumily H. Surcorhaiai.hiaie.-(Ur. iM> AeAa^d^t, be^^k.)

BAncfuiUAMrnf)*.

Gryphon (Or. rpv^, u Uritlbu), the Condor.

Tho CoNBon inluibitH the Ancles of South America, always
choositi" its remclencc on the sunnnit of a solitary roek. It
aDDeurH^that this bird does not build any nest, but lays its
two white eg!,'s on the bare rock after tho manner of many
sea birds. It is a very large bird, but by no means the
.ngantic creature some former naturalists relate, witli wmgs
twenty feet in length, and powerful enougli to carry ott a
horse. The real expanse of wing is about nnio or ten teet,
and the length of tho bird about four feet. It is, however,
exceedingly strong and very tenacious of life. Two Condors
will attiick and kill tho llama, or even tlie puma ; for by then-
repeated buffeting and pecking they weary it so completely
that it yields to their perseverance.

«h i ^n^t, heiik.)

i^Of.-

e Condor.

mth America, always
a solitury ruck. It
my ucst, but lays its
;hc manner of many
it by no moans the
its relate, witli wiiigs
i()ii<,'h to carry ott" a
out nine or ten feet,
feet. It is, liowevcr,
f life. Two Condors
;o piuua ; for by their
sary it so completely

NATURAL tllSTonV.

8AnconnAMrHu».
-f ..."

VJ-i

I'lipu, ilic King Vulture.

The Kino Vui.tukk is also a native of South America,
seldom if ever being wen north of Florida. Tnivellers
relate that this species keLi)s the ..tiier vidtures under sub-
jection, and does not sutler tliem to approach a dead animal
'until he has completely satisfied hi-! own appetite, whicli is
certainly none of the smallest.

We now arrive at the tnie Vultuues. These birds are the
revresentatives of the carrion-devouring animals, such as the
hyenas, wild dogs, &e. Tiiey however do not, as the hyenas
and wild dogs, attack living animals. The neck ot the \ ulture
is almost naked, very slightly sprinkled with down, and trom
the formation of the lower part of the neck, the bird is
enabled to ckaw its head almost under the feathers ot its
slioulders, so that a hasty ob8er\-er would conclude that the
creature had no neck at all.

The marvellous quickness with which the vultures discover
a dead animal has caused many discussions among naturalists
as to the sense employed ; some, as Audubon, declaring entire.y

i

196

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family III. . VulturtdcD.— (Lat. Vultui: Vulture kind.)
Subfamily a. Vulturlna;.

GYPS.

Fulvus (Lat. tawny), the Gnffon Vulture.

for sight, and others, as Waterton, asserting that the scent of
])utrid animal matter leads the vultures to their prey. Tiie
e,xperiment of starting a deer's hide and placing it exposed in
the open air was by no means conclusive, as tlie hide, however
dry, must have given out some odour, and the vulture certainly
acted very properly iu pulling out the straw and endeavouring
to get at the inside. The probability is that both senses are
used, one aiding the other ; for in another experiment, where
a dead hog was hidden under canes and briai's, numbers of
vultures were seen sailing in all directions over the spot,
evidently directed by the scent, but unable to discover by

Vulture kind.)

Vulture,

ng that, the scent of
to their prey. The
placing it exposed in

as tlie hide, howevei*
the vidture certainly
iw and endeavouring

that both senses are
er experiment, where
1 briars, numbers of
tions over the spot,
lablc to discover by

NATURAL HISTORY.

107

their eyes the exact position of the animal. The olfactory
nerves of the Vultm-e arc beautifully developed, so that
Waterton had reason for his pathetic remark,-' 1 never
thought I should have lived to see this bu-d deprived ot its

""The GniFFON Vuwuue is found in almost all parts of the
(,ld world. It is one of the largest of its group, measuring
upwards of four feet in length. Like most of the vultures, it
does not ap].ear to move its wings while flying, but sours ou
expanded pinions in large circles, apparently gaming the ne-
cessary impetus bv the movements of its head and body, just
as ail accomplished skater uses but little force in his various
evolutions, an imperceptible iiiclinati.m of the head or sway
of the body sufficing to keep up the impetus gained at start-
ing, and to bring him round in any direction he chooses

Vultures are geuemlly protected by the natives of the
countries where they reside, on account of their great utility
in clearing away the putrid animal mutter, which wouhl othei-
wise be exceedingly injurious as well as disagreeable. Ihe
Turkey Buzzard or John Crow {Cathartes Auro)ov Jamaican
vultui'>, is protected by a fine of five pounds inflicted on any
one who destroys the bird within a certain distance of the
principal towns. Waterton's account of tins bird is very in-
teresting, and well worthy of notice. There are many species
of vultures inhabiting diflereiit countries, but their habits as
well as their forms arc so similar that a detailed description
of each is needless.

EAGLES.

The Faleonida. hold the same place "^?l«"g,b^mls as the

Felidio among terrestrial quadrupeds. The beak ot this

a ly is stronl and curved, and the fc-et furnished with sha p

•IS iust as the F.lidie ai-c armed with long sharp tee h

ilrn erful claws. The Falconidio dirtl-r from the \ ulturiche

m havhig feathered necks, and in killing their prey and de-

vom'intr it while fresh. i i t..

At the head of the Faleonida. the Eagles are placed. I
than the wings are large, powerful, and slightly rounded, the

198

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family IV. . . . Falconida).
Sub-family a. . Aquillme.

AqcIla. — (Lat. an Ewjh.)

ChrysaOtos (Or. XpiKroUros, Golden Eagle), i'le iiolden Eagk.

fourth primary feather lioiug the longest. Tlio feet of the
genus A(|uila arc feathered to the toes.

The Golden Eagle is found in most ])arts of Europe, and is
not uncommon in Great Britain, especially in the mountainous
parts of Scotland and the Helmdes. ,The fligiit of tliis mag-
nificent bird is peculiarly beautiful and impo.sing, but its giiit
when on land is rather awlcward, for its long talons encumber
it in the same manner that the slotli is prevented from rapid
locomotion by its curved claws.

Its food is usually sea birds and tlie smaller quadrupeds,
sucii as hares, rabbits, &c., but it does not hesituto to carry
off young lambs, or sometimes to destroy a sickly .slieep.

'i.e (fMen Eatjk.

Tlic feet of the

I of Europe, aiul is

II the uioiintaiuous
Qight of til is niixg-
posiiig, but its giiit
g talons encumber
(vented from rapid

laller quadrupeds,
t hesitate to cany
>y a sickly sheep.

NATURAL IIISTOUY.

199

Some instances have been related of children tl-t |iavc W
the game troin tlie oubiits. m^ <• ,. i:f., it l>i\wt\vo

fS»f™4- 'f »'-" "'"rf "'W Sufr wM?X

The vouiK' are fledged about the end of July. ^N hik c
vmnra^^u the nest it is very dangerous to appmich t
snot as the Fagles are then extremely fierce and daring The
Tv Ml In d s gives an account of au adventure .sntli an
nt^;,"'llie farmer of Glcnmark, whose name^vas Miln, Imd
TeS-out one £y with his gmi, and coming upon an ea.^^.

reached a lf^!^^\^/\\'V'\'\7,Uv thought struck him : he

*L "tfk, tung a« opportmnty of taking . ».».!, »n„,
'"Tt'ovc'ot this V.iri, a„<l of mo»t cf tl.o l«r<l, of ,.rov, »

by onVnmiT dayligl.t, 1».»»*» 't ■" Filootion.

200

NATURAL HI8T0BY.

TANDioN (Gr. Proper name.)

/2

HaliaetuB (Or. °AA.j, the sea, atrtis an Eagle), the Osprey.

The feet of tlie genus Pandiou are naked, armed with
veiy long curved talons, the outermost of wliich can be
drawn together, so as to hold their slippery prey. The wings
are ample, and the second and third primary feathers the
longest.
^ The OspiiEY, or Fisiilng Hawk, is spread over the whole of
Kurope, part of Asia, and some portions of North America.
As its name imports, its food consists entirely of fish, whicli
it obtains by dashing into the water, and seizing them with
Its curved talons. The Osprey, although it takes the fish, is
not tlie only bird that has a predilection for that diet, as the
bald-headed eagle frequently waits until the osprey has seized
the prey, and then deprives him ' of it. Want of r"om
I'reveuts the insertion of the entire spirited passiige from
Wilson's Ornithology, describing tlie chase and capture. He
relates that the eagle, after watciiiug the osprey as it dashes
into the water after its finny i)rey, starts ofi' in pursuit as it
emerges, bearing a fisii in its talons. "Each exerts his
utmost to mount above the other, displaying, in these ren-

gle), the Osprey.

naked, ai-med with
t of which can be
iry prey. The wings
rimary feathers the

id over the whole of

of North Americfu

;irely of fish, which

1 seizing them with

it takes the fish, is

for that diet, as the

lie osprey has seized

,t. Want of r"om

irited passiige from

e and capture. He

osprey jis it diislies

ofi' in pursuit as it

" Each exerts his

lying, in these ren-

NATUHAL HISTORY.

L'Ol

eontrcs, the most elegant and sublime aerial evolutions, lie
unencumbered eagle rapidly advances, and is just on the
ijoint of reaching his opponent, when, with a sudden scream,
probably of despair aii<l honest execration, the latter drojis
his fish: the eagle, poising himself fi^r a moment, as it to
take a more certain aim, descends like a whirlwind, snatches
it in his grasp ere it reaches the writer, and bears his ill-gotten
booty sdently away to the woods."

When the Osprey plunges after its finny prey, it never
attempts to seize them while leaping out of the water, but
plunges downwards with such force, that it disappears below
the surface, throwing up the foam around it.

Its nest is made of an enormous heap, en(.ugh to make
a fair cart-load, of sticks, grass, &c., laid among the branche^
»i a tree. In this nest it lays its eggs, which are a yellowish
white, sprinkled with brown blotches.

The len-'th of this bird is about two feet, and the expanse
of its wings about five feet and a half Its feet are a pale
greyish blue colour, which, unfortunately, fades in a stutleU
specimen.

THE WHITEHKADED EAGLE.

The WuiTE-iiEADED Eagle, or Bald Eagle, as it is called
by Wilson, inhabits most parts of America, and especially
frecnients the cataract of Niagara. It is very accommodatmg
in its appetite, and preys indiscriminately on lambs, pigs,
swans, and the fish which, as related aliove, it takes away
from the unfortunate osprey. Sometimes it can take hsh
iionourably for itself in shallow water, by wading as far as it
can, and snatching up the fish with its beak. Aiulnboi. gives
a splendid description of the chase of a swan by an eagle, but
want of space again prevents its insertion.

Like the Golden Eagle, this bird lives constantly with its
mate, and hunts in ct)mpany. It lays from two to four eggs,
of a dull white colour, in a huge nest ))laced on a tall tree.

The claws of this bird are grooved beneath, and the hind
daw is the longest. Tlie feet are half feathered, and the

-.Ht^E-p^SSft**" >■■*

202

NATURAL IIISTOUY.

HALIAETUS.

Leuoocephalus (Or. AtvKOK{(pa\os, white-heacled), the nTiite-headed £(i<jlc.

fourth primary feather of the wing is tho longest, Wlieu full
grown, the general colour of t!ie bird is a deep brownisii
black, but its head, neck, tail, and upper tail-coverts are
white.

THE BUZZARD.

The fixmily of the Buzzards are distinguished by their
short beaks, largo rounded wings, and squared tails. They
all ])rey on small animals, i-cptilcs, and various insects.

The ('omn.on Buzzard occui-s throughout mo.st of Europe
and part of Asia, being frequently found in England. When
searching for food, it rests upon some higli branch, keeping
a keen watch on the gi'onnd, and waiting ))atiently until
some small animal, such as a rat, or young i-abbit, makes its
appearance, when it instantly sweejjs down from its elevation,
.seizes its prey witlumt settling on the ground, and returns, if
not disturbed, to tlie siirae spot, very much in the same
manner that the fly-catcher may be observed to act.

MP

.ed), the Wliite-headed Eiujlc.

;ho longest. When full

rd is a deep bi'ownisli

npper tail-coverts ai-e

D.

distinguished I13' their
(1 squuT-ed tails. They
I various insects,
ghont nio.st of Europe
nd in England. When
; higii hi-anch, keeping
ivaiting j)atient]y initil
'ouiig rabbit, makes its
lowu from its elevation,
ground, and returns, if
ry much in the same
)scrved to act.

NATCn.VI. HI8TOUY.
Sub-family c. Z/ufcoiiiHrt'.— (Lat. Butco, 11 Bu/./.iir.l.)

203

nuTKO.

Vulgaris (Lat. commun), Ihn Buzzard.

It eonerally builds in high trees, but has been known to
make i'ts nest among rocks. Its eggs ai'e ^7' ^ l^n''-^^ J'
number, of a whitish colour, spotted with pale bioxvi, and
almost devoid of the peculiar re<l tinge that generally clumic-
terises the eggs of the diurnal bir.ls of prey. The length o
this bird is from twenty to twenty-two mches : the tou.th
primary feather is the longest.

THE HONEY BUZZARD.
The genus Pernis is distinguished by the feathcrc.l lorum
or band round the eyes. The Honey \^vz^^nu .s found m the
warmer parts of Europe, and m Asia, sel.lom visiting or
shores. Its food docs not consist of lioney as its name might
seem to indicate, but of bees, wasps, and their larviB. Tn the
stomach of one that was shot in Scotland, a great number of

204

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family d. Miltina.

PERN IS.

Apiv6ru8 (Lat. Bee-eatiwj), tlie Jloney Buzzard.

bees iiud grubs were found, but no honey or wax. It docs not,
however, refuse small (luadmpeds, or sonictimes siiiidl birds,
if pressed by lnuiger. It is ti bird of piissage, leaving Europe
at the connnencement of wintei*. Its nest is built in higii
trees, and its eggs are two or three in number, grey, spotted
with red at one end, and surrounded with a red bund. Its
length is about two feet, and the expanse of its wings fifty-two
inches. The third primary feather is the longest.

The KiTK, (rLEOE, or Gled, is not xmeomnion in England,
and is spread over Europe, Asia, and Nortliern Africa. It is
especially hated by the farmer for its depredations on his
])oultr3', and its appeiu-ance is the signal for a general outciy
among the terrified poultry, who perceive it long before the
keenest-eyed man can ilistinguish it from a casual spot in the
distant sky. The sportsman also detests it for the havoc
whicli it makes among the gi'.me, — possibly the kite hates
tne sportsman for the same reason.

It builds in tall trees, and lays three eggs, white, 8j)otted
with reddish brown at the larger end. Its length is rather

IV.

Mk

lluney liuzzard,

aey or wax. It does not,
souietiines sniiill birds,
passjigo, leaving Europe
8 nest is built in bigli
u number, grej', K[)otted
I with a red band. Its
nso of its wings fifty-two
the longest.

luicommon in England,
Nortncrn Africa. It is
its depredations on his
lal for a general outeiy
teive it loiig before the
rom a casual spot in the
Ictests it for the havoc
-possibly the kite hates

lirce eggs, white, sj)otted
I. Its length is rather

SATunAi. nisTonT.

Mii.vus.— (Lut. o A'lVc.)

305

Regi'ilift (Lat. royal), the Kite.
more than two feet ; the fourt'a primary feather is the longest,
the first and seventh nearly equal.

The SwALLOW-TAtLED Falcon is an inhabitant of North
\merica, but has been twice taken in England. It feeds on
the wing, like the swallows, pursuing the largo moths an.l
other insects with an case and rapidity for which its formation
eminently fits it. These insects are however not the only
food of this bird. Audubon mentions that " Their principal
food is large gra8shoi)pcrs, grass caten)illars, smal snakes,
lizards and frogs. They sweep close over the fields, some-
times seeming to secure a snake, and ho ding it fast by the
neck, carry it off, and devour it in the air. I Ins act is shown
in the figure on p. 20G. Its nest is built on the summit of an
a-^ed pine or oak, and its eggs are tVom four to six m number
of a greenish white colour, irregularly spotted with brown at
the large end. The length of this bird is two feet. It should

200

NATUHAL U18T0RY.

Furcatus (Lilt. furkeJ), the Swallow-tailed IMcon.

ytropcrly be called the Swallow-toiled Kite, as it belongs to
that fiunilv.

FALCONS.

In the genus Kalco, the second primary feather is tlic
longest, the fii-st and third being of equal lenj.'th. The Oyh-
FALCON inuy be considered the tyi)e of the Britisii Falconidte.
It is, however, extremely rare in England, those intended for
hawking being principally brought from Iceland. On the
rocky coasts of Norway and Iceland its eggs are laid. These
birds are very courageous in defending their young. A [laii-
of them attacked Dr. Richardson while he was climbing near
their nest, flying in circles round him and occasionally dashing
at his face with loud screams. The entire length of the (Jyr-
falcou is twenty- tlu'ce inches.

tw-tailed Falcon.

. Kite, 08 it belongs to

[iriinai-y feather is the
[Hill leii<.'th. The Gvii-
' tlio British Falconiihe.
and, these intended for
rem Iceland. On the
ts eggs are laid. The.se
g their yoini^'. A pair
le he was climbing near
ind occasionally dashing
itiro length of the Gyr-

NATUnxL HisTonv.

?ub-f»niily e. I'lihoniiiOf.
F.\i.co.-(Liit. a Fulcun.)

2ll7

Oyrfalco (Lat.^ the Oijrfalcon.

The PFnwiHiNK Falcon, an inhabitant of most parts of
Enrope, Asia, and South America, was, in the palmy days of

awk ng, one of the favom-ite falcons chosen for that sp.>rt.
1 8 strength and swiftness are very great, enabhng it to stnko
iowxTt prey with givat ease ; indeed, it^has been known to
dLble file partH'l^-s in success on *•■;-;- .l^f.^"
pumut of ducks the Americans call it the Duck Haxyk
'There is a peculiarity in the method ot attack winch tins
l.ird employs when pursuing sn.all g>vme. Instead (.t merely
dashing at its prey and grasping it with its claws the I'erc-

!rine Falcon strikes its victim with its breast, and actnally
iuns it with the violence of the blow before seizing it with

its claws The boldness of the reregi-me luvlcon is so great

tat it was generally employed to take the formidable Heron.

2ns

XATonAi- iifHTonr.

rerogrinuB (Liit. waiidisriny), tlus Pertyrine Falenn.

After the Heron had been roused from his contemplations by
sonio marsh or river, the Falcon, wii<i had previoiwly boon
held hooded on itH master's hand, wum loosed from its bonds
and east otf. A contest then generally took i)lace between
the ITcron and tiio Falcon, each striving to ascend above the
other. In this contest tiie Falcon was always victorious, and
after it had attained a sufficient altitinle, it swept, or " stooped,"
as the plira.se was, uj)on the Heron When the Falcon had
closed with its prey, they both came to the groiuid together,
and the sportsman's business was to reach the place of con-
flict as soon as possible, and assist the Falcon in vanquisiiing
its prey. Sometimes, however, the waiy Heron contrived to
receive its enemy on the point of its sharj) l)cak, and trans-
fixed it l)y its own impetus.

It changes the colour of its plumage several times before
it arrives at full maturity, and in the days of falconry was
known by different names, such as " haggard" when wild,
" eyass," " red falcon " svhcn young, " tiercel " or " tassel-
gentli" when a full-gi'own male ; a term forcibly recalling the
wonts of Juliet, " Oh for a falconer's voice, to lure thi>
tanne'l-tfenlle back again !'

It builds on ledges of rocks, laying four eggs of a reddish
browu coloui'. Its length is from fifteen to eighteen inches.

'-'treijriue Faknv.

his contemplations by
o ha(l previously been
, lodwd from itH l)on(ls
ly tof)k place between
ig to ascend above the

always victorious, and
. it swept, or " stooped."
Wlien tlie Falcon had
) the ground together,
each the j)]aco of con-
Falcon in vanquisiiing
IT Heron contrived to
sliarj) beak, and trans-

;e several times before
) days of falconry was
■' haggard" when wild,
" tiercel " or *' tassel-
-Q forcibly recalling the
■'s voice, to lure this

four eggs of a reddi.sh
cu to eighteen inches.

NATURAL HISTORY.

II YPOTRIORCnU.— (Or. 'rworpiupXVf- ^

20'>

.Svibbuteo (Lat. the Hobby.)

Tlic Honnv is a siunmer vwitor in this country, ai.i Hearing
in April aud ' aving in Ocio.er. It xv.m formerly U .ued t.>
5v u laks, quails, and other smaU birds When mid a
!„:; to feed principally on small birds .mdh.ge beetles, tl
,.„n..uon dor-beetle being a very favourite article ot food. It
InnU; its nest at the summit of a high tree, ^l^Y^^
nnatiuir the deserted h,a)itation of a crow Fhe eggs aic
rtwmmber, of a dirty white colour speckled -^^^M.
brown. The length of the bird is from twelve to fourteen
inches.

Tlic Merlin, the least of our FalconB, was considered in
old.-n times as the lady's bird, every rank being obliged to

!10

NATUR.VL HISTORY.

HyPOTRIORCHIS.

.^salon (Or. AiadKaiv), the Merlin.

content itself with the bird allotted to its peculiar station,
royalty alone having the privilege to bear an eagle into the
field.

The spirited little Merlin seizes with great dexterity small
birds such as buntings, thi'ushes, and blackbirds, itself reaUy
hardly larger than its prey, its entire length being barely
eleven inches. Even the partridge falls before a trained biid.
Its eggs ai-e four in number, of a reddish mottled brown, laid
in a rude nest among the heather.

The Kestrel, or Windhover as it is often called, fi-equently
Mis a victim to the mistaken zeal of the farmer, who takes
every opportunity of destroying it, as he confounds it with the
sparrow-hawk. The natm-al food of the Kestrel is field-mice,
so that the farmer should protect instead of remoi-solessly
murdering his benefactor. These birds are not uncommon.
Many live close to Oxford and in Bagley Wood, where they
may be seen almost daily. They also live in great numbers

Merlin.

to its peculiar station,
bear ail eagle into tliQ

I great dexterity small
jlackbirds, itself really
3 length being bai'ely
3 before a trained bird,
sh mottled brown, laid

often called, frequently
the farmer, who takes
e confomids it with the
le Kestrel is field-mice,
stead of remoi-solessly
is are not uncommon.
;ley Wood, where they
live in great numbers

NATURAL HISTORY.

TiNNONCULUS. — (Lat. a Kestrel.)

211

rf^Sjfi;- ^^ ^

Alaudarius (Lat. of a Lark), the Kestrel.

among the precipices in Dovedale. Their nest is usually
built in the deserted mansion of a crow or magpie. The eggs
are four in number, of a dark reddish brown. The length is
from thirteen to fifteen inches.

THE GOSHAWK.

The Goshawk is found plentifully in most of the wooded
districts of Europe, but is comparatively rare in the British
Isles. It seldom breeds south of Scotland, but its nest is not
unfrequently found in that country, built upon lofty trees,
principally firs, and containing three eggs of a bluish white
colour with reddish brown mai'ks. When in pursuit of prey,
it strikes its victim to the groiuid by the force with which it
dashes through the air. Should the terrified quany hiue
itself, the Goshawk takes iip its station on some elevated spot,
and there patiently waits until the game takes wing. Its
principal food consists of hares, squirrels, pheasants, and other

212

uVTURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family/. Accipitrina,
AsTUK. — (Proper name.)

Palumb<arius (Lat. of the Dove), the OosImwIc.

large birds, which its great strength enables it to destroy. Its
length is about two feet ; the fourth primary featiier is the
longest.

The SPAnnow-nAWK is common throughout Europe. It
skims along, a few feet above the ground, and snatches away
its prey, pursuing it with wonderful pertinacity. One of
these birds was known to dash through a window in pursuit
of a small bird. When taken young it is easily tamed, and
will then associate with the most incongruous companions.
A gentleman had a young Sj)arrow-hawk which used to live
in his dovecote among his pigeons, woidd accompany them
in their flights, and was uneasy if separated jfrom it", strange
friends. The length of this bird is from twelve to fifteen

'■ (iosluiwk.

les it to destroy. Its
imary feiithcr is the

ighout Europe. It
I, and snatches away
lertinacity. One of
I window in pursuit
is easily tamed, and
igruous companions,
t which used to live
Id accompany them
ted from itf^ strange
im twelve to fifteen

NATORAI- HISTORY.

AccipTteii.— (I-nt.)

213

Nisus (Lat. proper naiM), the Sparrow-hawk.

inches. The fourth and fifth primary feathers are the lou^'est.
It builds upon lofty trees, laying five eggs, of a whitish colour
blotched with variable reddish brown marknigs, usually
collected towards the large end.

THE SECH2TARY 151 UD.
The Secretaby Bihd derives its name from the tufts .■!
foathers at the back of its head, which bear a fanciful resem-
blance to pens stuck behind the ear. Tliis extraordinaiy bird,
whose true position in ornithology has been such a stumbling-
block to naturalists, inhabits South Africa, Scnegambia, and
tlio Philippine Islands. Probably a diftereut species inlmbits
,..ich of tiiese countries. It feeds on snakes and utluT
lentiles, of which it consumes an amazing number, and is on
tlit account protected. When battling with a snake it
covers itself with one wing as with a shield, and xvith the
other strikes at the reptile until it falls senseless, when .t

214

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family g. Circina.
Sehpentarius.— (Lat. of a Serpent.)

Keptilivonis (Lat. Reptik-mtimj), the Secretary Bird.

powerful blow from the beak splits the snake's head asundei-,
and the vanquished enemy is speedily swallowed. In tho
crop of a Secretary bird that was dissected by Le VailUint
were found eleven large lizards, three serpents, each a yard
in length, eleven small tortoises, and a great quantity of
locusts and other insects. Besides these, the bird had just
killed another serpent, which it would in all probability have
transferred to the same receptacle had it not been killed.
The Sccretaiy is easily tamed, and is then exceedingly useful.
It builds on high trees, laying three large eggs, almost white.
Its Icimth is about three feet.

srpent.)

r^-J

^cretary Bird.

[lake's head asunder,

swallowed. In the

icted by Le Vaillaut

arpents, each a yard

a gi'eat (juantity of

e, the bird had just

all probability havi'

it not been killed.

11 exceedingly useful.

u eggs, almost white.

NATURAL mSTOUY.

Cmcus.— (Lat.)

215

Cynneus (Lat. azure), the Hen HarHtr

The Harriers arc remarkable for the P««f f /^^^e^d
disk round their eyes, somcth ng resemblmg ^at of o^^^^^
Tlio Hen Haitier is a native of England, and lives principally
if forests and heaths Its length *« ;^bou , -ven-i
inches; the first primary feather is very short, the third or
fourth is the longest.

OWLS.
A lartre round head, with enormous eyes looking forward,
is adSn^ishing mak of the Owl family. Many spe.«.s
« two feathery tufts placed on the head greatly re-
emblTrnorns. The Owls arc nocturnal bn-ds, pm-suing
thdr prey by night, and sleeping during the day. In order
SthL to ;.e tiieir prey, their ey- je enormoudj
«ai-2e and capable of taking m every ray ot hght Iheu
Se'r of vision is also increased by the method in which the
CTs fixTd in a kind of bony socket, just like the watch-
maker's glass. The nictiUvting membrane is very conspicuous
these birds. The power of hearing is also very dehcae,
rndSmtly assists them. In order to protect them from the
Sd they are furnished with a dense covering of doNvuy

■

216

NATURAL HISTORY.

Suli-ordor II. . AccipItres nociirni. ,

Kami'j I. . . . StrigtdoB. — (LatSirw-, aScreeohowl. Screech-owl kind.)

Sub-f(»"':'iy a. . Suriiiiue.

8URNIA.

Ulala (Lat. howlinij), tlie Ilwwkowl.

feathers, which also prevent tlie movements of the wing from
lieing heai-d by the wary mouse ; and so noiseless is their
flight that they soeni borne along by the wind like a tuft of
thistle-down.

The Hawk, or Canada Owl, inhabits the arctic portions of
Asia and America. Its head is not so round, nor is its thc«
so broad, as those of the other owls, fi'om which it is also (hs-
tinguished by its habit of hunting by day. In face it (icai-s
some resemblance to the harriera. It builds in trees, smd
lays two eggs — white, as are those of all owls. The eggs of
owls are easily distinguished from other white eggs by a pecu-
liar roughness of surface, which cannot be mistaken. The
length of the Hawk Owl is from fifteen to eighteen inches.

chowl. Screech-owl kind.)

awk-owl.

lents of the wing from
d so uoiscless is their
the wiud liito a tuft of

s the arctic portions <>f
round, nor is its face
im which it is also dis-
day. In face it l)(iai-H
t builds in trees, and
all owls. The e<.'g8 of
* white eggs by a pecu-
5t be mistaken. The
to eighteen inches.

NATURAL rnSTORY.

NrcTEA.— (ar. N«iKTios, uightly.)

217

Nivda (Lat. »nowy), the Siwwji-'iwf.

The Snowy Owl is properly an inhabitant of the north of
Europe, but has more than once been discovered in t.reat

ritafn It is also found in Noith America. Wilson relates
haU Ls a good fisher, snatching its prey from the water by
ffiuddci gi-Lp of the foot. It also preys on lemmings hure^
XnnLts, &c., clming and striking at them with its feet
OS^ils nest on the ground, and lays three or four wh.t.
eggs, of which more than two are seldom hatched. Its lengtl
if from twenty-two to twenty-seven nches the expanse ut
wing four feet; the third primary feather is the longest.

-'18

NATURAL inSTOIlY.

Athene.— (Or. proper nanio.)

Cunicularia (Lat. of the RahUt), the Burrminnij Owl.

The Burrowing Owl accompanies the prairie dog, and where-
evor that animal chooses to live, there is the Burrowing Owl
This singular little bird finds that to take possession of the
ready-made burrows of the prairie dog is much more agreeable
than to dig a hole for itself; so it takes unfurnished lodgings
in a desei-ted dwelling, undisturbed by anything except a casual
lizard or rattlesnake.

So numerous arc these little owls, that they may be seen
in small flocks seated on the tops of the mounds in which the
entrance of the bun-ows is formed. It is said that the owls,
marmots (or prairie-dogs), lizards, and snakes, all live har-
moniously in one happy family. Such, however, is not really
the case, as the Burrowing Owls prefer holes unoccupied by
any other tenant, and have been seen with sometliing most
suspiciously like a young snake struggling in their mouths.
The bottom of its hole is generally comfortably filled with
di-ied hay and roots.

The legs of this bird are longer than those of other owls
It is by no means large, measuring but ten Inches in length.

mo.)

iurromng Owl.

irairio dog, and whero-
i tho Burrowing Owl.
akc j)08sessiou of the
much more agreeable
unfurnished lodgings
>i;hing except a casual

at they may be seen
mounds in which the
is said that the owls,
snakes, all live har-
however, is not really
holes unoccupied by
vith soraetliing most
ng in their mouths,
nfortably filled with

those of other owls,
en inches in length.

NATURAL IllBTOBT.

ft

8ub-fainily h. Buhonina.
EnuAt.TKs.— (Gr. proper name.)

21'J

Scops (Gr. SKa+, an Owl,) the Scopi Eared-md.

The Scors Eared-Owl has been once or twice f«und in
Yorkshire, but usually resides in the southern V^^ts of the
C nSn nt It is remarkable for the reg^ilanty with which it

uS,; its monotonous cry, f ^^ . ^P^^ Mwo ^01"^ t
neating the letter Q at regular intervals of tuo «fCond8. It

OPS not seem to prey upon mice and other animals like most
L iSns b^^^ f'e 's on large insects, such an beetles and

rUshoppers. The size of this owl is very small, as.it only
Su es se^en inches in length ; the third primary feather is

belonged It lays from two to four white eggs in a simple

nest nS in a hollow tree or in a cleft in the rock.

Tho (inEAT Eared-owl or Eagle Owl, is the largest of the
fimiW This po erful bird, not satisfied with the "rats and
S and such small deer" which content the English owls
3v ittacks young fawns, hares and rabbits, together with
im bh-df /t inhabits the north of Europe, but has been

220

NATURAL inSTORT.
Bubo.— (Lat. an Owl.)

Maxlmus (Lat. ;/reateiit), the Great Eai-ed-fml.

several times olmen-ed in Great Britain. It lays its cgs in
the clefts of rocks or in ruined buildings. The len<?th of this
bird is upwai'ds of two feet.

'J'hc Bai{N Owl affords another instance of mistaken pir-
si'cution. This beautiful and most useful bird, whose earea.sc
we HO often see triumphantly nailed to the barn, actually
fi^eds upon and destroys in incalculable numbei-s the rats ,ind
nn'ce which bear it company in its luidcserved pimishnicnt
VViiterton remarks, " When farmers complain that the Barn
Owl destroys the eggs of their pigeons, they lay the saddh' on
the wrong horee. They ought to put if on the rat. Formerly
I could get very few young pigeons till the rats were ex-
eluded from the dovecote. Since that took place, it has pro-
duced a great ..buudance every yeai-, although tlie barn owIk

IT.

III.)

•eat Eiired-nwl.

in. It lays its eggs in
igs. The length of this

itance of mistaken pi-r-
sful hird, whose rai-ea-se
to the barn, iict\ially
le numbers tlie rats and
ndeserved pimishmcnt
omplain that tlie Ham
, they lay thcsjiddle on
t on the rat. Formerly
I till the rats were ex-
; took place, it has pro-
dthough tlie barn owIn

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family d. Striijin(f.
Stiiix.— (Lat. a Screecli-md.)

221

FlamiuCtt (Lat./awunv), the Darnowl.

frequent it, and axe encoiiraged all around it. ^^^^^ 'j'^" «;;:^^
merely resorts to it for repose and coucea mcnt. If it wen
leally an enemy to the dovecote, we should see the p.geonK
in c.Immotion as soon as it begins its evemng flight, but the
nigeoim heed it not, whereas if the sparrow-hawk or hr,bby
ihould make its appcnvnce, the whole community w-ould be
up at once. ... I am amply repaid for the pains I l^^ve take
t.l protect and encourage the bam owl ; it pays mo an hundred
fold by the enormous quantity of mice which it, destroys

throuiihout the year." , , • »

It Tdso destroys gi-eat numbers of beetles and other insects.
It is possible that it may destroy young birds, but not prc>-
huble, as feathers and birds' bones are never four 1 among the
re;iectamenta. It wiU, however, when domesticated, devour ;.
d.".ad sparrow or linnet when ] .'sented to it, ^

The Barn Owl lays three or four eggs upon a mass oi tnt
pellets which all the owls disgorge. Its length is rather more
tliaii twelve inches; the second primary teaUier is the longest.

222

NATURAL IIIOTORY.

Older II. . . . I'ASSEriES.

Tribe I KISSIUOSTHEH.— (Lilt. .V<<*'"«.>

Sub-tribe I. . . FWSIUOSTKKS NOCTLRN.K.

Family I, . . . Cuprimulgldro. — (Lat (limtimckcr Iciml \
Mult-fuinily a. . Oijirimnliriiui.

I'Al'ltlMULODS

KuroiitLu.-f (liUt. Liirujicuii), tUc Uital-»u<:ki:r.

The Fissirosh-os are so cullerl from the peculiar f(jrniatioii
of tlicir moutliH, which ap[iuar as if they had been sht up
from their onhnary tenninatiou to boyond the eyes, mucii
resembling tlio mouth of a frog. lu the iusect-cating Fissi-
rostrcs this foniiatiou is admirably adapted for capturing
their active prey, and in the Kingfishers it is equally adapted
for securing the alipi)ery inhabittmts of the \vatcrs.

The Caprimulgidro are nocturnal in their habits, ciiasing
their insect prey by nigiit or at the dusk, when the chaffei-s
and largo moths are on the wing. In order to prevent the
escape of the insect when taken, the mouth is fringed with
long stiff bristles, called "vibrisste." The name of Goat-

lY.

(Lnt .SidiUilU.)

at, (i'xilHUcker k'iinl )

lie tj'iitl-aui-.ker.

the peculiar forniiiticni
■ tlicy had been slit u])
beyond the eyes, mucli
I the insect-eating Fissi-

adapted for cai)turiiig
era it is equally adapted
if the waters.
ill their habits, chasing
dusk, when the chaft'orK
[n order to prevent thi'
! mouth is fringed with
The name of Goat-

NATUBAL HISTORY. 223

Nuokor is derived from a silly nc ion that they suck goats, u
niece ..f credulity only equalled by the hedgehogs supi)osed
crime of sucking cows, and the accusiition agauist th<! cat ol
sucking the breath of children. The genus Cai-rmiulgus w
furnished with a kind of comb on the middle cluw of its foot,
but for what puii)OBo is not clearly ascertained.

The Nightjar, or (Joat-sncker, sometimes called the Htd
Owl, is spicad over Kurope, and is tolenil)ly con.mou in Kug-
laiid. It may bo seen at the approach of evening, silently
wheeling round the trees, capturing the nocturnal moths and
beetles ; then ocousionally settling and uttering its jarring cry.
It arrives in this country at the beginning of May, mid leaves
in December. It makes no nest, but lays two mottled cggH
on the bare r-'-yrA. Its length is ten inches. Tin Wlnp-poor-
Will and • 1.0 « 'hu ii-Will's-Widow both belong to this family.
These vvo birds d rive their singular names from their cry,
which if si'A clow.'j to imitate the words that have been
assigned 'o bcm .t- their names. Of course the English
language n >. -t, foel ,u-*elf highly honoured that an American
l)ird should eier the language of the "Uritishcr to that ot
tho Delawar'e or the Sioux, l^oth the birds fly by night, or
rather in the dusk of the evening, and like the owl a. e much
distressed by being forced to face a brilliant light. 1 he Chuck-
Will's-Widow is partially migratory, and dwells iii the more
.southern parts of America during tho winter. Audubon relates
that this bird applies its enormous mouth to ratbrr an unex-
pected use, viz., that of removing its eggs, if it finds that they
have been disturlied. Of this curious circumstance be was an
eye-witness. He saw the bird that first discovered that an
intruder had touched the eggs wait for its mate, and theii
saw each of them take an egg in its mouth and convey it otl.

MARTINS.

The Hirundinida; are remarkable for their great power of
wing, their wide mouths, and short legs. In the genus Cyp-
selus tho toes are all directed forward, and tho tarsus is
thickly feathered. The whole of their i)lumago is constructed
with a view to rapid and active motion. Tho feathers ot

224 NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-tribe II. . . FissmosinES Dicnu*.

Family II. . . . HirundinIdaj.—(Lat.//iVitj«fo, a Swallow. Swallow

kiiid.)
Sub-family a. . Ci/jiselliue,

CrrsELCS.— (Or. Ki<fif\os, a Martin.)

Apu8 (Gr. uTous, without f'oet), the Hici/t,

their bodies are firm and close, so as not to impede theij'
passage through the air ; their wing feathers are long, stifl
and pointed, and their tails are long and forked ; all which
properties we know to belong to great speed.

The Swift, popularly called " Jack Screamer," is the largest
and swiftest of the British HirundinidsD. It seems to spend
the whole day on the wing, wheeling with wonderful velocity,
and occasionally soaring until it is hardly perceptible, but
screaming so shrilly that the sound is plainly heard. The
number of insects which it destroys is almost incredible ;
they are retained in a kind of pouch under the tongue, and
when taken out, could hardly be pressed into a tea-spoon.

undo, a Swallow. Swallow

Martin.)

fes;

, the Swift.

not to impede their
"eathcrs are long, stifl
md forked ; all which
speed.

ireamer," is the largest
e. It seems to spend
ith wonderful velocity,
ardly perceptible, but
8 plainly heard. The
is almost incredible ;
under the tongue, and
Bsed into a tea-spoon.

NATURAL HISTORY.

99

20

Tliesc are intended for the young, and the supply i« constantly
renewed. It lays from two to four long white eggs, on a
nest composed of grass, straws, feathers, silk, &c. The colour
of this bird is a dusky black. The length is eight niches,
the expanse of wing eighteen inches, and its weight barely

one ounce.

Sub-family 6. HiruntlinineD.

HinuNDO. — (Lat.)

Eusttca (Lat. rustic), the Chimney Martin.

The Chimney Martin or Swallow is the most common of
its family, and too well known to need much description.
When skimming over ponds or rivers in search of insects, the
snap with which it closes its bill may easily be heard. It also
dashes up the water with its wings, which action gave rise
to the opinion that Swallows passed the winter under water,
and rose in the spring. It may be easily caught with a rod
and line baited with a fly, after the manner of anglers. It
breeds twice in the year, building a nest of mud ag-ainst a
wall or other convenient situation, and laying five very pale
pink eggs, spotted with reddish brown, the pink of which
vanishes" when the egg is emptied of its contents, as it is
caused by the liglit passing through the yolk, and has to be
renewed by artificial means if the egg is placed m a collection.
The same is the case with most small light-coloured eggs.
The bira appears regularly to return, year by year, to its old
nest. The whole of its ui)pcr sm-face is a deep piu-plish black,
its forehead and throat chestnut.

22G

NATURAL HISTORY.

Co'rtLE. — (Gr. KwriKos, twitteriug.)

Riparla (Lat. of a bank), the Sand Martin.

The Sand Martin is the smallest of our British Swallows,
but makes its appearance before any of its brethren. It
principally builds in cliffs of sandstone, boring holes three
feet or more in depth, and often winding in their course,
most probably to avoid a casual stone or spot too hard for
its bill, which, although small and apparently unfitted for the
task, makes its way through the sandstone with extraordinary
rapidity. Where a convenient sand- cliff exists, hundreds of
these pretty little birds may be seen working away at their
habitations, or dashing about in the air— looking at a distance
like white butterflies, occasionally returning to the rock,
often completely honeycombed by their labours. Near Ash-
bourn in Derbyshire ther" are plenty of these rocks, where
the Sand Martins build in myriads, tolerably safe except from
the school-boy, who will clamber up and down the crumbling
surface, and thrust his arm into the holes, perfectly regardless
of the danger, and content with grasping a tuft of grass or
a root of blackberry as an anchomge. I have seen the
Sand Martins there engaged in mobbing a spaiTow-hawk, who,
after being buffeted about for some time, retaliated by seizing
a too daring Martin and carrying it off, when the whole scene
was changed — ^the triumphant jeerings turned into cries of

SET

teriug.)

md Martin.

our British Swallows,
' of its brethren. It
tie, boring holes three
tiding in their course,
e or spot too hard for
irently unfitted for the
one with extraordinary
liff exists, hundreds of
working away at their
■ — looking at a distance
jtuming to the rock,
ir labours. Neai' Ash-
' of these rocks, where
erably safe except from
id down the crumbling
lies, perfectly regardless
)ing a tuft of gi'ass or
Lge. I have seen the
g a spaiTow-hawk, who,
fie, retaliated by seizing
r, when the whole scene
'H turned into cries of

NATURAL HISTORY.

227

fear, and the place was deserted cxcei)t by the crafty hawk and
hiK screaming prey. The eggs are five, pinkish white with an
almost imperceptible dotting of red.

CuELiDON.— (Gr. XfMSdv, a Swallow.)

UrWca (Lat. of tlte citi/), the Martin.

The Martin or Window Swai.lo, . hes this countiy
a little after the swallow, and almost -..variably takes pos-
session of its old nest, which it repairs about May. It lays
five eggs closely resembling those of the sand martin. About
September immense numbers may be seen perched upon
liouses and trees preparatory to their depailure. The dome of
the Radcliffe Library at Oxford is a favourite assembling place
for these birds, where they may be seen hngcring for several
days after most of their fellows have vanished. At these
times eveiy available point is covered with thein. The dome
of St. Paul's is also a favoured spot.

The Esculent Swallow, whose nests are considered such a
delicacy among the Chinese, builds its singular habitation
in the sides of almost inaccessible cliffs, so that the business of
procuring them is a most dangerous task. The nature of the
jelly-like transparent material of which the nests ai-e made w
not vet known. The nests are found in Java.

228

NATURAL HISTORY.

Fnmily III. . Coracitdoe.
Sub-family a. Coraciincs.

CobacYas.— ^Gr. Kopaic/oj, like a Raven.)

Gan-ala (Lat. talkative), the Holler.

The Roller is plentifully found in most parts of Europe,
but has seldom been seen in England. Its mouth is slightly
furnished with vibrissse, like those of the nightjar. It is a
veiy shy bird, frequenting the depths of the forests. It
builds its nest in hollow trees— some say in banks— and lays
from four to seven white eggs, very like those of the kingfisher.
Its legs are short, and the upper mandible is bout over the
lower at the extremity. The colouring is brilliant, shades of
blue and green prevailing. Its length is about thireeen
inches.

T R 0 G 0 N.

The magnificent family of the Trogons stands preeminent
in beauty and brilliancy of plumage, the usual tint being a
metallic golden green, boldly contrasted with scarlet, black, and
brown. The toes are placed two behind and two before, like
those of the woodpeckers.

The Resplendent Trogon is the most gorgeous of all this

;e a Uaven.)

he Roller,

most parts of Europe,
. Its mouth is slightly
* the nightjar. It is a
ths of the forests. It
say in hanks — and lays
e those of the kingfisher,
ndible is bent over the
ig is brilliant, shades of
igth is about thireeen

•GONS stands preeminent
, the usual tint being a
d with scarlet, black, and
ind and two before, like

lost gorgeous of all this

NATURAL HISTORY.
Family IV. Trogontdte.

229

TROCON.

Resplendens (Lat. tldning), the Resplendent Trogon.

.wgeous family. Its long and gracefully curved tail, nearly
three feet long; the whole of the upper surface, and the
throat, are a glowing gi-ecn; the breast and under parts are
bright crimson ; the middle feathers of the tad black, and the
outer feathers white. This splendid bird is an nihabitant of
Alexico and was used bv the Mexican nobles a§ an ornament
to their head-dress. From the feathers of these and other
Trogons the mosaic pictures of the Mexicans were made.
One of these, most delicately and beautifully executed, con-
taining many figures, is now in the Ashmolean Museum at
( )xford It is there said to be made of humming-birds' feathers,
'lie subject is " Christ fiiiuting under the cross." The whole
picture is abou^ the size of the palm of the hand, and the
figures are barely half an inch in height, yet the very
expression of the features is preserved.

230

.vati;:bal history.

Family V. . . Ale 'iatite.— (Lat. Ah'jl'% a Kingfisher.)
Sub-family a. . A kiJ'niHa!,

Hisptda (Lat. rough), lite Kingfisher.

The pcciiliaviues of their form immediately distinguish the
kiNGFisHEUS fr.Ma other birds. The disproportionate lengtli
of the bill is their chief characteristic.

The Common Kingfisher is found in most parts of England.
Scarcely anything more beautiful can be conceived than the
metallic glitter of its plumage as it glides along the banks of
the river, or darts into the water after its struggling prey.
Its usual method of fishing is by placing itself on a stump or
stone overhanging the water, from which spot it watches for
the unsuspecting fish beneath. After a fish is caught, the bird
kills it by beating it several times against its resting-pkce,
and then swallows it, head foremost. Sometimes it does not
exercise suflScient caution in its devouring propensities. A
heedless Kingfisher was exhibited at the Ashmolean Society,
which had been found dead with a peculiarly largo minnow
firmly fixed in its throat.

It lays its eggs in holes bored in the banks of rivere or
ponds, and appears to build no nest. A pair of kingfishers,
for two successive years, inhabited a bank of a very small

NATURAL HISTORY.

231

■edo, a Kingfisher.)

Kiuf/Jisher.

ediately distinguish tlie
disproportionate length

most parts of England.

be conceived than the
ides along the banks of
ter its struggling prey,
ing itself on a stump or
lich spot it watches for
1 fish is caught, the bird
gainst its resting-pUice,

Sometimes it does not
jiiring propensities. A
the Ashmolean Society,
eculiarly large minnow

the banks of rivers or

A pair of kingfishers,

I bank of a very small

stream, little more tnan a drain, at Little Hinton, \^ dtshire,
where no fish lived, nor were there any to be found withui
a considerable distance. The eggs are from four to seven in
number, of a peiu'ly whiteness, and remarkably globuai ni
shape. In miny parts of the country it is f" "Y 1^^'"^^;-'^
that if a kingfisher is dried and suspended by the beak, the
breast will always turn in the direction of the wind. This
belief has caused the death of no few kingfishers, whose sus-
pended b.Hlios may bo seen in many a cottage, their brilliant
blue and red plumage rotating in a most impartial manner.
The lengtb of this bird is seven inches.

Family VI. . . . Meroptdtc.
Sub-i'amily a. . . Meropina.
Mebops.— (Or. M«po\(/-)

Apiaster (Lat. Bee-eater.)

The Bee-eatkr is common on the Continent, but seldom
visits this country. In appearance it is not very unlike the
kingfisher, both in shape and its brilliant colours. It has
long been celebrated for the havoc it causes among the
inhabitants of the hive, although it does not restnct itself to
those insects, but pumies wasps, buttei-flies, &c., on the wing,
with great activity. Like the kingfisher, it lays its eggs in
holes bored in banks. The eggs are white, and from four to
seven in number. Its length is eleven inches.

232

NATUnAL IIISTOUy.

Tribe II. . . . TE\UIRO.STIU:s.— (Lat, Slmderhilkd.)
Family I. . . . Upui.ldio.— (Lat. lluoituc kind.)
Subfamily a. I'lnqniM.

cpCpa.

Epops (Gr. 'Eiroi^), the Hoopoe.

The Hoopoe, one of tlie most elegant birds that visit this
country, is, unfortunately, a very rare guest, and seldom, if
ever, breeds here. Its beautiful crest can be raised or
depressed at pleasure, but is seldom displayed unless the bird
is excited from some cause. Its food consists of insects,
which it fii-st battc's and moulds into an oblong mass, and
then swallows, with a peculiar jerk of the head. In Yarrell's
British Birds, there is a very interesting account of a tame
Hoopoe in the possession of Mr. Bartlett.

In France Hoopoes are very common, and may be seen
examining old and rotten stumps for the insects that invari-
ably congregate in such places. There they may be seen in
flocks, but they never seem to come over to England in greater

NATUHAIi iiisTonr.

233

lilt, Shnderhilkd.)
It kind.)

wpoe.

t birds that visit this
guest, and seldom, if
3st can be raised or
iplayed unless the bird
d consists of insects,
an oblong mass, and
lie head. In Yarrell's
iig account of a tame
t.

on, and may be seen

he insects that invai'i-

they may be seen in

• to Engluiid in greater

numbers than one i-air at a time. M. Beckstein gives a curi-
^u^Sl of tho\.ttituae assun.ed by the -I- -j^-
ceiving a large bin! in the air. " As «-'»,,^ , ' X^ j^i t e
raven or even a pigeon, they were on then -" « ^ t»«
twinklin.' of an eye, their wings strctclicd o.it by the suit o
1 h ui; so that the large ,uill feathers touched : the hea
lemming mi the back witli the bill pomtmg upward. ^^ In t is
nn-iout posture they might be taken for an oUl rag ! t la^ s
from four to seven grey eggs ui the hollow of a tict. Its
length is one foot.

Family II. Trochilldtc.
TrochTlus.— (.Or. Tpox'^os.')

Colabris (Lat. liU a >iuiJce), Hu^ Rahy-throatcd Humming

bird.

Those mtl« living gems are ejclu.ivclj found in tlic N™
wl re pel ly about the troi.icJ ,,.at» beeonung g,-ua,,ja y

^~2:rr^Sirs.;o::SLJn|X

234

NATURAL niSTOHY.

OHSiSii\ A.— (Gr.'Opvij, a bird ; ^Dj, a nimiae.)

I

Oouldii (Lat. of Gould), Guuld:» I/umi,,. /bird.
Sapi'ho (Or. projfr nrTie), the Bar-tailed Hininmn.j-binl.
Cora (j>ro}n • name), the Cora Numming-iAi-d.
ChrysolBpha (Gr. XpuCTo'y, gold ; \o> a crest), f Ac /iitble-crenl
Hummiiiui

a humminir or buzzing sound is produced, from > pecu

liarity th ami! uf Humming-uird has been giv u tnem
almost every luuguage. \\ terton s Jeseription <.i the app
ance of the Humming-bird in the sun it, very charact^'ristic.

" Though lca.st in size, the glittering mantle of tlie Humming-
bird ertitles it to the rrst place in the list of the I 'rds of the
New A' rid. It may truly lie billed the E-'d oi I'aradise ;
and had it existed in the Old A\ Id, it would have claimed
the title intjtead of the bird which has now the honour to
bear it. See it dai-ting thrijiigh the air almo; as quick a«
thought i now it is within a y; id of your face~m an iuBtant

NATURAL lUSTOBY.

23fl

S^ ■•^'

'umiiii 'i-hird.

••d J/"ii,mini/-biriJ.

mming-U'-d.

est), the /I •iible-crM

ed, from l^cu-

) been ^<- a taem
3rivtion t.i tlio app-
. very charixcu'ristio.
iiitle of tlie Huniining-
ist of the 1' ■•■(!« of the
the IVn-d ot I'aradiK.
t would have claimed
is now the honour to
ir almos as quick as
nr face — in an inatant

.„n_r,ow it flutters from flower to flower to sip the silver
rw^I^it^ulv a X-now a topa.-now an en.erald-uow

'^^Uslttnia'■Lt that a common inject called the Hunt-
J;:h;;d'^ioth ;« farmed on l^^^J^J^ ^IS^!^.

denly seen ,u. insect apparent y ^"^l''^"^ ^^ "J^^^. J ^S
the flowerwith its proboscis. It moves from A^^^^/j" ";';',''
Siays balancing if elf over "-- 'yjts wn^^ , Let t ob
server move but his hand, and it is gone nas v»

18 just ai uus uu.o , j^ nocturnal

theflower morderthatthesuusiajsmay u jr

" \« is formed much like that of the woodpecker
bei S round the head, und. ti ^kin, and thus capable
of beiu, darted to a considerable distance.

^Wi-m%^:f

230

NATunAii nisTonv,

Tlicro are an im hcuhc numbur of specicH of these exquisite
birds, viininjj; from tiie size of ii swift to tlmt of ti humlde bee
Any description of tlieni is iiiipossibio — tli'v nnist be seen.
Fortun.itely, the miv,'niticent collection bi ._'ht to England
by that most indefatigable and enterprising naturalist, Mr.
(Jonld, j)laces it in the power of every one to view these living
geiiiM in all the attitudes of life, and surrounded with the ap-
propriate vegctiition. They need nothing but nuttion. It
appears that cold is destructi vo to the Huuiming-birds. Wilson
Bays: —

" Thi little bird is extremely susceptible of cold, and if
long deprived of the animating influence of the sunbeams,
di-oops, and soon dies. A very beautiful male was brought
mo this season, which T put into a wire cage, and placed in a
retired shaded part of the room. After fluttering about for
some time, the weather being uncomnionly cool, it clung by
the wires, and hung in a seemingly tor])id state for a whole
forenoon No motion whatever of tlio lungs could be i)er-
ceived on the closest inspection ; though at other times this
is remarkably observable ; the eyes were shut, aiul when
touched by the finger it gave no signs of life or motion. I
carried it out to tlie ojjcn air, and placed it directly in the
rays of the sun in a sheltered situation. In a few seconds
respiration l»ecamo very apparent ; the bird breathed faster
and faster, opened its eyes, and began to look about with as
much seeming vivacity as ever. After it had completely re-
covered I restored it to liberty ; and it flew oft' to the withered
top of a pear-tree, where it sat for some time, dressing its
disordered plumage, and i icn shot off" like a meteor."*

Fear will also produce the same effect, as they liave re-
peatedly died when caught in a common gauze net, which
does not injure even the delicate scales of the butterfly's wing.
They are very quarrelsome little ci'i'atun and frequently
fight with expanded crests and ruffled feathere until they fall
exhausted to the ground. *

The nests are very neat and beautiful, and, as may be
imagined from the diminutive size of the little architect, exceed-
ingly small. They lu-e composed of down, cotton, &c., and are

• Wilson's Omitholog)-, vol. ii. p. 30,

NATUnAt. niSTORV.

237

cios of these exciuisito
tlmt of ahumlilu bee.

— tli''v must 1)0 Hecu.
1)1 M„'ht to Eiif^lixnd

rising iiiitiiniliHt, Mr.

30 to view these livinf;

Toiiiuied with the ap-

liiifj; hut motion. It

mining-birds. Wilson

ptihlo of cold, and if
iieo of the sunbeania,
111 male was hrmight

cage, and placed in a
■ fluttering about for
unly cool, it clung by
pid state for a whole

lungs could be per-
il at dlher times tliis
fcvo shut, and when

of life or motion. I
;ed it directly in the
a. In a few seconds

bird breathed faster
to look about with as
it had completely re-
ew oft" to the withered
me time, dressing its
ko a meteoi-."*
;ct, as they have rc-
lon gauze net, which
if the butterfly's wing,
un and frecpiently
jathti-B until they fall

fill, and, as may be
ittle architect, exceed-
1, cotton, <kc., and are

[). 3U,

sometimes covered .m the outside with mosses and lichona.
n^^terton relates a curious foruiation of the nest ot one par-
tLular species, whoso habitations are built at tho extremity of

'•' "\\Sirteaches one specioH, which builds its nest ou tho
slender bnmches which hang over the rivers, to n.ake a run
nnmd the nu)Uth ..f the nest, turned inwards, so as to prevent
lo eggs fr. ..n rolling out. . . The trees on the nver s bank are
particilarly exposc.l to violent gusts of w.nd, and when I havo
been sitting in tho canoe and lookmg on, 1 havo seen tho
1 ler bnu.ch of the tree which held the Ilumm.ng-b.rds
nest so violently shaken, that the bottom of tho ms.de of tho
has Ivp )eail, )md ha.l there been nothing at the run to
stop tho eggs, they must inevitably have been jerked out into
tho water." ^

Family HI. . CerthtdH!.-(ar. KdpOm. Creeper kind.)
Sub-fttii)ily a. C'erthinie.

CEIITHIA.

Familiaris (hat. familiar), the Creeper.

The Creepers are remarkable for their long slender bills
and claws, adapted for climbing trees, and captunng msects.
The common Creeper may often be seen in this country, run-
nine spirally up the trunks of trees, and probing the bark
wi^h Tm, ami a firmly do tho claws hold, that when shot

238

NATURAL HISTOnY'.

it docs not always fall, but remains clinging to the tree. The
nest of this elegant little bird is made in a decayed tree. Tiie
eggs are from seven to nine in number, grey with dusky spots.

Subfamily 5. . Sittina;.
SiTTA.— (Gr. 5/tt?).)

'^M^y

Europsoa (Lat. European), the Nuthatch.

The term Nuthatch well explrins the habits of this
interesting little bird. As may be imagined from its name,
nuts form a considerable portion of its food, but it also feeds
largely on insects, pecked from the bark of trees. While
sea-johing after insects, it displays an activity even surpassing
the creeper, as it runs up and down the trunk, mostly
descending with its head downwards, a feat beyond the
capacity of either creeper or woodpecker. In order to break
the shell of nuts, it contrives to fix the nut in some crevice,
and then grasping with its powerful feet, it swings its beak
against the nut with the whole force of its body, and soon
sphts the nut in pieces. In spots frequented by this bird,
heaps of nut-shells may be seen, as it usually resorts to a place
where it has found a convenient resting-place for the nut,
just as heaps of snail-shells may be often found by stones
which the thrush has found fitted for breaking them.

»&*C#«K:S5**tl^3

HS^^

S5si»»saWHte*(*S*l.

L

NATURAL HISTOBT.

239

wing to the tree. The
11 a decayed tree. The
grey with dusky spots.

Nuthatch.

i the liabits of this
igiiied from its name,
food, but it also feeds
)ark of trees. While
tivity even surpassing
a the trunk, mostly
, a feat beyond the
r. In order to break
nut in some crevice,
!et, it swings its beak
3f its body, and soon
quented by this bird,
iially resorts to a place
ng-place for the nut,
iften found by stones
eaking them.

It has hitherto been found impossible to keep the Nuthatch
in captTvity Its restless spirit and obstinate perseverance in
peckCat^ts prison speedily kill it ; and although sevet^
have been placed in confinement, none have been recorded to
^vive beyond the third day. The Rev. Mr. Bree relates
t™he Wn of a Nuthatch which he had taken ma common
Mck trap was worn away to barely two-thirds of its usual
leiSh by tl^e unremitting attempts of the bird to escape from

'^^TlieTest of this bird is usually made in a hole in a decayed
tree and as is usual with nests made in holes, it is a very
rough fabr cation, composed of a few dried leaves. The bird
Isio remarkable. from its habit of ? aste^-S "P ^^^^^^^
with mud when it is too large to suit it. Ihe eggs are liom
five to seven in number, of a whitish colour, spotted with
reddish brown. ^^^^

Sub-family c. Menurinai.
TBOOi.OD?TES.-(Gr. Tpc-T^oSCr.s, a creeper into caves.)

Parvalus (Lat. very small), the Wren.

The Wken shares with the robin some immunity from

iuvenile sportsmen. Although it may be fearlessly hoppu.g

ibout in the hedge, jerking its funny little tail, and playing

ts ant cs just at the muzzle of the gun, few boys will fare at

240

NATURAL HISTOnr.

it — a privilege for which it is difficult to give a reason, except,
pcrliaps, the very incomprehensible assertion tliat " The roliin
and the wren are God Almighty's cock and hen ;" although
why these two birds, both proverbially quarrelsome and
pugnacious, should be selected, to the exclusion of others,
is difficult to say. Perhaps the robin enjoys his immmiity
from the " Babes in the Wood," and the wren makes a conve-
nient rhyme. Be this as it may, it is to be wished that a
similar rhyme existed, including the owl and the kestrel.

A singular anecdote is related of this bird.

" In the end of June 1835. a person was shooting in the
neighbourhood of Bandrakehoad, in the parish of Colton,
Westmoreland : ho killed a brace of blue titmice {Parus
ccerukus), which some time before had been observed to be
constructing a nest, in the end of a house belonging to a Mr.
Innes of tiio same place. In the com-se of the day, it was
ascertained that the titmice had completed the time of incu-
bation, and that their death had consequently left their
offspring in a state of utter destitution. This, however, was
not long permitted to continue, for the chirping of the young
birds attracted the attention, and excited the compa-ssiou of
a ^Ten ; which, since that period, adoited the nestlings,
and was daily engaged in retu'ing and feeding them, with the
affectionate kindness and unremitting assiduity of a pai-eut
bird."

Tlie nest of the Wren is built in any convenient cranny ;
an ivy-covered tree, the thatch of a barn, or a warm scarecrow,
are all used by this fearless little bird. The nest is usually
of an oven-like shape, always covered on the outside with
some material resembling the colour of the objects round it,
such as green moss if built among i\'y, or brown lichen if
built on a rock or in the fork of a withered branch. The eggs
are six or eight in number — white, speckled with reddish
brown.

;o give a reason, except,
ertioii that " The roljin
3k and hen ;" although
ially quarrelsome and
le exclusion of others,
1 enjoys his immunity
e wren makes a conve-
is to bo wished that a
vl and the kestrel.
s bird.

>n was shooting in the
the parish of Colton,
' blue titmice (Parm
<1 been observed to be
luse belonging to a Mr.
irse of the day, it was
leted the time of incu-
lonseciucntly left their
n. Tliis, however, was

chirping of the young
ted the compassion of
ulopted the nestlings,
feeding them, with tlip

assiduity of a pai'ent

ny convenient cranny ;
a, or a warm scarecrow,
. The nest is usually
1 on the outside with
f the objects round it,
vj, or brown lichen if
3red branch. The eggs
speckled with reddish

NATURAL HISTOBY.

241

Tribe IIL . . . DENTIROSTRES.— (Lat. toothUUcd.)

Family I. . . . Luscinidjo.— (Lat. Luscinia, a Nightingale. Night-

ingalo kind.)
Sub-family a. . Lmdnina. %

Calamod-vta.— (Gr. KoAo/uoSiJttij, a diver in'„o reeds.)

Locuatella, the Grasshopper Warbler.

While walking along the hedges during the spring, an
incessant cry, closely resembling that of the gnisshopper, and
easily to be taken for it, is heard proceeding from the hedge.
This cry proceeds from a little bird, called on that accmnii
the Orasshoppeh Wakbler. The little creature keeps ko
close that it is very difficult to catch even a casual glance mI
it, as it flits along the bottom of the hedge.

The nest is carcfidly concealed, and very difficult to find.
It is composed of dried grass, and is usually hidden by t\v
tufts of herbage among which it is built. The eggs are from
five to seven iu number; white, speckled with red. lli<'
length of the bird is five inches and a half; the tlufd
primary feather is the longest.

'2i:

NATURAL HISToUY.
LCSCraiA.

riiilomola (Gr. *i\oiii',Ka, i)roper name), the Ni'jldiiigale.

'■ Tiuu tiiiu tiuu tiuu— Spe tiu zqua—
Tio tio tio tio tio tio tio tix— Qutio qutio qutio qutio—
Z.mo zquo zqiio zqcio-Tzii tzii tz-U tzU tzu tzu tzU tzi. tzu tzi-
Quorror tin zqua pipiquisi-Zozozozozozo/.ozdZozozozo zirrhading ! S:c. &,c.

So does a well-known natm-alist endeavom- to express the
■wild and spiritual melody of this most cxqnisito of British
song-birds, the Nightingale. And in truth it is perhaps ixs
good a description as can be given without the aid of music.
Even its own marvellous notes sound compnratively weak
unless backed by the accom])animeuts of night and tranquillity;
for the inimitable song of this Mendelssohn among birds loses
gi-eat pai-t of its beauty when uttered by day, deadened and
confused with other sounds.

In some counties of England it is never found, but m many
its nightly stmins are frequently heard. The fields and
College gardens of Oxford are full of Nightingales, whose
songs add greatly to the effect of the scene. Well may Isaak
Walton say in his deliglitfuUy quaint language :

"But the Nightingale, another of my airy creatures,
breathes such sweet, loud music out of her instrumental
throat, that it might make mankind to think that miracles
are not ceased. He that at midnight, when the very labourer
sleeps securely, should hear, as 1 have very often, the clear
airs, the sweet descents, the natural rismg and falling, the

ma^m

NATURAL HISTORY.

243

ne), the Nightingale.

qutio —

;u tzU tzii tzU tzi —
izozoiozo zirrliailiiig ! &c. &c."

ideavom- to expi'css the
lost exquisite of British
n truth it is perhaps ius
thout the aid of music,
nd comi>iiratively weak
of night aud tranciuillity ;
Issohn among birds loses
d by day, deadened and

lever found, but in many

heard. The fields aud

of Nightingales, whose

scene. Well may Isaak

; language :

of my airy creatures*,

)ut of her instrumental

i to think that miracles

:., when the very labourer

ave very often, the clear

d risuig and falling, the

doubling and redoubling of her voice, might well be lifted
above earth, and siiy, 'Lord, what mmiv hast thou provuhd
for tli£ mints in Heaven, when thou, affordest bad vien siteh
music on earth ! . ,, . , • , , j. •„

It must be borne in mind, that not only m «!« ^f l'^?,^ \»
other singing birds, the male is the vocalist, so that Milton s
•iddressto the "sweet songstress" is unfortunately not quite
so correct as poetical ; a misfortune of frequent occurrence.

SylvTa.— (Proper name.)

Undata (Lat. waty), tlie Darlford WaMcr.

The Warblers are spread over almost the entire globe,
and many gladden this country with their pleasant songs.
The Dartford War\)ler derives its name from the place where
it wa« first noticed as a Biitish bird. It is extremely small,
hardly larger than a wren, but the length of its tail increases
its apparent size. Furze-bushes form its usual residence.
There it may be seen hovering over the tops of the bushes,
uttering its curious quavering song, at the sjime time erecting
the feathers of its head, and puffing up its tlii-oat. It la^-s its
eggs in a nest carefully concealed in the centre "f ^ ti^r^';;
bush. The eggs are of a greenish white, speckled with bio^ n
spots. Its length is five inches.

wd^mmit.

244

NATURAL HISTORT.
SYLVIA.

CinerCa (Lat. asluj), the Whitethroat.

The protty little Whitethroat is one of the migi-atory
birds, remaining vdth us during the summer. Few copseK
are without the singular and pleasing song of the Whitctliroat.
It derives its name from the white colour of its throat and
abdomen, which renders it a conspicuous bird. Its ciu'ious
iiabit of flying upwards from its perch, and again descending
on the same spot, immediately points it out.

It builds a small nest, mostly among brambles or on a
stumo densely covered -ith weeds. The eggs are five in
number— a gi-eyish white thickly spotted with brown. The
length of the bird is not quite six inches.

The Blackcap, almost a ri\al to the nightingale, is at once
recognised by the black colour of the crown of the head.
Ordy the males, however, are thus decorated, the crown of
the head of the female being dark brown. Its sweet notes
fire poured forth from the concealment of some thicket or
tuft of trees, where it trusts to the density of thv. roliage to
elude discovery. Like the mocking-bird of America, it can
imitate the songs of o' er birds with such perfect iuiiection
that it is almost impossible to detect the imposture.

Among bushes and brambles it builds its nest, which is
made of dried grass, moss, and liaire. The eggs are five in

NATURAL IIISTOUY.

245

ittthroat,

one of the migfatory
summer. Few copses
Dng of the Whitctliroat
olour of its throat and
lous bird. Its curions
1, and again descending
it out.

long brambles or on a
Tiio eggs arc five in
tted with brown. The
les.

e nightingale, is at once
he crown of the head.
Iccorated, the crown ol'
)rown. Its sweet notes
3nt of some thicket or
tensity of iLi^ Toliage to
bird of America, it can
I such perfect iuHectiou
;he imposture,
uilds its nest, which is
The eggs are five in

Atricapilla (Lat. llacmired), the Blackcap WaMa:

number-reddish brown, marked with dark spots. Thcleugtli
ri bird is nearly six inches ; the third prnnary feather is
the longest.

The CniFF-CHAFP, so called from its peculiar cry, is almost
tbP fi?st of the Warblers that visits us in the spring, an( one
of the ia°t t' leave us in the autumn, sometimes remanung
here mill the middle of October. This little bird is found

SYLVIA.

llul'a (Lat. rudd;/}, the Chiff-chaff.
in most of the southern counties of England, and in Wales
Imi has not been noticed north of Northumberland. On it.

24G

NATURAL HISTORY.

first arrival it feeds on the leaf-rolling caterpillars that infest
the leaves and early Inuls of trecfi, therehy doing great service
to the gardener, who especially detests all " l)light," as he calls
these insidious little devonrcrs.

The nest of the Chiff-chaff, like that of the wren, is oval or
rounded, and entered by a hole at tlie side. It is placed near
tiie gi'onnd in a bush, or sometimes resting on the hedge-bank.
Its eggs are six in number, speckled with purplish red on a
white gi'ound. The length of the bird is not quite five
inches ; the third and fourth primary feathers are the longest.

ReoOlus.— (Lat.)

Cristfitus (Lat. crested), the Oolden-cniitcd ]Vren.

The Golden-crested Regulus, as it ought properly to be
called, is one of the smallest of British birds. Fir j)lantations
arc its favourite resort, and there it may be seen hopping about
the branches, running round them, head downwards, in search
of the insects hidden beneath the bark. Its name is derived
from the orange-coloured tuft of feathers on the crown of its
head, for which reason it is often called the Kinglet. Its
note is weak, Init very pleasing, and much resembles that of
the common wTen. The female is very bold while sitting,
and will permit close observation without quitting the nest.

1

,tcq)illars tliat infest

y doing great service

" blight," as he calls

■ the wren, is oval or
e. It is placed neai-
5 on the hedge-bank.
ii purplish red on a
[I is not quite five
hers arc the longest.

.V

ested Wren.

Light properly to be
•ds. Fir plantations
) seen bopi)ing about
lownwards, in search
Its name is derived
on the crown of its
i the Kinglet. Its
fi resembles that of
bold while sitting,
t quitting the nest.

XATUUAL niSTOUY. -*4 <

The nest itself is an object of great beauty. It is usually
placed on the vuider si.lu of a fir branch, slieltered by the
over!.; -ng foliage, and sou.etirnos further protected by a
larL'e buuch of cones forming a kind of root over it. Hie
iH.gs are from six to ten in number, very Hinai , am ot
a"^-eddish white colour. The length of the bird is three
inches and a Inilf. The fourtli .^r fifth primary featlier is the
longest.

Sub-fiimily 6. L'lijthntina:
■RvnciLLA.— (hat. spadlin;).)

Phojuicura (Gr. KaiV^, I disp ; oipd, a tail), the Muhlarl.

The Repstaut derives its name from the bright reddish
chestnut colour of the upper tail coverts and tail feathers,

Sh appear very conspicuous as the b rd flits from one tree
0 anotL", or Lhes ott" when startled. t ;"habits he
skirts of forests, copses, gardens, and especia ly freqi cuts d.l
ivied walls, where numbers of the nests may be found. n...
song of this bird is not very powerful, but the notes are
peculiarly sweet. While singing, it often changes its situation,
occiisionally singing iis it flies.

^„:S; ^^^rXlZ^n^^ Sl^r ccLnt ^.inK uf servant wi,U ,1..
I]arai)liern.-ilia of brooms, pails, S:c.

1

218

NATUHAL niSTOBT.

The neat is pltu <i ti'^nally in a hole in a wall, or in a

imllow trco, The f .;g8 i.i five in number, of a gi-ecuish lijue

c;nIo>ir, closely reaemhling >se of the Hedge Accentiu Tlio

len'_'tii of tlio bird is ratii r moiv than live iucli n. The
loin-th primary feather is the longeHt.

Enn'HACL's.— (Gr. 'v:,wOivU. y<\ ; eSiKo,, At.)

HubecQla (Lat. a Redbieani) ih<- '.'cdhrecut.

The Redhreast, or Roiun IlEmiHEAST, as it Ih affectionately
termed, has, by its fcarleas conduct, eai-ncd itself golden
.ipinious from all kinds of men. Kvciy nation seems to
l)r<>tect it. Even the American Redi)reast lives unharmed,
possibly on account <if its connexion with its English relation,
whoso oft-t<3ld charity towai'ds the Babes in the Wood has
turned asid(j from its posterity even the unsparing hand of
i\\v. sporting; schoolboy.

In the winter, when the berries are gone, insects dead, and
the worms hi'lden under the hard frozen soil, then the Robin
Hies f(H- refnge to the habitations of man for shelter and food.
It is very amusing to see the half trusting, half fearful look
with which it hops to the window-sill tor the first time.
After a while, it becomes bold, and taps at the window, if the
expected crumbs are not thrown oxit. Before very long, it
ventiu-es to enter the room, hops about on the table, and

^

%.-»

in a wall, or in u
•, of a gi'ecnish i)luu
d'^o Accontdi The
I tivo iucii s. Tlic

■at.)

s

nlhretui.

s it is affectionately
irncd itself golden
y niitioa seems to
ist lives nnluirmeJ,
ts English relation,
i in the Wood hius
uns[i:n-ing hand ol'

e, insects dead, and
oil, then the Robin
or shelter and food.
g, half fearful look
or the first time.
; the window, if the
efore very long, it
on the table, and

NAT(;RAI. HISTi

243

Miiite seei.r In consider i\8 a right it was first merely
a favour.* When once established, u is very jealous, and
will not suiibi u friend to Iw partaker of the same comforts,
but attacks liini with the greatest fury ; so the unfortnuatts

■on ; comer lias to wait Hluvering outside the window, with
I ,s feaUiei-s imfTod up, and liis littU' t 'right eye glancing from
the ilcpths (jf the plumage. , i • • i

The nest of this bird is built in a crevice of an old iviccl
wall, in a bank, shcltore.l v tiie roots of trees, or in a ma«s
of ivy clinging to an old iree. 'I eggs are In.' m number,
of a pale grey Colour, profuselv ,. :k 1 « ith reddish spots.

Sub-famil
AccENTon.

' inace.
a :<iii<jer.)

Modulurlus (Lat. waibUti'j), tU Uedge Accentor.

The Hedge Accentor, or Hedge Sparrow, is one of our
commonest English birds. It closely resembles the common
spiUTOw in appearance. The u-st is built in holes, and
contains five blue eggs.

part
friends,

SAO

NATURAL nisTonr.

Sub-family (/. Pnrinw.

PA It IS.

/ ,.'

Major ( I. lit. yrcnter), the Unat Titmnnie.

The birds of tho family of the Tits are remarkable for
their active liabitH among tho branches of trees. There are
few who have not Keen these beautiful anil interesting little
birds twisting round tho branches, perfectly uuooncorned at
the presence of the spectator, sometimes hanging, hend down-
wards, sometimes chiising an unlucky beetle along the bark,
and invariably catching it, in spite of its swift limbs and
active wings ; sometimes twisting off a bud, and pulling it
to pieces with marvellous rajtidity, in order to secure the
lurking caterpillar within ; sometimes pecking away at a
piece of l(X)8c bark, and extracting an imwilling spider by one
of its legs, left incautiously projecting from its lurking-place.
Pitj' it is that their funny little sharp lieaks shoidd ever be
put to woi-se uses ; but they lie under a grave imputation of
using these very i)eaks in the slaughter of the defenceless
young of other birds.

The GiiEAT Titmouse is common in this country, frequenting
gardens, orchards, copses, etc. During the spring it is very
active in the eairture (jf insects, but in autumn and winter it
is forced to content itfself with grains and seeds of various
descriptions. Gilbert ^Vhitc, in his "Selbourne," mentions
that he has seen the Great Tit " while it hung witii its back

''ilmnme.

i arc reniarkixhle for

of tret's. Tl)cro arc

xiul intcrestiiij^ littlo

:ctly uucoiicorned at

hatiij:m<r, head down-

jt'tle alonjj; the hark,

it« swift linihs and

bud, and pnlHng it

t)rder to secure the

peckiuf? away at a

willing spider by one

oni its lurking-place.

K?aks should ever be

grave iniputatiou of

r of the defeucelesM

I country, fre(]ueuting
the spring it is very
uitumn and winter it
and seeds of various
Melbourne," mentions
it hung with its back

I

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-S)

1.0

I.I

1^ IIIII2.2

us

li° I 2.0

11.25 i 1.4

1.8

1.6

\ I-

\>

ijic

Sciences
Corporation

33 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(7i6) 872-4503

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iV

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6^

^

1 ^■

^ ■ ... .. -^— .»i,--«»->.-<tj».<.

CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques

; ;

;\

\

^-•*r^fc..

T

NATURAL HISTORV.

L'.51

downwards, to my no small delight and admiration, draw
straws lengthwise from the caves of thatched houses, in order
to pull out tiie flies that were concealed among tliem, and
that in such mmihers that they quite defaced the thatch, and
gave it a ragged a]i])earancc."

The nest of this bird is built in a hole of a wall, or a
decayed tree, and in it are placed six or eight eggs, of a white
colour, spotted with reddish brown. The length of the bird
is about six inches.

PAHrs.

•^s/.^.;.

Cccrulous (Lat. 6/h€), tlu Blue Titmome.

The little Bli;e Titmouse is so well known as bar '.ly to
require any description. It is most amusingly courageous,
and from the strenuous resistance it offers to its capturer, hiis
acquired from rustic boys the name of " Billy-biter." Tlio
augrj- hiss of the female has frequently caused an intruding
hand to 1)C rapidly withdrawn, for the sound is so exceedingly
like the hiss of an irritated snake, and the little beak is so
sharp, that few have the courage to proceed with their
investigations. A pair of these birds built their nest in the
coping of the Great Western Railway, at the Shrivenliam
station, not two feet from the fiery and noisy engines, which
were constantly passing. The men respected the courage of
the little birds, and this whole brood was hatched, and suffered
to fly at liberty.

The utter contempt which this bird entertains for fire-
arms often leads to its destruction, for when the disappointed

2-'2 NATURAL HISTOUT.

schoolboy has been wasting his powder and shot in attempting
to hit larks and such large game, he consoles himself by
shooting the unfortunate titmouse, who will allow him to
couu; so close that few vestiges of it remain except a tuft
of blue feathers.

Tlic eggs of the Blue Titmouse ai-e from six to eight in
number, white, niiu-ked with reddish brown spots. Its length
is about four inches and a lialf.

Caudatus (Lat. tailed), t/ie Louij-taikd Titmouse.

The Long-tailed Titmouse is another well-known species
of this amusing family. Unlike the other Tits, it does not
frequent human habitations during the winf.'Oi', l)ut may be
seen in gi-eat numbers twisting and creepiug about the
branches of hedge-rows and field trees. In the summer they
are quite as bold as their relations, and especially fiivour
apple-trees, for the sake of the disea.sed buds, which they pick
off and devour, thereby drawing upon themselves the ven-
geance of the gardener, who prepares his gxm, fires at the
su]jposcd dejjredators, and possibly succeeds in killing them ;
but he has also succeeded in doing more damage to the
healthy buds by his spare shot, than a score of tits would
injure during the entire season.

and shot in iitterupting

:ie consoles liiniself by

vho will allow liim to

remain except a tuft

e from six to eight in
rowu spots. Its length

y

aiUd Titmouse.

icr well-known species
ther Tits, it does not
10 wint^T. but may be
I croepiug about the
In the siunmer they
and especially favour
buds, which they pick
I themselves the veu-
his gun, fires at the
iceds in kiUing them ;
more damage to the
a score of tits would

KATURAI; inSTORT.

253

The beautiful and clabomte nest which this bird constructs
is one of its chief peculiarities. It is oval in shape, and
entirely closed, except one small hole at the side, just large
enough to admit the bird. The exterior of the nest is usually
covered with lichens, and it is lined with a thick layer of soft
feathers. In this warm and elegant habitiition from ten to
fourteen eggs are laid. They are small and very delicately
spotted. The entire length of the bird is about five inches
and a half.

Sub-family e. Mutamllinee.
M0TACU.1.A.— (Lat. a Waf/tail.)

Yan-ollii (Lat. </ Yarnll), the Pied Wagtail.

The Wagtails, so named, from the almost incessant vibra-
tion of their tails, are exclusively confined to the Old World.
The PiKD Wagtail is the most common of its race. We often
see it pass rapidly, with its peculiar dipping flight ; it settles
on the ground and wags its tail ; it runs a few paces, and
wags its tail again ; pecks at an insect, and its tail again
vibrates, kc. It does not bop, like the warblers, finelies,
kc, but runs with great rapidity, and altogether looks very
like a diminutive magpie. Sand banks by the sides of rivers
are the usual resort of these birds, where they may almost
always be seen, running about by the water's edge, sometinies

•2r)i

NATDHAIj uistory.

snatching at an incautious may-fly, sometimes wading into
the water after a caddis-woriii or a stray grub, — nor is it ijuite
safe for a minnow to come too near the surface — and then
dying off to anotlier spot to repeat the same manoiuvres. Tliis
bird also greatly frequents pastm-es, and may he seen running
about among tiie cows in tlie most nonchalant manner ima-
ginable, catching the flies that torment those animals in the
summer, or flying olf to its unfinished nest with a beak full
of hairs. Their nests are built near the water, in crevices
among stones, or in the hole of a wall. Frequently when
stones are piled by a wet (piarry, several ucsts may be found
in one heap of stones. The eggs ai-e four or five in number,
of a dusky white colour, spotted with ashy brown. The length
of the bird is seven inches and a half.

MOTACn.l.A.

I'lavii (Lat. yellow), Yellow Waytail.

The Yellow Wagtail is very similar in liabits to the more
common Pied Wagtail, but the yellow tints of some of its
feathei-8, somewhat resembling those of the Yellow Hammer,
at once distinguish it.

metimcs wading into
i^rul), — nor is it (jiiito
10 surfiicc — and then
me mancenvrcs. This

may l)e seen running
eiialiuit manner inia-

tli(jso animals in tiio
nest with a healt full
lie water, in crevices
1. Freqnently when
1 ucsts may be found
in- or five in nuinlicr,
y In-own. The leugtii

in habits to the more
tints of some of its
tiie Yellow Hammer.

NATUUAL niSTOUY.

Antiii's. — (Lat. n Tilhtrl.)

'2iiO

Prateuni» (Lat. of a Meadow), the Meadow Pipil.

The Meapow Piimt, more commonly called the Titlark,
resembles the true Larks in the long hind claw and peculiar
l-lnmage, but is pointed out as distinct, from the diflerent
colour of the bill. Like the skylark, it sings while in the
air, but s. metimes also poui-s fortli its musical strain^ while
settled upon the ground. It feeds principally on slug.., worms,
and insects, which it chases with much activity, after the
manner of the wagtails, even vibrating its tail like them.
Hilly grounds, commons, and meadows are its chief resort in
summer, but during September and October flocks of these
birds may be seen congregated in turnip fields, and in the
winter they seek the ])rotection of the warm hedge-rows.

The nest of the Titlark is made on the gi-ound, concealed
by a tuft of gi-ass. There are usually five or si.K eggs, light
brown in colour, spotted with a darker tint. The length of
the bird is six inches.

•2d<j

NATURAL inSTOllY.

Family II. . . Turilldro.— ^Lat TeirrfiM, a Thrush. Thrush kiud.)
Sub-family a. Formicarinue.

HyduobXta. — (Gr. 'TScop, water ; ^aiva I go.)

Cinclus (Gr. K(7kAoj), Oie Dipper.

The Water Ouzel, or DirPER, is one of the most interesting
of our native birds. It is foiaid principally in hilly jjlaces
where there arc clear and rapid streams, such as in Derbyshire
and Yorkshire. There it may be seen to go through its far-
famed movements under the water, which have given rise to
so much controversy. It dives for considerable distances with
apparent ease, and has a habit of dipping and rising repeatedly,
from which practice its name has been deriveii.

Tlie nest is usually built by the water side, and is most
carefully concealed. In general appearance it is not unlike
that of the wren, being made of intertwined mosses, with an
entrance at the side. It lays five largish eggs, of a pure white.
The length of this bird is about seven inches.

Thrush. Thru.ih kiud.i

; $ttlviD I go.)

Dipfper.

of the most interesting
icipally in hilly ])laoe.s
, such as in Derby.shire
to go through its far-
lich have given rise to
lidorable distances with
J and rising repeatedly,
derived.

iter side, and is most
irance it is not unlike
wined mosses, with an
h eggs, of a pure white,
inches.

NATURAL HISTORY.
Sub-family b. Timlitio.

TUKDUS.

257

ViacivOrus (Lat. Visciis, a Misseltoc ; roro, I devour), the lUisselloe Thrush

Tlie MissELTOK Thrusu, or Stormcock, accortliug to
\Vaterton, " surpasses all other thrushes in size, and is deci-
dedly the largest song-ster of the European birds. He remains
with us the whole of the year, and he is one of three birds
which charm us with their melody during the dreary months
of winter, when the throstle and lark are silent, and all the
migratory birds have left us, to sojourn in wanner climates.
He appears to be gi-egarious in the months of Augiist and
Sejjtember." " This bird, though usually known by the name
of the Misseltoe Thi-ush in many parts of England, is invari-
ably called the Stonncock by all the lower ordere in our
neighbom'hood : not that it delights in storms more than in
Hne weather ; but that nature has taught it to pour forth its
melody at a time of tlie year when the bleak winds of winter
roar through the leafless trees."

It is veiy fond of the berries of th'i misseltoe, but when
they fail it turns its attention to those of the mountain ash,
which are almost certain to attract this beautiful and powerful

s

258

NATUnAL niSTOUY.

songster. In the snmmcr it dcvourfl all kinds of garden -
fniitH, CMpociiiUy cherries and raspben-ics.

Dnriiig the Ijreeding Hca.son it is veiy pngnacions, attacitiuLC
and driving away not only small birds, but the crow, tiic
magpie, or oven a prowling cat. Tho nest is very hug'-,
always built in a tree, and containing about five reddisli
spotted eggs. The length of tho bird is eleven inches.

Timnus.

' ' ' 14 ■ ■

Pilaris (Lat. like a ball), the Fkldfare.

The Fieldfare is properly a native of tlie cold regions of
Europe, and only visits this country during the cold winter
months. From its excellence as an adjunct to the table, it is
persevcringly sought after, but is so shy, that iniless the bird
is very busy satisfying its hunger, then) is some difficulty in
approaching within gun-range.

It builds in fir or pine-trees, and lays several bluish-gi-een
eggs, spotted with brown. Its length is about ten inches.

The SoNG-TnRUsn, Throstle or Mavis, is deservedly con-
sidered one of our best singing birds. Its powerful and rich
notes may be heai-d even during tho month of Januaiy, when
most of tho other singing birds are either silent, or have
departed. Its nest is built almost before any other bird has

all kimls of parden-

s.

pufrnacioua, attacking

H, but tho crow, the

0 nest is very lai'f^c,
g about fivo reddish

1 eleven inches.

Fieldfare.

of the cold regions of
luring the cold winter
unct to the table, it is
y, that unless the bird
re is some difficulty in

rs several bluish-gi'een
is about ten inches.

.VIS, is deservedly con-
Its powerful and rich

onth of January, when
either silent, or have

ibre any other bird has

NATUHAL niSTOUY.

Tnnnrs,

250

Mualcus (Lat. miuical), the Honii-Tlirunh.

commenced, and may often be seen conspicuously placed in a
bush, some time before the leaves have begun to sprout. In
order to defend the callow young from the cold winds of tin-
season when they are hatched, the nest is mt)rc substantial
than birds are accustomed to build, being thickly plastcri'd
within with a coating of mud, efTectually keeping out the
chilling blasts. Were it only for its singing powers, tho
Thnisli would deserve protection ; but the services it renders
to the gardener in devouring insects, snails, ic, entitle it to
a double share of regard.

It is very amusing to watch a thrush listening for the
sound of the earth-worm working his way through the gi'ound.
or the gnawing teeth of the cockchaffer grub. Tlio grub ho
uncai-thsand devours without further ceremony, but he knows
that if he is not cautious, the earth-worm will withdraw itself
out of his reach. Ho therefore gives ■ -"iral hoj)s near the
worm, which, fancying that it hcai-s it o.^my the mole pur-
suing it, comes to the surfoce, and is instantly seized iu
triumph by the crafty thnish.

It clears the sliclls from snails by beating them against a
stone, and when it has found a convenient place for that

r

J GO

NATUUAL IllSl'OIlV.

purnuHo, it invariably roturnH to it with its prey, so that hcapn
of brijjton snail-shollh uuvy oftcu bo found whero the thnwliu^
have betii at work. 1 1 • i

Tiio e-rf,'H of the Tlirush ore five in number, of a bluisli-
ruon colour, spottcil with a ikep reiUUsh-brown. SoiuctiiULh
tlie spots uro altogetlier absent.

TI'HDl'S.

mm

JleiH'.la (Lilt, a Slackhird), the ISlackhinl

The Br.ACiviURi) is another delightful Hougster, whoso jetty
hue and orange-tawny bill are too well known to need de-
scription. It is a very shy bird, an.l if disturbed in a hedge,
hiw a habit of clvrting thron-h it, and then escapuig on the
other side, uttering' a sharp cry of alarm. The habits ot this
bird are not unlike tho.ie of the lin-ush, esi)ccially in its zeal
for unearthing the cockchaffer-grubs, and possibly tor eating
cherries when they are ripe. . , , r .1

Its nest is built usuaUy at the toot of a hedge, trequentlj
iu the very oentre of a holly bush, safe from most enemies,
but weasels, itc.

I

1

i prey, so that licaps
whuro the thnuihuo

uiiiber, of a bliiisli-
■brown. Suniotiiiioh

JfATUnAL IIISTOUY.

.'HI

Uliickblril.

Ht)ugster, wlioHC jetty
I known to need do-
disturlted in a hedge,
then escaphig ou tl>o
1. The habits of this
, especially in its zeal
id possibly t'ur outing

.)f a hedge, frequently
i from most enemies,

A beautiful King Charles' dog of my acquaintanne was
aeeustonied to search for thnisli's and blael<liird'H iiesls, mid
biu> out the bottom of them, ho tliat tiie eggs rolled quietly
into liis mouth, he luiving discovered that when he tried to
take tlicm from the moutli of tiie nest, he invariaViiy broke
them. The eggs are five in number, of a bhiish-grcen coloin-.
profusely spotted with brown.

Oiil'IIKi's. — (Or. pi'nprr ni\ia(' of n fUiiioiiH ninsi •iiiii.

Polyglottus (Or. IloAiJS, many ; yKunra, a tongue), the Mockiii;/ ll!.-<'.

. The MocKiNO Hiud or Polyoi.ot Thrlsii is a native <■!:
most parts of America. This wonderful bird stands pre-
eminent in powers of song. Not only are its natural notes
bold and s])irited, but it has the faculty of imitating with
deceptive fidelity eveiy somid it hears. To its flexible organs,
the harsh setting of a saw, the song of a nightingale, the
creaking of a wheel, the whistled tune of a passer-by, the full
and mellow notes of the thrush, the barking of a dog, the
crowing of a cock, and the savage scream of the bald eagle,
arc each equally easy of execution, and follow one another

?62

NATUnAL HISTORY.

with such marvellous rapidity that few can believe that the
insignificant brown hird before them is the solo author of
these varied sounds. The Virginian nightingiilo and the
canary hear their exciuisitc modulations performed with such
superior execution, that tlie vanquished songsters are silent
from mere mortification, while the triumphant Mocking-bird
only redoubles his eff'orts. Wilson, wiiosc animated descriptit)n
of tiiis bird has never been surpassed, eays : — " His expanded
wings and tail glistening with white, and the ))uoyant gaiety
of his action arresting the eye, as his song does most irre-
sistibly the ear, he sweeps roimd with enthusiastic ecstasy,
and mounts and descends as his sor.g swells or dies away.
He often deceives the sportsman, and sends him in search of
birds that are "ot perhaps within miles of him, but wiioso
notes he exactly imitntes : even birds themselves are frctjuently
imposed upon by this admirable mimic, and are decoyed by
the fancied calls of their mates, or dive with precipitation into
tlie depth of thickets at the scream of what they suppose to
be the spaiTow-hawk."

While its eggs are hatching it is an exceedingly courageous
I)ird, attacking without discrimination man, dogs, or any animal
who may approach too near the nest. But the black snake
is the special object of its vengeance. The snake, who has
perhaps just arrived at the vicinity of the nest, and is con-
templating a pleasant breakfast on the young or eggs, is
violently attack'Ml by the enraged Mocking-bird, who, by
repeated blows on the head, generally destroys its enemj', and
then mounting upon a bush, pours forth a triumphant song
of victory.

The nest is made generally in a bush or apple-ti-ee, frcqiiently
close to houses, as the bird is protected by the inhabitant*.
The Mocking-bird is often kept tame, in which case, so ftir
from its imitative powers showing any decrease, the variety
of domestic sounds heard about the house, is often very
perplexing.

ir.

\v can believe that the
is the yolo autlior of
I nightingjile and the
IS performed with such
ed songsters are silent
umphant Mocking-bird
>sc animated description
says : — " His expanded
nd the buoyant gaiety
s song does most irre-
;h enthusiastic ecstasy,
; swells or dies away,
sends him in search of
lies of him, but wlioso
lemselves arc freciucntly
ic, and are decoyed by
with precipitation into
' what they suppose to

exceedingly courageous
aan, d(jgs, or any animal
But the black snake
The snake, who has
f the nest, and is con-
the young or eggs, is
locking-bird, who, by
iestroys its enemy, and
ith a triumphant song

)r apple-tree, frequently
ed by the inhabitant*.
, in which case, so far
"j decrease, the ^■ariety
house, is often very

NATURAL mSTOHY.
Sub-family c. Oriolina,

ORIOLUS.

263

Galbnla (Lat.), the Golden Oriole.

The genus Oriolus has the beak notched and rather bent at
the tip. The (iOLDEN Ouiole is only an occasional visitor to
this country, smd has never as yet been seen in Scotland It
is a very shy bird, frequenting the skirts of woods, especially
copses that Dorder on Larger woods. In the fruit season it
leaves the woods for the orchai-ds, and makes no small havoc
among the fruit, particularly the ligs, grapes, and cherries.

The nest is made of wool and fine hay ; it is generally
placed on the fork of a bough. The eggs iu'e five in number,
of a purplish white spotted with reddish marks. The length
of the bird is rather more than ten inchos.

THE SPOTTED FLYCATCHER.

The Spotted Flycatcher may be considered as the type of
the entire family. It may be constantly seen in gardens and
orchards, going through the evohitions that have given it the
names of Flycatcher, Post-bird, Beam-bird, &c. It takes its

264

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family III. . . MiLseicaptdo;.— (Gr. Munca, a Fly ; cn^,w, I take. Fiy

catcher kind.)
Sub-family a. . H usciciqiiiio'.

muscicapa.

Qrisfila, the Spotted Flycatcher.

station on some elevated spot, such as the overlianging houfrli
of a tree, a post, or a mil, and from thence watches for a
passing insect, on seeing which, it darts from its post, sccnrcK
the insect in the air, and retm-nd to the same spot liy a short
circulai- flight. It is not a timid bii-d, and will permit an
observer to stand quite close to it provided that he does not
distiu-b it.* It is only a summer visitor to England, arriving
in May and departing about the beginning of October. The
note of this bird is a weak chirp, and even that is not often
heard.

The nest is built usually in holes of trees or walls, or
sometimes between a branch of a wall-fruit tree and the wall
itself The eggs are five in numlwr, spotted with reddish
brown on a gi-ey ground. The length of the bird is about
five inches.

* I saw one of these birds cnRSRed in the pursuit of (lies in a garden at lIcndinBton.
It perched on a balustrade ch)ae to a window from which several persons weru
watching it, and continued its evolutions perfectly undisturbed by their proximity.

Fly ; cajjio, I take. Fly

; overliaiiging hoiigli
lonce watches for a
•om its post, secures
imo s])ot liy a short
and will permit an
id that he does not
to England, arriving
g of October. The
m that is not often

f trees or walls, or
it tree and the wall
lotted with reddish
f the bird is abonf

in a garden at Ileadingtnn.
hich several persons \ver«
iirlieil liy their proximity.

NAixn.vi. iiisTonv.

Family IV. . . . Auipelldw.
Subfamily a. . . A lupcliivi'.

Ami'elis. — (Gr. WnitfKis.)

■2C)0

Oarn'lus (Lat. f/uitteriii;/), the Bohrniiriv Wa.iiriii;/.

The Bohemian Waxwing or Waxex CnATTEnEii is only
occasionally seen in England during severe frosts,* at which
time flocks of them sometimes an-ive. It is very common in
Norway and Russia, and is plentiful in North America. The
name of Waxwing is given to it from the singular apjicndages
to the secondary quill feathers, bearing much resemblance to
a drop of red sealing-wax pressed on the wing.

Berries of all kinds, especially those of the dog-roso and the
hawthorn, form the principal food of this bird, but it is related
that when in captivity it rejects scarcely any vegetable sub-
stance, losing at the same time all its vivacity and social
habits. The note of the Waxwing is not unlike that of the
thrush, bu: it is very weak and more uncertain than the notes
of that beautifid songster. While singing it agitates thg

* A specimen was shot in Oxford in 1846.

"1

2GG y\TUlUL HISTORY.

crest on its head, but shows scarcely any of that swellhig in
tiic throat so perceptible in the canary and other siugin<'
l)irds.

The length of the bird is rather more than eight inches.

Family V. . . . Lanlda?.— (Lat. Lanius, a Butcher. Butcher-bird

kind.)
Sub-family u. . Laninie,

LanIus.— (Lilt, a Butcher.)

Excubltor (Lat. a Sentinel), the Great Grey Shrike.

The Shrikes or Butcher Birds well desei-\'e their name,
as they live upon insects and small birds, which they kill and
afterwards transfix with a thorn preparatory to devouring
them. They take their prey much after tlie same manner
as the flycatchers, by darting on it from some place of con-
cealment.

The Great Grey Shrike is supposed to be only an occa-
sional visitor to this country. It feeds upon mice, birds,
fi'ogs, and other small animals. After pouncing upon its

ly of that swelliiif,' in
ry and other singing

0 tlian eight inches.

1 Butcher. Butcher-bird

cr.)

NATURAL IIISTOUV.

2G7

at Grey Shrike.

II deserve their name,
Is, which they kill and
)aratory to devouring
Fter the same manner
m some ])lace of con-

i to be only an occa-
ids upon mice, birds,
3r pouncing upon its

prey, the Shrike, by a few blows on the head from its powerful
bill destroys it. The unfortunate animal is then carried to
the nearest hedge, impaled with a thorn, and the Shrike
dovoure it at his leisure. Large insects are treated in the
sjuiie manner. The name Excubitor or Sentinel is given it
from its habit of watching for birds of i>rey, and chattering
luudly directly it perceives thcni ; thereby proving that, like
most other tyrants, he has a great objection to suffering any
injury himself. The bird-catchers on the Continent take ad-
vantage of this peculiarity, to assist them in the capture of
tlie peregi-ine falcon. The fowler places a small net on the
ground, with a pigeon fastened to it by way of bait. A
string is attached to the net and brought within a tiu-f hut
where the fowler sits. Close to the hut a shrike is tied to
the ground, and two pieces of turf are set up as a shelter for
the bird from the weather, and as a refuge from the hawk.
The fowler remains within his hut busied with some .sedentary
occupation, knowing well that his vigilant watchman will not
foil to give him notice of the apjjroach of a hawk. Directly
a hawk appears in the distance, the shrike becomes agitiited ;
as it draws nearer, he V)cgins to scream witii fright ; and just
as the liawk poiuiccs on the pigeon, he runs under liis turf,
which is the signal to the fowler within the liut to pull the
string, thereby enclosing the hawk within the folds of the net.
The nest is built on trees, and contains about six eggs,
greyish-white, spotted with dark ash on the larger end ; the
length of the bird is from nine to ten inches.

THE RED-BACKED SHRIKE.

The Red-backed Shrike is much more common than the
last-mentioned bird, and may be seen in and about hedges, in
the spring, when it is occupied in building its nest. It is
rather a noisy bird, and the nest is so large as to be easily dis-
covered. It feeds principally on insects, such as bees, beetles,
itc, which may fi-equently be found impaled on thorns.*

* The insect most ronimoiily found by myself, in tliis position, wastlio Stapliylinus
crytliropterus, but I liave also' found ground beetles and Imniblu bees impaled.

iiCS

NATUHAL HIHTOnV.

I.ANII'S.

CollurJo (Gr. KoKKvp(jiv), the Red-hacked SlirtHe.

Those impaled insects form a voiy good indication as to
the locality of the nests, and are probably placed there foi-
food ; certainly not, sis soim; authors have stated, for the
purpose of decoying other birds to the spot in order to murder
and devour them. The nest and eggs much resemble thos(>
of the Great Shrike, but iu-e smaller. The length of the bird
is seven inches and a half.

THE JAY.

The CoRviDvE are peculiarly remarkable for a kind of prc-
teniatural air of sagacity with which they set about any self-
imposed task, especially if that task be a mischievous one.
The ravens and magpies are most conspicuous in these
qiialities.

The Jay, so well known for the beautiful blue markings on
its wings, is rather a shy bird, preferring to reside in the
thickest woods, and seldom coming into the open country.
It is easily tamed when young, and is very amusing when,
'domesticated.

l-haclxd Shrike.

T good indication as to
)bal)ly placed there foi-
•s have stilted, for tlie
5pot in order to murder
^s much resemble those
The lenath of the bird

able for a kind of prc-
hey set about any self-
be a mischievous one.
conspicuous in these

iitiful blue markings on
,'rring to reside in tlu;
into the open country,
is very amusing when,

NWTUiiAi, insTonv.

Tribe IV. . , COXIUUSTKES,— (Lat. tV<i«-((/(((v«l«(A«(/.)
Family I. . . CVirvIda'.— (Liit. Oirvun, Crow. Crow kind.)
Sub-fiunily a, GamtliiM.

OAiiurns. — (Lfit. tiilhttin.)

.'09

GlandnrliLs (^Lat. of l/u: Acorn), tlu Jay.

This bird possesses, like several othei-s of the same family,
considei-able talents for mimicry. It has been known to
imitate the sound of a saw, the bleat of a lamb, or even the
neighing of a boi-se, with the most perfect accuracy. Nor do
its powers cease here, for although its natural voice is harsh
and grating, yet it can imitate the sweet notes of singing
birds^ such as the Greenfinch, with wonderful fidelity. It has
also fre([uently been taught to articulate words.

The name of Glandarius has been given to the Jay, because
it feeds on vegetable ])roductions, such as acorns, kv., more
than the true Crows. It is also pailial to fruits, especirdly rijie
cherries, and is consec|uently persecuted by the gardener. It
is also said to devour eggs and young birds.

Its nest is built about twenty feet from the ground, the
upper part of a thick busli being preferred. The eggs are iive
or six in number, of a yellowish wliite, thickly speckled with
brown. The lenutli of the bird is nearly fourteen inches.

270

XATURAL nrsTouv.

Sub-fatnily b. Corrintt.
Xi-ciFnXoA.— (Lat. Nux, a. uut; frango, I bronk.)

Carj-ocatacteH (Gr. KapvoKar6Mrr\s, properly, the Xuthatcb), the Nut-
Ci-ackcr Crow.

The NuTCUACKEn C'now, wlioso true position in tlie scale of
creation has so long bewildered naturalists, is about the size
of a jackdaw, but its form is more slender, and the tail is
longer. It is seldom found in this country, but is very com-
mon in more northern districts. In its habits it displays a
singular mixture of the woodpecker and the nuthatch, and
exhibits so few of the well-known habits of the Crows, that
obsei-\'ers might well be perplexed where t(5 place it. It is
now supposed to be one of the connecting links between the
crows and the woodpeckers. It runs about the bmnches of
trees, using its tail for a support, and pecks away the bark in
order to reach the in> -cts beneath, just as the woodpeckers do.
It also pecks open the fir-cones, in search of the hidden seed,
and breaks nuts by repeated strokes of its bill, like the nut-
hatch. It is usually seen in flocks, but is not so wary as the
crows. Its eggs are laid at the bottom of a hole in some tree.
They are of a gi-eyish yellow colour, diversified with a few
dark grey spots.

'f.

rango, I break.)

the Xuthatch), tfie Nut-

)osition in tlio scale of
lists, is al)out the size
endor, aud the tail is
itiy, hut is vciy com-
ts habits it displays a
id the nuthatch, and
ts of tlie Crows, that
re t(5 jjlacc it. It is
ng links between the
bout the bmnches of
3cks away the bark in
s the woodpeckers do.
h of the hidden seed,
its bill, like the nut-
is not so wary as the
jf a hole in some tree,
liversified with a few

NATURAT, niSTOIlY.

Pica.— (Lat. a Magpie.)

m

Caudata {Imrj-taikJ), the Magpie.

The MAoriE, who seems to rival the Parrot in the proud
title of the Monkey of the Birds (the Raven being the orni-
thological Baboon) is a well-known inhabitant of this country.
Its thieving and hiding propensities have been frequently told ;
but I must still venture to give a few anecdotes of a tamo
magpie that resided in Wiltshire. This bird found a malicious
enjoyment in pecking the unprotected ankles of little boys not
yet an-ived at manly habiliments, and was such a teiTor to the
female servants that they were forced to pass his lurking-place
armed with a broom. One of the sei-vants having neglected
this precaution was actually found sitting down on the stones
to protect her ankles, the magpie triumphantly pacing roimd
her, until aid was brought, and the bird driven away. But
to little boys and girls the magpie showed no mercy, springing
out of its hiding-place, and chfising them completely tiloug
the garden walk.

It had also a great penchant for tearing and biting to pieces
any papers that came in its way, probably because it had
perceived that people valued them. One Sunday morning,

rfrtfUtniiiii

•tmmmmtm

'Zi:

NATUn-VI. IlISTOUY.

tifter the family lind returned from chiircli, the rector found
lii.s study strewoil witli |)iuii|ihk't«, torn nt'\VM|)Ui)er«, tfcc, ho
tliat until the ilclimiuent was discovered, ho really thought
that thieves had been in the house. A magpie never seems
to li(> hapjjy unless it possesses a hiding-place, nor did this
one form an exception to tiie general rule, lus it had jieeked a
hole in the thatch of a ham, wherein to dispose its ill-gotten
goods, and displayed great uneasiness if anybody approached it.

Another magpie gained entrance into the chapel of Wadiiam
College, Oxford, and remained (piiet enough until the service
had begun, when it gravely walked up the centre, bowing and
stiying, "Pretty Mag! Pretty Mogl" much to the diBOomi»osure
of the junior members. A curious story is told respecting the
power of the Magpie to count munbers.

" Cieorgo Lo Roy states that a magpie having stolen some
game, it was resolved to shoot it. A man hid himself in a
hut near its nest for this purpose. The bird flew away when
he entered, nor would retuni. The next day two men entered
and one came out. Mag was not to be chofited ; she waited
till the second left also. Three went in and two came out,
with the same result. Four then entered, and three etune
away. The bird went back and was shot. — So magpies, aays
(Jeorge Lo Hoy, can e(jnnt three but not foiu"."

The nest of the Magi)ie is built on a high tree, and cnriously
ilefended with thorns, having only a small hole just hu^e
enough to admit the owners, so that the liberal use of a pocket
knife is fretiucutly recpiisite in order to obtain the eggs. The
nest is covered with a dome of thorns, respecting which a
curiously quaint fable is told.

" The birds," says the historian, " not knowing how to build
nests, went in a body to recjuest the Magpie to teach them. He
willingly imdertook the office. ' First,' he said, ' you must
look out for a good, strong, forked branch, and begin by laying
two sticks crosswise.' ' That's just what I did,' said the rook.
' Next, you must raise the sides a little, and then put in some
hay, which you must work well into the sticks.' — 'The very
thing I have been doing,' said the crow. ' Now, for fear the
eggs shoiild be broken or thrown out, you must raise tho
sides about as high as your head when you sit in tho bottom
of the nest, and put in some soft wool' ' Why,' jstiid the

irch, the rector found
I iiewMjiapc'rH, &o., so
■fd, ho really thought
V uiagpio nuver seems
ig-phice, nor did this
Jo, iw it hnd ]iecked a
} dispoHO its ill-gotten
nybody approiiched it.
tho chapel of Wadhuni
mgh until the service
le centre, bowing iind
li to the <.liBoonijK)suri.'
is told respecting tlie

; having stolen some
nan hid himself in a
bird flew away when
day two men entered
I cheated ; she waited
n and two came out,
ured, and three came
L>t, — So magpies, says
. four."

gh tree, and ciuiouely
imall hole just large
liberal use of a pocket
jbtain the eggs. The
), respecting which a

knowing how to build
lie to teach them. He
' ho said, ' you must
1, and begin by laying

I did,' said the rook,
tnd then i)ut in some
0 sticks.' — ' The very
, ' Now, for fear the

you must raise tho
i^ou sit in tho bottom
il.' ' Why,' liiiid the

NATUn.M. niSTOllV.

878

thrush, ' I di<l as far as that before T came here' ' Oh ! then,
replied tho miiLrpie, 'as I see that you all know how tn
make nests, there is no occasion for me to teach you.' And
tiiat is the reason why tiic other birds arc only able to build
i»alf nests."

The interior of tho nest is defended by a coating of mud.
worked smooth. The eggs are live in mnnber, of a greenish
white, covered with V)rown markings. The length of the bird
is about eighteen inches.

#
Convfs. — (Lat. a C'rou:)

Corax (Gr. Kdpa^, a Raven), the Eave7i.

The Raven is very common on the continent, and most
parts of Asia and America, but is now seldom seen in this
country except in a domesticated state. It is more frequently
found in the Hebrides than in any other part of Great Britain.
In those islands it lives principally on carrion of various

T

274

RAftlUL HISTORY.

kinds, Bucli aH dead slieoii or Isiiiibs, whoso death the llaveii i«
nccusM with hoiuo jtiHtice of luistouinf;, and on UbIioh or ettii
ceouH ui.juuIh wliiHi have iieen civat on wlioro Ity tiic waves.
In these cji-ses tlic liti' "eu conducts itself niucii in tin: niiunier of
tlie vnilturc. It eoru: "noes by takinj^ out tlie eye iind ton^'uo,
and tlien jiroeeedH tu tear open tlie abilonien, openitions for
which its Hhar|) and ))owerfiil bill seems iiuite as well fitted as
the hooked beak of tiie rapacious birds. It is ii very cmfty
bird, and can with dithcidty be ajiproachcd, but by laying?
a dead carcase noai* its liauntH, and being carefully concealed,
it may be sefcn cautiously approaching ; first, jierching on an
eminence, it looks carefully round ; then, advancing with a
sidelong step, it examines its expected ju'ey. When fuliy
satisfied, it pecks out the eyeu and proceeds to satiate itself
with food. The Ilaven seems to fear no storms, and to be
deterred by no inclemency of weather from seeking its prey.
Although formerly so plentifvd in England that innumerable
omens were drawn from its croaking, flight, etc., it has almost
become extinct, much to the discomfiture of omen seekers.
No incantation and no dance of witches seemed to be considered
complete, wthout a black cat, a toad or two, a b.it and a
raven, Cortaiidy the cxtraordinaiy gravity which marks tlie
demeanour of the Haven has something almost jireternatural
in it. The manner in which he sets about .; piece of mischief,
as if ho considei'cd it a moral duty, is most absurd, and the
pertinacity with which he prosecutes a gi'cat work, sucii as the
feat of Charles Dickens's raven, who " uew pointed the greater
part of the garden wall, by digging out the mortar, and tore
up and swallowed in s])linter8 the greater j)art of a wooden
staircase ef six steps and a landing," is perfectly astounding.*

It has a gi'eat eaj)acity for imitating sounds, and can be
taught to pronounce whole sentences, or sing songs with
wonderful accuracy.

In the northern piuts of Scotland it makes its nest on high
rocks, but not unfretpiently builds on the summit of a tall
tree. The nest is a large irregular structm'e of heath, grass,

* A raven In our poiaeasion used to watch the gardener taking particular painn to
prop up and secure a valuable plant. His labour was always in vain, for the raven,
•vitli a sidelong step and an unconcerned air, as if he were '.i, dvf-' ' f anything but
'he plant, would sidle by it, when one wrench of his iron >)'.[) l.ii . tin unfortunate
plant on the earth, and iw i jven moved olf with a moat provoLi'i;: >'.>t 'i> Lniiucence.

)sc death the Itavcii i»

luid on fislies or cttu
1 Hliore l)y the wivvc8.
uiK'li in till ^manner of
lit tho oyo and t()nf,'no,
idonien, oponitionH for
(|iiito UM well fittftl aH
«. It is II very omfty
mched, but hy laying;
ig carefully concealed,
; fu'Mt, i)erciiing on an
len, advancing with a
d jirey. When fuliy
pceeds to Hatiate itself
no HtorniH, and to be
rem Heeking its jirey.
and tliat innumerable
^ht, ifee., it has almost
:uro of onion seekers.
;onied to be (ronsidored
or two, a i),it and a
vity which marks tlie
5 almost ]ireternatural
ut .; piece of mischief,
most absurd, and tho
fi-eat work, such as the
)w pointed the greater
b the mortar, and tore
ater jiart of a wooden
perfectly astounding.*
J sounds, and can be
, or sing suugs with

uakes its nest on high
the summit of a tall
ictiu'e of heath, grass,

iner taktnK particular pain* to
always in vain, for the raven.
*err :i. clr^; ' f anythinK but
Iron '1 '.:>'. . till !■ ifortunatf
It provokiiif. i-tt ')' 'Miuceitce.

I

NATUIIAL UISTOIIY.

STfi

wool and feathers, and sca-wced if it build near tho seashore.
It lays from four to seven eggs, of a lude gruon colour, spotted
with greenish brown. The length of tho binl is two feet two
inches, imd the expanse of wing four feet eight inclu'

couvus.

Fi'ugili'gU'* (bat. Cini-'iathcm), l/ie Jiuok.

The llooK inhabits almost every part of Europe, and is verj-
common in England, where it lives in a kind of semi-domesti-
cation, ujiually inhabiting a grove of trees near a house, or in
a park, where it is protected by the owner, although he makes
it pay for this accommodation by shooting tho young once every
year. Apparently in consequence of this annual persecution,
the Hook luis an intense horror of guns, perceiving them at a
great distance. While feeding in flocks in the fields, or
following the ploughman in his course, and devouring the
worms and grubs turned up by the sliare, chc Rook has
idways a sentinel planted in a neighbouring tree, who instantly
gives the alarm at the sight of a gun, or of a suspicious-looking
object.

The good which the Rook does by devouring the grubs of

J

27G

NATURAL IIISTOUY.

tlic cockchaffcr, and the tipiilas or daddy-long-legs, both of
which are exceedingly injurious to the crops, more than com-
pensates for the damage it sometimes causes, by pulling up
young corn, or newly set potato cuttings ; in the latter case
more, I believe, to get at the wireworms, which crowd to the
slices of ])otato, than to eat the vegcUxblc itself. In the fruit
season, tlie Rook, like most other birds, likes to have his
share of the cherries, pears, and walnuts, but may l)e easily
kept away by the occasional sight of a gun.

Towards evening the Hooks may be seen flying in long
lines to their resting-place — " The blackening train of crows
to their repose." They then perform sundry evolutions in
the air, and finally settle to rest.

Round the base of the Rook's beak is a whitish looking
skin, denuded of feathers, the reason or cause of which is not
very obvious. A white variety of the Rook is sometimes
seen. The gamekeeper at Ashdown had a very fine white
Rook, which he kept tamo in liis garden.

The eggs of this bird are five in number, similar to those of
the raven in coloiir, but much smaller. The length of the
bird is nineteen inches.

The Jackdaw is another well-known bird. It does not
liuild in the branches of trees like the rook, to which it is very
similar in many respects, but prefei-s holes in decayed trees
or old buildings, particularly frequenting church towers and
steeples. The Jackdaw feuds upon almost any substance that
it can find. It kills mice with a single blow of its beak, and
then devours them piecemeal. Grasshoppers, beetles, «fec. are
also killed by a squeeze across the thorax, and the head, wings,
and legs, are twisted off before the bird begins to eat them.
It treats bees, wasps, and other stinged insects with much more
caution. The feathers ui)on the crown of its head are of a
gi-eyish white colour, a peculiarity instantly thstinguishing
it from the rook. It is frequently kept tame, and is very
amusing in captivity.* The eggs are of a lighter colour than

» A tame Jackdaw in the possession of one of my scholars used to travel backw""<»
and forwards from the scliool to hia own home. When in the train, his terro' at the
sight of tlie trees wliizzing past him, was most ludicrous. He uttered a shaip cry of
fear, twisted round in his basket, and tlirust his beak through the interstices on theoppo-
»ite side. After he had recovered from his fright, he was usually very talkative.

UY.

claddy-lonfi;-lcgs, both of
he crops, more than com-
aes causes, by pulling up
: tings ; in the latter case
irms, -which crowd to the
toble itself. In the fruit

birds, likes to have his
luuts, but may \)c easily

a gun.

y be seen flying in long
)lackening train of crows
rm sundry evolutions in

eak is a whitish looking
or cause of which is not
' the Rook is sometimes
n had a very fine white
rden.

imber, similar to those of
iller. The length of the

nown bird. It does not
e rook, to which it is very
si-s holes in decayed trees
inting church towers and
ilmost any substance that
igle blow of its beak, and
sshoppers, beetles, »kc. are
lorax, and the head, wings,
bird begins to eat them.
3d insects with much more
•own of its head are of a
instantly distinguishing
' kept tame, and is very
•0 of a lighter colour than

ly scholars used to travel bacl5W""'«
(vhen in the train, his terro' 3t the
licrous. He uttered a shai p cry of
I through the intersticeson theoppo-
, he was usually very talkative.

NATUn.M. HISTORY.

CORVDS.

<i.

'-J-

MoQedala (Lat a Jackdaw), the Jackdaw.

those of the rook, smaller and more spai'ingly spotted. The
length is fourteen inches.

The Crow, or Cariuon Chow, as it is eiToneously called,
seldom feeds on carrion, for poor indeed would be his meals
were he dependent on dead sheep or horses for a liveliliood.
Possibly the name was given ixs a distinction between it and
the rook. Watorton states that the flesh of the Canion ('row
is just as good as that of the rook, and relates how he once
served up a pie of these birds to some friends, who thought
them pigeons. It will also eat cherries and walnuts like the
rook, and when the supply of insects has failed, it will then
turn it8 attention to the duck-pond and fiu-m-yard, and carry
ofl" a young duckliug or chicken.

" Sometimes he approaches the farm-house by stealth, in
the search of young chickens, which he is in the habit of
snatching oft", when he can elude the vigilance of the mother
hen, who often proves too formidable for him. A few days
ago, a crow was observed eagerly attempting to seize some
young chickens in an orchard, near the room where I write.

■MNMaii

278

NATCKAL HISTORY.
COEVUS.

CorOne (Gr. Kopavij), the Cruw.

l>ut these clustering round the hen, she resolutely (lefondoii
them, and drove tlie crow into an apiiie-treo, whither she
j)ursued liim with such spirit and intrepidity, that he was glad
to make a s])eedy retreat and abandon his design." *

It also carries off eggs, by pouncing upon them, and driving
its bill through the shell. It will be seen, from the following
anecdote, that mice and rats are not imaccustomed food.

In a field near a gentleman's house about a mile from
Caernarvon there are some outbuildings much infested with
rats. Four or five traps are set on the premises every night,
and it is the busiuess of a servant-man to go to the spot
between five and six in the morning. He is always punctually
met by a comjjany of crows tliat station tliemselves at a little
distance, and most narrowly watch all his proceedings. N(»
sooner does he remove his captives from the traps and throw
them into the field, than the carnival begins. The crows
seize upon their booty, scientifically perforate the integuments,
and scoop out and devour every particle of flesh, even in the
heai In a very short time the skins are turned inside out,

* Watertoii.

NATURAL HISTORY.

271)

3 resolutely defended
[)le-tree, whither she
lity, that he was glad
is design." *
ion them, and driving
n, from the following
ccustomed food.

about a mile from
8 much infested with
jremises every night,
,n to go to the spot
: is always punctually
themselves at a little
tiis proceedings. No
the traps and throw
begins. The crows
rate the integuments,
I of flesh, even in the
re turned innido out,

ami a few clean picked bones arc the only memorials of the

banquet. .

The nests of this bird are placed on the summit of sonu-
tiill tree, and contain about five eggs, closely resembling those
of the rook. The length of the bird is eighteen mches.

Sub-family e. Pijrrhomritcime.
CobacIa.— (Or. KopoKi'M, like ii Ravon.)

(Jracnlft (Lat. a Cliouyh), the Chough.

The Cuouon is rather larger than the jackdaw, and is
i)rincipally distinguished by the rod hue of its bill and legs
It inhabits the counties of the western coast of England, and
is, perhaps, more common in Cornwall than in any other
county. When tiime, it shows a veiy incpiisitive disposition,
examining every novelty with the greatest attention.

It builds its nest in the cavities of high cliffs, and lays four
or five eggs of a yellowish white colour, spotted with light
brown. The length of the bird is seventeen inches.

•JHi)

NATURAL inSTORV,

Family II. ParadiseTiloB.
Pahadiska. — (Gr. napdSeiffos, n ploasiire-grouu 1.)

AjiCtla (Gr. 'A-irovs, without feet), the Emerald Bird of Paradm.

" Wliicli, like a bird of Paradise,
Or lierald's martlet, liasi no lejs."

This most gorgeous and elegant bird was once the snl)jcct
of much discussion between naturalists. The natives of New
(Uuinea were accustomed to dry theai, having first cut off their
legs, and tlien to offer them for sale. In this footless state
they reached Europe, where it was immediately stated that
the bird lived always in the air, buoyed up by the liglitness
of its featheiy covering ; that the shouldera were used as its
nest ; that the only rest it took was by suspending itself from
a branch by the filamentary feathers of the tail ; that its food
was the morning dew ; together with many other conjectures
not less ingenious than amusing.

NATURAL BISTORT.

281

laiire-grouii 1.)

aid Bird of Paradm.

was once the subject.

The natives of New
ing first cut oft' their
[n this footless state
lediately stated that

up by the lightness
dei-s were used as its
isponding itself from
le tail ; that its food
ny other conjectures

Tliis bird iijjiicars about the size of a jay. Its body, breast,
and lower parts are of a deep rich brown ; the front .set close
with black feathers shot with green ; the throat is of a rich
golden green ; the head yellow ; the sides of the tail are
clothed witli a splendid plume of long downy feathers of a
soft yellow colour. By these are placed two long filamentous
sliafts, which extend nearly two feet in length.

Of tliese beautiful feathers the bird is so proud that it will
not suft'er the least speck, of dirt to remain upon tliem, and it
is constiintly examining its plumage to see that there are no
spots on it. When in its wild state it always flies and sits
with its face to the wind, lest its elegant filmy j)lumes should
be disarranged.

So far fr(.-'i living exclusively on dew, it cats no small
amount of insects, such as grasshopijcrs, whicii it will not
touch if dead, and commences its repast by stripping ott' the
lesrs and winjis. When in confinement, it also eats boiled
rice, plantains, itc, but in the wild state it seems to feed
mostly on the seeds of the teak-tree, and a kind of fig.

There are several species of Paradise Birds known, but the
one given in the engraving is tiio most common, and is the
oue of which the above-meutioned fables were told.

THE SATIN BOWEIl-BIllD.

It is a singular thing to find a bird building a kind of
playground, without reference to its nest, but merely for
amusement. The Bower-biud has this curious habit. It
builds a kind of bower of thin twigs, interwoven so as to
meet above, forming a kind of tunnel. The entrance of this
bower is decorated with any brilliant article that the bird can
find, such as shells, bones, and feathei-s of several parrots,
some feathei-s being stuck in among the twigs, and others
strewn at the entrance. Mr. Gould, who firat brought this
curious bird before the public, says, " The propensity of these
birds to pick up and fly off" with any attractive object, is so
well known to the natives (of Australia), that they always
search the runs for any small missing article, as the bowl

2S2

NATt'RAL HISTORY.

h'aitiily III. . Sturntdae,— (Lat. Stin-nus, a Starling. StarUng kind.)
Subfamily a. Ptilonorhynchince.

I'm.oxoHllYNOus. (Gr. UtIKov, a feather; fiiyxos, a beak.)

SericCus (Lat silky), the Satin B(rwer-Bird.

of 11 pipe, ifec. that may have been accidentally dropped in the
brush. I, myself, found at the eutmnce of one of these
a small neatly worked stone tomahawk, of an inch and a half
in length, together with some slips of blue cotton rags, which
the birds had doubtless picked up at a deserted encampment
of the natives. For what purpose these curious bowers are
made, is not yet, perhaps, fully understood : tliey are certainly
not used as a nest, but as a place of resort for many individuals
of both sexes, which, when there assembled, run through and
(u-ound the bower in a sportive and playful manner, and that
.«o frequently, that it is seldom entirely deserted."

tarling. Starling kind.)

•■ ; ^'h'Xo*) tt oeak.)

uwer-Bird.

ntiilly dropped in the
Qce i)f one of tht'He
of an inch and a half
lie cotton rags, which
leserted encampment
i curious bowers arc
id : they are certainly
; for many individuals
led, run through and
ful manner, and that
leserted."

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-fnmily rf. Icteriiur.
IcTEnrs. — (Or. "Urtpos.)

283

#^.5^

Baltinmrus, the Bultimurt Oiiuk.

The Starlings comprise many genera, among which the
Pensile Orioles of America are the most interesting. These
l)irds build, or rather weave, a fabric not unlike loose cloth,
composed of hemp or flax. This nest is of the singular form
represented in the engraving, and the entrance is at the side.
In all probability this singular formation is for the purpose of
keeping out the Black Snake, who is constantly on the look-
out for young birds. The parent Orioles often attack the
snake, and compel him to retreat.

The plumage of the male when full grown is very brilliant.
The head, throat, and back are black, the under parts arc-
orange, the bretist vermilion. A band of orange passes over
the shoulders, and the tdl is orange and black. The length

284

.VATURAL HISTORY.

i)f the bird is almost eight inches. Tiiis is not the only bird
tliat constructs pensile nests; the Weaver Birds also funn
these nests, but of a different form. They looii like gi'eat
pistols hung up by tiio butt, the entrance being at the muzzle,
and the nest in the butt.

Siil)-fiiinily g. Stunthio'.

STrUNU8.

Vulgaris (Lat. common), t/w Starlimj.

The CoM.\i()N Starling is a bird well known both for its
beauty and the singular method of flight. When a flock of
Stiirlings begin to settle for the night, they wheel round the
place selected with great accuracy. Suddenly, as if by word
of command, the whole flock turn their sides to the spectator,
and witli a great whimng of wings, the whole front and sliape
of the flock is altered. No body of soldiei-s could be better
wheeled or countermarched than ; 'o these flocks of Starlings,
except, perhaps, an unfortunate few, who are usually thrown
out at each change, and whom we must charitably suppose
recruits.

The Starling lives principally among old buildings, and is
very fond of gaining admittauco into dovecotes, where it is a
harmless visitor, and may be suflered to remain without detri-
ment to the pigeons or their eggs. Its nest is made usually
in a hole in a wall, sometimes in a decayed tree, and contains
five eggs of a very delicate uniformly pale blue.

Ia*.

! is not tho only bird

iver Birds also form

riiey luoii liito great

bcinj' at tiio nuizzk'.

tarlinff.

known both for its
it. When a flock ol'
toy wheel round the
dcnly, as if by word
ides to the spectator,
hole front and sliape
iere could be better
K flocks of Starlinpfs,
) are usually thrown
t charitably suppose

lid buildings, and is
recotes, where it is a
emain without detri-
lest is made usually
id tree, and contains
c blue.

NATLliAL HlSTOnV.

285

Fiiiuily IV. . Fr agillldif.— (Lat. Ftoi</(7/«, a Finch. Findi kind.)
Sub-family (/. FrinyiUiuit.

KniNGILI„\.

Coelebs (Lat. Bachdor), the Chajjincli.

We now arrive at the Finches ; a very largo and interesting
family. None of the species are large, and most of tiiem iire
excellent songstei-s. Their beaks are all conical, and fitted
for the destniction of com, peas, <L'c.

Tho Chaffinch or Piefinch, as it is often called, is so
well known as to need no description. It is chiefly re-
markable for tho beautiful nest whicli it constructs. The
forks of a thoni or wild crab-tree are favourite places for the
nest, which is composed of mosses, hair, wool and feathers,
covered on the exterior with lichens and mosses, so exactly
resembling the bough on which the nest is placed, that the
cyo is often deceived by its appearance. In the nest four or
five very pretty eggs are laid : these are of a reddish-brown
colour, sparely marked with deep brown spots, especially
towards the larger end.

28G

.VATun.vi, uisTonv.

CarduSliit (Lat. u Linnet), t/m Ouldjinch.

The GoLDKixcii or TmsTLKiiscn, so called on account of
its tbudncss foi- the down of the thistle, is one of our most
beautiful birds. Wiicre thistles al)ound, small flocks of gold-
finches may be seen flying from hedge to hedge, and occa-
sionally pecking the white tojts of the thistles. The tufted
seed of the dandelion, groundsel, and other plants is also
eaten by the Goldfinch.

In captivity it is very tame, and ca»i be trained to per
form a multitude of tricks, the most common of which are.
drawing its own food and water with a chain and bucket,
or firing a gun when commanded. The nest is very beau-
tiful, being mostly made of wool and down from vanous
plants, and is usually placed on the extremity of a spray.
The eggs are small, of a whitish tint, spotted with orange
brown.

The Common Linnet frequents commons and neglected
pastures. Its song is very sweet, and many bird-fanciei-s
suppose that the mixed breed of a canary and a linnet has
a sweeter song than either bird.

Its nest is usually built in the centre of a large and dense

1

«}^^

-^fKi.

Guidjtiuik.

) called on account of
e, is one of our most
1, small flocks of gold-
i to hedge, and ocea-
thistles. The tufted
other plants is also

v'l bo trained to per-
onuaon of wliich are.
a chain and bucket.
lie nest is very beau-
d down from vanou.s
extremity of a spraj*.
, spotted with orange

imons and neglected
d many bird-fan ciei-s
nary and a linnet ha-s

e of a large and dense

NATUIIAL HISTOUY.

287

Caunablua (Lat. fond of lutmit), the Linnet.

hush. The eggs arc five in number, greyish-white speckled
with red.

FIllNiill.I.A.

Siiinus (Lat. a Sloe-tree), the Hukin.

The Siskin is hardly to be considered more than an occa-
sional visitor in England, but in Scotland it sometimes breeds,
as may bo seen from the following extract : —

'2HR

NATLHAL IIISTOnV.

"Tho Smkin is ii common bird in nil the iii>:li |iurtM of
AlieidL'ciishiro, wliich uhouud in fir-woodH. Thoy kmii<i
jjoucnilly near tlio extroiuiticH of tho linvnciics of tall fir-trecH,
or near tho Hummit of the tree. Sometimes tho nest is found
in |)lantatiouH of younj^ fir-wood. In one instance I m«t
witli a nest not thrco feet from tlvo gi-oimd. I visited it
every day until four or five e^gH were deposited. During;
incubation tlio femulo showed no fear at my aiiproacL On
bringing jny hand close to tho nest, she showed some incli-
nation to pugnacity, tried to frighten mo away with her
open bill, following my hand romid and round when I at
tempted to touch her. At last she would only look anxiotisly
round to my finger, without making any attack on me. Tlie
nest was formed of small twigs of birch or heath outside, and
neatly lined with hair."

Its eggs are a bluish-white spotted with purjilish red.

Chloris (Or. Wwpos, greeu), the Grenifiitch.

The Greenfinch or Green Linnet is larger than the
Common Linnet, It frequents gardens, shrubberies and
cultivated lands, and feeds on insects or seeds. Ilie notes of
this bird aro not peculiarly melodious, nor has it many
qualifications to entitle it to notice.

all tho hi^li imrtH of
-woods. Thoy build
niichex of tall fir-trecH,
tiincH tho iicHt in rmind
I olio iiwtaiR'i' I met
ground. I viMitcd it
ro depoHitcd. During
at my niiproaclL On
iho Hliowt'd Homo incli-
a 1110 away with htr
ud rouiiil when I at
Id only look aii-xioUKly
ly attack on nic. The
I or heath outHide, and

ith piirjilish red.

B Greenfinch.

5T ia larger than the
lens, shrubberies and
>r seeds. The notes of
lis, nor has it many

NATURAL niSTORY.

Fames,- (Lat. a Sjmrrow.)

'26\)

DoinestlcuB (Lat. domeatie), the Uume Sparrow.

The courageous, impudent, quarrelsome SPAnnow is so
well known as to need no description. When pressed by cold
in the winter, there are few who have not seen this little
bird come to the window, expecting his donation of crumbs.
It is very fond of grain of various kinds, and dees some
damage t4) the farmer, but tiie destruction of caterjiillars by
tho bird more than compensates for the loss of the giviin.
The little impertinent bird has no scruple in perching on thi'
pig's trough, and partaking of his dinner, or in mixing with
fowl and taking its share of their jjrovisions, and on a newly
thatched house it absolutely revels. Dozens of sparrows may
be seen pecking and pulling at the straws in high enjoyment.
I was once watching a flock of span-ows on a newly thatched
barn, liopping, pecking and scrambling in jicrfect happiness,
when suddenly a sharp twitter was heard, and the whole body
hastily adjourned to a tree close by, making a prodigious
chattering. Presently I saw ajjjiear, over the ridge of the
house, the head of a cat, who had walked up the thatcher's

u

I'DO

NATURAL HISTORY.

ladder, hoping to secure a few sparrows in the midst of
their meal. Tiie ucst of the House Spai-row is usually huilt
in holes of roofs The eggs arc speckled black aud white,
and very variable.

Sub-faiaily c. Emhcnxma,
K.M])i:nizA.

Citrinella (Lat. yellowish), the Yellow Bunting.

The Yki.low-Hammer or Yellow Bunting is a very deli-
cately marked little bird, very common in our hedges, where
it Hits before the traveller, always keeping about twenty-
yards in front. It makes its nest on the ground, and lays
five eggs curiouslj' scribbled over with dark chocolate lines,
just as if a child had been trj'ing to \mte Arabic on the eggs.

'i'he OiiToLAN, a little bird in very gi'cat repute for tlie
table, is also an Emberiza. This bird is regularly fed like
])()ultry, in the South of Europe, and soon becomes exceed-
ingly fat, when a guinea is fre([uently the price of it.

THE SKYLARK.

The Larks are known by their very long hind toe. The
Skylark, which poura forth its animated song while suspended
iiigh in the air, is an inhabitant of most })arts of Europe, Asia,
and North Africa, but is not found in America. A very inte-

RV.

irrows in the midst of
Sparrow is usually built
euklcd black and white,

■tzina:.

Yellow Buniinff.

Bunting is a very deli-
lou in our hedges, where
i keeping about twenty
on the ground, and lays
ith dark chocolate lines,
vTite Arabic on the eggs.
ry great repute for the
lird is regularly fed like
id soon becomes exceud-
^ the price of it.

K.

iry long hind toe. The
ted song while suspended
jst parts of Europe, Asia,
I America. A very iute-

NATUKAL UISTOIIY.

Sub-family/. . . Alaudina.
Al.vuda. — (Lilt. « Lark.)

291

Arveiirtia (Liit. bdunying to the fields), the Skylark:

resting story is told of a Skylark that was taken out to America
by a poor emigrant, and which used to collect crowds of
delighted listener round its cjige. An English settler who
hai)pencd to be passing by while the bird was singing, was
so affected by the remiriiscences which its song called up, that
he oifered his horse and cart for the bird, on the spot. The
owner, however, would take no price for it, although most
extravagant offers were made, and kept it till his death. The
I lird after wiu-ds passed into other hands, but refused to sing
until its cage was hung up in the open air. After its death,
its skin was sent back^to its native land, and is now stuffed,
seated in its old cage, with a suitable inscription attached.

The nest is made on the ground, frequently in the print i>\'
a horse's foot, and contains five eggs of a greenish-white,
tliickly spotted witli brown, liicre are generally two broods
in the year, one in May, and tue other in July or August.
Immense numbers of these birds are caught annually and
sent to the London markets. Dunstable is the most cele-
brated place for them. It does not at idl agree with the sense
of justice, that these beautifid birds, who charm us with their
voices, should be killed to increase the pleasures of the table.

292

NxVTURAL HISTORY.

The WooDLAUK is another of our British Larks, but differs
in some respects from 'ihe skylark. It is smaller, and can
perch on trees, a power denied to the skylark. It also sings
on the wing, but sometimes prefers to pour forth its notes
«'hile perched on the branch of a tree.

Its nest, like that of the skylark, is also placed on the
jn'ouud ; tlio eggs are dai'ker than those of the skylark.

Sub-family g, Pi/rrhidinm.
PyrrhDla. — (Gr. TlvpfiovKas.)

Rubicilla (Lat. reddish), the Bullfinch.

The Bullfinch is a singular instance of the power of art
on the song of birds. The natural note of the Bullfinch is
low, and can only bo heard at a short distance, but when
well trained the bird whistles, or " pipes," as it is called, any
melody which hivs been taught it, in a fine flute-like tone.
A good piping Bullfinch sells at a very high price. The
method of teaching, is to confine the birds in a dark room,
and before their food is given to play the air that they have to
learn, on an instrument called a bird-organ. The birds soon

«2U.

tish Larks, but differs
t is smaller, and can
ikylark. It also sings
i pour forth its notes

is also placed on the
3 of the skylark.

nee.
!Aos.)

NATURAL HISTORY.

293

Bullfinch.

30 of the power of art
ote of the Bullfinch is
)rt distance, but when
es," as it is called, any
I a fine flute-like tone,
very high price. The
birds in a dark room,
he air that they have to
argan. The birds soon

begin to imitate the notes, and by degrees the whole tune is
learned. iSome trainers substitute a small clarionet for the
bird-organ.

When in captivity the Bullfinch is very sociable, and soon
loams to know his owners, and to couie to tliem if called.

The nest of this bird is made in thick buslies, or fir-trees.
The eggs are of a pale greenish wliite, spotted with orange
brown. The name of Bullfinch is given to it, on account of
the large proportionate size of its head and neck. When in
captivity its plumage sometimes turns black, the result of
feeding it too profusely with hempseed.

Sub-family h. LoxincB.
LoxIa. — (Or. ti.o^6<t, crosswise.)

Curvirostra (Lat. Curved-hill), the Cross-bill.

The genus Loxia is instantly known by the crossed points
of the beak, and the horny scoop at the tiji of the tongue.
The Crossbill uses tliese tools to open the fir-cones, on the
seeds of which it feeds. The bird inserts both its mandibles
under the scales of the cone, then by separating them, the
scale is raised up, while the seed is scooped out by the horny

294

NATURAL niSTORT.

tip of the tonsuG. Tliis singiikr structuro of the lioak enables
the bird to divide an apple in halves, so as to get at the pips.
Although the crossed mandibles appear rather a barrier to
picking up small objects, yet the Crossbill can pick up and
husk the smallest seeds, or shell almonds, which latter teat is
accomplished by picking a hole iu it and then wenching it
open, just as an idle schoolboy opens a nut with his penknife
when ho ought to be using that instrument in the niore
legitimate operation of mending his pen. Mr. Yarrell gives
ail amusing account of a pair of Crossbills, who amused tbem-
f-elves by twisting out the wires of their cage. They actually
succeeded in pulling out a flat-headed nail used to confine the
network, but the bird lost the point of his bill iu his efforts.
They were at last banished on account of their unceiising
destruction of cages.

The nest is built on the branches of a fir-tree The eggs
arc bluish white spotted with red. In taking leave of the
finches, it may be mentioned that the Canary belongs to that
family, but has not been described, as being es.sentially a cage
bird, and perfectly familiar to every one.

A lady opening her window, saw a bullfinch sitting on the
sill. To her surprise the bird did not fly away, but suffered
U-self to be taken and carried into the room. When jjlaced
on the table it still sat quiet, but looked as if it were suflering
from illness. On examination, a seed was found to be fixed
i II the bird's throat. This was quickly removed with a needle,
and the bird became quite lively. It however soon met
with a tragical end, for while a cage was being prepared for
its reception, it escaped from the hands of its benefactress,
flew against a window pane, and instantly fell dead on the
floor.*

THE RHINOCEROS HORNBILL.

This singidar and almost stai-tling family comprises but
few species, which are all natives of India and Africa. The
enormous bill, with its incomprehensible appendage, although
i>f course heavy, is really nnieh lighter than it looks, being
composed of a kind of light honeycombed structure. The

* Tl.is anecdote was related to me liy an eye-witness of the scene.

I«S^^^^

urc of the licak enablcH
u as to get at the pijjs.
ur rather a barrier to
issbill can pick up and
ids, which latter feat is
,nd then WTcnching it
, nut with his penknife
jtrument in the more
icn. Mr. Yarrell gives
ills, who amused thein-
r cage. They actually
lail used to confine the
f his bill in his efforts,
int of their Uhceasing

)f a fir-tree The eggs
In taking leave of the
Canary belongs to that
being essentially a cage
le.

nillfinch sitting on the
; fl.y away, but snfF(;red
e room. When jjlaccd
2d as if it were sutfering
I was found to be fixed
removed with a needle,
It however soon met
vas being prepared for
ids of its benefactress,
luitly fell dead on the

RNBILL.

family comprises but
udia and Africa. The
)le appendage, althougti
!r than it looks, being
ombed structure. The

e-witness of the scene.

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family VII. Bucerotidro.
BuOEItOS. — (Or. BovVeptus, ox-hornoil.)

295

Rhinoceros, the Rhinoceros Uomhill.

upper protuberance is hollow, and the only conjecture formed
of its use, is that it serves as a sounding V)oard to increase the
reverberations of the air, while the bird is uttering its pocu-
liar roaring cry.

In spite of the apparently unwieldy bill the l)ird is vt;ry
active, and hops about the branches of trees with much ease.
The appendage to tiic upper mandible is small when the bii'd
is young, and only attains its enormous size when the
HoKNBiLL hixs reached its full growth. The bill of the
hooj)oes presents a somewhat analogous peculiarity, as when
the bird is young the bill is short and pointed, and increases
with the size of the bird. From this circumstance, ttjgethcr

fegE5'",^?W^""

29G

NATURAL UIPTOUY.

I

with some other resemblances, some imagine that tlicrc is an
affinity between the hornbills and lioopocs.

Tlie Hornbills seem to bo omnivorous, fruits, eggs, birds,
reptiles &c., forming their food. The African Hornbills arc
extremely fond of nutmegs, and are on that account ?aid to be
peculiarly delicate eating, though reminding one of the
Barmecide's memorable lamb fed on pistacliio nuts.

The Rhinoceros Hornbiil is a native of India, and the
Indian islands. The length of its bill is usually about ten
inches.

Order III. . . SCANSORES.—(Lait. tcando, I climb. Climbing birds.)
Family I. . . Knmphiuittdae.
Sub-fitmily a. llainiiliastidince.

Kampuastos.— (Or. 'Pa/ii0i)(rT?(f, properly, a Pike.)

lU/

Toco, Me Two Toucan.

The ScANSORES, or Climbing Birds, now engage our
attention. According to Mr. Gray, under this order ai'e

WMm

agino that tlicrc is iia

DCS.

.ms, fiiiita, eggs, birds,
African HoiDbills aro
;hat account said to be
minding one of the
jtachio nuts,
ve of India, and the
1 is usually about ten

I cliuib. Climbing birds.)

operly, a Pike.)

Ajr; I

Ds, now engage our
under this order ai'c

NATURAL HISTORY.

297

])laccd the Toucans, the [PaiTots, the Woodpcckei-s, and the
Cuckoos. The feet of these birds have two toes in front and
two behind.

The Toucans are all natives of tropical America. Tlieir
enormous bill is rendered light in the same way as that of
the hornbills, by being chieily composeil of a honeycomb
structure. It seems to bo very sensitive, and well supplied
with nerves, as the bird not only ajjpcars to enjoy holding
meat or fruits with tiie tip of its bill, but has been seen to
scratch that organ with its foot, plainly [)roving tiiat there
must be sensation. It seems to be omnivorous, but is i)ar-
ticularly fond of mice, and small birds, which it kills by a
])owerful R(]uee7,e, then strips and finally pulls to jjieces and
devom-s, having previously reduced it to a shapeless mass by
repeated lateral wrenches with its enonnous and saw-like
bill. Waterton in his Wanderings describes the usual haunts
of the Toucan.

" Heedless and banknipt in all curiosity must he be who
can journey on without stopping to take a view of the
towering mora. Its topmost branch, when naked with age or
dead by accident, is the favoiu-ite resort of the toucan. Many
a time has this singular bird felt the shot faintly strike him
from the gun of the fowler beneath, and owed his life to the
distance betwixt them." In the same interesting and amusing
work, ho remarks a strange habit of the Toucan, called the
Houtou by the natives.

" This bird (the Houtou) seems to suppose that its beauty
can be increased by trimming the tail, which undergoes the
same operation as our hair in a barber's shop, only with this
difference, that it uses its own beak, which is serrated, in lieu
of a pair of scissors. As soon as his tail is full gi-own he begins
about an inch from the extremity of the two longest feathers
in it, and cuts away the web on both sides of the shaft,
making a gap about an inch long : both male and female
adorn their tails in this manner, which gives them a re-
markable appearance amongst all other birds."

When sleeping, the Toucan takes gi-eat ctu'o of his bill,
packing it away and covering it carefully with the feathers of
its back, and altogether presents the a])pearance of a large
round ball of feathers. The body is about eighteen inches

2!).S

NATURAL nisTonr,

in Iciif^tli. Tlicso birds, together with the hoopoes and
hornbiils, have u habit of throwing their food down theii'
throats with a pecuHar jerk of the bill.

I !1

4

Family II. PsittacTdic.
Macrocercus. — (Or. J/latpSs, great ; moms, tail.)

Araraima, the Blue and Yellow Macaw.

Many naturalists imagine, and with some reason, that tiie
Psittacida; oxight to bo formed into an order by themselves.
In this fixmily the construction of the bill is very i-emarkable.
As the ciu'ved tip of the bill would j^rcvcnt tho bird from
opening it wide enough to admit its food, the upper mandible
is united to the skull by a kind of hinge joint, of equal
strength and flexibility. When climbing among the branches

th the hoopoes ftnd
heii" food down theii-

; lifOKos, tail.)

V Macaw.

some reason, that the
I order by theinsclvos,
ill is very reniarkublo.
rcvent the bird from
d, the upper mandible
hinge joint, of equal
ig among the branches

NATUBAL III8T0UT.

290

of trees or aV;ont their cages, the Parrots invariably make
gi-eat use of their hi>oked bills in assisting themselves both in
ascending and doscending. The crossbills have been observed
to climb mnch in the same way.

The Tarrots arc said to bo very long lived, some have
certainly been known to live npwards of eighty years in
captivity, and may bo imagined to exceed that period in a
wild state.

The Macaws are natives of Sonth America. The Idno and
yellow Macaw hihabits Hrazil, (iniana and Snriuam, living
])rincipally on the banks of rivers. Of one of the Macaws,
tiic Carolina Tarrot, or Parrakeet as Wilson calls it, the
following anecdote is told by that enterprising natin-alist :—

" Having shot down a number, some of which were only
wounded, the whole flock swept repeatedly round their
prostrate corapaniims, and again settloil on a low tree, within
twenty yards of the spot where I stood. At each sueceraive
discharge, thiAigh showers of them fell, yet the aiTcction
of the survivors seemed rather to increase, for after a tew
circuits round the place they again alighted near me, looking
down on their slaughtered companions with sucli manifest
•symptoms of sympathy and concern, as entirely disarmed

lUG.'*

Wilson also makes mention of a singular idea, that the
brains and intestines of the Carolina PaiTot (which lives
on cockle-burs) are poisonous to cats. Why the brains should
be so is rather incomprehensible, although we can easily
undei-stand that the Parrot might take some substance into
its stomach injurious to cats. Wilson tried the experiment
after being repeatedly disappointed of a patient, but comes to
no conclusion on the subject.

" Having shut up a cat and her two kittens, the latter
only a few^ days old, in a room with the head, neck, and
whole intestines of the parrakeet, I found on the next mommg
the whole eaten except a small part of the bill. Tlie cat
exhibited no symptom of sickness, and at this moment, three
days after the experiment had been made, she and her
kittens are in their usual health. Still however the cflcct
might have been dilferent, had the daily food of the bird
been cockle-burs instead of Indian com."

NATURAL HISTORY.

PALa;oBNi8.— (Or. noKauSs, old ; Xpvu, a bird.)

Torqviatus (Lat. collared), the Ringed Parrtikeet.

The Ringed Parrakeet is frequently seen domesticated in
this country, whore its pleasing manners and gentle dispo-
sition render it a great favourite. It seems to be exceedingly
fond of rijje walnuts, diviilcd in halves, and while it is picking
<jut the kernel continually utters a short clucking sound
indicative of pleasure.

It soons learns to repeat words and short sentences, and to
speak with tolerable distinctness. Sometimes when excited
it utters most ear-piercing screams,* and alwjiys appears to
practise any new accomplishment when it thinks that no one
is within hearing. The colour of the bird is green, and a rose-
coloured band round its neck gives it the name of the Rose-
ringed Parrakeet. The bill is red.

* a Ringed Parrakeet belonging co one of my scholars was accustomed to live in
the schoolroom. At first it used to become angry that it was not noticed during
school hours, and to utter a succession of screams, but after being shut up in a dark
closet several times, it learned to behave very demurely, giving an example worthy
of imitation to several of its human playfellows.

pvis, a bird.)

led Parrakect.

' seen domesticated in
ers and gentle dispo-
enis to be exceedingly
ind while it is picking
short clucking sound

bort sentences, and to
oetimcs when excited
nd always appears to
it tliinks that no one
d is gi'een, and a rose-
lie name of the Rose-

ars was accustomed to live in
hat it was not noticed during
t after being shut up In a ilarlc
ly, giving an example vforthy

NATURAL niSTOnT.

CACAlflA.

301

Suli>huri3a (Lat. Suli/hury), the Ctreat Sulphur Cockatoo.

Tlie Cockatoos are remarkable for the jiowdery surface of
their wings, and the crest on the head, whicii can be mised or
depressed at pleasure. The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is an
inhabitant of New Guinea. Its colour is white, and the crest
is of a sulphur yellow. Its white plumage glancing among
the dense dark foliage of its native forests, imjiarts a wonder-
ful beauty to the scene, and as Sir Thomas Mitclicll remarks,
"amidst the umbrageous foliage, forming dense masses of
shade, the white cockatoos sported like spirits of ligiit." This
Cockatoo is easily tamed, and is of a veiy affectionate dispo-
sition. When in captivity it has been known to live to the
age of 120 years. Its nest is bxiilt in hollow trees and the
crevices of rocks. The eggs are white. The length of the
bird is about eighteen inches.

NATUiUI. IIISTOIIY.

Kiimily III. . Picldw.— (Lut. /'(Via, n Woodpecker. Who Jpcoker kind.)
Sub-fiimily c. I'kiiiw.

I'ICUS.

Miyor (hnt. ijfcatei), tJie Great Spotted Woodpecher.

Tl\e \ViMii)i>K('KKi!S, whoso name iiulicatcs their huliits, arc
widely spread, being found in all (puirters of the globe except
Auatraliu. They subsist on insects and grubs, which they dig
out of trees, or discover under the bark. For this purpose
their whole structure is admirably adapted. The bill is long,
sharp, and [jowerful, nd the formation of liie feet and legs is
such tliat the bird is able to grasp the tree firmly with the
feet, while swinging wii h the force of his whole body against
it. Another most singular point in the AVoodpeckers is
the method by which tliey are emibled to thrust the tougue
deep iiiti the crevices, aud bring out any insects that may
happen tu be there. The tongue is connected with two
elastic ligaments which are inserted near the juncture of the

ockor. Wiiodpouker kind.)

ted Woodjyecker.

icates their hiibits, aiv
3rs i)t' the globe except
fj;rul)s, whicli they dig
rk. For tiiis purpose
)tcJ. The bill is long,
of .110 feet and legs is
1 tree firmly with the
lis wliole body against

the Woodpeckers is
. to thrust the tongue
any insects tiiut may

connected with two
ax the juncture of the

NATUIIAI. U18T0RY.

S03

upper niandilile with the skull. From thence they Hwcep
round the buck of the head, and passing under the h-wer
mandible, enable the tongue to be thrust out a conHideralile
distance. The ti|) of the tongin' is sharp, anil barl)ed willi
several filaments, and more (irndy to secure the prey, a kind
ol gummy secretion causes thosi; insects to adhere, tluit wmild
be too Hmall to be impaled.

It appears to be an eiTonoous opinion that these birds
injure trees. Their oidy object in peeking away the wood
and bark, is to get at the in,sects which they know are hidden
within. Now insects seldom or never bore into healthy wood,
but a decayed briuich or stump is always full of them, as is
well known' to the entcjmologist. So the winged entomologist,
when lu' perceives a decayed branch, or finds an unsouuil spot
in till' trunk, inunediately sets to work industriously, and is
re\\«idc<l by finding plenty of insects, which he draws out
and deiuolialios, with more benefit to himself and possibly
more good to oth 'i"s than many human entomologists can
biiu.st.

Altliough the Woodpecker Joes not scoop away sound
trees, yet it is because it has no motive for doing so — not that
the power is wanting. Wilson had an Ivory-billed Wood-
pecker in his jjos-scssion, which ])cckcd away lath and plaster
in its eft'orts to escai)e. and utterly ruined a mahogany table
to which it wius fiustened.

The (-JiiKAT Si'OTTKD WooDi'Kt'KER is an inhabitant of Eng-
land, but is seldom seen. Largo woods aro its favourite
haunts. Like all its tribe, it feeds on the insects which it
])rocures from decayed trees, and also . :, iMi-ries and fri.tls.
Its eggs are laid in a deep hole <-■ aed it. a tree. V»r this
puqwse the Woodpecker usually chooses a place vhere a
liranch has broken off, or mure commonly the part of the
trunk where a certain fungus has grown, euusing the tree to
decay in that sjiot, althouuh apimrontly healthy.

.'304

NATURAL HISTORY.

PICUS.

Virldia (Lat. green), the Oreen Woodj)ecker.

Tlic Green Woodpecker is by far the most common in
this country, and may be often seen in woods,* tapping the
trees with wonderful rapidity, the blows following each other
Honiotliing like the sound of a watclnnan's rattle. It generally
runs up the tnmk of the tree in a spiral direction, occasionally
striking off large pieces of dry bark. Wlien it descends it
still keeps its head uppermost.

THE WRYNECK.

The Wryneck is tolerably common in the southern counties
of England, but is scarcely ever seen in the north and west.
It principally feeds on ants, which it picks up with great

* I have more tlian once seen the Green Woodpecker busily employed amonR the
trees of the Christ Church Walks, Oxford, and very frequently in Bagley Wood.
1 have never seen it on the ground, and hut once on the smaller branches of the
trees.

ORT.

;«» Woodpecker.

ar the most common in
II in woods,* tapping the
lows following each other
nan's rattle. It generally
iral direction, occasionally
k. Wlien it descends it

OK.

a in the southern counties

en in the uorth and west.

it picks up with great

)ecker busily employed amonp; the
very frequently in Bagley Wood.
ice on the smaller branches of the

NATURAL mSTOBT.

Sub-family j/. Yimcince.
YuNX.— (Gr. 'Iu7{.)

i05

TorquLlla (Lat. twUting), the Wryneck.

rapifhty by means of its long tongue, covered with a glutinous
secretion like that of the woodpecker. The rapiility with
which the luits are taken is so great, that " an ant's egg,
which is of a light colour, and more conspicuous than the
tongue, has somewhat the appeai'ance of moving to the mouth
by atti-action, as a needle does to the magnet." The name
\Vrynock is given it from its habit of rapidly twisting its
head and nock, and hissing like a serpent, if disturbed upon
its eggs. Tlie young also hiss if they are molested.

Its eggs are laid ou the bare wood in the holes of trees.
Like most eggs that are laid in holes, they are of a ])iu'i.;
white. The lenjjth of the bird is seven inches.

THE CUCKOO.

The Cuckoo, spring's harbinger, has, at all ag«. ■', obtained
for itself a name at once pleasing and disreputable ; pleasing,
because its well-known notes are a sign that the cold winter
is gone ; and disreputable, because it usurps the nests of other

306

NATURAL IIISTORV.

Katnily IV. . CiiculWic— (Lat. CuohIu.'i, ii Cuckoo. (Juckoo kind.
Subfamily e. Cur.ilinw.

cirrr.rs.

i^'' yU^

( :m..ru.-i (J. at. muaiatl), llw Ciirkoo.

liinis, of wiiicli the Hedge SpaiTow is the usual victim. lu
its nest the cucki)u de[)08its one of its own egjj^, which are
remarkably small in proportion to the size of the bird. The
»iu.su.spectiug hedge spaiTOw hatches the intruder together
with her own young. The Cuckoo rapidly increases in size,
and monopolizes uo small portion of the entire nest, besides
tiking the lion's share of the provisions. The mother, how-
ever, never seems to perceive the difference, but feeds and
tends the interloper with (luite as much care us her own
young.*

The Cuckoo feeds principally on the hairy caterpillars,

* Dr. Jenner states that the young Cuckoo ejerts the former and rightful
ociuiifints of the nest by inanaging to get the e;.'g or young bird upon its back,
I'lanihcring up to the eii^e of the nest, and then throwing it iiver by a sharp jerk.

At some times of tlie year, Cuckoos are comparatively tame. I have repeatedly
decoyed them by imitatini; their i ry, until they came near enough for me to see the
movement of the bvak. Once a Cuckoo came voluntarily, and tettled on a hurdle
close by, ulicrcd his peculiar cry several times, and then leisurely flew off.

Cuckoo. Cuckoo kiiiH.

^

'ui'koo.

If usual victim, lu
nvn eggs, which are
;e of the bird. The
0 intruder together
Uy increiises in size,
entire nest, besides
Tlic mother, how-
ence, but feeds and
2h care as her own

> iiairy caterpillars,

the former and rightful
young bird upon its back,
[ it over by a sharp jerli.
y tame. I have repeatedly
ir enough for me to see the
ly, and xettled un a liurdle
leisurely flew off.

NATURAL HISTORY.

■Mr.

especially those of the Tiger Moth {Arctia caju), the hairs i>.
which form a kind of lining to its stomach. A tame Cuckoo,
that lived for more than a year in captivity, seemed to
consider a young mouse an especial treat. The mouse was
first beaten agtiinst the ground or a hiu-d stone, until it was
reduced to a soft mass, after which process it was swallowed.
The lentith of the bird is about fourteen inches.

Order IV. . . COLUMILii.

Family I. . . (/'olumbldic, — (Lat. I'l/iuii/ki, n Dove. Dove kind,*

Sub-family b. (.'•jlumltinif.

I'alumbiis (Lat. a P'ujtun), the /iiiiyilvre.

Tuis family is supposed to be more widely distributed than
any other. The three pigeons engraved are the only species
that live wild in this couutry.

308

NATUllAli HISTOUY.

The lliNODOvi;, or Cushat, is the largest of our native
pigeons. A black ringlot round the neck, edged with white,
gives it the name of Uiugdove. It is very coninion in
Fiiigland, and its nests are usually found to consist of a few
sticks, thrown loosely together on a sjjray of fir or holly.
The structure of this platform, for nest it can hardly be
called, is so loose, that the white eggs can generally bo seen
through the interstices.

COI.UMBA.

Oilnas (Or. Olvds), the Stockdove.

The Stockdovic builds its nest in the stocks of trees, (from
whence its name,) aud has been known to lay its eggs in
deserted warrens, without making any nest at all. In former
times, when forests of becch-trccs used to cover the country,
enormous flocks of these birds frequented them, in order to
feed on the beech-mast. Now they are not so conniion,
although still in considerable uumbera.

NATURAL H18T0UV.

30'J

argcst of <Mii' native
ck, edged with white,
is very coininon in
id to coiisi.st of a few
pray of fir or holly.
jsl it can hardly he
jan generally be seen

TuRTim (Lnt. a Tiirtle-dore).

•kdove.

stocks of ti'ces, (from
vi\ to lay its cgii's in
icst at all. In former
to cover the country,
ited them, in order to
are not so conmion,

Auritus (Ijiit. cured), the Turtle-dove.

The TuiiTLE-DOVE, a hird much revered l)y poets for its
constancy, is only a spi'ing visitor to our shores, arriving
tinvards May, and leaving us about September. The nest is
a mere platform of twigs, on which the eggs arc laid. The
constancv and affection of this bird for its mate has been
deservedly celebrated in all ages, though it is not easy to
undeistand why other birds, such as the Itaven, whose con-
stancv is (piitcas remarkable, should be deprived of the meed
of ])niise due to them.

THE PASSKNaER PiaEON.

This extraordinary bird, whose powers of flight are almost
incredible, is a native of America, and overspreads the country
in countless myriads during the breeding season. It is well
that their power of wing is so great, fur were the enormous
flocks to be c<nifincd to one place, they would devour the
whole of the grain. VuiKoNs have been killed in New York
with Carolina rice still in their crojis. As their digestion is
remarkal)ly rajjid, these birds must have flown between three
and fom- Inmdred miles in si.x hom-s, giving an average speed
of a mile per minute.

At the breeding season the overwhelming multitudes of

310

NATURAL HISTORY.

EcToriSTi:s. — (Cir. 'E/croirifai, to migrate.*

'«:%

Migratorlii (l.at. iiii;/i(il(irii), l/ie J'o.fucnr/er J'i<imii,

PigooiiK thiit settle on one spot are almost incredible. Wilson,
who was present at one of these breeding places, gives tht-
following account : —

" Not, far from Shelbyville. in the state of Kentucky, abont
five y(;ars ago. there was one of tiiese breeding jiiaces, which
.stretched tiirough tiie woods in nearly a north and souiii
direction, was several miles in i)readth, and wa.s siiid to be
upwards of foiiij miles hi extent ! In this tract almo.st
every tree was furnished with nests, wherever the branches
could accommodate them. The pigeons made their hrst
appearance there al)out the 10th of April, and left it alto-
gether, with their youug, before the 2.5th of May.

" As soon as tlie young were iiilly grown, and bcfori' tliey
left the ne.sts, numerous jiarties of tiie inliabitants, from all
parts of the adjacent country, can^e with waggons, axes, beds.

migrate. >

\

sneiu/er J'i;/cijii.

it incredible. Wilson.
iug places, gives the

;e of Kentucky, .'ibout
reeding places, which
V a north and ^^()utll
1, and was said to he
fn this tract almost
herever the branches
)ns made their tirst
pril, and loft it alto-
h of May.

'own, and before they
inhabitants, from all
1 waggons, axes, beds.

NATURAL IIISTOKV.

T)]!

cooking utensils, many of them accompanied by the greater
part of their familicH.'and encamped for several days at this
immense nursery. Several of them informed me that the
noise in the woods was so gi-oat as to terrify their horses, and
that it v/iis difficult for one person to hear another speak,
without bawling in his ear. The gi-ound was strewed with
brt)ken limi)S of trees, eggs, and young stpiab pigeons, whieli
had been precipitated from above, and on wliich herds of hogs
were fattening. Hawks, buzzards, and eagles, were sailing
about in great numbers, and seizing the scpiabs from their
nests at pleasiue ; while from twenty feet upwards to the
top.s (rf the trees, the view tlu-ough the woods presented
perpetual tumult of crowding and iluttering multitudes of
pigeons, their wings roaring like thunder, mingled with tlu'
fre(iuent crash of falling timber,— for now the axe men were
fit work cutting down those trees tliat seemed to be most
crowded with nests, and contrived to fell them in such
a manner, that in their descent they might bring down
several others, by which means the falling of one large tree
sometimes prodncjd two hundred squabs, little inferior in
size to the old t)nes, iuid almost one mass of fat.

" All accounts agree in stating that each nest contains only
•me young squab. These are so extremely fat, that the
Indians and many of the whites are accustomed to melt
down the fat for domestic purposes, as a substitute for butter
and lard."

A few observatioris ou the mode of flight of these birds
must not be omitted. " A colunm, eight or ten miles in
length, would appear from Kentucky, high in air, steering
across to Indiana. The leaders of this great body would
sometimes gradually vary their course, until it formed a large
bend of more than 'a mile in diameter, those behind tracing
the exact route uf tlieir predecessors. This would continue
sometimes long after both extremities were beyond the reach
(jf sight, so that the whole, with its glittering undulations,
marked a space on the face of the heavens, resembling the
windings of a vast and majestic river. . . . Sometimes a hawk
would make a sweep on a i)articular part of the column, from
a great height, when, almost as (piick as lightning, that part
shot downwards out of the common track, but soon rising

■«>^

:M2

NATURAL ItlSTOnV.

aj^ain, cdntiimcd adviincing at the wmie lioij^lit as before ;
t.liiM intloctiuii was coiitiniiod by those behind, wlio, on ar-
riving; at tliis point, dived down almost jierjiendicularly to
!i gi'eat depth, and rising, followed the exact path of those
that went before."

4 ■■ft^^X''- :.-

DOUBaUU PIDKONS

The above group comprises the most cons]Mcuons varieties
of tiio Domestic Pigeon. All these birds, except the Carrier,
the Pouter, and the Tumbler, are very similar in their habits,
and need no dcscri]>tion.

The TuMHi>EK is a very little pigeon, and derives its name
from its singular habit of foiling backwards when on the
wing. Pigeon fanciei-s assert that a fligiit of twelve Tumblers
may be covered witii a handkerchief.

The Pouter is a large pigeon. It stands particularly erect,
and seems exceedingly vain of the swollen crop which gives it
the name of Pouter. 1'he lird is enabled to inflate its crop
with air, until the head is almost hidden behind it. This
inflation sometimes cntises the bird to lose its balance, and

ic liL'ifjlit as licforo :
heliiiul, wlio, on ar-
;t jiLTjioiidiciilarly to
exact path of tliose

conspiciioiw varieties
s, except the Carrier,
inilar in tlieir hahits,

and derives its name
wards wlien on the
t of twelve Tumblers

ids particularly erect,
n crop which ^'ives it
ed to inflate its ci'op
len behind it. Tliis
lose its balance, and

NATURAL IIISTOIIV. •"' I •"

iiill down ehimnevB, on which it is fond of standing, thereby
illustrating' tiie proverb that " Tride will have a fall."

The ('AiiiiiKii I'lOKo.N is the bird tiiat was so lar^-ely en>-
ployed to take niessaires, before the invention of the Kleclrii'
Telc<,'raph rendered even the Ri>eed of fiie wind too slow for
till- present day. The most valuable Carriers were traineil to
carry to and from theii- residence. A letter was written on a
siiiiill jiieee of paper, and fasteni'd under the winir of the pit;eon,
or to its feet. The feet were then bathed in vinegar to keep
lliem cool, list the bird should stop on the way to bathe.
Wlien the l'i;j;eon was set free, it rose high in the air. maile
one or two circular ilights, and then darted oif like an arrow
in the jn-oper direction. One of these birds has been known
to flv ncarlv one hundred and (iftv miles in one lioin-.

THK PKACOCK.

This magnificent bird is not a native of this country, but
has been domesticated in England for many years. Some
suppose that it was lirst brought from India by Alexander,
and by him introduced into Europe. The maguiticent jilumes
that ad(jrn the Peacock are not the tail, as many snjjpose, but
the tail-coverts. The tail feathers themselves are short and
rigid, and serve to keep the tniin expanded, as may be seen
when the bird walks about in all the majesty of his exiianded
plumage.

Although jiea-fowl seek their food on the ground, tiiey
invariably roost on some elevated situation, such as a high
branch or the roof of a barn or haystack. When the bird is
perched on the roof, its train lies along the thatch, and is
quite invisible in the dusk.

We have almost dismissed pea-fowl from our entertainments
in these days, but in the times of chivalry, a roasted peacock,
still clothed in its jilumagc, and with its train displaved,
formed one of the chief ornaments of the regal boai'd. The
nest of this bird is made of sticks and leaves rudely thrown
together, and contains from twelve to fifteen eggs. The
young do not attain their full plumage until the third year,
and only the males possess the vivid tints and lengthened

314

NATLHAL UISTOIIV.

Onler V. . . . (iALUNJ..

^ Family III, . Phivsianlda-.— (dr. ♦acriavrft, a I'li.viHBiit, it. a Ijird from
the river I'hasiH iu Coli'liin. ^'lloa^allt■killil.)
Sub-familv a. Piivoiiiiiiv.

i'ristatus (Lat. crested), llie I'cti,(n/.

train, tho fcmalf buing a comi)aratively ordinary bird. A
white variety of tlie Peacock is not uacoinniou. In this
ease, tho eyes of the train feathei-s are slightly marked with
a kind of neutral tint.

'liitiWRiit, i.e. a bird from
PliDiiiiuitkiii'l.)

' ordinary bird. A
ncomniou. In this
ilightly marked with

NATrRAL 1U8T0HY.

8ub-l'amily '*. J'hanUiiiiini'.
Ai'ii's. ("r. jiroper niiiiie,^

315

(iigauUmrt (I. at. (jijauta-), the Aiyus J'hcanau!.

The Argu8 PtiKASANT it* fouud in Sumatra and tlie soiitli
eiistcrn parts of Asia. Tlic magnificently iiiarke<l secDndiiry
quill feathers render it a must conspicuous bird. Tin; primary
leathers are comparatively short.. No living specimen has
yet been brought to Europe, as it is said to pine m captivity.
In its native haunts it is very shy, avoiding the pro.iimity of
human abodes, and living in the solitary deitths of woods.*

• The bird derive* its name from llie slu-pherd Argus, wlio had a hundred cyc8.
and was set by Juno to wairh li>.

memmm

3I«

NATIJIIM, IirSTOUV.

^•V" t^

C*"

Colchlcus (Lat. V"lvhian), llu Phtiuanl,

The Common Pheasant was originally brought from
(leorgia, and lias completely naturalJHcil itself in this country.
It is a hardy hird, and hears the cold montlis very well.
Although it can bo tamed and will come to be fed with the
])ciultry, yet an innate timidity prevents it from beiui^
thoroughly domesticated. Young pheasants that have been
hatcluil mider a hen, scam])er off in teri'or if an unexpected
int'-uder makes his appearance among them, although the
remainder of the jioultry remain perfectly unconcerned.

'i'liis bird loves to perch at night on trees, especially on the
spreading branches of the larch. I'oaclicrs are so well aware
of this habit that they always visit the larches first, while on
their marauding ixcursions. A few sjirucc-firs surrounded
liy dense and tail holly hedges f(!rm an excellent place of refuge
for the birds, who can bid the jioacher defiance from their
stronghold. A few di'zen wooden phcasimts nailed on the
branches of the unguarded trees, are admirably adajitcd for

'heanunl.

Hilly brougiit from
itHclf ill t.hiscountiy.
I montlis very well.
Q to bo fed with the
;nt8 it from boiusj^
-nuts tliat have been
ror if ill! unexpectt'd
them, althoufih the
ly unconcerned.
•ee.s, especially on the
icrs are so well aware
larches first, while on
inice-firK surrounded
cellent place of refuge
• defiance from their
isants nailed on the
Imirably adapted for

VATIiUAl, lll.iTDllY.

■M]

trying; the patience and wiLsting the aniMmuitiou of tliu uoc
turiial pluiiilerer.

A wiiite variety of tiio riieaNinl, sDiui'tiiiies occurs, hut
w,'i'nm never to be propagated. The Ucit of the bird is tuailo
on ilie ground, and contains from ton to eighteen oggs of an
unitbrin dun cohnir.

Sub-fuuiily c, (lallinoB,
OAi.r.its.— (Lnt. a Owk.)

Domestlcus (Lat. domestic), the Doiiitstic Fowl.

The DoMKSTic Fowls are too well known to need much
description. There are many varieties, the most conspicuous
of which are the Cochin-China, Crested, and Bantam. The
Game B^owl was formerly in gi'eat recjuest for the cruel sjiort
of cock-fighting, an amusement which, although happily now
almost extinct, was in great vogue but a few yeai-s since.
The Java Fowl, of which the enornujus Cochin-China bird is
a variety, is supposed to be the origin of the Baru-door fowl.*

* A young hen of the Cochin-Cliina hreed, whin introduced Bn.uiig the other
liuultry of a farniyurJ, was sliamufully persecuted by its ttmiiianioim. U was very

3

318

NATURAL HISTORY.

The cock has been long celebrated for his warlike propensities,
and his habit of greeting the approach of morn by his " shrill
clarion."

The Bantam is a very little bird indeed, but cxceedmgly
courageous, and does not hesitate to attack a turkey or such
large bird with most amusing pompousness of manner. Some
Bantams have their legs thickly feathered down to the very
toes. Tlie hackles or long neck feathers of this and tlie
preceding bird are much used by anglers for making artificial
flies.

The celebrated Jungle Fowl of India belongs to this race,
and is by many supposed to be the origin of our domestic
game f<jwl. Tiie Chinese, who are greatly addicted to the
sport of cock-fighting, prefer this bird for their cruel amuse-
ment. .

The Dorking Fowl is a large and delicate species. Ihe
chief peculiarity in this bird is the double hind toe, so that
it h;is five toes instead of four.

THE TURKEY.

The Turkey is an inhabitant of America, and appears to
have been imported into Europe alout the year IGOO. Its
habits in a state of domestication need no description, but
when wild in its native woods are rather interesting. It
is partly migratory in its habits, moving from the parts
about Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, towards the Ohio and
Mississippi. The march is usually performed on foot in large
flocks, the birds seldom using their wings except when at-
tacked, or in order to cross a river. The powerful birds can
easily cross a river of a mile in breadth, but the weaker
frequently fall into the water, and then paddle to shore with
some rapidity. This migration is performed about the end
of October. Bonaparte, in his splendid work on the American

absurd to see the poor creature pecking up a stray crumb or two rutside the general
circle, and flying in terror beforu a Uttle game hen, if it ventured to approach too
close The principal ad mtage of this bird seems to be that the chickens, from their
superior size, are ready for the market at an earlier age tlian those of the ordinary
fowl.

Y.

his warlike propensities,
I of morn by his " shrill

indeed, but exceedingly
attack a turkey or such
sness of manner. S omo
lered down to the very
nthers of this and the
ers for making artiticial

lia belongs to this race,
origin of our domestic
greatly addicted to the
i for their cruel amuse-

1 delicate species. The
ouble hind toe, so that

A.merica, and appears to
ut the year IGOO, Its
eed no description, but

rather interesting. It
loving from the part.s

towards the Ohio and
I formed on foot in large

wings except when at-
The powerful birds can.
i-eadth, but the weaker
in paddle to shore with
arformed about the end
i work OB the American

;rumb or two outside the general
1, if it ventured to approach too
a be that the chlclcens, from their
sr age than those of the ordinary

NATUItAL IllSTOUV.

Sub-family d. Melui(jr!n(e,
Mf;lea'(J1US. — (Or. M(\faypis, a (liiiiionfo\vl.)

319

• jiiilupavo (Ijiit. /he Turkei/).

Ornithology, gives an account of the ingenious way in which
thu turke3's escape the insidious attacks of tlieir enemies.

" These birds are guardians of eat:h other, and the first who
sees a hawk or eagle gives a note of alarm, on which all within
hearing lie close to the ground. As they usually roost in
docks, perched on the naked branches of trees, they are easily
discovered by tlie lar^^e owls, and when attiicked by these
[irowling birds, often escape by a somewhat remarkable
manoeuvre. The owl sails round the spot to select his prey,
hut notwithstanding the almost inaudible action of his
pinions, the quick ear of one of the slumberors perceives the
danger, which is immediately announced to the whole party
l)y a chuck : thus alarmed, they rise on their legs, and watch
the motions of the owl, who, darting like an arrow, would
iuevitably secure the individual at which he aimed, did not

320

NATbUAt. lUSrOUY.

tlio latter Ruililenly drop his head, squat, and spread liis tail
over his back ; tiic owl tlicu glances over without inflicting
any injury, at tiie very instant that tiie turkey sutlers him-
self to fall headlong towards the eartli, when ho is secure from
his dreaded enemy."

XdmIua.— (l>nt.)

Meleagris, the Guinea-fowl.

The Guinea-fowl or Pintado was originally brought from
Africix, and was anciently confounded witli the turkey. From
its peculiar cry it has gained the name of " (>ome-back." In
its wild state it is gregarious, assembling in kirge flocks in
some marshy situation. At night tiie birds roost on the trees
in company, like the turkey. It is of a restless, wandering
disposition," which does not leave it in captivity, the bird fi'e-
quently wandering for several miles from its home. Like the
turkey, the Pintado lays its eggs in the closest concealmeii* it
can tind. The eggs are rather smaller than those of the hen,
the shell is very tliick, and the colour is a yellowish red pro-
fusely spotted with dark brown.

This is the bird that was called Meleagris by the ancients.
The sisters of Meleager were said to have been metamorphosed
into birds, whose feathers were sprinkled with the tears shed
for his death.

and sproiul liis tail
or without iiiHictiug
turl<oy sutVors him-
liua lie is secure from

L;inally brought from
li the turkey. From
f " Come-back." lu
ig in largo flocks in
rds roost on the trees
a restless, wandering
iptivity, the bird fre-
L its home. Like the
;losest concealineii^ it
lau tho^e of the hen,
s a yellowish red pro-

igris by the ancients,
been metamorphosed
1 with the tears shed

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family IV. . . Tetrnonldw.
Sub-family a. Perdicina.

Pkkdis.- (Or. HfoSif, a Partridge.)

321

CinerSa (Lat. cuhji), the Partridge.

The Partridge, an inliabitant of this countiy, is well known
iis one of the birds included in the designation of " game."
It lays from fifteen to twenty eggs in a rude nest placed on
tile gi'ound, and displays gi'cat attachment to them, and no
small ingenuity in decoying an intruder away. Mr. Jeese
mentions that a gentleman who was overlooking bis plough-
man, saw a partridge run from her nest, almost crushed by
fhe horses' hoofs. Being certain that the next fun'ow must
bury the eggs and nest, he watched for the return of the
l)lough, w^hen to his gi'eat astonishment the nest, previously
containing twenty-one eggs, was vacant. After a search, he
found the bird sitting upon the eggs under a hedge, nearly
forty yards from the nest, to which place she and her mate
had removed the whole number in less than twenty minutes.
In some parts of England the Pailridgc is very plentiful —

322

NATURAL HISTOny.

one sportsman liiiviug shot in two days one hundred and sixty-
eiglit brace on one manor.

The length of the liird is twelve inches and a half; the
wing is short and rounded, causing tlie peculiar whiri-ing
sound when in motion ; the third and fourth primary feathers
are the longest.

C0TL-I!N1.\.— (Lat.)

Commuuis (Lut. rommon), the Quail.

The Quail is a tolerably common little l>ird, visiting England
in the summer. Countless flocks of them are si)read over
the whole of Southern Euro])e, and multitudes are taken and
sent to the London markets : thirty-six thousand having been
pm-chased during one season by the London poulterers.

Temminck states that hundreds of thousands arrive in
Naples and Provence, and are so fatigued that for several
days they suffer themselves to be taken by hand. We are
here reminded of the flight of Quails with which the Israelites
were fed, the sacred narrative even preserving the nocturnal
flight of these birds. " And it came to pass that at even
the Quails came up and covered the camp." Probably the
instinct to fly by night is implanted in them for the purpose
of avoiding the birds of prey that would attack them by day.
The female lays from seven to twelve eggs in a rude nest on
tlio ground.

The length of the bird is seven inches j the second primary
feather is the longest.

le hundred and sixty

lies and a half; tlio
lie peculiar whirring
irth j)rimary feathers

e Quail.

I l)ird, visiting England
hem are spread over
Ititudes are taken and
thousand having been
idou poidterers.

thousands arrive in
gued that for several
}n by hand. We are
h whicii the Israelites
serving the nocturnal

to pass that at even.
samp." Probably the
them for the purpose
1 attack them by day.
;ggs in a rude nest on

i; the second primary

NATUH.VL nisTonv.

Sub-family l>. Tetraoiyina.'.
Tetbao.— (Lat. a Biutan'.)

?y2:i

Urogallufl, the Capercaillie,

The Capkrcaillie or Cock of the Wood is common in
most paiis of nc>rthern Europe, and was once to be found in
Scotland and Ireland. The male is a lai'ge bird, almost
e(}ualling a Turkey in size, but the female is considerably
smaller. In the early spring, before tlie .snow hiis left the
gi-ound, this singulai- bird commences his celebrated " play."
This play is confined to the males, and intended to give
notice of their presence to the females who are in the
neighbourhood. " During tlie play," says Lloyd, " the neck
of the Capercaillie is stretched out, his tail is raised aud
spread like a fiin, his wings droop, his feathei-s are ruffled up,
and in short he much resembles in appearance an angry
turkey-cock. He begins his play with a caU something
resembling peller, peller, peller ; these sounds he repeats at

324

NATURAL HISTORY.

sduie littlo intcrvalH, but as he proceeds, they mcrcaEe u>.
liipidity, until i-i last, and after perhaps the lapse of a minute
i)v so, he niakts a sort of gulp in his throat, and thiiahf-s with
sucking in, as it were, his breath.

•' Dn.ing the ( ontinuanco of this latter procesp, whicii 'jnly
lasts a few seconds, the head of tiie (^apucaillic W t'iiowsi up.
his eyes arc partially closed, and his whi le appearance would
denote that he is worked up into an ago»iy of pa.^ion. At
this time, his fiuultics are nyach absorbed, and it is not
difficult to approacii i.im."

The nest is made on the ground, and contains frL-n. si.\ to
twelve eggs.

TETRAD.

Totrix, the Black Groitse.

The Black Gkouse or Black Cock is still found on the
moors of Scotland and some parts of England, and with the
red grouse tempts innumerable sportsmen annually to spend
their leisure mouths ou the moors.

8, tllCy MlCITaKc Itl

lie lapse of a iiiin'ate
at, and ilniBti's with

• procest', whk;ii 'jtily
caillic i- t*iio\vii up.
(c appciimncc would
;ony of pao^ion. At
jrbed., and it \h not

contains frun\ six to

is still found on the
ngland, and with the
.en annually to spend

NATURAL IlISTOHY.

r,-2:>

LAfiOPUS.- (Or. Aayiis, a Hnre ; iravi, a loot ; the Ptai-.iigan.)

ScotlcuB (Lat. Scotch), the Red Grouse.

The Red Grouse has i.cver heen found wild on the ( 'onti-
nent, hut seems to contino itself exclusively to the heaths of
Scotland, Wales and Ireland. In these places it is very
luiinerous, associating in flocks or "packs," and together
with the black grouse is eagerly pursued by sportsmen, who
are frequently baffled by the shy and wary habits of the birds.
The nest of the lied Grouse is formed of heath and grass
carelessly heaped together on tl\e ground under the shelter
of some low shrub. The yoimg are fully fledged by A\igust.

THE rTARMIQAN.

The legs and feet of the Ptarmigans are thickly covered
with hair-like feathers reaching as for as the claws. Their
plumage beai-s a singular analogy to the fur of the ermine
and some other quadi-u])ccLs, as it changes in winter froin a
rich almost tortoiseshell colour to a pure white.^ The
common Ptarmigsvn inhabits the northern i)arts of Euroi>t'
and America, and is also found in the north of Scotland,
jjrincipally among the mountains. The colour of the bird
is so similar to that of the mossy and lichen-covered rocks

326

NATURAL HISTORY.

I,A<ion;9

/??>/•

AlhuH (Lat. white), the Ptarmigan.

among whicli it dwells, that a wholo covey easily eludes an
un];)ractiscd eye.

Enormous numbers of Ptarmigans arc annually imported
from the north of Europe, especially Norway and Sweden, to
the London market. One poulterer has purchased fifteen
thousand of these birds, and twenty-four thousand have been
exported iu one ship from one place.

Like that of the grouse, the Ptarmigan's nest is a loosely
constructed heap of twigs and grass, and contains from ten
to fourteen eggs of a reddish white spotted with brown.

THE BRUSH TURKEY.

The Megapodidje, deriving their name from the enormous
size of their feet, are inliabitants of Australia and Hie Papuan
Islands. In the habits of these birds there is u peculiaiity
hardly less singular than surprising. Instead of hatching
their eggs by the warmth of the body, as most birds do, not
excepting the ostrich, the Megapodes bury their eggs in a
decaying heap of grass and leaves, trusting to the heat
fumished by the fermentation to hatch the eggs.

iigan.

vey easily ehides an

iv anmially imported

rway ami Sweden, to

las lau'chascd fifteen

thousand liave been

in's nest is a loosely
d contains from ten
ed with brown.

Y.

le from the enormous
ralia and Hie Tapuan
there is a peculiaiity
Instead of hatching
as most birds do, not
bury their eggs in a
nisting to the heat
the eggs.

NATUUAL UISTOnV.

327

Kiiiuily V. Mcgapodldtc. — (Or. M«7cm, groat ; nois, a foot. Tliu
great-footod kind.)

T.\LE(1ALI.I'8.

Lathumi (Lat. nf Latham), the Brush Turkey.

The Bnusn Tuukey is principally found in the thick
brushwood of New South Wales. Mr. (Jould, who first
brought it before the public, gives this curious account of
tiieir nests : — " The mode in which the materials composing
these mounds are accumulated is equally singidar, the bircl
never using its bill, but always grasping a (juantity in its
foot, throwing it backwards to one common centre, and thus
clearing the surface of the ground for a considerable distance
so completely that scarcely a leaf or a blade of grass is left.
The heap being accumulated, and time allowed for a sufficient
heat to be engendered, the eggs are deposited, not side by side
as is ordinarily the case, but planted at the distance of nine
or twelve inches from each other, and buried at nearly an
arm's depth, perfectly upright, with the large end upwards.

328

NATURAt uisTonr.

They arc covered up as they iiro hiid, uml allnwod to rciimiii
until I' ' . ' iim credibly informed, I ith by iiativeH and
gfttlw-R ]i )!m ni'iU their hminlH, that it is not an nnunual
•■vcfic to ••>'>• livi nearly a buishol of eggs at one lime from
a tiiiiglc iieap ; and as they ai-o delicious eating they arr
euKtrly Hought after."

When the Brush Turkey is disturbed, it either runs through
the tangled underwood with singular ra[)i(Uty, or sjiiings
upon a low branch of some tree, and roaches the summit by
a succession of leaps from h">ai'h to branch. This latter
peculiarity renders ii au easy prey to the por Ionian.

MEOAronfus.

Tumtilua (Lat. o Mound), the Atound-making Ahgapode,

The MnuND-M.iKiNO Mkgapodb inhabits the dense th kets
bordering on the soa-sliore, and is never found far inland.
Like the Brush Turkey i* depositt, many egfrs in one mound,
but instead of placing th( at intervals in tlie mound, the bird
mui; - deep ' jlesfnnn to six fei ' at the bottom of which

the eggs are depo- *cu. The natives obtain the eggs by
scratching up the t irth witii their tingore, until they have
traced th(! hole to the liottom ; a very laborious task, as the
holeb jeldom run straigl

and often turn ofif at right angles

1(1 allowed to remain
, loth by iiiitivx'H ami
it is nut iiii iinuHiiiil
jfi lit olio time from
lOUB catiiij,' they ait

it either run« througli
ra|)iility, or Hiniiigs
aeiiis the Hiimmit hy
branch. This latter
e sportomau.

taking Megapodc.

itH Che dense tin kots
rer fovnid far inland.
y cg<is in one mound,
n the mound , the bird
t the bottom of whicii
obtain tlio eggs by
gers, mitil they have
laborious task, as the
rn off at right angles

NATLIUL HISTOUV.

•,V1\)

to nvoid a stone or root. The mounds arc enormously large.
Ml Oilbert was told by the residents tiiat tlicy were the
toml's of the ai)origines, nor was it until after some time that
Hioir real nat\n-e wa,-* made known. Tlie lieight of one nu>und
was fifteen feet, and its circmnference at the base si.xty feet.

TllK OSTKH'H.

The STfirTiiioMD.K include the Ostrich, Kmu, Cassowary,
and \ptery\. The birds of this family are all remarkable
for the shortness of their wings, which are weak and imahlc
to raise them from the ground, but appear to lussist tiiem in
I'unning. On this account Cuvier called the family IJrevi-
pennos, i.e. short-winged birds.

Th OsTKKU is the largest bird as yet known to exist, its
height Iwin^ from six to eight feet. It tu inhabitant of
Africa, and from tlusice the elegant plumes are brought.
These plumes are uostly obtained from the wings of the bird,
and not from the i 1 as is generally imagined.

An imioouse number of eggs are laid by the Ostriches m
one spot, several birds lielonging to each nest. The eggs are
very lai'ge and strong, and are in .nend use by the IJosjes-
aians for holding water. By mean.-, of thesn eggs, which they
l)ury at intervals in the sand, after filling i lem with water,
tluy are eir'1>k"^ to make inroads across the desert and
retnat with ry, as none can follow them for want of

water. Each ■ o"lds rather more than five pints. An
excel! omelet is nuide by the natives, by burying the fresh
egg i sushe-^ and stimng round the contents with a stick

thr h a hole the n ,>er end, until thoroughly cooked.

Tiie i"inci| 1" iif 'he Ostrich tribe lies in the legs.

These huibs an t'ul iliat a swift hoi'se has gi'cat ditii-

culty in overtaking' tUv; , ird. As the Ostrich mostly runs in
large irves, tho hunters cut across and intercept the bird,
\ 'lioh would hi ail probability escape if followed in its exact
course.

The Ostrich is eiisily tamed, a.- 'lose who have been
jiursued by the magnificent birds iu u Zoological Gardens

'.VMi

NATLIIAL HISTdUV.

()rder VL STRlTlllONES.

Kiwiiily r. StnitliionWio. -(Or Stpoi/flrfs. m Ostrich. OAndx kinil.)

Siilifiiiiiily (I. . StnahhiHiiitr..

STiu'TnTo.

•^IS**

Caindus (Or. Kd/*?)Aoi, a Ciimel), the Ostrich.

Ciia testify. These fretiueiitly astonish the visitor by suddeuly
snatching out of his hand a bun or cake which ho liad in-
tended for his own especial benefit, their long necks enabling
them to reach to a surprising distance. Many of my readers

Ostrich. Ostrithkiuiij

he Ostrich.

3 visitor bj' suddenly
:c which ho had iu-
loug uccks enabling
Many of my readers

NATUIIAL IIIHTOnV.

X\l

have dcmbtlesH seen the tame ostriches at the Hipimdroine,

wlio rail races bearing riders mi tlieir backs, and really Heeiucd

to enjoy the M[)ort as imieh a?* any of the spectators. Tiie

■itercsting narrative of rn|itaiii ('Hiuming contains some

•fnl irmarks on the habits i.f the (tstrich, and the method
111 which it is destroyed by the liosjesnians.

" While eneamjied at this vlcy we fell in with several nests
oC ostriches; aud hero I first ascertained a singular i>ro[icnsity
Iieculiar to these birds. If a person discovers the nest, and
does not at once remove the eggs, on returniii!,' he will most
prolialily tiii.l them all smashed. This the old birds alnmst
invariably d(., even when the intruder has not handled the
eggs, or so mueii as ridden within tive yards of them. The
nest is merely a hollow scooped in the sjindy soil, gencndly
amongst heath or other low bushes ; its diameter is about seven
teet ; it is believed that two hens often lay in one nest. The
iiatching of the eggs is not left, as is generally believed, to
the heat of the sun, but, on the contrary, the cock relieves
the hen in the incubation. These eggs form a consideraltle
item ill the ISushmen's cuisine, and the shells are converted
into water tlasks, cups, and dishes. I have often Riou Bush-
girls and liakalahari women, who belong to the wandering
I'lcchuana tribes of the Kalahari desert, come down to the
fountains from their remote habitations, sometimes situated
at an amazing distance, each carrying on her buck a kaross
or a net-work containing from twelve to fifteen ostrich egg-
shells, which had been emptied by a small aperture at one
end ; these they fill with water aiid cork up the hole with
grass,

" A favourite method adopted by the wild Bushman for
approaching the Ostrich and other varieties of givme, is to
clothe himself in the skin of one of these birds, in which,
taking care of tiie wind, he stalks about the plain, cunningly
imitating the gait and motions of the Ostrich, until Avithin
range, when, with a well-directed poisoned arrow from his
tiny bow, he can generally seal the fate of any of the ordinary
varieties of game. These insignificant-looking arrows are
about two feet six incites in length ; they consist of a slender
reed, with a sliarj) bono head, thoroughly poisoned with a
composition, of wliich the principal ingredients are obtained

332

NATURAL HISTORY.

sometimes from a succulent herb, having thick leaves, yielding
a poisonous milky juice, and sometimes from the jaws rf
snakes. The bow barely exceeds three feet in length ; its
string is of twisted sinews. Wlien a Bushman finds an
ostrich's nest he ensconces himself in it, and there awaits
the return of the old birds, by which meims he generally
secures the pair. It is by means of these little arrows that
the majority of the fine plimies are obtained which grace the
heads of the fair throughout the civilizei' world."

The food of the Ostrich is vegotable, and it swallows many
stones, &c. to assist it in grindi-zj,' its food. When in confine-
ment it picks up anything, glass, nails, &c., from the effects
of which it sometimes dies.*

Capt, Gumming remarks a fact not generally known, viz.
the care that the Ostrich takes of its young. It has generally
been supposed that after the eggs are laid, the female leaves
them to be hatched in the sun, and takes no more care for
them. The following anecdote would do honour to the far-
famed Lapwing. " I fell in with a troop of about twelve
young o.striches, which were not much larger than Guinea-
fowls. I was amused to see the mother endeavour to lead us
away, exactly like a wild duck, spreading out and 'h'ooping
her wings, and throwing hei-self down on the ground before
us as if wounded, while the cock bird cunningly led the brood
aAvay in an opposite direction."

The Rhea, or American Ostrich, is abundant on the banks
of the river La Plata, and is chased by the Gauchos, who
pursue it on horseback, and kill it by throwing the celebrated
" bolas." These curious weapons are made of a long leathern
thong, having a heavy stone or l..aueu ball attached to each
end. The Gaucho can throw it so as either to stun his prey
with a blow from the ball, or strangle it by causing the thong
to twist round its neck.

It is known that the Rhea can swim well, and frequently
crosses rivers several hundred feet in width, a power which
the ostrich and the cassowary are not ascertained to possess.
There are two species of this bird, one, the Dtu'wiu's Rhea,
has been but lately introduced to science.

» I have been present at the dissection of an ostrich, when an astonisiiinf? amount
of i)ehl)les and other hard materials was taken from its stomacli, amont' whicli were
a tolerably large piece of deal, and a considerable iiortion of a brickbat.

T.

ig thick leaves, yieldina:
ini3s from the jaws of
ree feet in length ; its
a Bushman finds an
n it, and there awaits
jh means he irenerally
these little arrows that
itained which grace the
zei" world."

', and it swallows many
3od. When in confine-
is, &c., from the effects

t generally known, viz.
oung. It has generally
! laid, the female leaves
takes no more care for
. do honom* to the fai"-
trooj) of abont twelve
ih larger than Guiuea-
er endeavour to lead us
ling out and (b-ooping
on the ground l)efore
3uuningly led the brood

abundant on the banks
L by the Gauchos, who
throwing the celebrated
uade of a long leathern
1 ball attached to each
either to stun his prey
it by causing the thong

m well, and frequently
I width, a power which
ascertained to possess,
le, the DiU'win's Rhea,
ice.

ch, when an astonishing amount
its stomach, among whlcli wert
rtion of a brickbat.

NATORAI, niSTOHA'.

CASHAltlns.

333

iffev

,iyt3.«:i--

CasOar, tlic Caaaowari/.

The Cassowary is a native of the eastern parts erf Asia,
Like the ostrich, it cannot fly, but runs with great swiftness,
and if attacked by dogs kicks with extreme force and mpidity.
The feathers of this bird are remarkable for being composed
of two long, thread-like feathers, sprouting from the same
root. The wing feathers are rou id, black, and strong, and
resemble the quills of the porcupine. At the end of the last
joint of the wing is a sort of claw or spur.

The food of the bird consists of vegetable substances, and
it will frequently swallow a tolerably large apple entire, trusting
to the pebbles, &c. in its stomach to bruise it.

334

NATURAL HISTORY.

Dbomaius.— (Gr. /ipo;uaroj, running swiftly.)

Novic-Hollandlic (Lat. of New Holland), the Emu.

The Emu is a native of New Holland, and neai-ly equals
the ostrich in bulk, its height being between five and six
feet. Its feathers lie loosely on the body, and its wings are
small and hardly to be distinguished. The skin of the Emu
fm-nishes a bright and clear oil, on which account it is eagerly
sought after. Mr. Bennet gives the following .account of the
habits of this bird.

" In its manners the Emu beai's a close resemblance to the
ostrich. . . Its food appears to be wholly vegetable, consisting
chiefly of fruits, roots, and herbage, and it is consequently,
notwithstanding its gi-eat strength, perfectly inoffensive. The
length of its legs and the musculai-ity of its thighs enable it
to run with great swiftness ; and a,s it is exceedingly shy, it is

b; swiftly.)

NATURAL HISTORY.

•d-3n

tid), the Emu.

I, and nearly equals
etween five and six
ly, and its wings are
'he skin of the Emu
account it is eagei-ly
wing account of the

3 resemblance to the
vegetable, consisting
1 it is consequently,
tly inoffensive. The
f its thighs enable it
3xceedingly shy, it is

not easily ovei'takcn or brought within gunshot. Captain
OuiTio states that it attbi'ds excellent coursing, equalling if
not suqjassing the same sport with the hare in England ; but
Mr. Cunningham says that dogs will seldom attack it, both
on account of some peculiar odour in its flesh which they dis-
like, and because the injuries inflicted upon them by striking
out with its feet are frequently very severe. The settlei-s
even assert that the Emu will break the small bone of a man's
leg by this sort of kick ; to avoid which, the well-trained dogs
run up abreast, and make a sudden spring at their neck,
whei'eby they are quickly dispatched,"

" Its flesh has been compared to coarse beef, which it re-
sembles both in appearance and taste. There is but little
fit for culiuiuy use upon any part of the Emu except the
hind quarters."

The voice of the Emii is a kind of low booming sound. The
eggs ai'e six or seven in number, of a dark green colour, and
arc much esteemed by the natives as food. When the natives
take an Emu, they break its wings, a curious custom of no
perceptible utility. Young men and boys are not permitted
to eat the flesh of this bird.

THE APTERYX.

This extraordinary bird, whose name is derived from the
apparent absence of wings, those members being merely rudi-
mentary, inhfibits Australia and the islands of New Zealand.
It conceals itself among the densest fern, and when hunted
by dogs, it hastens to seek a refuge among rocks aud in the
chambers which it excavates in the earth. In these chambora
its nest is made and the eggs laid. The natives hunt it with
gi'eat eagerness, as the skin is used for the di-ess^s of chiefs,
who are so tenacious of them that they can hardly be per-
suaded to part with a single skin. The feathers are employed
to make artificial flies. When attacked it defends itself bv
rapid and vigorous strokes with its powerful feet.

Dr. Shaw firat brought this bird before the notice of the
public, but for many years naturalists considered it an extinct

A :!M

336

NATURAL HISTOUY.

Sub-family 6. Apterygina.
ArTERYX. — (Gr. a, priv. ; TTTcouf, a wing ; wingless.)

Avistralis (Lat. Australian,) the Aptcri/x.

species. Latterly the question has been set at rest, not only
by the researches of Goxild and other naturalists, but by the
arrival in this country of several skins* and one living specimen,
now in the Zoological Gardens. This bird has a singular habit
of resting with the tip of its bill placed on the ground. The
nostrils of the Ai'teryx are placed almost at the very extremity
of the biU. The aborigines of New Zealand give it the name
of Kiwi Kiwi. The food of the bird consists of snails, insects,
and worn >. which latter creatures it obtains by striking the
ground wit. its feet, and seizing them on their appearance at
the surface.

* A small hut well preserved skin is mounted in tho Aahmolean Museum, Oxford
The riulinientary wings are very well shown. A sLeleton is in the mu.ieum of the
College of Sur';"on8.

ing ; wingless.)

•"!f")!*

Apteryx.

. set at rest, not only
ituralists, but by the
d one livingspecinien,
i has a singular habit
on the ground. The
at the very extremity
and give it the name
sists of snails, insects,
tains by striking the
1 their appearance at

V.shmolean Museum, Oxford.
Ion is in the niUiieum of the

NATURAL HISTORY.
Sub-family c. D-idime.

DIDUS.

Mm

337

Ineptus (Lat. stupid), the Dodo.

This singular bird, which is supposed to bo extinct, was
discovered at the Mauritius by the earlier voyagers. For
many years their accounts of the DocLars were supposed to bo
mere flights of fancy. Lately, however, the discovery of
several relics of this bird in various countries has set the
(luestion at rest. Not so the question of the proper position
of the bird. Some think it belongs to the pigeons, and some
to the ostriches. In the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford are
a head and foot of the Dodo, sole nnmants of a perfect
specimen known to have existed in 1700 ; and in the same
place, in the year 1847, diu'ing the meeting of the British
Association, were gathered together the whole of the existing
remains from every country.

In the travels of Sir T. Hubert, in the year 1627, are
several accounts. From the work of this traveller, whose

..ammsm

"i"JI

338

NATURAL HISTORY.

amusement it was to re-write his travels, each time completely
changing the language but retaining the matter, an extract is
taken.

"The Dodo, a bird the Dutch call Walghvogel, or Dot!
Eersen ; her body is round and fat, which occasions the slow
pace, or that her corpulencic, and so great as few of them
weigh less than fifty poimd : meat it is with some, b>it better
to the eye than stomach, such as only a strong appetite can
vanquish. . . It is of a melancholy visage, as sensible of nature's
injury in fx-amiug so massie a body to bo directed by com-
plemental wings, such, indeed, as are unable to
hoise her from the gi'ound, serving only to rank
her among birds. Her traine, three small plumes,
short and improportionable, ho! legs suiting to
her body, her pounces sharpe, her appetite strong
and greedy. Stones and iron are digested, which
description will better be conceived in her repre-
sentation." The " representation " liere alluded
to is that of a globidar-shaped bird, perfectly
naked, with the exceptioix of three separate
feathei-s on the tail, and a few foatheni on the wing. The
expression of lugubrious wisdom on the countenance is
irresistibly ludicrous.

It is still within the range of possibility that this bird
should again be discovered, as at present but little of Mada-
gascar has been searched, and in that island, if any where, it
will bo found.

Another bird, the gigantic Dinoi'nis, has been extii ,ated
from the face of the earth by man. This enormous bird,
whose leg is rather larger than that of a fossil elk, and whose
head could not have been less than ten feet and a half from
the ground, was at one time an inhabitant of New Zealand, but
has been extirjmted for many years, a fate likely to befal the
defenceless Apteryx. In the Anatomical Museum at Oxford
is a cast of the leg of the Dinornis, standing side by side
with that of an ostrich. The leg of the ostrich is quite
insignificant by the side of the enormous cast.

BEAK
OfTHBDODO

"'-' -"^^^- ' —

2acli time completely
matter, oil extract is

Walghvogel, or Dod
;h occasions the slow
jreat as few of them
A'ith some, but better

strong appetite can
as sensible of nature's
be directed by corn-
ed, as are unable to
serving only to rank
e, three small plumes,
, hci legs suiting to
e, her appetite strong
n are digested, which
jnceived in her repre-
tution" liere alluded
laped bird, perfectly
I of three separate
3 on the wing. The

the countenance is

ibility that this bird
t but little of Mada-
and, if any where, it

, has been exth ,ated
Tliis enormous bird,
I fossil elk, and whose
feet and a half from
it of New Zealand, but
ite likely to befal the
il Museum at Oxford
standing side by side
the ostrich is quite
s cast.

Ran

NATUBA3, HISTOUY.

Sub-family d. Otina'.—(Gr. 'nrls, a Buntai-d,)
OTDS.

31)9

Tarda (Lat. slow), the Great Bustard.

The OuEAT Bustard, o' ;• English representative of the
()tida3, is now scarcely evei oY"" 'i this country, although
formerly it was tolerably con.vi. a. It runs with great
swiftness, and will never rise on the wing until forced, so that
instances have been known of bustards being captured by
greyhounds. It is exceedingly wary, and can hnicuy l;o
approached within gun-shot, except by adop'^^in'r so!ne dis-
guise, as a labourer with the giux in his wheeP .\.n\ "v, or by
driving a cart or a carriage by the spot where it la u di/t'.

The male Bustard possesses a membranous pouf li ")n the
fore part of the neck, capable of holding six or seven pints of
water. There is an opening to this pouch under the tongue,
and its use is possibly, like that of the pelican, to carry water
for the use of the young, but this is not ascertained. The

340

NATURAL HISTORY.

length of the bird is ratlicr more than three feet. Its nest is
n loose hcaj) of straws on the ground, and contains two pale
brown eggs, spotted with brown, rather larger than those of
the turkey.

Order VII. . ORALL.E.—{ha.t Stnted Birds>
Family I. . . Chnrndrida).
Sub-family c. CharadrincB,
VANErxua

Cristatus (Lat. crested), the Lapiohuj or Peewit.

The Plovkrs arc known by their long legs, short toes, and
long and powerful wings. Many are inhabitants of England,
of which tlie Lapwing and Golden Plover are the most
common.

The Lapwing, or Peewit, is very common in most parts of
England, and is well known for its plaintive cry, and the
stratagems it employs to decoy intruders away from its nest,
or rather eggs, for nest it has none. Frequently, however,
the attempts of the bird only draw the attention of the passer-
by to the nccessaiy vicinity of the eggs. These eggs are dark
brown, blotched with black, and are hardly to be distinguished
from tlie soil where they are laid. If an intruder approach
them, the bird glides before him, and flutters along, drooping
her wings, as if wounded, invariably endeavouring to lead
liim away from her nest. When it has succeeded in
ilocoying away tiie intruder, it suddenly mounts in the air,
uttering its cry of pee-weet, leaving its pm-suer to gaze with

pco feet. Its nest is
id contains two palo
arger than those of

ted Birds.)

I ur Peewit.

legs, short toes, and
ibitants of England,
lover arc the most

ion in most parts of
lintive cry, and the
away from its nest,
<'requently, however,
ention of the passer-
These eggs are dark
y to be distinguished
1 intruder approach
;ters along, drooping
adeavouring to lead
has succeeded in
mounts in the air,
pui"suer to gaze with

NATURAL HISTORY.

3U

astonishment at the escaping bird. When flying, the black
and white colours of its plumage make it very conspicuous.
On the head of the bird is a kind of ri , ,t.

Family II, . . . Ardeldjc.— (Lat. Ardea, a Horou. Heron-kiud.)
Sub-family b. . . GruhvjB.

Geus. — (Lat. a Crane.)

Cinerfia (Lat, ashy), the Crane.

The Common Crane is now but rarely seen on our shores,
although formerly as common as was the bustard. It flies at
so great a height, that although its hoarse cry is audible, the
bu-d itself is fiu- out of the reach of sight. It gencraUy feeds
on snails, frogs, and worms, but is not by any means averse
to newly sown grain. The nest is made among reeds and
rushes, and contains two bluish green eggs, mai-ked with
brown. The length of the bird is nearly four feet.

U2

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-lamily c. . Ankiih:
ard£a.

CinerCa, the Heron.

Tti'.' Heron, or Herne, is a bird renowned in the noble
Jiiiiojisa of falconry, and respecting which mu.> crious kuow-
iflclj^e is to be gained from the work of Dan.o J uiiana Bemers,
a book of most amusingly quaint language. The Common
heron generally breeds in numbers, like the rook ; indeed,
these two birds frequently inhabit contiguous trees, but never
interfere with each other. In the dawn of the early morning,
or while the moon cixsts an imcertain light, the Heron may bo
seen standing in the shallow water, stiff and motionless, and
by the faint light may be mistaken for i stump of a tree.
But his eye is keenly directed on the water, and no sooner
does a fish approach, than a dart of his unerring bill secures
it, and the Heron soars exultingly to his nest, bearing his

i

lowned in the noble
nlu..^ c'rious kuow-
XDio J uliana Berners,
iige. The Common
e the rook ; indeed,
lous trees, but never
f the early morning,
t, the Heron may be
and motionless, and
t stump of a tree,
fater, and no sooner
unerring bill secures
is nest, bearing his

NAT I

niHToi V.

343

1

prey with him. The fixed jiatienco ti.; tl»e Heron dispIayM
Ills ciuiHod it to be .hos^'H ^ the emblem ..f S-.-litudo.

The plumes of the H.m.u were r„rm. rly oousidercd ns
ornament only to bo worn by tiij noble. li m not an
iiuconnauu sight to -.>e this splendid bird slowly wnmowing
his way throiuh the ui, , when iddc-nly a magpie, or a crow,
ziv. s the alar ,, and the po. r bird is instantly beset by its
.unoying enemies, especially the ernvs, who rcHent the Heron's
approach to their own residence, and frequently drive bun

ivway. ,

The nest of the Heron is a flat mass of sticks, laid uii tno

high. , oranrlies of a tree, and contains five bluish grc".

eggs. The length of the bird is about three feet.

An old name of this binl was the Heme, or Herusl.

from which was dciived the saying, "He does not ki

a Hawk from a Hemshaw." The last word has been

rupted into 'tandsaw," and of course rendera the pro-

most unraeauiu;-

THE BITTERN.
The beautiful T. has been almost banished from tliis

rountry, althougl iy common. It frequents morasses,

and dense beds of i cds, where it lies concealed until the
(!vcning, when it leaves its rushy bed and soars to a vast
hei<'ht, continually uttering its sepulchral booming cry. I his
singular sound is not unlike the deep bellowing of a bull, and
is most startling in its effect. It waa one of the birds chiefly
8<)U<'ht after in falconry, as the stout defence it makes against
its enemies, by darting its sharp and powerful beak at them,
and beating violently with its feet, renders it by no means an
ea.sy prey. For this reason the falconer's first care, on reach-
ing the Bittern when brought to the ground by his falcon,
was to secure its head, and by fixing its bill deep m the earth,
to save his eyes from the rapid and well-aimed blows of the
wounded bird. The falcon also was in danger of being trans-
fixed by the sharp beak of his victim.

The plumage of this beautiful bird is a rich reddish-yellow
ground boldly variegated with various black marks, which are
most conspicuous in the loose, long feathci-s ^ait decorate

I

344

NATURAL HI8T0BT.

B0TAURU8.

Stollilris (Lat. starry), the Bittern.

its neck, Tn size, it is a little less than the lieron. It
feeds principally on small rcptilcf field mice, and fish. ' Its
iiest is built on some slight elevation in a moi-ass, and contains
five bluisli green egj^.

THE WHITE SPOONBILL.

The Common Spoon-bill is foimd in Europe, Asia, and
Atnca, and frequents Holland, together with the stork The
strange shape of the tip of its beak has gainod it the name
ot bpoonbill. It has rarely been taken in this country It
feeds on worms, snails, and water plants, searching for the
latter by agitating the water with its broad beak.

The nest of the White Spoonbill is sometimes placed in

m

'>a^

an the Jieron. It
lico, and fish. Its
norass, and contains

Europe, Asia, and
th the stork. The
gained it the name
1 tills country. It
, searching for the
I beak.
)metime8 placed in

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Sciences

Corporation

33 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(716) :72-4503

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CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques

NATURAL HISTORY.

345

PLATALEA. — (Lat.)

Leucorodta (Or. AtvK6poSov, a wh.:.e rose), tfie White S^monbill.

trees, and sometimes amid rushes. It contains three whitish
eggs, slightly spotted with red. The length of the bird is not
(juite three feet.

THE STORK.

The Stork is extensively found throughout Europe, Asia,
and Africa. In Holland storks are very abundant, and are
encom-aged by the Dutch to build in their towns. Among
the ruins of Persepolis they are very common, scarcely one
pillar being without a stork's nest at the summit. lu
Holland a kind of false chimney is built by the inlmbitants
for these birds to make their nests in. When the Stork
cannot find a building on which to make its nest, it chooses
the flat spreading branches of a cedar or pine, and there

340

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-fiiruily il. . Ciconino'.
ClcONtA.— (Lat. a Storl:)

Alba (Lat. ivhite), the Slw-l:

collects a large mass of sticks and twigs, on which it laj's
from three to five whitish eggs. When distm-hed, the birds
make a great clattering with their bills. The draining of our
morasses seems to have driven the Stork completely out of
this country, where it was formerly tolerably common. The
food of this bird consists of rats, nuce, frogs, dc , and it is for
the benefits it confers upon man by devom-ing these vermin
that it is so carefully protected and encouraged, especially in
the East, where the inhabitants do not trouble themselves by
removing carrion or oflial, but leave that oiBce to the vultures,
hyenas, and other scavengers of nature. The height of the
Stork is nearly four feet.

The Adjutant of India, which is so useful in devouring oflFal
and vermin, is one of the Stork tribe. In the crop of one of
these birds was found a land tortqise, ten inches long, and
" a large black male cat, entire."

js, on whicli it lays
disturbed, the birds
The draining of our
k completely out of
•ably common. Tho
3g8, it! , and it is for
ouring these vermin
in-aged, especially in
•ouble themselves by
iflBce to the vultures,
The height of the

fill in devouring offal
[n the crop of one of
en inches long, and

NATURAL HISTOnV.

Sub-family/. . Tantalinai
Ibis.— (Qr.Meis.)

347

Religiosa (Lat. sacred), thi Sacred Ibis.

The Sacred Ibis inhabits Egypt, but does not seem to
breed there. This is the bird so frequently depicted m the
hieroglyphics as playing a conspicuous part m religious
ceremonies. Their mummies are constantly found m the
tombs, and in one of these mummies Cuvier discovered
remnants of skin, and scales of snakes. The Sacred Ibis is
about the size of an ordinary fowl.

348

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family III. . . Scolopacldtc.— (Gr. iKoK6ira^, a Woodcock. Wood-
cock-kind.)

Sub-family a. . Limosince.

CuACTicoRNis.— (Gr. Kpeun-ufrfr, clamormu; tpva, a bird.)

Arquatus (Lat. arched.) the Curlew.
-«•

The Curlew or Whaup is often found in the northern
parts of England and Scotland, and is spread over the whole
of the Old World, from South Africa to the polar regions. In
winter it collects in large flocks at the muddy shores of the
sea, where i^s long curved bill can easily penetrate in search
of food. It is an exceedingly shy hud, and difficult ti.
approach within gunshot.

Its nest is composed of grass and rushes, collected under the
shelter of a tuft of heath or grass, and contains four greenish
olive :eggs blotched with brown. The length of the bird
slightly exceeds two feet.

Tof, a Woodcock. VVood-

im; opvts, a bird.)

urlew.

md in the northern
»rcad over the whole
le polar regions. In
luddy shores of the
penetrate in Hearch
d, and difficult to

I, collected under the
itains four greenish
length of the bird

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family c, Recuniroatrinm.
Recuhvikostha,— (Lat. with hill curved upwards.)

349

Avocetta, t/ie Avocet.

The bill in the genus Recurvirostra is exactly the reverse
of that in the genus Numenius, the curve being upwards
instead -f downwards. The common Avooet is spread
throughout the warmer regions of Europe, and is also found
in some parts of Africa. It is very common m Holland and
is frequently seen on the eastern coasts of England, but seldom
visits Scotland, It frequents marshes and the mouths ot
rivers where it finds in the mud myriads of the small worms
and insects on which it feeds, and which it obtams by
scooping them up from the mud with its curiously curved
bill It is a good swimmer, but seldom has recourse to that
art except when it wades unexpectedly out of its depth.

The ecgs of the Avocet are laid on the ground, in a
depression sheltered by a tuft of herbage Their cdour
is a bluish green, spotted Wth black The birds when
disturbed at their nests feign lameness, like the y "g- 1"
order to draw the iutruder to a distance. The length of the
bird is eighteen inches.

The curious Stilt Plover belongs to the Avocets.

.350

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family d. Scolopadme.
acoLOPAX.

Rustiur.la (Lat. fun-d of the country), tlie Wuiidaml:

The Woodcock is a native of the northern parts of iMirope
and Asia, and is common in this countiy, but rarely has
been known to breed here. It generally reaches England at
the beginning of October, and leaves iis in March or April, at
which time its flesh loses the delicacy that characterises it,
and becomes coai-se and valueless. The Woodcock frequents
dense thickets during the day, but at night it leaves these
retreats, and visits the swamps and flooded meadows, where it
finds a sufliaiency of worms and insects.

The nest of this bird is a loose mass of grass and leaves,
gathered together in some sheltered depression. The eggs
are four in number, of a yellowish brown, blotched with dark
brown uid grey.

•V

, tlie Woodr'id:

thern paits of luirope

untiy, but rarely hiw

J reaches England at

in March or April, at

that characterises it,

I Woodcock frequents

night it leaves these

led meadows, where it

58 of grass and leaves,
lepression. The eggs
n, blotched with dark

NATURAL HI8T0RT.

NnMENTus. — (Or. Novni^ytos. )

351

Scolopactnus (Lat. like a Woodcock), the Siiijie.

The Snipe is too well known to need description. In its
habits it much resembles the woodcock, excepting that it
breeds plentifully in several counties of England, Scotland
and Ireland. Its flight is very singular, rcndermg it a
difficult mark. The Jack Snipe confines itself to one spot,
and cannot be induced to leave it even when fired upon.
Its fli<^ht is fully as perplexing as that of the common Snipe.
Stanley, in his History of Birds, mentions "a gentleman,
a very bad shot, who having at length succeeded in killing a
Jack Snipe, deeply lamented the loss of a bird which as he
was always sure of finding it in the same place, had attordcd
him consUnt amusement during a whole winter.'

THE RUFF.
The RuFP is celebrated for its pugnacious habits and the
sincnilar change of its plumage at certain seasons of the year.
Towards the breeding season a beautiful frill of long feathers
forms rouud the neck. It is a singular fact, that in hardly any
two of these birds is the frill of the same colour ; and more
remarkable, that the frill of the same bird is of difi^erent
colours at diflerent seasons. At the same time that the tnll

352

NATURAL HtSTOny.

Siib-fivmily e. Tnmjijut.
PiulomXcuus.— (Gr. ♦lArf/toxoi, a lover of battles.)

Pugnax (Lat. qtutmlsonc), the Ruff.

forms, tho male birds chooso each for themselves a small
spot, on which no other bird is permitted to intrude without
a severe battle taking place. The females, called Reeves, now
arrive, and their approach is the signal for a general mel6e ;
and the ground is soon denuded of grass by the constant battles!

The nest of the Keeve is merely a slight depression in a
tuft of grass. The eggs are four in number, of a greenish
_ white blotched with reddish brown.

Great numbers of these birds are annually sent to the
London markets. Vsu-ious prcciiutions are taken to prevent
their destructive quarrels from taking place, as captivity in
no way chminishes then- pugnacity.

THE JACANAS.

The JACANASarefoundin Asia, Africa, and America. Their
light bodies and widely extended claws emiblo them to walk
on the leaves of aquatic plants with equal ease and safety.
As their weight is just sufficieut to sink the leaf a little below
the surface, they have all the aj^pearance of walking on the

4t.

ver of battles.)

ic Ruff.

' themselves a small
id to intrude without
68, called Reeves, now
for a general rael^e ;
y the constant battles,
ilight depre8.sion in a
uuber, of a greenish

nnually sent to the
are taken to prevent
place, as captivity in

and A merica . Their
enable them to walk
[ual ease and safety,
bhe leaf a little below
je of walking on the

NATURAL niSTOnV.

353

Family IV. . . PalamedeTdw.— (Or. HoAii^ij, the palm of the hand)
Hub-fiiiuily a. . Parrince.

Pauba.— (Lat.)

Jiicivnn, the Jucaiia.

water itself. The Common Jaeana inhabits the hotter part«
of South America, and is abundant in Brazil and Guiana. It
possesses largo and sharp spurs on the wing.

THE CORNCRAKE.

The CouNCRAKE or Landrail is very common in England.
It reaches us at the beginning of April, and leaves us at the
end of October, after hatching its eggs. F iring the early part
of the summer months its harsh cry ma' i heard in almost
every field, but the bird is very seldom seen, as it threads its
way among the long gi-ass with mai-vellous rapidity. Its cry

3fl4

.NATL'IIAL IIISTOUY.

ORTViiOMETIIA.

Fmuily V. . . RftUldic.
8iib-fiiuiily a. . Ilullintr.

■ (Or. 'OpTu7o/u()Tp«, mijjratiug with the Quails ;
Liindriiil.)

tlu'

Crex (dr. Kp4^, a Crake ; derivod from itn cry;, Coinirakt <»■ Liuidrail.

can be so exactly imitated by drawing a quill sharply across
the teeth of a comb, that the bird may bo decoyed by the
sound until quite close to the operator. The Corncrake is so
averse to rising on the wing, that a dog is frecpiently employed
to hunt it. The young when taken feign death with admirable
accuracy, nor do they move until they imagine that the in-
truder is safely out of the way.

The nest of the Corncrake is by no means uncommon. It
is formed of hay, collected and worked into some depression
in the ground, and contains from eight to twelve eggs of a
greyish yellow, covered with dark brown spots. The leugtli
of the bird is about nine inches.

THE WATEll-HEN.

The Water-hen, or Mooh-hen, is very common along the
reedy banks of rivers and ponds. It is very widely distributed,
being found in almost all parts of the old world. It swims

g with the QuaiU; the

Yj, (Juriurakt ur LaiuiraU.

a quill sharply across
ay 1)0 decoyed by tho
Tlie Corncrake is so
is fre(iuently employed
1 death with admirable
T imagine that the in-

neans uncommon. It
1 into some depression
lit to twelve eggs of a
iS'H spots. The length

iry common along the

i^ery widely distributed,

old world. It swims

NATURAL HISTORY.

Hub-faiuily h. o'liUiiiuliudi.
aAixiNt'L.v.— (Lat.)

n.-i.T

'<V>v.

ChlorOpuH (Or. XKwpds, greeu ; nait, a. foot), the [VaUf-keu.

very gracefully, constantly nodding its head, and dives with
great skill and rapidity, particularly wlien alarmed, in which
case it generally dives under some floating herbage, ami re-
mains there with merely its beak above the water until the
danger is passed. On account of this habit it is almost useless
to shoot this bird unless accompanied by a dog, for if it is not
shot dead it instantly dives, and nothing but a dog can dis-
cover its retreat. It nms on land with considerable activity,
constJUitly flirting up its biil so as to show the white feathers
beneath, and when alarmed, instantly makes for the water.

The nest of the Water-hen is built among sedges and reeds
at the water side, and contains from five to eight or nine t'g^»
of a cream yellow, spotted with dark brown. When tho Water-
hen leaves her nest, she covei-s the eggs with dried griws anil
reeds, so as completely to conceal them, apparently lest the
rats should discover them. The young when hatcheil look
like round tufts of black down. They swim and dive well,
following their parent with gi'cat address. The pike is their
chief enemy, and destroys numbers by darting at them from
under the cover of water-lilios or other plants.

35 G

NATURAL HISTORY.

FuLtrA.— (Lat.)

Atra (Lat. black), the Coot.

The Coot much resembles the water-hen in its huhits. It
is iisiuiUy found in lar^o siieets of water, particularly if shel-
tered by trees. The nest is a huge mass of flags, reeds, and
-rass, usuaUy at the water's edge, but sometnnes actually m
tlie water.* In the nest are from seven to ten greenish wlnte
eggs, spotted with brown.

THE FLAMINGO.
The Flamingo is an inhabitant of the warmer parts^ of
Europe, and is common in Asia and the coasts of Africa, i he
sin-nilarly shaped beak of this splendid bird is pecuharly
adapted to its long and flexible neck. When the bird wishes
to feed, it merely stoops its head to the water ; the upper
mandible is then lowest, and is well fitted to ^'eceive the
nutritive substances which are entangled in a filter placed on
the edges of the beak, much resembling the analogous appa-
ratus of the whale. , , , j ,i.kc, „f
The Flamingo frequents marshes, lakes and mouths ot
rivers bidding defiance to the pestilent exhalations that drive

hillock, in tliR'C feet water.

n'.

'le Coot.

,ter-lieu in its hiibits. It
mter, particularly if shel-
3 mass of flags, reeds, and
lut sometimes actually in
3ven to ten greenish white

; of the warmer parts of
d the coasts of Africa. The
plendid bird is pecuharly
3k. When the bird wishes
1 to the water ; the upper
well fitted to receive the
angled in a filter placed on
nbling the analogous appa-

hes, lakes, and mouths of
;ilent exhalations that drive

tunted at the Reservoir near 'iwindoii.
«nd was made on a very small sunken

NATURAL HISTORY.

;i.j7

OraerVITI. . . ANSERES.— (halt. Geese.)
Family 1. . . . Auatldtc.— (Lat. .ditoji, a Duck. Duck-kind.)
Sub-famih- a. . P/ioenicopteniue.
Pll(ENlcorTi-:iios.— (Gr. *oii'i(cuirT6pos, roilwingeJ ; the Flamingo.)

Uubra (Lat. red), the Flamiwjo.

man far from their haunts. The colour of their plumsige is
a deep brilliant scarlet, except the quill feathers, which are
black. When a flock of these birds stands ranged in a line,
according to their custom, they present the appearance of a
small and well-drilled body of soldiers, but are far more

3,18

NATURAL HISTORY.

daugerous to approach than the most formidable nrniy, foi
tht' miasma of tlio marshes has a more deadly aim than the
rifle, and its breath is more cei'tainly fatal than the bullet.

The nest of the Flamingo is a curious conical structure o(
mud. with a cavity at the summit, in which are placed two oi-
three whitish eggs. When tiie female bird sits on the nest,
her feet rest on the ground, or hang into the wfiter. Tlie
height of the bird is between five and six feet.

Sub-family e. A»iieriii(e.
BKHXirr.A.

[jeucopsie (Or. AcvkSs, white ; S\)i, a face), the Be)~n,ick Uhhk.

The Bernicle Goose inhabits the northern parts of Em-ope
and America, but during the winter it resorts to our shores
in gi-eat numbers. It is an extremely shy bird, and cannot
be approached without the greatest caution and skill. Of the
origin of this bird most absurd tales have been told. All
agreed that it was produced from a tree, but the latest and
most approved account was that of Gerard, who in 1636
wrote as follows : — " But what our eyes have seen, and hands
have touched, we bi.:,ll declare. There is a small island in
Lancashire called the Pile of Foulders, wherein are found the

V.

rt formidable nrmy, foi
jrc deadly aim than the
fatal than the bullet,
oils conical structure ol'
which are placed two or
3 bird sits on the nest.
g into the water. The
six feet.

,ce), th( Bernicle (jimm.

orthern parts of Eui-ope
it resorts to our shores
ly shy bird, and cannot
ution and skill. Of the
3 have been told. All
tree, but the latest and
Gerard, who in 1636
cs have seen, and hands
ire is a small island in
I, wherein are found the

NATURAL HI8T0UV.

359

l.rokcii pieces of old and bruised ships, some whereof have
been cast thither by shipwracke. and also the tnniks and
bodies with the branches of old and rotten trees, cast up
there likewise ; wherein is found a certain spume or froth,
that in time breedeth into certaine sIicIh, in shape like those
of the iimskle, but sharper pointed, and of a whitish colour :
(.no end whereof is fastened into the inside of the shell, even
ius the tiHh of oisters and muskles, the other end is made fa.st
luito the belly of a rude masse or Umipe, which in time com-
ineth to the shape and form of a bird : when it is perfectly
formed the shell gapeth open, and the first thing that appeareth
is the foresaid lace or string ; next come the legs of the bu-d
hanging out, and as it groweth greater it openeth the shell by
degrees, till at length it is all come forth and hangeth only
by'the bill : in short space after it commeth to Ml maturitie,
and falleth into the sea, where it gathereth feathers, and
groweth to a fowle."

Of the Tame Goose, Amer ferus, nothing need be said,
except that enormous flocks are bred in Lincolnshire, con-
taining from two to ten thousand birds each. The bu'ds are
periodically subjected to the operation of plucking out the
Huill-feathers, in order to supply the vaBt demand for
pens, (fee.

THE SWAN.

The Mute or Tame Swan, a well-known ornament to
our lakes and rivers, is not an inhabitant of England, but was
introduced from Eastern Europe and Asia, ceveral hundred
years back. All are famiUar with the graceful deportment of
this bird while sailing on the surface of the water. Unfor-
tunately its progress on land by no means corresponds with
its aquatic grace, being confined to an awkward waddle.

The female Swan makes its nest of a great maBs of dry
reeds placed among osiers or rushes near the water, and lays
six or eight large white eggs. During the time of incubation,
and while the young are still small, the pai-ent birds defend
them with great assiduity and courage.

Several large Swanneries are still in existence, fhe Orown,

360

NATURAL HISTOKY.

Sub-family d. Ci/gntiice.
Ctqnus. — (Lat. a Swan.)

Olor (Lat. a Swan), the Mute Sican.

and tlie Dyers' and Vintners' Companies own the greater part of
the swans on the Thames, and their swans are annually mai'ked
on the bills by men termed Swan-uppera or hoppera. The
mark of the Vintners' Company is a notcii or nick at each
side of the bill, from which ai'ose the term, " swans with two
nicks," comipted into " necks."

The WHisTLixa Swan, or Hoopek, {Cygnus ferus,) resides
during summer within the Arctic circle, but in winter visits
the northern parts of Europe, including England. It migrates
in flocks of various numbers, arranged in the form of a wedge.
The down of this bird is very valuable, and is sought after by
the Icelanders, who choose the time when the birds have shed
their quill-feathera and are unable to fly, to chase them with

iim.

III.)

Q^-

v,te Swan.

s own the greater part of
uis are annually marked
ppera or hoj^pein. The
notch or nick at each
term, " swans with two

{Cygmis ferus,) resides
cle, but in winter visits
ig England. It migrates

in the form of a wedge.
!, and is sought after by
hen the birds have shed

fly, to chase them with

NATURAL HISTOHY.

^fil

d.,gs. The Whistling Swan wants tl>e grace that characteri^s
the Tame Swan; its neck is ^m^ed upnght, w, hout^^^^^^
olcL'ant arch of its domesticated relative. It s not quire
io Sge Ithe Tame Swan ; the expanse of its wmgs is about
eight feet.

t'llENOPts.— (Or. Xifi', a «oo«e : wO/, h f^we.)

Atrata (Lat. blackened), the Black Swan.

« Like a Black Swan," was formerly a well-known provei-b,
analogous to the Hoi-se Marines of the present day : unfortu-
nafelffor the proverb, a swan has been discovered m Aus-
?r^H^the whole of whose plumage is a jetty black with the
tralia, tne wn J»e ^ ^^/ ...i^ieh are white. It has been

ti. Tt U mthcr L.llor .ban the Whirling Swan.

3«2

NATUHAI. HlftTOIlV.

Sub-fainilj' c. Anatiwt.

\.NA*i.

Boochas (dr. B6(rKas, a Mallard, from fi6(TKri, jiaaturo*), the Mallard.

The Mallard or Wild Duck is the origin of our domestic
bird, and is widely spread over the northern parts of Europe,
Asia, and America. In the winter it migrates in countless
flocks, many reaching this country. In Lincolnshire incre-
dible mmibcra of these birds are taken in a very ingenious
trai), called a decoy. It is a perfect edifice of poles and nets,
and is built in the form of a tube, very wide at the mouth,
and very uiirrow at the extremity. The ducks are induced
to enter the "pipe" by the antics of a dog, and by some
hemp-seed previously strewn on the water. They are then
driven onwards to the smaller end, where they are caught
and killed.

Wilson, in his American Ornithology, gives the following
account of the method of catching wild ducks practised in
America.

" In some ponds frequented by these birds, five or six
wooden figm-es, cut and painted so as to represent ducks, and
sunk by pieces of lead nailed on their bottoms so as to float
at the usual depth on the surftice, are anchored in a fevourable
position for being raked from a concealment of binish, &c. on

» The keeper of a decoy in Lincolnshire mentioned that " the Mallard, Pintail, and
Teal frequent rich flooded lands, swiltering with their neh> (beaks) in the soil, and
surkinf! out all Usilrmiglh: but the Wigcon is un amiizini/ fowl tograxe, and a xlrany,
ruler uf jroM."— HicHARDSON.

m>mm0al*am*¥9

n.

'iitii.

■§fm»i-'

Kri, jiftsturo*), the Mallard.

e origin of our domestic
jrthem parts of Europe,
it migrates in countless

In Lincolnshire incre-
ken in a very ingenious
3difice of poles and nets,
.^ery wide at the mouth.
The ducks are induced
of a dog, and by some
1 water. They are then

where they are caught

)gy, gives the following
vild ducks practised in

these birds, five or six
I to represent ducks, und
r bottoms so as to float
anchored in a favourable
ealment of biiish, &c. on

edthat "the Mallard, Pintail, and
leir neba (beaks) in the soil, and
nuzitiy fuu't tograxe, and a slromjr

NATURAL HISTORY.

3()3

:4,oro The appearance of these usually attracts passing flocks
which alight, and are shot down. Sometimes eight or ten ol
these painted wooden ducks are fi.xe.l on a frame m various
swimming postures, and secured to the bow of the gunners
skifl". prok^cting before it in siich a way that the weight of the
frame sinks the figures to their j.roper depth ; the skitt is
then dressed with sedge or coarse gi-ass, m an arttui manner,
,w low as the water's edge ; and under cover of this, wluct.
appears like a party of ducks swimming by a sm.dl island, the
cmnner floats down sometimes to the very skirt of a whole
congi-egated multitude, and pours in a .lestructive and re-
i,eated fire of shot among them. In winter, when detached
pieces of ice are occa.sionally floating in the nver, sc.me of the
-runners on the Delaware paint their whole skifF or canoe
white, and laying themselves flat at the bottom with their
hand over the side silently managing a small paddle, direct it
imperceptibly into or near a flock before the ducks have dis-
tin<niished it irom a floating mass of ice, and generally do
great execution among them. A whole flock hai^ sometimes
been thus surprised asleep with their heads under then

'"S Tame Duck is so well known as to need no description.
The manner in which it fights the cock is highly amusing,
and but little known . It frequently happens while the towls
are being fed, that the duck runs among them, and by his
larger beak, gobbles up aa undue share of the Foyisions.
Sthe cock resents by gi^'ing him a peck. The duck takes
no notice, but gets behind the cock, deals h.m a hard peck,
and looks innocent. The cock jumps round but sees nothing.
Presently another hard peck comes, and he is very angry
A third peck— but this time the cock sees his enemy, and
rushes at him furiously. Down flops the duck on the ground,
and lets the cock pass over him. After running over him
once or twice, and then jumping on him, the cock is persuaded
that his enemy is quite dead, and walks off on the tips of his
toes Presently the duck first opens one eye and then the other,
gets up and quietly pecks the cock again. Ihe same ma-
Luvres are repeated, until at last the fuck wins, like tabius.
by delay, and drives his antagonist fairly off the held.

« Wilton's Ornithology, vol. viii. p. 114.

364

NATURAL HISTORT.

QoEnQUEDfrr-A.— (Lat.)

Crecca, the Teal.

The Teal is the smallest of our ducks. It fruquently
breeds in England, mostly choosin,!:; tiio northern lakes for that
purpose. Its flight is exceedingly rapid, soon carrying it out
of the reach of gun-shot. It chooses night for its feeding-
time, and during the day cmiceals itself luuler the herbs that
fringe the banks of the water where it has chosen its habita-
tion. Its nest is also carefully placed among dense herbage,
and contains from eight to twelve whitish eggs.

The delicacy of its flesh is well known, and it therefore
figures on most well-furnished tables.

THE EIDER DUCK.

The Eider Duck fiu-nishes the celebrated down in such
request for -lillows and beds. It is a singular fact, that the
down must be plucked from the bird when living, as it seems
to lose its peculiar elasticity and softness when taken from
the bird after its death. The down ie plucked by the bird
itself from its breast, for the purpose of lining its nest, which

IV.

illtJ

(lucks. It frequently
D northern lakes for that
lid, Koon carrying it out
!s night fur its feeding-
!lf inider the herbs that
t has chosen its habita-
1 among dense herbage.
tisli eggs,
nowu, and it therefore

K.

Icbrated down in such
singular fact, that the
vheu living, as it seems
tuess when taken from
IB plucked by the bird
)f lining its nest, which

"IP ipp 'II

NATURAL UlSTOKY.

Sub-family /. Fuliijidinae.
SomaticTa. ((Jr. a<3M«, tlu- l-o.ly ; T.(p«, to wear awny.)

365

MolliBHlma (Lat. ve>-y soft), the Eukr Duck.

is then robbed until the Eider is reduced to laying its eggs
on the Mown from the male bird. It is common m the north
of Europe, Iceland and the Hebrides.

THE CRESTED GREBE.

The CoLYMBiDiE are remarkable for their powers of diving.
The leg^^are placed very far behind, and the toes are so
aimnSl as to fold up when returning from the stroker.

The 00^ of the Gmm^ is not webbed like that of most
water bS biit each toe is separate and flattened, so as to
™ as a sepamte padcUe. TlL drebes dive so msta.vtane^
oiX that it is difficult to shoot them, as they d.ve at the
flS an?do not reappear for nearly two hundred 7-^^^^^
then they merely raise their head above water tor a second,

nKhe'SCfeed upon fishes and ^.^^^^
insects, but their stomachs are almost mvanably found to

366

NATURAL niSTORT.

Kiunily II. . . ("olyiubldaj.— ^ar. K6KvuBot, a Diver.
.Sub-family 6 . PodicejiiiuB.

podTckph.

Cristatus (Lat. crested), the Vfttttd Grtbt.

contain a mass of their own feathers. Tliis circumstancp
presents a singular analogj- to those manses of ompacted
hair which are often found in the stomachs of cows, fn ail
probability the reason for their presence is the same, that
the feathers and hairs are accidentally conveyed to the
stomach after the creature has been making its toilet.

The Chested CJrebe is found in some of the fens of the
Midland counties of England, and also inhabits parts of
Scotland. This bird, together with the other Grebes, builds
its nest of a mass of roots and reeds, among sedges. The
female, like the water hen, covei-s up hei- eggs when she leaves
her nest, which, unlike the nests of most of the aquatic birds,
floats on tile water.

y.

l6\vuBot, 0, Diver.

'reHled (irehe.

m. This circumstance
! masses of c')mpacte<l
nacliH of cows, fn all
dice is the sjime, that
:ally conveyed to the
laking its toilet,
jmo of the fens of the
filso inliabits parts of
lie other Grebes, builds
s, among sedges. The
er eggs wlieu she leaves
»st of the aquatic birds.

SATUHAL HIHTOUV

l-oUICKW

nil-

Minor (Lat. kimer), llit Little IJrebt or Dabehklc.

The Dabchick or Little (iKEUE is very common in most
parts of England, and is spread over Europe and Asia. It is
,.n«ily alarmed, and instantly dives, after which it is <.t little
iLse to look for the bird. Even in a small poiul where Ume
Dabchicks are kept, if they are startled at anytlnng, they all
disappear a« if by magic, and reappear in the same mysterious
manner Even when confined in the limited spaoe of a small
pond, the sharpest eye cannot detect them as they hide un.ler
tloatiug herbage, or are sheltered by an overhanging bank.

It is easily domesticated, and is often seen placed aa an
..niament in lakes, or even in j.onds, where it swims about
very merrily, and seems to enjoy playing a game at hule-
and-seck with any observer who is attempting to watch its
;novemcnts.

»0H

NATURAL HIBTUHT.

Kaiiiily III. . Alctdro.
Mub-family a. Alcina.

FnATEncCtA.— (Lut.)

ArotTca (Lut. Arctic), the Pvffin.

The Puffin is common .at the Noodles and the western
islands of England, It forms deep hnrrows in the soil, in
which ono egg is deposited, or usuqjs uio bunow of a rabbit.
The liolo is generally from three to fonr feet in depth, when
tiie Puffin is fniced to labour for itself; it usually takes a
winding course ; and the inhabitant is secured from surprise
by fonning two entrances, in order that if ono entrance is
attacked, it may e8cai)o by the other. The egg is always
deposited at the furthest extremity of the hole, and is not
easy to bo obtained, on account of the vigorous resistance
made by the parent bird. It is an excellent diver, plunging
fearlessly from a lofty cliff' into tho sea, and speedily returning
with ita beak full of fish, which are secured by their heads,
and lie in a row along tho bdl of the Puffin, fi^rming a kind
of piscatorial fringe. Its enormous and sharp-edged bill
renders it a formidable antagonist to intruders. The length
of the bird is thirteen inches.

i\'.

Idle.

tit.)

NATUR4L niSTOBY.

369

he Pvffin.

Vecdles and the western

burrowH iu tlie soil, in

i iiio bunow of a rabbit.

four foot in depth, when

tHclf ; it UHually tiikcH u

is secured from surprise

that if DUO entrance is

ler. The egg is always

of the hole, and is not

the vigorous resistance

L'xcellout diver, plunging

!a, and speedily returning

secured by their heads,

10 Puffin, forming a kind

18 and sharp-edged bill

< intruders. The length

lupennis (Liit. mnghi»), the Oreat Av.k.

The Alcid^ or Auks are never seen inland, but exclusively
inhabit the sea-shores. In this family the wings are ttniiiU,
and in some genera useless for flight. The feet lu-e placed so
far back that the birds, when sitting, assume an erect attitude.

The Uhbat Auk is an inhabitant of the Arctic circle, but
is sometimes seen in the northern islands of Scotland. The
wings of this bird ai-e incapable of raising it into the air, but
serve admirably as paddles when diving. It breeds princi-
pally on the shores of Iceland and Spitzbergen, laying one
large egg on a cleft of a high rock. The eggs !'re extremely
scarce, and fetch a very high price among collectors, a circum-
stance which has caused some most ingenious impositions.
The length of the bird is nearly three feet.

B B

370

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family c. Spheniseince.
SruENiscus.— (Gr. wedge-shiiixid.)

Deineraus (Lat. submerged), the Cape Penguin,

The Cape Penguin is very common at tlie Cape of Good
Hope and the Falkland Islands. From the extraordinary
sound it produces while on shore, it is called the Jackass
Penguin. Darwin gives the following interesting account of
this bird : — " In diving, its little plumeless wings are used as
fins, but on the land, as front legs. When crawling (it may
be said on four legs) through the tussocks, or on the side of
a grassy cliff, it moved so very quickly that it might readily
have been mistaken for a quadruped. When at sea and
fishing, it comes to the surface, for the purpose of breathing,
with such a spring, and dives again so instantaneously, that
I defy any one at fii-st sight to be sure that it is not a fish
leaping for sport."

STORY.

■>heniscin(e.
■edge-shaped.)

I, iJie Cape Penguin.

amou at tlie Capo of Good
From the extraordinary
■e, it is called tho Jackabs
sviug interesting account of
plumelesa wings are used as
s. When crawling (it may
tussocks, or on the side of
ickly that it might readily
ruped. When at sea and
r the purpose of breathing,
lin so instantaneously, that
e sm-o that it is not a fish

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-family d. UriruB.
Uria.— (Or. Otpia.)

371

Trolld, the Guillemot.

The Common Guillemot makes its appearance on our coasts
in the beginning of spring, and inhabits the cliffs overhanging
the sea. Each female deposits one egg on a naked ledge of
rock, and sits upon it with great perseverance, even suffenng
itself to be taken by hand. The egg is usually a pale gi-een,
streaked and blotched with brown, but is very variable both
in colour and markings. The length of tho bird is fifteen
inches.

THE FULMAR PETREL.

The Fulmar Petrel is an inhabitant of the Arctic circle,
but breeds abundantly in St. Kilda and the Orkneys. The
inhabitants of those islands consider the Fulmar as one ot,
then- principal means of subsistence. It lays one white egg,
large and brittle, which is imbued with the peculiar oily odour
that characterises the bird. The food of the FiUmar consists

372

NATURAL nisTony.

Family IV. . Procelliiridte.
Sub-family a. Procdlarina.

PhocellabYa. — (Lnt. 8toiiny.)

QlacialiB (Lat. icy), the Fulmar Petrel.

of the flesh and blubber of dead whales and other cetaccA,
and also of mollusks and Crustacea. The length of the bird
is sixteen inches.

Thalassidroma. — (Or. &d\a(r<ra, the sea ; SpSfios, a race.)

Pclagica (Lat. belmiginy to tlu sea), the Utormy Petrel.
The Stohmy Petrel is, under the name of Mother Carey's
cliicken, the terror of the sailor, who always considers the

r.

\Ak.

rintB.

tonny.)

mar Petrel.

ales and other cetacdi,
The length of the bird

Hen. ; SpSfios, a race.)

), the Stormy Petrel.

name of Mother Carey's
ho always considers the

NATURAl, HISTOUY.

373

hird as the precursor of a storm. It is the smalest of the
web-footed birds. Few storms are violent cncm^'h to keep
this ciunous little bird from wandering over the waves in
seiuch of the food that the disturbed water casts to the
suifacc. Like the Fulmar, the Stormy Petrel is so exce ..'mgly
,nly in texture, that the inhabitants of the teroe Islands draw
a wick through its body and use it as a lamp. Wdsun gives
the following account of its habits whde followuig a ship

"""TtTs indeed an interesting sight to observe these little
birds in a gale, coursing over the waves, down the declivities,
up the ascents of the foaming surf that threatens to bend
over their heads ; sweeping along the hollow troughs of the
sea, as in a sheltered valley, and again mounting with tlie
rising biUow.and just above its surface, occasionally dropping ;
its feet, which, striking the water, throws it up again with
additional force ; sometimes leaping with both legs pai-allel
on the surface of the roughest waves for several yimls at
a time. Meanwhile it continues coureing from side to sicle
of the ship's wake, making excursions far and wide, to the
right and to the left, now a gi-eat way ahead, and now shooting
astern for several hundred yards, returning again to the shq)
as if she were all the time stationary, though perhaps mnning
at the rate of ten knots an hour ! But the most singular
peculiarity of this bird is its faculty of standing and even
running on the surface of the water, which it performs with
appai-ent facility. When any greasy matter is thrown over-
board, these birds instantly collect round it and facing to
windward, with their long wings expanded and their webbed
feet patting the water, the lightness of their bodies and the
action of the wind on their wings enable them to do this
with ease In calm weather they perform the same manoeuvre
by keeping their wings just so much in action as to prevent
their feet from sinking below the surface. According to
Bufifon, it is from this singxdar habit that the whole genus
have obtained the name Petrel, from the apostle Vetav, who,
as Scripture informs us, also walked on the water.

• WiUon'a Ornithology, vol. vii. p. 92.

374

NATURAL HISTORY.

DiomedEa. — {Proper name.)

Exaians (Liit. banished), the Wandering Albairot.

Tlio Wandering Albatros, the largest of the genus, is a
well-known bird in tlic southern seas, following ships for
many miles in hopes of obtaining the refuse thrown overboard.
So voracioiis is the Albatros, that it will swallow entire a fish
of four or five pounds weight. The flight of this bird is
peculiarly majestic. Its extreme length of wing prevents it
froni rising at once from the gi-ound, but when once launched
into the air, it seems to float and direct its coiu^ without
effort. Gould in describing the flight of this bird says : —

" The powers of flight of the Wandering Albatros are much
greater than those of any other bird that has come under my
observation. Although during caim or moderate weather it
sometimes rests on the sm-face of the water, it in almost
constantly on the wing, and is equally at ease while passing
over the glassy surface during the stillest calm, or sweeping
with arrow-liko swiftness before the most furious gale ; and
the way in which it just tops the raging billows, and sweeps
between the gtUfy waves, has a hundred times called forth
my wonder and admiration. Although a vessel running

iX

lie.)

'.finrj Albatrot.

ist of the genus, is a
, following ships for
ise thrown overboard.
1 swallow entire a fish
flight of this bird is
li of wing prevents it
t when once launched
ct its com-se without
F this bird says : —
ig Albatros are much
t has come under my
• moderate weatlier it
water, it u almost
it ease while passing
;st calm, or sweeping
>st furious gale; and
y billows, and sweeps
d times called forth
b a vessel running

NATURAL HISTORY.

376

.Z^.,^^,

before the wind frequently sails more than 200 mile m he
twenty-four hours, and that for days together, still the
Albatros has not the slightest difficulty in keeping up with
the sliip, but also performs circles of many miles in extent,
returning agiiin to hunt up the wake of the vessel for any
substances thrown overboard." , ., a

The voracity of the Albatros rendei-s it an easy prey. A
hook is baited with a piece of blubbeis fastened firmly to a
tring, and suffered to tow aBtem The bird .mmediately
.weep down to seize its prey, and is aircBted by he hook
by ieaiis of which it is drawn into the ship, fhe best
description of the nidification of the Wandering Albatros is
that given by Mr. Earl, quoted by Gould.

Mr Earl after climbing a fearfully dangerous precipice in
the Island of Tristan d'Aeunha arrived at a large plain
of dark grey lava, on the summit of which the nests of the
Albatros were made. "A death-like stillness prevailed m
these high regions, and to my ear our voices had a strange
unnatural echo, audi fancied our forms appeared g.gan u=
whilst the air was piercing cold. The prospect was altogetl^r
sublime, and filled the mind with awe. The huge Albatros
here appeared to dread no interloper or enemy ; for their young
were on the ground completely uncovered, and the old ones
were stalking around them. They lay but one egg, on he
ground, where they make a kind of nest by scraping the
earth around it; the young is entire y white, and covered
with a woolly down, which is very beautiful. As we ap-
proached, they snapped their beaks mth a very quick motion,
naking a great noise ; this and the throwing up the contents
of the stoWich arc the only means of ofioiice and defence
they seem to possess. I. again visited the mountain about
five months afterwards, when I found the young albatroscs
.still sitting on their nests, and they had never moved away
from them." The expanse of wing m the Wandering
Albatros is from eleven to fourteen feet.

^^^■tewjwwtewwii^j* '»"■■'-'''■-"'--

376

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family V. . . LarTdai.
iSub-faiiiily b. Larinee.

Labus.— (Lat. a Oull.)

"X:

Marinus (Lut. belonging to (he sea), (he Black-backed Gull.

Tlie Black-backed Gull is a common bird on our coasts.
Dm-ing the winter it seeks the warmer coasts of southern
Europe. It breetls in great nunibera on the shores of the
Bristol Channel, the Orkneys, and other coasts of (ireat
Britain. Its nest is composed of grass, rushes, and other
materials, and contains three or four eggs, of an olive green
marked with very dark brown. Neither the gulls nor the
terns dive, but snatch up their prey when at or near the
surface.

THE COMMON TERN.

The Terns or Sea-Swallows are possessed of great power
and endurance of flight, their long forked tails and pointed
wings indicating strength and swiftness.

The Common Tern is found in plenty along the southern
shores of Europe, in many parts of Asia and Africa. It is
frequently seen on the southern shores of England, and has

lY.
ill.)

K! Black-hacked Gull.

aon bird on our coasts,
ner coasts of southern
8 on the shores of the
other coasts of <ireat
■ass, rushes, and other
Bggs, of an olivo green
thor the gidls nor the
when at or neiu* the

[IN.

Bsossed of great power

rked tails and pointed

J.

tty along the southern

sia and Africa. It is

J of England, and has

NATUHAL UISTOUY.
Subfamily r. Sterninof.

STERNA.

377

^r*XUSi * V-*S^-

Hii-undo (Lat. a Swallow), the Cmmaon Tern.

been found in North America. It pi-eys on fish, which it
fiuatches from the surface with unerrmg ann, as it skuns
over the waves with astonishing velocity.

The nest of this bird is made on the sand above high-water
maik, and contains two or three eggs, on which the female
usualiy sits by night. The length of the Common Tern is
about fourteen inches. , , ^ n „ ,..u .

The Noddy, so frequently celebrated by travellers who
have passed the equator, is a species of Tern.

THE TROPIC BIRD.

The Tkopio Bird, as its name imports, is seldom seen
many degrees beyond the tropic^ although a storm occasion-
allv drives it from its accustomed habitat. ^ -.i. ,+

Its "Ipid flight seems to be accomplished almost without
the aid of wings. It preys extensively on the flymg-fish,
who frequent^y^capes £s 'airy foe but to fall into the jaws
Tf some^i^mcious rover of the deep. It haa been known to

m 1

378

NATURAL niHTOHY.

Fumily VI. . . Poloonnltlrc.— (Gr. UthtKdy, a Pelican. Pelican-kind.)
Subfuiiiijy b. . I'/iaetoiiina.

PiiAETON.— (Gr. *at8ui proper name.)

vEtheri!us (Lat. bdonyiny to the sky), the Tropic Bird.

continue on the wing for whole days and niglits, but some-
times rests on the back of a turtle sleeping at the surface of
the water. The length of the Tropic Bird is about eighteen
inches.

THE SOLAN OOOSH

The Gannet, or Solan Goosi is common on some of our
shores, especially at the Bass Rock at the entrance of the
Frith of Forth. This rock is literally covered with Gannets,
and is rented at a high price from the proprietor, who makes
over to the tenant the vast flocks of birds that take up their
residence on the rock. Great numbers of (Jannets breed at
St. Kilda, and many are sent to Edinburgh and other
markets.

y, 11 Pt^lican. Pelican-kind.)

)per name.)

'), the Tropic Bird.

and nights, but some-

jping at the surface of

Bird is about eighteen

nmon on some of our
,t the entrance of the
covered with Gaunets,
proprietor, who makes
irds that take up their
s of Gaunets breed at
Edinburgh and other

NATimAl. niBTORY.

Sub-family c. Pdecanina.
SOLA.

370

BassanCa (Lat. the Qannet, or Solan Ooote.)

The Gannct feeds ahnost entirely on herrings, which it
seizes by plunging with extraordinary force from a considemble
height This method of procuring fooo has led to an mgemous
device for capturing the bird. A herring is fastened to
a board, and suffered to float on the surface of the water.
The Gaunet, seeing the fish apparently sportmg on tlie
surface, plunges at it with such force that it is instantly
killed by the blow. A Gannet waa once taken when the board
was sunk to the depth of six feet, yet even at that depth the
bird's neck was dislocated, and its I /ill firmly stuck into the
wood. The length of the Gannet is about two feet eight

inches. ^. ., i • u

The Booby is a species of Gannet. Sadors have given it
this rather inelegant name on account of the stupidity it
displays in suiTering itself to be knocked down with a stick,
or even taken up by hand.

380

NATCTM. niHTORT.

I'ltAl.AClioronAX. -{Or. ♦oAoKpo'i, bald; K6pai, u lUven.)

Carbo (Lat. a Cual), the Cormovant.

The CouMORANT in found in abunrknco on our coasts, and
is widely spread over many parts of tiio world. It is exceed-
ingly voracious, and devours an alr70Et incredible amount of
fish. It is an oxcellont diver, and i',ase8 the fish actnaUy
under the water, seldom, if ever, i-uturni'ig without having
secured its prey. Like the otter, when engaged in chase, it
occasionally rises to take breath, and then resumes the
pursuit with renewed vigour. Wuterton gives the following
amusing description of the proceedings of a Cormorant : —
" Fii-st raising his body nearly perpendicular, down ho plunges
into the deep, and after staying there a considerable Limo
he is sure to bring up a fish, which he invariably swallows head
foremost. Sometimes half an hour elapses before ho can
manage to accommodate a large eel quietly in his stomach.
You see him straining violently with repeated efforts to gulj)
it, and when you fiincy that the slippery mouthfiil is success-

Jkm

lY.

thl ; K6pa(, u Itaven.)

■ormorant.

liiuco on our cofxsts, and
iio world. It is exceed-
=t incredible iimoimt of
"lases the fish actnaUy
;unii'ig without having
en engaged in chase, it
uid then resumes the
ton gives the following
igs of a Cormorant : —
licular, down ho plunges
re a considerable Limo
nvariably swallows head
elapses before ho can
quietly in his stomach,
repeated efforts to gulp
jry mouthful ia success-

NATUHAI, niHTOIlY.

Ml

fully disposed of, all of a nuddeu the eel -t-y d<^ "P--^^^^
from its' dismal sepulchre, strugghng vmlently to J«caP«^
The cormorant swallows it affvin, and xip aj,iuu it comes, anu

a„ta..t from Iho otervor.. I "'» "f.'^" 'jSi,, p„p,,„.i«c,

tliree feet.

THE WHITE PELICAN.
The WHITE Pkuoan inhabits Africa^ndia and greja part

tended, holds two gallons of -aU^r^ut ^ Jird ^^^^^^^^
power of contractmg it so that it >« ««f ^'y '^ ^he fish

Vho pouch also serves as .'^ "/' J^if^^^rimjort^^^ us. of
on which the Pelican feeds/* ,™J' "^''^'' She parent
the pouch is to convey food *» ^^e young^ I

-Its risa'"rrAir«; -un .oiu,

aided the deception.

•„ .h. 7oolo«ical Gardens exhibit this pouch and
• The beautiful Pelicans in the Zoological
ita uses udiuiiably.

382

NATUHAL niHTOnV.

prlkcXnub.

Onocrotftlus (Qr. 'OvoKfxSTaKot), the White Pelican.

Although a web-footed bird, the Pelican, like the cormorant,
can porch on trees, idthough it pretora sitting on rocks. The
colour of this bird is a pure white, with a very slight tinge of
rose colour, and the pouch is yellow. The length of the bird
is nearly six feet.

THE FRIGATE PELICAN.

The Frigate Pelican, or Man-of-War Bird, is usually
found between the tropics. Although when stripped of its
feathei-s it is hardly larger than a pigeon, yet no man can
touch at the same time the tips of its extended wings. The
long wing bones are exceedingly light, and the whole
apparatus of air-cells is extremely developed, so that its real
weight is very trifling. It flies at a great height above

DHY.

the White Pelican.

(lican, like the cormorant,

rs sitting on rocks. The

itli a very HH<,'ht tinge of

Tho length of the bird

:.ICAN.

f-Wab RiRD, is usually
gh when stripped of its
pigeon, yet no man can
8 extended wings. Tlie
light, and the whole
jveloped, so that its real
a great height above

i»ATUii.\L niHTonr.

rUEUATA.

S8S

AquTla (Lat. an Ewjle), the Frigate Pelican.

the water, and from that elevation pounces down on fish,
especially the poor persecuted flyiug-fish Accorcbng to
«omo authors, the name of Mau-of-\Var Bird was given to it
because its appearance was said to foretel the eo.nmg of a
ship ; probably because the Frigate Pelican and ships are
equally averse to storms, and both like to come into hai'bour
if the weather threatens. Under tho throat of the Frigate
Pelican is a large pouch, of a deep red colour which can be
.listcnded with air at the pleasure of the bird. Iho pouch
is larger and of a more brilliant red in the male than m bi«
consort, and the general plumage of the female is not so
bright as that of the male.

Although its swiftness of wing and general activity enable
it to snatch a fish from the surface of the water or to pounce
uuon the flying-fish before it can again seek the protection
of its native element, yet it too often uses its powers m
robbing other birds of their lawful prey. It is enabled m
some mysterious way to find its way homo by night, even
though it may be four or five hundred miles from land
Tho length of the male bird is three feet, and the expanse of
wing eight feet.

384

NATURAL HISTORT.

Class III. . . REPTILIA.— (Lat. Oreepiwj things.)

Order I. . . SAUJIA.~{Gt. Sawpo, a Lizard.)

Sub-order I. Leitooloss^.— (Gr. A*irT((s, slender; y\u<T(Ta, the tongue.)

Tribe 1. . . CYCLOSAURA.— (Or. KiJkAoj, a circle ; aaipa.)

Family IV. LacertinWso.— (Lat Lacerta, a Lizard. Lizard-kind.)

ZooToCA.— (Gr. Za6s, living ; rUrw, to bring forth.)

Vi^-ipiira (Lat. viviparoita), the Common lAzm-d.

AVe now arrive at the singular Class of Keptiles. The
animals of this class vary exceedingly in their forms, sizes, and
habits, but the peculiar formation of the circulatory systeni,
together with many other anatomical distinctions, plainly mark
them out as a distinct class.

The Lizards are usually active, bright-eyed little creatures,
delighting to bask in the sun, neiu- some safe retreat, to which
they dart with astonishing celerity upon the slightest alarm.
Two species of Lizards inhabit this country, the Common
Lizard, and the Sand Lizard. The latter animal is consider-
ably larger than the common Lizard, as it sometimes measures
a foot in length. It frequents sandy heaths, and in the sand
Its eggs are deposited, fourteen or fifteen in number. The
eggs ai-e hatched by the heat of the sun, and the young im-
mediately lead an independent life. During the winter this
as well as the Common Lizard hybematcs in a buirow usually

TOKY.

'kings.)
sard.)

, slender; yXuarra, the tongue.)
\os, a circle ; ffaipa.)
a Lizard. Lizard-kind.)

Uto), to bring forth.)

e Common Lizard.

Class of Reptiles. The

f in their forms, sizes, and

of the circulatoiy system,

distinctions, plainly mark

right-eyed little creatures,
lome safe retreat, to which
upon the slightest alarm,
is country, the Commou
latter animal is consider-
as it sometimes measures
y heaths, and in the sand
fifteen in number. The
sun, and the young im-
During the winter this
nates in a burrow usually

NATURAL UISTORY.

385

made under the roots of a tree, nor does it again make its
appearance until the spring.

The Common Lizard is only six inches m length. It is
more active than the Sand Lizard, disappearing like magic on
being filarmed. When seized its tail frequently snaps off like
glass. Both British Lizards feed on insects.

Tribe II. . . GEISSOSAURA.— (ar. TtTaerov, a cornice ; (roi'po.)
Family XV. ScincidiB.— (Gr. :iKlyKos, a. kind of Lizard.)

Anguis. — (Lat. a Snake.)

Fragilifi (Lat. fragile), the Blind-worm or Sloiv-ivonn.

The Blind-worm is not a snake, as generally supposed, but
a lizard of the Skink family. It is perfectly harmless, its
small mouth and very minute teeth precluding all attempts to
injure, even if it had the will. When alarmed it snaps asunder
at the slightest blow, like the tail of the Common Lizard, and
from that peculiarity has derived its name of " fragilis." It
feeds almost entirely on small slugs, its jaws not being capable
of admitting any larger prey. It is very common in most
paxts of England, and may be seen basking in the sun in
hedgerows or under old walls. Its eyes are very small, but
brilliant.

C 0

386

NATURAL HISTOKV.

Sub-order II. . Pachygloss^.— (Or. naxis, thick; yXaaaa, the tonguoj
Tribe III. . . NYCTlSAUKA.— (Gr. NJf, night; croupo, u Lizard.)
Family XXII. Qeclvotidac.— (^VrXw.)

(IRCKO.

Verus (Lat. true), the Gecko.

The Geckos are nocturnal lizards, remaining hidden in
crevices during the day, but wandering foith at night in search
of their insect prey. Thoy run about on the smooth walls
and ceilings with the gi-eatest ease, as tlieir feet are furnished
with an apparatus exactly resembling a boy's sucker, by
means of which they ai'e able to adliero to the wall or oven
to the roof. They labour in their country under pi'ecieely the
same imputations tliat the toad does in England, namely, of
being venomous creatures, producing horrible diseases when
touched, together with many similar tales. Geckos are
spread over every quarter of the globe, but are most nu-
merous iu Southern Asia. Tlie species represented is common
in India.

1.

{Y.

thick; fXaaaa, the tongue.)
uight ; aaopa, u Lizard.)

Gecko.

3, remaining hidden in
; forth at night in searcli
lit on the smooth walls

their feet are furnished
ng a boy's sucker, by
ere to the wall or even
mtry under precisely the

in England, namely, of
; horrible diseases when
lar tales. Geckos are
lobe, but are most nu-
s represented is common

NATURAL UISTORT,

387

Tribe IV.. . . STROBILOSAUlU.-{Gr. STp^jSiAof, anything twistetl ;

a Fir-cone.)
Family XXTII. Iguanidoo— (/'/«<»«««.)

10UAN,\.

Tuberimlata (Lat. covered with pimples), the Jyuana.
The Iguana family is a very large one, containing 150
species. The Common Iguana is a native of BrazU, Cayeime,
Jamaica, &c. In spite of its repidsive appearance, it is with
many people a favourite article of food, and is said some-
what to resemble chicken. It is very fierce when attacked,
and snaps at its enemies in a most determined manner, otten
scai-iug away an intruder by the ferocity of its aspect. It is
oenerally taken by throwing a noose over its head, and di-agging
ft from the branches by main force. It is then immediately
killed, as its sharp notched teeth inflict a veiy disiigreeable
wound. Sometimes it is hunted with dogs trained to the
spoi-t. It attains a considerable size, frecpiently reaching tlie
length of six feet. It feeds usually on vegetable substances,
such as leaves, fruit, and fungi ; but iguanas have been seen
in the islaoid of Isabella, that fed on eggs, insects, and even
the intestines of fowls. An enormous fossil iguana has been
discovered by Dr. Mantell, whose length must have been nearly
seventy feet.

388

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family XXIV. Agamldte.
Draco. — (Lat. a Dragon.)

Volaus (Lat. flying), tlie Plying l>ragon.

The terrible name of Flying Dragon belonga to a harm-
less little lizard, bearing small resemblance to the terrific
animal so graphically depicted by Retsch. This curious little
lizard lives on trees, and feeds on insects instead of devouring
pilgrims bound to the Gnadenbilde. The peculiar structure of
its body bears a singular resemblance to that of the flying
squirrel. The first six false ribs are greatly elongated, and
support a wing-like exptmsion of skin, which when stretched
serves to bear them up as they skim through the air from one
tree to another. While running about on the branches, the
so-called wings are folded to the side, but when it wishes to
tlu-ow itself from the tree, the ribs are raised, and the wings
expanded. It is common in Java, India, and Borneo.

THE CHAMELEON.

The Common Chameleon is plentifully found in northern
Africa, the south of Spain, and Sicily. It lives on trees, but
exhibits none of the activity usually found in arboreal reptiles.
On the contrary, its movements are absurdly grave and
solemn. The whole activity of the animal seems to be centered
w its tongue, by means of which organ it secures flies and

;y.

SATURAL HISTORY.

389

^f^

■^Em

ing Draijov.

SON belongs to a hanii-
rablance to the terrific
3ch. This curious little
cts instead of devouring
rhe peculiar structure of
e to that of the flying
greatly elongated, and
I, which when stretched
lirough the air from one
it on the branches, the
, but when it wishes to
re raised, and the wings
dia, and Borneo.

)N.

fully found in northern
. It lives on trees, but
und in arboreal reptiles.
re absurdly grave and
nal seems to be centered
;an it secures flies and

Tribe V . DENDROSAURA.-(ar. t.ivifov, a tree ; .raiJpa.)
Family XXV. ChamoleonId(o.-(ar. \ay^Ki^v, a Chameleon. Chame-
leon kind.)

CHAMKLEOS.

Vulgaris (Lat. cmamon), the Chameleon.
other inoects with such marvellous rapidity, that the ancients
may be well pardoned for their assertion that the air formed
the only food of the Chameleon. , , . ^ .,.„

ffighly exaggerated descriptions have been given of the
chS of Snv in this animal. The changes are by no
^S so complete, nor are the colours so bright, a« generally

.supposed. .,__A„d,henU,nue. „

Who ever saw so fine a blue ?

The poetic moralist fmther recounts its changes to greeii,
blact and white. The umpire refen'ed to in the poeni is
recorded to assert,

" If you don't find him black, I'll eat him ;

but every one who has watched a Chameleon for any time, will
rrSy ready to eat him the moment that he turns white.

Sroower of the Chameleon to move its eyes m difterent
directions, gives it a most singular aspect. Its enormously long
tSSe Si l^*^ ^-^tUr^^^ into the mouth when not in use
bu^hen the creature sees a fly within reach, the tongue m
iMtantly darted forth, and by means of a gummy secretion at
iHp Lures the fly. The'whole movement is so quick as
almost to elude the eye.

Ill

:m

NATUUAI. HlSroKV.

Order II. .. OPIIIDIA.— (Or. "Of is, a Scrpeid.)
Siilt-oidor I. Vji'KiiiNA. — (Lat. Vi/ifrH, a Viper.)
Fiimily 1. . . Crotjilidte.— ((Jr. KpSraXov, a Rattle.)

Ulioraoi'lius. — (Or. Oipd, the tail ; i^rf^oj, a noise.)

Durissus (Lat durus, hargh), the Jiattkmuike.

The peculiar gliding movements of the Sual^es render
tlierii exRollent tyi)es of the Reptiles, a word derived from the
l-atin repo, I creep. The extraordinary flexibility of their
bodies is caused by the structure of their vertebrae, each one
of which fits into the one behind it by a ball-and-aocket joint,
thus allowing freedom of motion in every direction.

The Rattlk-snake is a native of America. Its name is
derived from the loose bony structure at the extremity of itn
tail, called the rattle, and which by the sound of its movements
gives timely intimation of the vicinity of this terrible reptile.
Fortunately, its disposition is exceedingly sluggish, and it
invariably sounds its rattle when imtated or disturbed. Its
bite is inevitably mortal, and death always ensues within a
few hours after its bite.

The deadly weapons with which the venomous serpents arc
armed, are two long curved fangs belonging to the upper
jaw, and moving on a hinge by which they lie flat in tlie

Oipis, a Serpent.)
Ijtfru, i\ Viper.)
(StoAoi', a Kuttle.)

; i^rf<()oi, a noise.)

<! RatlUimake.

of the Snakes render
word derived from the
iry flexibility of their
leir vertebra', each one
a, ball-and-socket joint,
ery direction.
\.merica. Its name is
at the extremity of its
sound of its movements
of this terrible reptile,
iugly sluggish, and it
ited or disturbed. Its
ways ensues within a

venomous serpents are
longing to the upper
h they lie flat in the

NATURAL niSTOnV.

391

mouth, when not wanted. An aperture exmte m the pmnt
of the fan.', by which a poisonous fluid, secreted m a gland at
the base of the tooth, is poured into the wound, and mixnjg
with the bl..od, rapidly carries its deadly nifluenco through-
out tL entire syitern' A short time since an American
physician was exhibiting a caged rattle-snake to h.s friends.
Ho approached his baud too near the irritated reptile, vn ho
insuvntancously inflicted a wound, and although every pre-
caution was taken, the bite proved fatal in a f^^^ ^""rS;

Waterton gives some useful lunts respecting snakes,
asnecially those of the venomous kind ;—

^< When a man is ranging a forest, and sees a serpent
.diding towards him, (which is a vei7 rare occurrence,) he has
o ly to tack off- in a side direction, and he may be perfectly
Sed that it will not follow him. Should the man, how-
over stand still, and should the snake be one of those over-
::rown monsters capable of making a meal of a rn'^"--'" * '2'
cases the snake would pursue its course ; and when it got s tti-
cicntly near to the place where the man was standing, would
S the forepart of its body in a retiring attitude and then
,lart at him and seize him. A man may pass within a yard
of mttle-snakcs with safety, provided he goes q">etly ; bu
should he irritate a rattle-suake, or tread incaxitiously upon
it he would infallibly receive a wound from its fang, though,
by the bye, with the point of that fang curved downwards,

"'Thrjlmo' aiithor was nearly falling a victim to a rattle-
snake He saw what he thought was a gi-eeu locust struggling
in the grass. On stooping down to examine it, he was
considerably alarmed at discovering it to be the tad of a

'"^The kngtii of this snake has seldom been known to exceed
seven feet.

392

NATURAL, HISTORY.

Family 11. ViperulaB.
Clotho.* — (Qr. proper name.)

AriiStP dS (Lat. butiina like a Ram), the Puff Adder.

The Puff Adder is an inhabitant of Southern Africa. It
is a short thick flattish snake, of a most sinister and malignant
aspect. The following alarming adventure occurred to Mr.
Cole, a resident in the Cape.

" I was going quietly to bed one evening, wearied by a
long day's hunting, when, close to my feet and by my bed-
side, some glittering substance caught my eye. I stooped
to pick it up ; but, ere my hand had quite reached it, the
truth flashed across mo — it was a snake ! Had I followed my
first natural impulse, I should have sprung away, but not
being able clearly to see in what position the reptile was
lying, or which way his head was pointed, I controlled myself^
and remained rooted breathless to the spot. Straining my eyes,
but moving not an inch, I at length clearly distinguished
a huge puff adder, the most deadly snake in the colony,
whose bite would have sent me to the other world in an hour
or two. I watched him in silent horror ; his head WdS from
me, so much the worse ; for this snake, unlike any other,

* This is the name of one of the three Fates, viz. Clotho, Lacheiis, and Atroiios.
All three names are used as genera of venomous serpents.

»Y.

), the Puff Adder.

jf Southern Africa. It
it sinister and malignant
enture occurred to Mr.

evening, wearied by a
ij feet and by my bed-
lit my eye. I stooped
d quite reached it, the
9 ! Had I followed my

sprung away, but uot
)8ition the reptile was
;ed, I controlled inyselfi
ipot. Straining my eyeis,
h clearly distinguished

snake in the colony,
I other world in an hour
ror ; his head was from
lake, unlike any other,

. Clotho, Lacheais, and Atropos.
penta.

NATURAL HISTORY.

303

always rises and strikes back. He did not move, he wan
asleep. N..t daring to shuffle my feet, lest he should awake
and spring upon me, I took a jumi) backwards, that would
have done h )nour to a gymniwtic master, and thus darted
outride the door of the room; with a thick stick 1 then
returned and settled his worship." , „ . ,

The some author remarks in his "Five Years Rcsulcnce in
South Atrica," that its (the puff adder's) bite will kill occa-
sionally within an hour. , , , > i

« One of niy friends lost a favouiite and v.aluable horse by
its bite in less than two hours after the attack. It is a
sluggish reptile, and therefore more dangerous, for instead of
rushing away like its fellows, at the sound of approaching
footsteps, it half niiscs its head and hisses. Often have 1
come to a sudden pull up on footer on horseback, on hearing
their dreaded warning."

CKR.V9TE8. — (Or. Kfpdarris, hornoil.)

- , X \

HaaaeUimstii (Lat. of Ilasielqukt), the Ceraatet,
The Cerastes is a well-known snake in Egypt, and derives
its name from the horny scale over each eyebrow. Bruce
mentions that the Cerastes can spring several feet m any

•Mi

NATUUAL HISTOnr.

diri'Otion; but his description of the strataKoniH employed l.y
It, '■ to surprise any one wlio is too far from it," is pro»)abiT
more fanciful tiian correct, as snakes do not attack unlesN
suddenly surpriKcd or irritated. The size of the Cerastes is
by no means great, as its averapc length is oidy eighteen
inches. Tiie snake charmers of Kgypt employ these reptiles
precisely as their brethren of India employ the Cobra de
( 'apellii.

PelIas. — (Or. proper name.)

BeruB, the Viper.

The Common Vipkr, or Adder, is t;he only venomous
reptile inhabiting England, nor is its bite nearly so dangerous
in its consequences as has been reported. Seldom has the
bite of the Viper proved mortal, and in all probability, had
l)roper precautions been taken, no case would have been
fatal. Viper catchers employ olive oil as a remedy against
the bite, and, from all accounts, it appears to be a certxiin
preservative against all evil effects.

It is asserted that when danger threatens, the female viper
opens her mouth and permits her brood to hide themselves,
but it is by no means an ascertained fact.

IV.

■ftrntngoniH employed liy
ir from it," is prohuhly
18 do not attack unless

size of the CeniHtes is
ength in only eighteen
it employ these reptiles

employ the Cobra do

laiue.)

is the only vonomons
lite nearly so dangerous
rted. Seldom has the
in all probability, had
;a80 Would have been
1 as a remedy against
jjjears to be a certain

atens, the female vipei
•od to hide themselves.

LCt.

NATURAL IIISTUItV.

an.*)

Krogfl, lizards, mice, and other small annuals, form the
food of this reptile, but sometimes it tails a victnn to its own
voracity. In the Magazine of Natural History, a viper is
nientionc<l \vhi..h had swullowe.l a lizard nearly as large n«
Itself, and one of whose legs was protruding from its side.

In former times, preparations from vipers, and especially
vipiT-broth, were in great ro(iuest as medicines.

Sub-order II. . CoLUBKlNA.— (Lnt. Culahti; a. Simke.)
Kuiiiily IV. . . BoIdiB.

noA.

Constrictor (Lat. a bitultr), the lion.
Tlio enormous Boa-coxstiuctou inhabits tropical America.
It is not venomous, but is not the less dangerous, as the
tremendous power of its muscles enables it to crush its
prey in the coils of its huge body. In order to procure its
food, the Boa-constrictor lies in wait by the side of some

3M

KATURAI. UISTOnV.

river or pool, where animals of all kiiidH are likely to eoino to

rinch their thirst. It patiently waits until some aninml
W8 within reach, when, with one Hprin(?. the ]Joa fixes itn
tooth in the creature's head, coils its body round its victim,
and crushes it to death. After the unfortunate animal ims
iHJon reduced almost to a shapeless mass by the pressure of
the snake, its destroyer makes preparations for swallowing; it
entire, a task which it accomplishes, although the slau^'htered
animal is usually very much larger than the dinionsions of
the seri>ent. ,\t last, tho snnko succeeds in swallowing its
proy, and then lies torpid for nearly a month, until it.><
enormous meal is digested, when it again sullies forth in
search of another.

Even tho Imffalo has been known to fall a victim to this
fearful serpent, whose length freciuently exceeds twouty-tive
feet*

THE COBRA DE CAPELLO.

Tho Cobra de Capello is a native of India. It must not
l»e confounded with sevcml other hooded snakes, such as the
Haje of Egypt, the snake so frequently depicted on the
hieroglyphicu'. monuments.

Tiie serpent charmers invariably iiso this formidable reptile
for their performances, Tho exhibitors possess several Cobras
shut up in Imskets, and when commencing their performances,
tho lid of tho basket is opened, and tho snake creeps out
Its course is arrested by the sound of the rudo tifo that
the channer always carries, and it immediately expands its
beautiful though threatening hood, erects its neck, and com-
mences a series of undulatory movements, which are continued
vntil tho sound of the fife ceases, when the snake instantly
drops, and is replaced in its basket by its master. The
charmers appeui' to bo able to discover snakes, and to induce
them to leave tii ir retreats. Indeed it is rather a singular
fact, that those liavellers who most strongly insist that tho
makes thus caught are tamo and divested of their fangs,
appear to forget that even in that case the croitures must
have been previously caught in order to deprive them of

IIY.

uIh aro likely to ct>mi> tu
b'liitH until Komn iiriiiniii
n[)rinf^, tho lloa fixuH it.s
1 body round itH victim,
unfortunate animal liiut
lu.'uw liy tho presNUro of
ivtious for Hwallowinj; it
ilthoufi;l» tho Hlau^jhtercil
than tho dinionsionH of
iceods in swallowing its
irly a month, until itH
t again Hullioa foi-th in

I to fall ft victim to this
ntly oxccodn twouty-tive

PELLO.

of India. It must not
ded snakes, such us the
uently depicted on tho

e this forraidablo reptile
rs possess several Cobras
ciug their performances,
1 the snake creeps out
I of the rudo tifo that
mmcdiately expands its
rects its neck, and com-
nts, which are continued
hen the snake instantly
t by its master. The
T snakes, and to induce
it is rather a singular
strongly insist that tho
livested of their fangs,
jase the creatures must
er to deprive them of

NATURAL U18T0HY.
Family V. CoUibriJm.

NAJA.

.197

;V.

i/^"

-^1'

>

\W

M:

W

V.-'-^K

/f

01

S!\Y'

-.1^-';

Tripudians (Lat. d'lndn'j), the Cobra de Capello.

their weapons. The length of this snake is about five or six

feet *

The Egyptian Asp, or Haje, is mipp-ned to ho the isp by
whose bite Cleopatra died, uv in all probability the deal
adder alluded to in the Scriptuies, "which stoppeth her care,
and refuseth to hear the veice of the charmer, charm he never
80 wisely."

» A rnhru In the Zooloeicai (iardens WM a long time In learning cimlion. It was
iind contented i- elf witli a biaa.

...iaini. ie».J^'., ^,1^ „■: ■■.:■,.■-„

398

NATURAL UISTORY.

ToKiuiltii (Lilt, jullaved), the llmijtd Snake.

The Common Ringed or Grass Snake is a harmless
inhabiUint of this country, and may be frequently seen or
heard gliding along the hedge-banks in search of food. It is
easily tamed, and soon learns to know its master. It lives
principally on frogs, mice, young birds, newts, &c.* It is an
excellent swimmer, and from the peculiar structure of its
lungs can remain under water for some time. It seems very
fond of tlie water, and is most commonly found on marshy
land, or in hedges planted over a wet ditch. The viper, on
the contraiy, prefers dry sandy situations.

Like all other serpents, the Kinged Snake sheds its skin
several times during the year. The entire skin comes off,

* Several snakes kept tame at a villaKe in Wiltshire were fed with ftogs and small
newts, which latter animals the snake was induced to swallow, hy (he simple process
ol' opening the snake's mouth and pushing the newt down its throat. This process,
although appareutly rather rude, seemed to cause the snakes no inconvenience.

rORY.

8 Ringed Snake.

s Snake is a harmless
ly be fi'eqxicntly seen or
in seiiroh oi food. It is
low its master. It lives
'ds, newts, kc* It is an
peculiar structure of its
mo time. It seems very
imonly found on marshy
at ditch. The viper, on
itions.

;ed Snake sheds its skin
le entire skiu comes off,

hire were fed with frogs and small
I to swallow, t)y the simple process
vt down its throat. This process,
the Buakes no inconvenience.

NATURAL HISTORY,

399

even the covci-ing of the eyes. A rent opens in the neck
and the snake, l^ entangling itself in the thick g.-aHB or
bushes, actually creeps out of its skin, turnnig it inside .)ut
in the effort.

Order 111. . C'y/A7/>A'A'l.— (Or. X«\ftivTi, a Tortoise.)

l-'a>uily I. . TebtudiuiJic-lLBt. Tcstmlo, a Tortoise.)

TESTUDO.

GKWJa yhaX. (jh-etk), the Tortoue.

The whole of this order is characterised by the complete
suit of bouY armour with which the animals are protected.
The so-called "shell" is in fact a development of various
bones, and not a mere horny tippen.lage, like the coverings
„f the annadillo and manis. The upper shield ,s called the
" caitipace," and is united to the under shield, or "plastron,
by certain bones, leaving orifices for the protniswn of the
hLd and limbs. Most species are able to withdmw their
head and limbs completely witlun the shell, and in some few
the orifices are closed by a kmd of hu.ge joint ihe
tortoiseshell of commerce is a series of horny plates that
cover the exterior of the shield, and is in gi-eat request ou

400

NATURAL HISTORY.

account of the beautiful wavy markings that arc so familiar
to our eyes.

The Tortoises and Turtles possess no teeth, but the sideis
of their jaws are very hard and sharp, enabling them to crop
vegetable substances, or to inflict a sevtTO bite.
. The family is divided into Land Tortoises, Marsh Tor-
toises, River Tortoises, and Marine Tortoises, or Turtles.

The Common Land Tortoise is found in abundance in the
south of Europe. It is often kept in captivity in this
country, and is very long lived, individuals being known to
have exceeded two hundred years. Its movements are ver-
sloAv, but it can excavate a burrow with unexpected rapidity.
Secui-e in an impenetrable covering, it bids defiance to anv
ordinary enemy, except, as Sydney Smith wittily observes,
"man and the boa-constrictor. Man, however, takes him
home and roasts him, and the boa-constrictor swallows him
whole, shell and all, and consumes him slowly in the interior,
as the Com-t of Chancery does a great estate."

THE COMMON GREEN TURTLE.

Tlie feet of the Marine Tortoises, or Turtles, are modified
into fins or flippers, just as are the feet of the seals, and
consequently, although the Turtles are active in the water,
on land their walk is nothing but an awkward shuffle. The
flippers, however, are admirable instruments for scooping out
the sand, in which the eggs are laid, and afterwards covered
J over. Nearly two hundred eggs are laid in one nest. The

eggs are held in great estimation, but the albumen, or
" white," does not become hard by boiling.

Tlie Common Green Turtle, whose flesh is considered
such a luxury, is common in Jamaica, and most of the
islands of the Eaat and West Indies. The turtles are
captui-ed by turning them on their backs, for the carapace is
so flat, and their legs are so short, that they are forced to lie
helpless until their captors have leisure to drag them away.

IT.

igs that are so familiar

no teeth, but the sides
, enabling them to croji
ivero bite.

Tortoises, Marsh Tor-
Drtoises, or Turtles,
nd in abundance in the
t in captivity in this
riduals being known to
ts movements are ver
th unexpected rapidity,
it bids defiance to any
Smith wittily observer,
n, however, takes him
jnstrictor swallows him
a slowly in the interior,
; estate."

TURTLE.

r Turtles, are modified
: feet of the seals, and
re active in the water,
awkward shuffle. The
ments for scooping out
md afterwards covered
laid in one nest. The
but the albumen, or
ling.

se flesh is considered
ica, and most of the
ies. The turtles are
cks, for the carapace is
t they are forced to lie
re to drag them away.

NATURAL BISTORT.

Family V. Cbolouiftdtc.
chelonIa.

401

Virtdifl (Lat. green), the Turtle.

The Green Tui-tlc has been known to reach the weight of five
or sbc hu)idred pounds. The tortoiseshell of commerce is
almost entirely obtained from the Hawksbill Turtle.

THE CROCODILE.

These animals are separated from the Liziu-ds on account
of the peculiai- horny covering with which they are pro-

'' The Crocodile is an inhabitant of the Old World, the
Alligator of the New, and the two animals are best dis-
tinguished by the construction of the jaws. In the Crocodiles
the lower canine teeth fit into a notch in the edge of the
upper iaw, and there is in consequence a contraction ot tlie
muzzle iust behind the nostrils. The lower canine teeth o
the Alli|,'ators fit into a pit in the edge of the upper jaw, and

D D

402

NATURAL HISTORY.

Order IV.. A'.V i7J0«4 f/'fl/.—(Gr. 'E^iJj, the Water-Tortoise ; aavpa.)
Family I. . Crocodilldoe. — (Gr. KpoK^SciAus. Crocodile kiud.)*

CBOCODILUS.

"•■^^N

A'lilgaris (Lat. common), i/ie Crocodile.

in consequence no contraction is needed. At the back of the
throat is ii valve com{)letely siiutting out water, but leaving
the psissagc to the nostrils free, so that the Crocodile can
keep his moutii open when beneath the surface, without
swallowing the water, or can hold his prey to drown under
the water while he liimself breathes at ease with his nostrils
at the surface. There is no true tongue.

The Common Crocodile inhabits many African rivers, and
is, probably, the reptile infesting the Ganges. The Nile,
however, is the best known haunt of this terrible creature.

The Crocodile feeds on fish, floating carrion, and dogs or
other animals, which it is enabled to surprise as they come to
drink at the water's edge, but man frequently falls a victim

• The word CorcodiU literally signifies, " one afiaid of saffron."

xe Water- Tortoise ; iravpa,)
CrocotUle kiud.^*

e Crocodile.

led. At the back of the
out water, but leaving
that the Crocodile can
;h the surface, without
lis prey to drown under
at ease with his nostrils
guc.

lany African rivers, and
;he Ganges. The Nile,
this terrible creature,
ng carrion, and dogs or
surprise us they come to
frequently falls a victim
" one afiaid of saffron."

NATURAL niSTORT.

403

to its vomcity. In revenge f<n- this treatment all nations per-
secuted with'this pest have devised various methods of killing
it. The Negroes of some parts of Africa are sufficiently bold
and skilful to attack the Crocodile in his own element. They
fearlessly plunge into tlie water, and diving beneath the
Crocodile plunge the dagger with which they ai-c armed into
the creatui'c's belly, which is not protected by tl>e coat ul
mail that guards tlie other paiis of its body. The u.sual plan
is to lie in wait near the spot where the Crocodile is accus-
tomed to repose. This is usually a sjuidy bank, and the
hunter digs a hole in the san<l, and armed with a sharp
harpoon patiently awaits the coming of his expected prey.
The Crocodile comes to its accustomed spot, and is soon
iisleep, wlien it is suddenly roused by the harpoon, which
penetrates completely through its scaly covering. Tlie hunter
immediately retreats to a canoe, and hauls at the line attached
to the haqioon until the Crocodile is at the sm-face, when a
second haqioon is darted. The struggUng animal is soon
wearied out, dragged to shore, and dispatched by div-ding the
spinal chord. In order to prevent the infuriated reptile from
biting the cord asunder, it is composed of about thirty small
lines, not twisted, but only bound together at intervals of

two feet.

When on laud it is not difficult to escape the Crocodile, as
certain projections on the veitebTO of the neck prevent it
from turning its head to any extent.

The eggs of this creature are very small, hardly exceeding
those of a goose ; numbei-s are annually destroyed by birds of
prey and quadrupeds, especially the lelmeumon.

THE ALLIGATOR.

The AiiMOATOB, or Cayman, is an inliabitant of the New
World, and is unijleasantly common in the rivers of North
America. It pursues fisli w"^ith exceeding dexterity, by driving
a shoal of them into a creek, and then plunging amid the
terrified mass, and devouring its victims at its pleasure. It
also catches pigs, dogs, and other animals that venture too
close to the river. In that case, as the animal is too lai'go to

It if

404

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family II. Alligntortdaj. — (Liit. « hlnde): AlUgator-kiiul.)

ALI KlATon.

MississipensiB (Lat. uf tfie MUnndpi), the Alligator.

be swallowed entire, the Alligator conceals it in some hole in
tlie bank until it begins to putrefy, when it is dragged out,
and devoured under the concealment of the rank herbage
fringing the river.

The usual method of taking this creature is by baiting a
most formidable four-pointed hook, and suffering it to float
in the river. When an alligator has swallowed it, he is
hauled on shore by the rope, and slaughtered. Waterton
gives a very amusing account of catching a cayman. The
reptile had swallowed the liook, and was Ijeing towed ashore.
Waterton was waiting for him, armed with the mast of the boat,
to force it d .wn the throat of the cayman shonid he prove
restive. " By this time the cayman was within two yards of
me : I saw he was in a state of fear and perturbation. I in-
stantly dropped the mast, sprang up, and jumped on his back,

<1er. Alligfttor-kiiul.)

■ipi), the Alligator.

iceals it in some hole in
when it is dragged out,
it of the rank herbage

creature is by baiting a
and suffering it to float
las swallowed it, he is
slaughtered. Waterton
tching a cayman. The
was l)eing towed ashore,
^'ith the mast of the boat,
iayman should he prove
was within two yards of
and perturbation. I iu-
and jumped on his back,

NATURAL niaTOUT.

405

turning half round as 1 vaulted, so that I gmned my scat .vith
my face in a right position. I inmicdiatoly sei/.cd his fore
legs, i.nd by main force twisted them on his back ; thus they
served me for a bridle. . ,

«^ He u(nv seemed to have recovered from his mirpriHc, and
probablv fancying himself in hostile company he began to
.lun.T furiously, and Lvshed the sand with his long and pow-
erfuruiil. T was out of rcadi of the strokes of it, by being
neai- his head. He continued to plunge and strike, and made
mv seat von'- unc(imfortable."

'lu Audubon's American Ornithology is an account of a
wounded ibis cluised by the alligators. A wlute ibis had
been shot, and had fallen into the water with a broken
wing "The exertions which it made to roach the shore
seemed to awake the half torpid alligators that lay in the
deep mud at the bottom of the pool. One showed his head
above tlie water, then a second and third. All gave chase <>
the wounded bird, which, on seeing its dreaded and deadly
foes, made double speed towards the very spot where we
stood I was 8uq)rised to see how much faster the bira
swam than the reptiles, who, with jaws widely opened, urged
their heavy bodies through the water. 'Ihc ib.s was now
within a few yards of us. It was the al igixtor s last chance
Springing forwards, as it were, he raised his b..dy almost out
of the water; his jaws nearly touched the terrified bird,
when, by pulling three tr^Tgers at once, we lodged the
contents of our g. ms in the thr<. at of the monster. Ihreshmg
furiously with his tail, and rolling his body m agony, the
alli.'ator at last sunk to the mud ; and too ibis, as if in
gratitude, walked to our^very feet, and then lying down,
siu-rendered himself to us." . ., ^„^ ,,.

Like the Crocodile, the Alligator lays its eggs m the sandj
bank of the river. Fortunately, but few of the young ever
reach maturity, as their ranks are thinned 'J various birds
and beasts of prey before the eggs are hatched, and by the
attacks of large fishes, and even their own species, when thc>
have reached the water.

40G

NATURAL IIISTORT.

Cla^B IV. . . AMPKIbTa — (dr. 'An<pi&m, lending a double life, i'.(. on
land anil on wiitor.)

Order I. . . J}ATR.lC///A.-(Gr. Burpaxos, n Frog.)
Sub-ordor I. SAi.iK.NirA.— (Lat. Leaping animah.)

Kana.— (Lilt, a Frn;/.)

Tomporarla (Lat. tmnporary), t/ut tommuK i-'rvy.

The appearance and habits of the Frog and the Toak
are so familiar u.s to require bnt little description. A short
account, however, is necessary, of tlie jjeculiainties connnon to
both Frogs and Toads,

In the early Btay;e of their existence, these animals are
termed tadpoles. Tliey at first appear to be nothing but
head and tail, but after several days have passed, four legs
are observed to become developed. These rapidly increase,
and tlie little creature closely resembles a small eft. In due
time, however, tiie tail is lost, and the creature becomes a
l)erfect frog. Another important change also takes place.
In its tadpole state the creature was es.seiitially a water
animal, but after its change has taken ])lace it is not able to
exist imder water for any gi-eat length of time, and is forced
to come to the surface to breathe.

The tongue of the Frcg is curiously fixed almost at the

ling a double life, it: on

a Frog.)
aU.)

ioinmuii J'l'M/,

Frog and the Toad
description. A sliort
;culiarities common to

;e, these animals are
ir to be nothing but
>ave passed, foiu* legs
bese rapidly increase,
i a small eft. In duo
D creature becomes a
ngo also takes place,
i essentially a water
place it is not able to
of time, and is forced

/ fixed almost at the

NATUn.VL niSTORY.

407

enlrnncc of the mouth, and when at rest pomts l^^^^a ;
down the throat. When, lu.vever, the l-rog -';'^- '^;^"
reach of a sing or insect, the tongue is darted o ^^. h ex-
ceeding rapidity, the slug secured, earned to the back of tht

'' Shtr^llir^tls hyl>ernate. the former congregating
in multitu.les in the nuid at the bottoms "» P'""': ';";'
„.u-shes. while the latter choose a hole •" f .f; '" ;
fre(iuently at the roots of a tree, and i«s8 the waiter in

'"Tti7skin' of "these animals has the proi^^rty of inil>ibing
water, so that if un apparently emaciated frog is placed m a
dtinii. nlace, it will soon look qinte plump.

The Common Frog is a well known frecpientcr of ma,-«hy
phices and iho banks of rivers. It is an admirable swimmer
and from the peculiar eonstniction of its lungs can lemain
W some time under water, but is forced periodically to come
to the surface for the purpose of breathing. .

The Bull-Frog is an inhabitant of North America. It is very
voracious, feeding up.m fishes, inollusk^, and even young ft- wh
Its nowera of leaping are so gi-eat that an Indian was not
ible'^to m.ert.vke\u.'irritated'l.uU-frog after it had spru.ig
three h.>ps in a.lvance. It is very large, measuring about
seven inches in length. .

The Tree Frogs are very peculiar ■""™'^1«' ^ |'^% ' "";
struction of their feet, something resemb ing that of the
geckos, enables them to traverse the branches, and even to
ban- on the under surface of a pendant leaf, which ,t so
resembles in colour that the unwary insect pas.ses by and is
instantly seized bv the watchful frog. The Green Tree ' rog
is tS most common, and is plentifully found in southern
Europe and northern Africa. There are several spee.niens
in the Zoologic^al Gardens, which present a in ost absurd
appeai-ance us they slick against the pane ..f glass forming
the front o<" their cage.

i;sr«;;st:ssr»v!S;&;':s — -»> .1- "i- •'■■

408

NATUHAL HISTOBY.

Vulgilris (Lat. common), the Comtaon Toad.

The Common Toai> has had its full share of marvellous
tales. Its poisonous properties arc celebrated iu many an
aucient chronicle, as are also the virtues of the jewel con-
tjiined in its head.

Its skin certainly does secrete an acrid humour, which at
all events defends it from dogs, who can never bo induced to
bite a toad a second time ; but of coui-so sucii absurd notions
iis the romantic story of the death of a young lady and her
lover, who each ato a leaf of a shrub at the root of which a
toad had made its habitiition, need no refutation.

The Toad is easily tamed. A correspondent from the
country has kindly scut an account of a tame toad, that had
lived in the family for several yeai-s, and which was accustomed
to sup on a lump of sugtu-.

The well-known instances of imprisoned toads who must
have spent many years in their narrow habitations, are
apparently explained by the supposition that some aperture
or fissure existed, through which air and minute insects
could pass, sufficient for their nourishnient while in a semi-
torpid condition. Certainly those experimented ou by Dr.

'/.)

>nmwn Toad.

\ share of marvellous
lelcbmted iu many an
tues of the jewel con-
rid humour, which at
in never be induced to
BO sucli absurd notions
a young lady and her
at the root of which a
refutation.

•respondent from the
a tame toad, that had
which was accustomed

oned toads who must
rrow habitations, arc
)u that some aperture
r and minute insects
lutnt while in a semi-
lerimented on by Dr.

natuuat. nisTonv.
Iluckland i» 1»25, a.ul from whom nil «'> J» Jf f; ^"f,

of the snake, a« the toad invariably swallows ite tormcr
covering. ^ ^^

Hub-order II. aBAmENTTA.-(Lat. walkUg animuh.)

FamUyl. . . 8«la.n.vudrl.l«3.-(0r.2axa^«^«p«.artalamaudor.)

TaiTOji.-((ir. Tphuv. n Son-god.)

Cristfttus (Lat. crfdeJ), the Commmi. iVeief.

The Newts are separated from the lizar. < on account of
thel change™ while Voung. Like the frog«^ thoy are hr t
tadpoles, and do not assiUBC their perfect shape until six
wppks after their exclusion from the eggs.

The Common Ne^vt is a beautiful inhab tant of the ponds
diSs and still waters. It -feeds W-^^vfyo-'f^^^t
mi worms, which it eats with a peculiar rapul snap. It is

. , „ave frenuenuy ,een U »nac. .^^e -"e^newt ...,, .ret pe.everance. b«,
never see how the creature contr .(1 to pull It ott.

410

NATURAL HISTOnr.

(M.imtantly in the hal.it of rising to tho aurfaco of the water
111 vvdiir U> IjiCiitlic.

Many coimtrv iK;«.pic have great horror of these iHjautiful
Hii.l harn.icHH litfle animals. In a little vilia-e in Wiltshire
tlicre 18 a ennvnt anoedoU, of a Kirl who wa.s l.itten in tho
arm hy an ,JH. who f^j.it fire into the woun.i. The uiri
conHequent y Innt her arm. Some of thene newts or efts
were placed in a troi,;,.!. where tho cows were aceustomo.! to
dniik. After a few days a mlf died, and m.thin- would eon-
vuiee the nistics that the ettets were not the «ui«e of th.
untimely decea..e ,.f the eaif, altliouj,'!, it had never come near
th(MrouKh, lait wan .-afely faMtened in tho cow-house. Tl,
niale Newt ih diHtinguishrd l.y a l.eautiful rrimson-tipt.eu
wavy ercHtof JooHe nkin, that extends along the whole e.mrM,
of the hack ami tail,* and whi.h, together with the rich <.nmge-
eolonred belly, makoN it a mont l.eautiful creature. The
emale has a singular habit of laying her c-gs upon lonj;
eaves of water-plantH, and actually tying them in the Iwd'
by a regular knot.

Order V. . J/A'..l.VrAl.-(Lat. gliding animah.)
Fmnily I. . I'rotottlre.

VnoTv.vs.— (Proper name.)

Anguiuua (Lat. like a, Snake), the Prokus.

The Protkus is an extraordinary animal, which ha« been
lound in dark subterranean lakes, many hundred feet below

lY.

tl)o surfiico of the water

)rror of those Iwivntifiil
ttle villii-io in Wiltwhiri;
•1 who WMs liitteii in tlic
' tlic wound. The girl
of thoMo newts or effs
ws were .icciistoinod to
iind nothin,;,' would <'oii-
V not tlio ciiiiw of till'
it had never eoniu near
1 tlio cow-li(jnsf. Til
autifiil iriniMon-tippeu
ulonjr tlu' wliolf fours,
icr witii tlif rich oninge-
autiful ereaturi'. The
IT iiur cirgH upon long
tying them in the ieuf

tiding unimaU.)

me.)

the Proteut.

aimal, which lias been
ay hundred feet below

it does not remain erect while
1 liarilly be discerned. In tlie

NATt'IlAl, IIISTOnY.

411

,1,, ..,rfaee of the earth, where n.. ntv ni light ea,. pons ».!>

,,, The eyen of tluH lingular em.ture are "h''^ !'<''"«

■red witliikiu. nn.l useleKH for vIh.ou; n.dee.l when m

!.;;i.t.vity it itlwavH chooses the darkest partH of the vess.l

in whieii it is eontitied. , ,

The ProteuH brcatheH in two ways-- by hu.gs a,u b>
.Mils the latter organs ai-i-earing n. the form ot I wo t. tn,
mr.m Lh side of the no'k.just above the fore hmbs. Ihe
^;ZZ of the blood in these bnmehial t^'^s can eoj^
1,.. seen with a nneros.Mr" -•» ni.Mlernte power. These tults
e^f a mther deeper pink tinge than the ren.un.ler of the
,,dv hichisof avirv pale Hesh-eolour. Kxpom.re to
hV'.larketis the tints bo'th of g'iUs and body. 1 1 bear, some
;^^ nblatiee to the yontig of the n-wts, wh.ch are furnishec.
iH branchial tufts, which they lose np.,n attannt.g m.ttur.ty
; w herefore for some tin.e thought to be the young of
sl'e unknowti reptile. It lu«, hovn _...,• -.'» prove.l to be
„ perfect animal, and has been fmm. ot ^ ' "^\ ,

It is ciisily kept in water and re u.re« no tc dn,g but t o
water tnust be frc.uently changed o b .p U ^n.M Jho
l.lood disks of thi8 annual are excu-.^agiy 'f^/'^ ' ^" "^'^^;
iu.leed. as almost to be d.stmgmslu . oy .ac nnk d c>^
When in captivity, its movements are .,iow and eel-iike, nor
does it seem to make much use of its almost n.d.meni .ry

"' U'has usually been found on the soft mud of a small lake
in the grotto of Maddalena. It is not .ilways pr^'^^nt and
1 bcTn conjectured to be the inhabitant of -"- J-^"-^
subtenanean body of water, and to have been f";--; ^S
the crevices of the rocks. Hesules tj.e ^^^t.. of M uld.dtn
at Adelsburg, they have also been found at S.tt.ch, thirty
miles distant, thrown up from a subterranean cavity.

412

NATURAL HISTORY.

Class V. . . PISCES.— (Lat. FMes.)

Sub-class I. PISCES OSSEI.-(Lat. h<my fislm.)

Order I. . . ACANTnoPTERYaiI.-(QT.''KKaveos,o.thoTn;-nr,pi'y^o,,
a flu.)

Sub-order I. DACTYLOPnr.Ri.-(Gr ArfxTyAoj, a fiuger ; .^€>a,, I bear.)
Fanxily I. . TriglIda;.-(Gr. TplyAa, a Mullet.)

TRIOLA.

CucOlus (Lat. a Cuckoo), the Oitnuinl,

As the FisriEs live exclusively in the water, it is necessary
that their organs of respinitio?! should be differently formed
from those of the animals breathing atniospiieric air. Instead
of the purification of the blood being accomplished by the
contact of atmo.sphcric air in the apparatus called lungs that
office is performed by the water, which passes into the month
of the fish, and from thence out at the gill-covers, on its way
being strained through the singular structure cdled the
"gills." These gills are able to extract from the water suffi-
cient oxygen to purify the blood of the fish. If the oxygen
\)as alreadj- been extracted, the fisli instantly dies. The same
effect 13 produced if the nsh be so held as to prevent tb-^

TORY.

t>y fishes.)

[Gr. "hKavBos, athora ; irrepiymv,

v\os, a fiuger ; (ptpw, I bear.)
MM.)

,'£^"\~'

the Gurnard.

the water, it is necessary
mid be diifereutly formed

atmosi^iieric air. luste.id
jing accomplished by the
)paratus called luugs, that
ich passes into the mouth
the gill-covers, on its way
lar structure called the
ract from the water suffi-
■ the fish. If the oxygen
instantly dies. The same
) held as to prevent tbo

NATURAL HISTORT.

413

«.,.+pr from flowin-^ in the proper direction, so that it is per-
St?; poSillo to^lro^vn i f£h ; although L'Estrango may
doubt the fact : —

" Anrt like those sages that would drown a fish,
1 1,111 coudeiim'd to suffer-what I wisli.

Most andors are perfectly aware of the power obtained by
keepin- the head of a hooked fish down the stream.

The"elou.nvted form of fishes, and their smooth covermg
aiforl' but little resistance to the water, beautifidly show
thek perfect adapfextion for the element in which they resl.^^.^

Their rapid movements through the water are pnnpipally

peio^med by means of a lateral vibration of the taal, just as
pciioimt I ^ ,^^ ^j^^ ^^g^jj^ ^r by

: ':^^^:^o!Z m^^^ TI. fins serve pnnci-

^iLStSririss a singular organ called the "swimming-
blaMe ." This is a membranous po.tch varying oxeeeclmg ly
i. s ze and shape, situated close under the spine, and fillc'l by
"me means Ih gtxs, mostly found to be -trog- bu. m
deep-sea fishes, an excess of oxygen \« '^^f^' « nf rom

The fish seems to be able to rise or sink by means of com-
pre'iiag or expanding this pouch, without bemg forced to

•"^trmll^!'^"-^^^^^^^^ -th which most fish are fur-
nisled ractirably fitted both for defence against the water,
and for eSng the fish to glide easily through places where
Tiouoh coverii?' would have held it prisoner. Many valuable
!^hSteSics a^re derived from the shape of the smles m
difterent fish. There are four principal wieties, caUed, 1.
pS or flat scales; 2. Ganoid, or polished scales; 3 Ctenoid,

o toothed scales ; and 4. ^^y^^^-^^/r "^hell i,Lu8 fin
The Acanthot-terygii are so called from their spinous hn
rov« Those of the Perch are excellent examples.
"^The S'Iaki,, or Cuckoo Gornm., as ^ is some^-es
railed from the sound it utters when taken out of the water
Tvery common on the English coast. It is rather a sma 1

'ni5^^:»9^-ed.™^i.^c.^

rZV. JreexceUeVt [^stances of the four Kinds of scales.

414

NATUKAL HISTOItY.

fi«li rarely exceeding fourteen inches in length. The colour,
ot lis body when living uro very beautiful, the upper pun
being bright red, and the under part.s silvery white

1 here arc uiue npecios of Gurnard known to fre.nient tin.
coiu.t^ of hugland, s<.nie, as the .Sa],phirine and the Mailed
<jurnaj-ds, being most extraordinary in fonn.

The B^lying Gurnard is common in the Indian seas. Its
peet(jnd hus are so much enlarged, that when it springs out
01 the water, when pursued by the doli.hin or bonito, the
wide quivenug hns are able to sustain it in the air for „
limited period.

fJ^'^Fi^"'' '"f/^^?" ''''*'" confounded by voyagers with th.
true tlyin;,-hsh {Exocatm), which belongs to an entirely
(linerent order.

Sub-order II. HoLODACTYLi.-(Gr. "OAoj, entire, SaVrvAo., a finger.)
Family IV. . Percula..-(Gr. nipKr,, a Perch.)

I'KUCA.

Fluviatilis (Lat. of l/i^ river), Uie Ptrck.

The Common Pekcu is well known to anglers both as
a bold bitmg fish," and as a fish that does not yield up its
lite without endangering the i^erson of its captor; for the
tormidable row of spinous rays l)elonging to the firat dorsal
hn have wounded the hands of many an incautious angler.

It IS extremely voracious, so much so tliat after aU the

OUY.

28 in length. The colours
Itcautihil, the upper pan
ts silvery white,
d known to frecpient tlic
ippliirine and the Mailed
in fonn.

in the Indian seas. Its
that when it springs out
e dolphin or bonito, the
stain it in the air for ii

led by voyagers with the
1 belongs to an entirely

II, entire, S<iKT:'\os, a finger. >

:'cTch.)

NATURAL HlSTOmf.

4t<>

)■), tiie I'tnk.

iwu to anglers both as
lat does not yield up its
I of its captor ; for the
iging to the fii-st dorsal
an incautious angler.
:li so tliat after all the

Iccritimate bait has been exhausted, it is a common pmcticc
or the fishcrnian to place on his hook the eyes of tiic perci.
already taken, whiob are as eagerly bitten at, as the worms wei-e
formerly. An anecdote is related of a gentleniau who struck
at a perch, but unfortunately missed it. the h...>k tearing out
the eye of the poor creature. He adjuste.l the eye on the
hook, and repk«.i the line in the water, where it had hardly
been a few minuti.s before the float was violent y jerked under
the surface. The angler of course stnick and iound he bad
captured a tine percii. This when landed w.-vs <l>«coveix^.l t.
be the veiTtisb which had just been mutilated, and vvb.ch had
actually lost its life by devouring its own eye. It is quaiuUy
observe^l in I.uvk Walton, that " if there be twenty .^ forty
in a hole, they may be at one stan(bng all caught one alter
another, ibey being like the wicked of the woi d, not afraid
though their fellows and companions perish in '^■»»'^"-.«'g'';.

'Hie Perch seldom exceeds two pounds and a ba f in weiglit,
and a Perch weighing a pound and a half is considered a very
fine fish.

Family XIII. Scomberida;.-(ar. t^S^^pos, a generic name for the
Tuimy.)

SOOMBKU.

■■*!*?*?•.

Scombrus (Utiui/.ed form of :i,c6^^fo,), tke Mackarel.

Ti.P Plptrant sliano and resplendent colours of the Mao-
K Jkl p nT^ out L one of the most beautif.il f.shes known.
NorTsronly valuable for its beauty, as it is highly pnzed as
an article of food in most parts of the world.

416

NATURAI. HISTORY.

Vast shoals of Mackarol visit our coasts, and myriads arc
taken by fishermen both by nets and with linos. The line <it
nets frequently exceeds a mile in extent, and of course tlu;
number of fish contained in this enormous net must lie
beyond all calculation. On several occasions, the meshes of
the net were completely choked up by fish hanging by their
gills, and the net acted like a dredge, sweeping up myriads
more fish in a solid mass. In 1808, the whole net and its
cargo sunk, and were lost to the too succesful fishermen.

The profits of the fishery vary exceedingly ; sometimes
the boats will hardly take a single mackarel, and at other
times, or even in different spots, the draught of fish will
nearly fill the boat. In 1834, one boat sold in one night
nearly one hundred pounds' worth of mackarel.

Tlie fish require to be used soon after they are tiiken out
of the water, as the flesh is very tender, and eas-ily injured
l)y exposure to the air, or by carriage to any great distance.

Wlien the fishei-men employ the line for the capture of the
mackarel, the hook is baited with a strip cut from a dead
mackarel, and is suifcrnd to trail overboard. Tlie fish bite
eagerly at this cannibal kind of bait, and are frequently
tiiken by l>aiting the hook with a strip of scarlet leather or
cloth.

Thtnncs.— (Or. eivvos, a Tunny.)

^Stf^^l^i

Tbyunud, the Tunny.

The Tunny is a tolerably large fish, averaging four feet in
length, and is veiy common in the Mediterranean. Large
fisheries are established during May and June, at winch

"wss^mm

S3a«i!SSS>.iat»Siafcyi'./ASa*dS3iS5^5Si3S5ai{^^ .-ii-il-i

aats, and myriads iU'c
ith linos. The lino of
nt, and of coiu-sc tin;
ormouH net must be
casions, the meshes of
fish hanging by their
sweeping up myriads
the whole net and its
3cesful fishermen.
;ecdingly ; sometimes
laekarel, and at other
I draught of fish will
oat sold in one night
nackarel.

:er they are tiiken out
ler, and easily injured
,o any great distance,
for the capture of the
strip cut from a dead
i-board. Tlie fish bite
t, and are frequently
p of scarlet leather or

runnv.^

^«ii^Ssa>"'

averaging four feet in
Mediterranean. Large
r and June, at wliich

417

NATURAL HI8T0UV,

season immense shoals of tl>e»e Ssh -- Jj;;;^: i,:;;^

L ; Xn^ the shori: one edge being fixed to tho be. cm .
he sea by inu^hors and weights and the f )^'-' ^^^^ ^
,t the Hurico of the water by corks. A '^:;^».'« t'uu^ tonnu ,
s r . ci> n" ab.n- the coast for nearly a mile m length. Hh..
;m!:;^innuing along the coast pass "f;^)^-^^ ^i
tinue their cou.e -td U-y - J^^ir 'T^ 0!^^-

,.f.nt1v tbi> "chamber of death. A stung "ti. \>m^

weapons soon destroys the entn-e shoal. ,, ,. , .„„„,

This fish is not unfrciueutly found on v.he English coast.

XirHlv3.-(ar. X.^I«, shaped like a sword ; the Sword-fiBh.)

':Wp0^T'-7?^^

Qladlus (Lat. a Suord), the Sword-Jhh-

The well-known Sword-fish inhabits every part of the
Mediter™n Sea, and h.^ seveml times been seen near the
shores of England and Scotland. .

The " swo^d" for which this fish is so famous is an elon-
.JZ of the upper jaw, of g.-eat strength, and capab e 0
doing considerable injury to any object agamst winch it

418

NATURAL HISTORY.

diructH its attacks. In tho l^ritish Musctiin is a poitioii '>f
tho bottMiij of a Kliip, ^lierccd coui])lutt'tv thj'du^h by fdo
" sword " (if one of thew fish. Its unfortnrat;) owner ninst
have instuitly perished Iiy the siiock, for the sword \\n»
iin'oedded almost to its l)a^<>, and broken ;'!iort otf. In iiir
instance, a Sword-fish attacked ,i wlialiug-t-hip, iind druvi'
its weapon ' tlirongh tlio c )ppcr riheathing, :)n incli-board
slieathinj;;, a three-inch plauk of hard wood, t)»e solid white
oak timber of i^c ship t-vi;]*' inches thick, through another
two-and-a-half ii eh hard oai; ceilinj? ])lank, ai.d lastly, per
foi-ated tl>e liead of an oil cask, where it stili renMiinoii
inn)iovai)ly fixed, so tiiat not ;> sinj^lu drop '4' oil escaped."

In the Meditci mnean, tho fish-rmcn eagerly chuw the
Sword-fish. The harpoon and line are nscd ;nnch in th(
sum." manner as in the whale fishery. Tiu) Sicilii; : fishermen
have a stmpge siiperstition that it tlie SwoiJ-fisli were to
Jo;"' a wo'fj of Italian, it wonld instantly dive and escajx'
tssera. Tliey therefore restrict their vocal sounds to an nn-
mteiiigililo chant. It is said that th(> whale is an object of
r'ttrtic^dar enmity to tiie Sword-fish, and that sliips are struck
by it, li'.ing mistaken tor whales.

The length of this fish is usually iiom twelve to fifteen
feet. It is said to feed princij)ally on tni'nies, puixuing the
shnals, and transfixing the fish with its sword.

THE JOHN DORY.

The John Dory, rendered illustrious by Quin the comedian,
who was not less known for his comic powers than for his
love of good living, is found plentifully off the coasts of Corn-
wall and Devonshire. The derivation of its name is not quite
certain, but in all jjrobability it is derived from the French,
dorcr, or golden, in allusion to its peculiar golden yellow^
colour.

Traditions vary as to the spots so conspicuous on its side.
Some strenuou.sly assort that this vas the fish canght by St.
Peter when he took the tribute-money out of its mouth, and
upon whose sides the marks of his finger and thumb were
left. The Haddock, however, vies with the Dory for this

'W!

u.scum is !i poition nf
etc';- thi'ongh by Ki>3
fortii);n,tn owner must
c, for the sword was
en •I'ci'f olf. In i nc
aliii;_;-f-lii]>, mth! druvi'
ithing :ui inch-liouril
wood, tlie solid whito
luck, thront;h anoLlicr
)liink, ai.d lastly, per-
lerc it Htiii reniiiiiwt!
rop 'j1' oil escaped."
en eagerly chiiH" the
•(! used ninch in the
i'lu) Sicilii' : fishermen
le bwoid-fisli were to
ntly dive and escajjc
)cal sounds to an un-
whalo is an object of
I rluit ships are struck

rom twelve to fifteen
tfumies, pursuing the

HWiifd.

[)y Quin the comedian,
I powers than for his
off the coasts of Corn-
r its name is not quite
ved from the French,
ccidiar golden yellow

nspicuous on its side,
the tish caught by St.
out of its mouth, and
iger and thumb were
;h the Dory for this

NATURAL 1II8T0UY.
Family XIV. Zeidic— (Or. Ztis, .Tui>iter.)

ZKfS.

F'-iiber (Lilt, a Wurhnau : mmtlimcK uml fw the fish), the John Dorij.
honour Other traditions are quite as vigorous in their
i-^sertion that St. Chiistopher produced these marks whde
crossiu" kn arm of the sea, bearing the Saviour ni Ins arms.

Family XVII. Syngnathidw.— (Or. 2i)v, together; yvieos, the jaw.)
Hippocampus.— (Or. 'lirniKafiitoi, a Soa-liorae.)

BrevirostriB (Bat. short-beaked), the Sea-horse.
The singular fish called the Sea-horse has often been found
off the southern coasts of England. The habits of this fish

mwT:

420

NATURAL mSTOUV.

nro very Hiii'^'ular and intcrostin>;. A pair wore kept alivo for
some time in a i^lass vessel, ami exhihiloil cDiisidorablo activity
uiid intelligence. Tlicyawani about with an undulating' kind
of movement, and fre(piontly twined tlieir tails round tiie
weetls placed in tlicir prison, 'i'heir eyes moved indepen-
dently of each otiicr, as those of the clianieleon. and the
chan:jeal)le tints of the head closely resemble that animal.

More than once, these curious tish have boeu seen curled
up in oyster shells.

The Hint,'ular creatures called Pipe-fish also belong to the
Syngiiathidu).

Ci
Si
tl
ol
(II
w
ai
si
t(

0

f(

Family XXII. Echeneidjc.— (Or. 'Ex*vritt ; from ix", 1 l^"l'l '< »'"''»> "
ship.)

ECIIKNKW.

■-r.^xii^

RemOrn (Lat. properli/, a delay), the ftud:iitgjl:<h.

The Remora, or SucKixa-Fisn, is remarkable for the pecu-
liar apparatus situated on the upper part of its head. By
this it can adhere to any object so firmly that it is a difficult
matter to make it loose its hold. It is often found adherino;
to large fish or to the bottoms of ships, probably in both in-
stances for the sake of the fragments of food rejected by the
one, or thrown overboai-d from the other.

The older writers on Natural History fnHv believed that
one Remora had the power of arresting the \s iftest ship in
its course, and fixing it firmly in the same spot in spite of
spread canvass and swift gales. As the Remora is about the
same size as a herring, our ancestors naturally considered this
a very curious circumstance, and wrote no few poems on the
subject. The following true account of this fish is extracted
from Macgillivray's Voyage of the Rattle-snake : —

ir wore kept alive for
CDiisiiluTiitjlo activity
I an uu'lulatiu^ i<iiiii
lioir tails rouud tlic
a-s movod iudepeii-
cliamuloou, and tiiu
nblo that animal.
ive been seen curlud

li also belong to tho

om fx*! I l^"!*^ ' ""''''

Sucliiitj-fah.

irkable for the pecu-
art of its head. By
• that it is a difficnlt
often found adhcrintj;
probably in both in-
food rejected by the

J fuHv believed that
the w iftest ship in
ame spot in spite of
liemora is about the
Lirally considered this
10 few poems on the
this fisli is extracted
j-snake : —

NATURAL II18T0UY.

421

"Small fish appeared to abound at tl"s aneho.age (t lo
Calvados group of islands). I had never before seen tho
^uUne-ftl {Hrhenels reJora) so plentiful as at that place
S ; a^,.sed much am.oyanee to our fishermen by -ury 'g
tf baits and hooks, and appeared always on the aler , kirtmg
t n a bodv . .f twenty or more from un.ler the ship s bottom
; e any olfal was thrown overboard. Being cpi.te a nn.sance
S useless as food, Jack often treated them '^« Jj^ ^1 c
sh'u-k by si.rit-sail yarding, or some less rehne.l n.o.le o
tu^e M day, in.e of us while walking the poop kuI
:; attention dirJe'ted to a sucking-fish abo,rt *-•- a -
feet in length, which had been made fast by the tad to 'i Ij'l tt
;,t- wood by a fathom or so of spun yarn, and so turnc.l adr^^
An imniense striped shark, apparently aboirt fou teen ftct
i„ leuLrth, which had been cruising about the ship all the
"orning, 'sailed slowly up, and turning ^Hghtly on o"e -Ic^,
attempted to seize the apparently helpless hsh. but the sutke
wiih great dexterity mile himself fast ma moment to U e
shark's back. Oft' darted tho monster at f'j" « il t toiin '
holdin-' fiist as a limpet to a rock, and the billet towin
ster He then rolled over and over, tumbling about,
3^; weiried with his efforts, he lay quiet ibr a ^tUe^ ^ei;;|
the float, tho 3hark got it into h.s ;"»'\t\''" ^^.^f^^' f^
the sucker by a tug on the line, made a bolt at t^e Ab , but
his puny antagonist was again too ipuck, and, hx ng himselt
cose behind the dorsid fin, defied the efforts of the sha k ^^
disengage him, although he rolled over and over, lash ng e
water with his tail until it foamed all around. What the
final result was, we coidd not clearly make out.

THE ANGLER.

The Anolkr, or Fishing Fuog, as it is ^^'^Jf'^ll
called is not uncommon in all the European seas. Ihe
;Sar formation of its pectoral fins enables it to crawl for

"^'JS'Sc^a,J:^tio elongated bony appendages, curiously
urtSdated to the skull, aifd capable of ^^l^^^^^Z
direction. The Angler couches close to the bottom ot the

Pi

422

NATURAL niSTORT.

Family XXIII. LophilUco. — (Or M<pot, a crest.)
IiOriilUS.

I'wcatoriuB (Lat. flMng), the Angkr.

sea, and by the movement of its pectoral fins stirs np the
sand and nmd, and agitates the bony appendagcH amid the
turbid cloud produced. The small tislies, observing the muddy
water, and taking the filaments for worms, api>roacli to seize
them, and are 'ustiaitly engulphed iu the capacious jaws of
the crafty Angkr.

The voracity of the Ar^'cr is so great, that v luii caught in
a net together witli oth I'isli, it generally devours some "T
its fellow-prisoners— a useless act, for the I' tiermen uios'
open its stomach and recapture the floundei s and other ,
found in its interior.

THE CARP.

Tlic Malacoptcryg- n fishes iiave their *in membranes sup-
ported Ijy flexible ra . The Al-dominid Malaconterygii have
tboir veni iiil fins sit . fd on the ' loUy, without any connexion
with the bones f the shoulder.

The Common < ahp is a well-known inhabitant of our pon -,
lakes, and sluggisli rivers. It is a very shy and wary fish,

8

F

?ffiSiS«if:SSaS^S5gSSi|ttSv:f

\6<t>os, a cront.)

Angler.

3ral fins stirs up the
appendages anii'l the
, observing the niiuldy
■tns, ap|>roach to seize
the capacious jaws of

, tliat w aea cjiught in
•ally devours some ol'
the f' hennen most'
)undei.s and other

ir fin membranes sup-
1 Malacmterygii have
ivithoiit any connexion

liabitant of our pom Is,
(ry shy and wary fish,

NATUnAt. I119TOUY.

423

ovlorll.. . MMACOl'Tinrail.-iii^: Ma,K«Krf.. .oft; .r,piy,oy,
a, fin.) , , .

,.,.r>ior I. AnooMiNALtA-d-at. h.tonr,ln;, to the uhdom.n.)
Kaiuily I. . Cyi-nnidiC-iOr. KuirpT.os, a Ciii'lO

Carpio (Lat) ^/i<! C'u.,
,.,iectin, on. a bait which bad been freely taken the day

provi' .* , , , ^^\^\ its scales turn

It bvestoagi-eat age, ' "'^ ^ ^^^J^^^J^^ in France

^ey lust -^- --.i; ^£^lLa an enormous

later kin^ 'i <' "in*"^. . ^ j^. j^

Very few lisb are so ^--^^^\^2'^J,\!:lt. fiUed with
'■ -T C -^^S IW L xnilk, and a^ p..-
.ervedT H^b .rec,uent immersion in water, m order to
keei- the . l>- n,gl >■ ^^t; ^^^-^^^ ^f a good Carp,

JlXtd. 't:;;S.;:wn^ighi4 upwards of eigh-

. ,„ ,„, «,„„. fishinK inasmaU pond nc-ar Ox<brd. • took in X" ^flw^a"
So day WKS .pent .M<hout even a bue.

424

NATUriAL iiisTony.

twn ])oiiii(k It \H enormtmHly prolific, um tlio roc of oik
foinsilo weigliinf^ nino poiindM wuh found to contain nix Ininilrod
thoiiHimd viiiiH. Of coiirw comjiamtivfly d v of tlieso c^'u'is
nrrivi' at maturity, by far the greater nuniiior being eaten by
other fitth.

ctpbInub.

BnrbuB (Lat. Barha, a buard), Me Barbel.
Auratus (Lat. gilded), the Gold-fmh.

The GoLD-Fi.sn or GoiiDEx Caui', is another Hpecios of
tiie gcnuH Cyprinns. Ir was originally brought from China,
about two hundredyeariisince, whenit was considered a great
curiosity; now, however, it is quite common, and is found
to live in ponds even ,, 'len the surface of the water is thickly
covered witl. ice. Tlic j)on(ls in Christ Church College, and
the Botanic (iardons, Oxford, arc thickly populated with these
beautiful fish, which increase with the most marvellous
rapidity. The i)ond in the centre of the Clarendon Printing
Ottico was stocked with these fish, and as the spare water
from the steam-engine used in the works ]>asse(l into the
pond, they throve amazingly. One imfortunate moining,
the surface of the pond was covered with Golden Carji, all
floating dead. Some verdigi-is had formed in some jjart of
the engine, had been washed mto the pond, and hud poisoned
all its finny inhabitants.

ill

:, iiH tlio rui' of (Ml.
I cimtuiii kIx huudivd

]y fi V (if tlll'KO t';^i;»

mlier being eaten \>y

fe..

« Barhd.
d-fi»k.

iiiiothcr species of
Drought from China,
18 considered a great
nraon, and w found
' the water in tliickly
( 'hurch Colli^ge, and
populated \ ; i li these
10 most iiiarve]h)U8
Clarendon Printing
as the ^ijiare water
ks ])assed into tlie
I fortunate morning,
\\\ Golden Carp, all
led in some jiart of
d, and had poisoned

NATUUAL IIISTonY.

420

Tiie I'.MiiiF.i. is found in mont of the European nvcrs. Its
flesh is coarse and unsavoury, hut it is eag.'rly sought a tor
l,v amders, as the spirit and vigour displayed l.y it Nvlan
li.ked afford tine sport. It is peculiarly clever at l.reak.ng
,1... line, a feat sometimes uceomplislie<l i.y a violent l.lo« n
il.e tail, and s(m»etimes l.y contriving to t^vlst the hue roun.l
a foot or post, and giving a sudden jerk.

U feeds prineipallv on larv.e and molluscs, mha .iting the
l,;,„kK, and ol.tains'them hy rooting in the sand with its
snout The harhels, or l.eards, hanging from the upper jaw,
doul.tless as.sist in these investigations. It frequently grows
to a verv great size, weighing fn.m fifteen to eighteen pounds,
,„d „u.usuring upwards of three feet in length. Many .u^e
..apture.1 l.v nets (luring the summer, at which season they
freuuent the weedy parts of the river in shoals; hut t
whiter they retire to the shelter afforded by hanks and od
woodwork. Sevoml good swimmers have been known to
dive after the Barbel, as they lay i.ressed agxmst the banks,
and to bring up ..ne each time, not unfre.iuently appearing
with two, one in each hand.

THE GUDGEON AND BREAM.
The ease with which the Gudgkon is taken has passed into
a proverb. This pretty little fish is usual y found >» ;'';' «^^
..arts of rivei-s, where the bottom is gi-avelly. If to gi ,^tl
stirred up, the (Judgeons immediat,.ly flock to the place,
'md a worm suspended amid the turbid water is eagerly
nanned at bv them. The fishermen usually take them m
m'^and keep them alive in well-boats. They are largely
purchased as baits for trolling. ,11;,.,,... „„d

The flesh of the Gudge.m is particularly delicate, and
although its length mrely exceeds seven inches, yet irom the
; rwith which numbers can be obtained, it forms by no
means a dish to be despised.

The Bream is very common on the Continent, but in England
is only found in certain rivers and lakes, such as the Medway

'SXKSffr if iiifctfaJWMaMMaM

42tS

NATURAL HISTORY.

GobIo.— (Lat. a Giulyeou.)

AbrXmis. — (Gr. 'APpa^ls, a Bream.)

Fluviatills (Lat. of tM river), the Gudgeon.

Brama (Lat.) tlie Dream.

find Trent, and the lakes of Cumberland and Westmoreland.
It m also found in the lakes of Ireland.

The breadth of the Bream is greater in proportion to its
length than that of most fishes. It affords excellent spoit to
tiie angler, biting readily and resisting vigorously when hooked.
The most approved method of catching this fish is by pro-
pivring the spot with gi-ound bait for a day or two previous ;
the Bream then assemble in numbers and bite freely at a
bait. In Ireland the Bream taken were accustomed to be
given to the poor, who split and salted them for winter
provision.

Its length rarely exceeds ten or twelve inches, nor is it of
any value for the table.

THE TENCH.

The habits of the Tench are not unlike those of the carp,
exceptmg that it seems CA'en more sluggish than that fish.
It especially delights in muddy banks of ponds, where the

— (Gr. 'Afipa/xls, a Bream.)

Brama (Lat.) t/te Bream.
id and Westmoreland.

r in proportion to its
ords excellent sport to
gorously when hooked,
ig this fish is by pro-
day or two previous ;
and bite freely at a
ere accustomed to be
Ited them for winter

ve inches, nor is it of

like those of the carp,
uggish than that fish.
i of ponds, where the

NATURAL HISTOBY.

TiNCA.— (Lat. a Tench.)

427

Vulgaris (Lat. cominou), the Tendi.

1 ^v^w tliifklv Roeet gives an account of a Tench that
huf L?n ta£ out of I pond almost filled up with stones
a ] Sish, and which had actually gro^vn into the shape of
He hole where \t had been confined, evidently for many
virsTiro weight of that fish was eleven pounds nme
mm?es Foiir hundi-ed tench and as many perch were also
Sn out of the same pond. This fish is even more tenacious
of life than the carp.

THE ROACH AND DACE.
Tlie Roach is veiy connnon in most rivers of this country,

I Z^ZZ: Smtt£l^ Sr sii Thjse fish
La% uVe in small shoals, and pass from one part ot the

"'iCRoachls' not unlike the Dace, but may be ea.sily dis-
tiJmLhedt'ts bright red ventral fins, those of th. dace
hSslverv white. It is rather a favourite with anglers, a
bLs rialher nibbles at the bait in such a dainty and
iSe maimer, that the disappointed fi^^*^™; 7* f f !!
u nt y finds the bait gone without the movement of his float

r'a»'»"*»'»

428

NATURAL HISTORY.

Leuciscus. — (Gr. AcvkIctko; ; from XtvKO!, white.)

RutiluB (Lat, shining red), tJte Roach.
Lc'jojacus, the Dace.

betraying the theft. A quick eye and a dexterous liand are
required for tliiw sport. The float is ho balanced as barely to
appear above the surfiico of the water, for, unlike the perch,
tliat dashes at tlie bait and boldly jerks the float at once
under water, the Roach does little more than swim under the
bait as far as it can, and then just gives a gentle nibble, re-
peating tlie process until the bait ha-s entirely left the hook.

The habits of the Dace are so similar to those of the lloach
as to need but little description, it is usually found wher-
ever the roach resides, and, like that fish, swims in shoals.
It makes an excellent bait for trolling, as the silvery white-
ness of its scales renders it a conspicuous object, and serves
to attract the pike. It seldom exceeds nine or ten inches
in length.

The Blkak and the Minnow both belong to the genus
Leuciscus. The former fish is remarkable for the use made of
its scales, which when washed in water dei)osit a powder
much used in the manufacture of artificial pearls.

M

vKos, white.)

Roach.

dexterous hand are
iilanced as barely to
r, unlike the pei'cli,
8 the float at once
ban swim under the
a gentle nibble, re-
irely left the hook.

) those of the lloach
usually found wher-
h, swims in shoals.
s the silvery wliite-
is object, and serves
nine or ten inches

:]ong to the genus
for the use made of
' deposit a powder
il pearls.

NATURAL HISTORY.

429

Ceplialus (Qv. Ki(paKos, a large-headed fish), tlu:, Cltuh.

The CnuR is also common in most of our rivers. It aflFords
-ood sport to the angler, both with a fly and with a bait.

The usual bait employed is a cockchaft'er, whidi, when
fastened to the hook and artistically miide to dance on the
surface of the water, is a temptation that few Chub can resist.
This method '^f fishing is termed "dil.bing," and the i)eculiar
movement is communicated to the bait by tappmg the butt
oud of tlie rod, while the cockchaff'er or moth just rests on
tiie surface of the water.

Its il'>Kh is very coarse, and requires some skill on the part
„f the cook to make it fit for the table. Its weight larely
exceeds five pounds, but it is very powerful, and rcqmres a
strong line and skilful management on the part of the
angler.*

* A well-known piscator at Oxford, while tishinsr witii the 'ly from a finiaH skill,
(hub, snapped, and the fiBh of course escaped.

1

430

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family II. Esocidic. — (Lat. Eso.c, n Pike.)

ESOX.

Lucius (Lat. a Pike), the Pike.

Tliis fierce and voracioua fish is now common in most
rivci-s and lakes in England, although it was formerly so rare
as to be rated at ten times the value of turbot.

It affords mr.ch sport to anglers, who generally employ a
method of fishing called " trolling." A gudgeon, roach, or
large minnow is so fixed to a number of foiinidable hooks,
that when drawn through the water, it spins rapidly round,
and attracts the notice of the watchful Pike, who (iishes at
the glittering bait with a violence that jars the rod down to
the very butt. Off swims the pike to his place of concealment
leisurely turns the head ol the bait downwards, and swallows
it. Now, to swallow the fish is easy enough, but tlie array of
barl^^d hooks proves an effectual obsfaiclo to the endeavours
of th Pike to get rid of the unwelcome morsel as soon as the
angler jerks the line, .and gives the Pike to imderstand that
hooks have points. The deluded Pike now endeavours to
break the line, but a good fisherman foils all Ws efforts, «'nd
at In.it lands him, wearied and bleeding, but ferocious to
i\ last.

c, a Pike.)

NATURAL HISTORY.

4.n

Pike.

ow common in most
t waH formerly so rare
' tnrbot.

10 genei'ally employ a
A gudgeon, roach, or
of fonnidable hooks,
t spins nipidly roimd,
,1 Pike, who dashes at
jars the rod down tt>
i place of concealment,
vnwards, and swallows
ough, but the array of
iiclc to the endeavours
morsel as soon as the
ke to imdcrstand that
e now endeavours to
oils all 'lis efibrts, ^'ud
iing, but ferocious to

The method of fishing for Pike called "tnmming is hardly
worth mention. A lino baited with living fish is fastened to
a float, and s.iffcrcd to lie on the surface of the water Ine
Pike, seeing tlio l.ait swimming about, dashes at it and hooks

itself in the effort. ., i - .„:„i>f

This fish varies in size from two or three jiounds weiglit,
to twenty or thirty, but a Pike weighing fifteen pounds is
.nsidered a very fine fish. Above that weight they are
'vhnost useless fo/ the table. A Pike weighing less than two
iiounds is called a jack.* , . ^- n -vr^ Tnca„

The appetite of this fish is almost insatiable. Mr. Jesse
threw to one Pike of five pounds' weight, four roach, each
about four inches in len.gth, which it devoured instantly and
swallowed a fifth within a quarter of an hour, ^loor-liens
.lucks, and even swans have been known to fall a prey to this
voracious fish, its long teeth effectually keepmg them pri-
soners under water until drowned.

THE FLYING-FISH.

This fish, so celebrated in most books of voyages, is found
in the warmer latitudes, but has several times been seen off
our coasts. The so-called " flight" is very similar to that ot
the flyin- squirrels and dragons, the fish merely sprmgmg
„ut of the wivter with a violent impetus, and sustammg itself
in the air by means of its enormous pectoral hns. It is not
able to alter its course while in the air, nor to rise a second
time without rejieating its coui-se through the water. The
rtiider will notice the remarkable fact, that mdmduals of
three wingless classes, the Mammalia, the ^ptiles a^d he
I^'ishes, have each the power of sustammg theraselvesrtn the

"'"The "fli.*t" of this fish seldom exceeds two hundred yards.
The unfortimate creatures are pursued in tlu3 v^'^tf- by
"Dorados," erroneously called dolphins, and other fishes of
T.reY To escape their finny tyrants, they spring mto the air,
and for a while escape. Put the gulls and albatroses are on

» m the Ashn,olcan Mu.eu.n at Oxford is a Pike weighing thirty pounds, that ^va.
taken in the lake at Blenheim I'ark.

^^"^jjf,? i^jf-

a»ws*»!i^-*.i(rifp«w^»i-.-K-v

KmmmmKmmmmrwmfmmmtmm

432 NATURAL UISTORY.

ExocffiTUS.— (Or. 'EfftSicoiTos, Bleeping out [of the sea].) '

Volitans {ha.t. flying), the PlijiiKj-fish..

the watch, and pounce on the Flying-fish from above, so
that the persecuted creatures are tolerably sure to foil a prey
to one or the other of their foes.

Tiie UHual height of flight is about two or three feet above
the surface of the water, but it has frequently been known
to exceed fomteen feet, and in one instance a Flying-fish
came skimming into tl\e ports of a large man-of-wai-, nearly
twenty feet above the water.

The size of the fish is about the siune as that o. a herring.
Sailoi-s are always glad to capture it, as its llosli proves an
agreeable change from the eternal salt junk, by which the
power of the sailor's teetli is woefully tried.

The food of this fish is molluscs and small fishes.

THK SALMON.

llie Salmon is a migratoiy fish, annually leaving the sea,
its proper residence, and proceeding for many milr , up rivers
ibr the purpose of deijositing its spawn. This > aty having

* Tlie ancients believed that this and other fishes slept on the beach.

■"''Tn'^^'TfirT^^fTfr'mrfWifif^^

ut [of the sea].) '

i/in(j-Mi,

3-FisH from above, so
,bly sure to fall a pruy

wo or three feet above
•equently been ktiowu
instance a Flyinf^-fisli
ge man-of-war, nearly

e an that o. a hen-inp.

as its flesh proves an

It junk, by which the

ried.

small fishes.

iiually leaving tlie sea,
r many mile . up I'ivers
m. This . aty havin;^'

shes slept on the beach.

'•iSkirn

N.VTURAL HISTORY.

Family IV. vSaluviLuliv.
SAr.MO. — lli(\f. It Sal man. 'S

433

Snlar.

Iiecn accomplished, it i-etums to the sea in the sprin};. The
perseverance of this fish in working its way up the sti-eam is
licTfectly wonderful. No stream is rapid enough to daunt
it, nor is it even checked by falls. These it sui'mounts by
springing out of the water, fairly passing over the fall.
Heigiits of fourteen or fifteen feet are constantly leaped by
this jjowerful fish, and when it h.as an-ived at the higher and
/iliailower parts of the r'vx^-, it scoops furrows in tiie gravelly
bottom, and there depoou^ '"' - spawn. The young, called
" fiy," are hatched about Mu -c' , and immediately commence
their retreat to the sea. By the end of May tl-o young
sidmon, now called " smolts," have almost ontirely deserted
the rivers, and in June not one is to Ite found ir iibiii> '.vater.
Small Salmon weighing lees than two pourds are tenred
" sixlmon peal," all above that weight are ca led " grilse."

The havoc wrought among Salmon by foes uC - re. v descrip-
tion is so enormous, that notwithstanding the g* ...•(' tecuudity
of the fish, it is a matter of surprise that so many c.'^cape
destruction ; for although the fish are preserved from their
human foes by many stringent regidations, yet other foes,
such as otters, who devour the large fish, and other fish who

p B'

434

NATURAL HISTORY.

(lovo\ir the spawn, lifivo but little respect for laws ami re-
gulations.

While in tlie rivers, multitudes of Salmon are annually
caught, usually by sttvke nets, whieh are capable of confining
an immense muiiber of fish at one time. .Salmon si)earin<!;
is a favourite amusement. This animated and exciting sport
is usually carrietl (m by torch-light. The toichcs, when held
close to the siufacc of the water, illumine the dejjths of the
river, and render every fish within its influence perfectly
visible. The watchful speaniian, guided by slight indicii-
tions bearing no meaning to an unpractised eye, darts his
unerring spear, and brings up in triumph the glittering
captive, writhing in vain among the barbed points. In tlie
northern rivers this destructive pursuit is carried on to n
great extent, more than a hundred salmon l)eing frequently
taken in an evening. Anglei's also find considerable sport in
using the fly for this beautiful and active fish, whose strcngili
makes it no mean antagonist.

ei
E

ti

si
ti
a
(1
11
1
f
1

SAI.MI1.

Fai'io (Lat. (lie Trout).

The Common Trout is found in many rivers in this country,
always preferring i-apid, shallow, and sparkling streams.

ct for laws ami ro-

iilmon are annually
capable of coiifinin:.'
. Salmon spearing'
d and exciting Hpt)rt
0 toiclicH, when held
e the depths of the
influence perfectly
3d liy slight iudica-
)tiscd eye, darts his
iniph the glittering;
bed points. In the
t is carried on to i\
ion l)oing frequently
considerable sport in
! fish, whose stren^iii

-%,

NATURAL niSTORT.

435

especially if there should bo little falls at intci-vala. The
Dei'went and the Dove are particularly famous for then-
trout. The latter river is (piit" +he I'Mii ideal of a trout
stream. It never seems to kn^-^ 'ts own mind for half a
mile together. Sometimes it is rapid, frisking ovi'r stones
and round trees, and tlirowing up the spai'kling foam ni all
directions. Presently it has changed into a silent, slow,
melancholy river, with dark pools of unknown depth, shaded
l)y overhanging trees, and suggestive of murders success-
fully concealed. Everywhere are the trout. Lying ([uietly
under the shelter of some large stone, while the water is
leaping round them, are the moderate sized trout, darting
off like meteors to snatch at a passing fly, and as (puckly re-
turaing to their concealment. In the deeper pools are the
large fish, who, too sagacious to be deceived by the artfully
made fly of the professed angler, yet often fall victims to the
less scientific but more successful ploughboy.*

The usual method of fishing for trout is with a fly, but
trolling with a minnow is often successfully used, nor does
the trout reject a well-selected and properly arranged worm.
The brilliant speckled tints of this beautiful fish vary much
according to the locality and the time of year. In May the
fish assume their brightest colours and their most delicate
flavour. The size of the fish also varies exceedingly, being
from half a pound in weight and about eight inches in length,
to ten or fifteen pounds' weight.

The Smelt belongs to this family, and in its progress to'ae
sea is destroyed in groat quantities in mill-ponds, &c.

• Several of my schoolboy years were spent near the banks of the Dove, wlwh
river of course, formed one of our favourite haunts. We were acous onc.l to take
the large trout by the rather ui.sj.ortsn.anlike. but very an.u^.ng ■"«"«"' f-'f^^-
nV." It was exce.ssively amustni? to watch the angry countenances "f London
wlers wlio came to the l)ove bedizened with all the appurtenances of rods, lines,
baskets &c and who, after whipping the water n.ost persevcrins; ly tor the whole
mofning without a single bite, whi'le resting their ff-'^ »"7' ''"^ ''-; ™"""LS
seated on the bank, armed with a long stick and a line uarely two feet long, addmg
every minute to the heap of glittering lishcs at their side.

rivers in this country,
L sparkling streams,

4:5'3

NATURAL mSToIlV,

Family V. Clupeiilic. — (I. .t. niijicn, a i .uTii

CLOPEA.

I'ilcLardus (Lat. the Pikharil.)

The value of tlic Herrino family to man is alniu.st im acu-
lablo. The Pri-ciiAur) and tho HLrring aro very similar in
nppearanco. but may bo easily known by the position «'l" th«
dorrjiil fin, which in tho Pilchard is so exactly in the cent n
of the body, tiiat if the fish is held by it, the body exactly
balances ; while in the horriuf];, tho doraal fin is placed rather
backwards, so that wlien suspended, the fish hangs with i
heml downwards.

irnlike the hening, which visits every i)art of our coasts,
the I'ilchard is only found on tho shores of Devonshire an<l
« ■ )rnwall. Hero, however, tlie enormous shoals that annually
ir.ake their ai)pearanc'% fully compensate for tho limited space
»ccupicd by them. t,)ccasionally a few shouLs are seen on thi;
southern coast of Ireland, Tlie coasts of France and Spain
are tolerably frequent resorts of this fish.

The fish are usually taken in an enormous building of
nets, called " sean nets." Tho nets used in the scan fishery
aro two, a largo net called the " stop sean," about a quarter
of a mile in length, and a hundred feet in dejrth ; and
a smaller net, called tho "tuck senn," about a furlong in
length, and a himdred and twenty feet in depth, the
average value of the two nets being 500^.

When the fishermen see a shoal of pilchards approaching.

^?p^ ^^^^

=^3.V

m iH ahiui.st iiuaicu-
ai'o very similiir in
the ]M)sition uf thi
xactly in the centn
it, the body exactly
fin w placed i 't!'
fish hangs with

j)art of our coasts,
I of Devonshire and
ihoals that annually
'or the limited space
loulrf are seen on the
f France and Spain

ormons building of
I in the sean fisherj'
1," about a quarter
feet in depth ; and
about a furlong in
ieet in depth, the

chords approaching,

lUBAI- I 13T0RY.

thev imnii'diately set <,ut in tw hing boats, one «>f whu-1.
ni.ik-s the tuck »ean \i\i\ the oth. r the stop scan. (.unU'd
by «ipuH from the mu ■ r-seiimen. th. v silently sun-ound tiie
shoal with the nctH, the larger of wliitii is used to enclose
I 'a-n- nxiu'hcr uf fiah, and the smaller to pass withui tl,i|
other'uet to brin; the m. ^ of Hsh into a small con.y.asH, mid
Huidly t. prevent them ^ om escaping until the tislicrmu
have leisure to remove them to the boats.

When landed, the pilchards are taken to the store houses,
salted ai ' 'fter remaining in heaps for five or ix da vs.
UT nrc88i-.i h.to casks by powerful levers. Inirmg i ■

are, which lasts about a fortnight, iVesh layci-s ol
,,cmg added ..s the former are pressed close, an abuud
exceflent oil escajjcs from holes made in the cask
purpose. The entire refuse of the fish, consistm^
HiUKrabumlant h,alt, lUe scales and other rejected po.
sold to f'"^ farmers as a valuable inanxu-e. ihe of

each pilcli 1 i^ calculated to manure one square vt

land.

CIATE.V.

Harengus (Lat. the llerrimj).

The Hebking makes its annual appearance in the northern
parts of Scotland about Juno. This most valuable tisli
•irrives in enormous shoals, five or six miles in Ici^gth and
three or four in breadth. Their advent is heralded by
various sea birds, such as the ganncts and >!ls, which con-

438

NATURAL UISTOflY.

Ktantly hover over the hIiouIs and commit uncoiVHing
(IcviistiitioiiH iiinoii}; tliiin. Yet in spite of tlio myriads
destroyed by binln iind fiMhoH, in sT>ito of the whoals captured
l)y man, in s^)ite of tlic vant ([iiuntity of spawn devoured hy
otlier fmlieH, their numl)erH weeni ipiite imdiminiMlied, and
each year they arc led hy the instinct ineuleiited in tliein hy
Providence, to visit the sliore in incalcuhihle niimherH, nut
oidy to yield to man an unfailing supply, but to make the
necessary provision for tli ■ increase of their numlier.

The fishery is eonduciod by boats and nets, the whole
fitting up of each boat costing littlv less than lOOU/, To
ad<l to tho expense, the whole apparatus must be renewed
every four or five years, ns, independently of tho injuri<!s
inflicted by the sea and the wciglit of fish, tho dog-tisli,
which unremittingly follows the shoals of herrings, is often
entangled in the nets together with its intended victims, and
by its sharp teeth and vigorous struggles makes sad ravages
among the nets.

When tukeu out of the water, tho herring dies almost
immediately, as do all tish that live near the surface of tlio
water. Those on the contrary, as tho carj), tench, eels and
the flat fish, who reside at tlie bottom, are able to sustain
life for a much longer pei'iod when taken out of their native
element. It is therefore necessary that the herrings should
bo cured as soon as possible. Tho " Wliito Henings" are
cured in the boats, but tho "Red HeiTings" are taken on
shore and suspended in the smoko of a wood fiio for twenty-
four houra in addition to tuo salting that both they and the
White HeiTiug undergo.

The well-known Sprat {Cuipea Sprattus) also belongs to
tho genus Chipca, and, like the herring, visits our shores in
largo shoals. The Sprat fishery commences in the beginning
of November. Not only are enormous quantities of this
small V)ut useful fish used as food, and sent into all parts of
this country, but they are very largely used as manure ; fish,
according to the I'csearches of Sir H. Davy, being a most
powerftil manin-o, retaining its fertilising influenco for a long
time. Many thousand tons' weight of sprats are annually
used for this purpose.

The White-bait belongs to the same family.

'V"-' ■'*/"'.'?-

commit nncoiiHiii),'
|)itt) of tlio myriiuU
f the Mlioala ciiptiired
F Hpiivvii (luvodred hy
0 un(limiiiinho«l, ami
riciikiiti'd in tht'tii Uy
nilalile luuulicrN, not
)iy, but to make the
ht'ir niimluT.
mil nets, tho whole
iCHH than 1000/. To
tUH uiuHt ho renewed
lently of tlio injuries
f tish, tho dog-fiwh,
of herrinj^, is oi'ton
intended victiniH, and
,>« III. ikes Ktvd ravnj^eH

herrinj; dicH almost
car tlie surface of the
carp, tench, ccIh and
I, aro al)lo to sustain
u out of their native
t tho herriiif^ shoidd
Wliitc HeiTinfjtH" are
rrinjis" are taken on
wood fuo for twenty-
lat both they and tho

attus) also belongs to
;, visits our shores in
nces in tho beginning
us quantities of this

sent into all parts of
used as manure ; tish,

Davy, being a most
ig influence for a long
:' sprats are annually

family.

;:iv

I I

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IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)

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ISO

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Photogicipiiic

Sciences

Corporation

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(716) P'2-4503

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CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques

■mSb

NATURAL HISTORY.

439

Enguauus.— (Gr. "Ky-ypavKis.)

Encra«ich81uB (Or. 'Ey.pa<rixoKo.. mixed ^^•ith bitter; theAncIu>vy, from

its taste), the Anchovy.

The little Anchovy is a fish of no small importance, being
very largely used in varions sauces, besides the numbers that
are Ve«erved in pickle. It is common in the Mediterranean
and is also found on our coasts. The upper ja.v of tins hsh
is longer than the lower one ; the entu-e length of the hsh i.
usualfy from four to five inches, but it has been seen measur-
ing upwards of seveii inches.

THE COD.

In this Sub-order the bones of the ventral fins are placed
under, and support the bones of the shoulder.

The well-known Cod-fish is principally found on the coasts
„f Newfoundland, but is taken in gi-cat numbers on our
own shores. The hook is generally e'n.>loyed for the captmn. ot
this fine fish. An immense number of hooks, each baittct
with a whelk or limpet and attached to short lines, are fast-
ened at intervals along a rope, which is stretched or shot, as
til termed, across the tide, in order to prevent the hooks
from getting entangled. Such is the voracity of the fish, Jiat
nearly five hundred fish have been taken by one man in the
course of ten hours. The intense cold renders the Cod fishery
ii service of great hardship.

4J0

NATUn.M. IILSTORY.

Sul)-or.loi-ll. Si;i!-mafiiiATA.-(Lat. ,wi, unJer; hachium, mnrm.)
Family VI. . (iaiiickc.— ((}r. rdSos.)

MounniA.

i«a

:^pftfe>v-

('iilliiri:is (Gr. KaWapias), the Cod.

\\'hGJi taken, the fish are placed in a well boat, tlirouf^h
^\ Inch tlie salt water has a free passage, so that the cod-fisJi
are brought to Billingsgate still living. So -o.al succes.sfiil
e.\;perinients have been made to preserve this fish in salt
water ponds, in which it ai>j)eai-s to thrive well. The focunditv
of this fish IS almost incredible, the roe of one fisii having
been ascertained to contain nine miliion ecjgi. The Whitin^
belongs to this family. '^

lu the Flat-fish we see a most extraordinary instance ol
adaptation of structure to peouliar circumstances. We have
all seen Flat-fish, aiad all know that the upjier side is dark
and the under side nearly white. The word 'side' is used
advisedly, as tiiese curious fish actually lie on their sid's at

under; liachliiiii, niiann.)

eCod.

a well boat, tlirough
, so that the cod-fish
So v'jial successful
■ve this fish in salt
! well. The fecundity
e of one tixh having
ec/ffi. The Whiting

lordinary instance ot
Qistancos. We have
! up])er side is diirk,
word 'side' is used
lie on their sides at

NATURAL niSTOnV.

441

tlie hottoui of the water while undisturbed, or merely feeding.
Wlicn, however, tiiey are alarmed, they raiiidly itssiime the
vertical posilicjn, and dart off witli great speed. The dark
upper surface serves to protect them from becoming t«.o
vislijie to enemies above. The two eyes are also placed on
the ni)i)er side of the head for obvious reasons. In fact, the
whole tish ai)pears as if it had been laid (jn its side, and rolled
tlivt, the head also being twisted round, and the lower eye re-
moved to the upper surface.

Family VII. I'ioiU'OUectlilK.— «;r. HKfupor, a rilj or sale; vtiktSi;
power of swiiuTaiiij/. '

PsETTA. — (Or. VJJTTo, 11 Turbot.)

Maxima (Lat. greatest), the Turhot.

The TunnoT is found on the coasts of most parts of England,
hut is mostly couthied to the southern coasts of Ireland.

The fishery is conducted both by nets and lines. The net,
called the haul-net, drag's from the b(jttoin not only turbots
lint other flat fish, such as soles and plaice. The line, used when
the bottom of the sea is too deep or rocky for the net, is armed
with many hooks, baited with smelts and other small fish.
Tiie lampern, or river lamprey, was formerly in very great

441

NATURAL HISTORY.

use OH a bait, as its brilliant silvery ajipearance, and its gi-cat
tenacity of life, rendered it peculiarly tit for the capture of the
voracious but dainty turbot, who, rejecting ail stale or dis-
coloured baits, eagerly devours them if bright coloured and
moving. The fishermen state that the turbot will not touch
a bait that has been bitten by any other fish. On the English
coasts one turbot-line frequently extends for three miles in
length, and is furnished with 2,r>00 hooks, which are attaclied
to the main line by small hoi-se-hair lines, each twenty-seven
inches in length. Tiiis enormous line is "shot" across the
current at the tnra of the tide. Each boat possesses a double
set of lines, so that one line is "shot" and another "hauled"
every tuni of the tide.

The little star-like bones imbedded in the upper part of
the skin of this fish are very curious. The dark side of
the turbot is the left, on which the eyes are also placed,
lloversed turbots, and oven turbots dark on both sides, are not
at all uncommon.

i^oLf'A. — (Lat. the Sole of a t/uie.)

"\

Vulgaris (Lat. common), tfie Sole.

The Common Sole is too well known to need much descrip-
tion. This fish is the reverse of the turbot, having the eyes
and colour ou tlie right side ; although, as in the turbot,
varieties are not rare. It is in season during raobf parts of

Y.

)pcarance, and its gi-eat
it for tlie capture of tlio
octing ail stale or dis-
if briglit coloured and
10 turbot will not touch
!r fibli. On the Englisli
inds for tlirce miles in
loks, wliich are attached
ines, each twenty-seven
10 is "shot" across the
1 boat possesses a dcnible
' and another "hauled"

d in the upper part of
us. The dark side of
) eyes are also placed,
•k on both sides, arc not

a shoe.)

lie Hole.

1 to need much descrip-
turbot, having tlio eyes
igl>, as in the turbot,
1 during mofa^ parts of

N.VTURAL HISTORY.

443

the voar, except a few weeks in March or April. Although it is
a marine tisli, it seems to thrive well in rivcr-^^•atcr, or even
ill a Tiond. Mr. Arnold kejit several in a pond m (.uernsey,
wliere the soles became twice as thick in proportum to tlieir
length as those living in the sea.

Sub-order III. AroDA.— (Or. 'A, privation; iroJj, a foot.)
Family IX. . . Muncmlirt;.— (Or. Mupaivo, a Sea-eel.)

AvtiUli.l.A.— (Lnt. 'f Vitllt. Ed.)

Acutiro8tri3 (Lat. sharp-beaked) , the Sharp-nosed Ed.

The AroDA, or footless fish, so called from the absence
of ventral fins, comi)rise the Eels.

These fish assume a form very similar to the serpents.
Altliou"h on a hasty examination tliey seem to be devoid ot
scales, yet when the skin is dried, very minute scales may bo
seen through the semi-transparent outer skin, and may bo
easily detaclied by carefully separating the two skins.

Eels inhabit muddy pords and rivers, and are common m
manv canals. They are susceptible of cold, and constantly
descend tlie rivers to deposit their spawn in the sea, after
wliicli, the young, when hatclied, work their way up the
livers, thereby precisely reversing the habits of the salmon.
Tliev are capable of living out of water for a long tune, and
often make voluntaiy land excui-sions, either for the purpose
of avoiding an insurmountable foil, or in search of frogs or

444

.VATtrnAi. nisTonT.

worms, on wliicli Uiey feed. In the winter, wl.ilo tlicv are
lying torpid in the mud, multitudes are taken by m->i~
many-prougod mstrumeiits, whoso prou-s are feathered with
recurved i)arhs, which, when pushed into the mnd, ontande
the eels, and eliectually luvvent their escape.

There are sui)posod to he four species of En'dish eel •
'mmely, the Sliarp-uosed, the I5road-no.sed, tlie Suig, and'

\

CV,.v,iKn. -.(Lat./.o,« Or. r,{ryp„, „ Conger Eel.)

Vulgaris (Lat. commm the Ci>nfjer.)

The CoxoER Eei. is found in all the rocky parts of the
Britisli coasts, and is exceedingly common on the coasts of
Cornwall.

It is usually caught with a hook, the best bait of which is
a sand-launce, a little fish belonging to the same farnilv as
the eels, and which buries itself five or six inches deep iirthe
sand when the tide ebbs, and releases itself on tlie next tlood
tide. The fishermen rake it out of the sand with iron hooks.
A pilchard is a common bait for the Conger.

The size of this fish is sometimes very great. Yarrell
mentions, in his " British Fishes," that " specimen.s weighing
eighty-six pounds, one hundred and four pounds, and even
one Imndred and thirty pounds, have been recorded, some of
them measuring more than ten feet long and eighteen inches
in circumference. They possess great strength, and often
form very formidable antagonists if assailed among rocks, or
when dmwu into a boat with a line."

vintor, wliile tliey firo
iro tiikeii 1)}' Npuiirs—
igs are foatlierecl with
ito tho mild, ontan<,do

iClipO.

eeios of EiiMrlish eeJ ;
Closed, tho Siiig, uml

Con':jer Eo\.)

hnger.)

B rocky paits of tlic
ion on tlie coasts of

l)est bait of which is
tho sfinio family as
iix inches deep in'^the
olf on tlie next flood
and with iron liooks.
iffer.

»^ory great. Yarrell
' spucirnens weighing
ir pounds, and even
icn rocordod, some of
and eighteen inches
sti'ongth, and often
led among rocks, or

satui:ai. iii^TonY.

44.')

Kaiiiily X. (Jymuotlila}.— ^(Jr. Tuiivui, iiakuil; vwroy. thf liack.)

(lYMNOTCS.

Electricus (Lut. dcclric), the Elcctiic FA.

This curious fish, wiiich exhibits the singular phenomenon of
voluntary electric power residing in a living animal, is an
inhabitant of the fresh-water rivers and ponds of Surmani,
and other parts of South America, where it was first discovered
in the year 1G77.

This power of emitting an electric shock, is apparently
"iven it in order to enable the creature to kill its prey. Those
who have seen tho Electric Kel in the Polytechnic while
l)eing fed, will have little doubt of this. The fish given to
it are, directly it becomes aware of their presence, instantly
struck dead, and then devoured."*

Captain Stedman, in his account of Sui-mam, gives an
account of the electric eel, which he, of course, had many
opportunities of seeing. He attempted, for a trifling wager,
to lift up a gymnotus in his hands, but according to his own

woi'ds : —

" 1 tried about twenty different times to gi-asp it witii my
hand, but all without effect, receiving just as many electrical
shocks, which I felt even to the top of my shoulder. It has
been said that this animal must be touched with V)oth hands
before it gives the shock, but this I must fcike the liberty of

. This specimen i. unforiunatcly blind, but it h«8 -.eavnecl to "!™j".'l'^- -iiyf ''""
of a paaclliW i" tlie water, n.n.le l.y the ind.vulualuho feeds t. ,,^he l.s.h .« ^carce y
in the water before a slmek from tlie Gymnotus kills it. The usual length ol tlii.
Gyninotun ia about three feet.

446

NATUIIAL HISTORY.

coutnidictiun;, Imvinj,' oxperiuncLMl tlio contmry ofTfct " Tlio
uul ineutionud wiis a Humll one, only two foot 'lonir : but ouu
tliat lia.1 m-nvo.l at its lull ^i-owtl. w.mi.l l„ivo given a very
niuuh stron-or shock. An English siiilor w.is fairly knockoll
down by a shock from one of thcso cols, nor did ho rocovor
his senses for sonic time. It is said that tho shock can pass
ui) a stick, and strike tho person holding; it. Mr. lirvunt ind
a companion were both struck while jiourin- off tl;r. water
li'oina tub m which an electric eel had been placed

Huinboldt in his " Vibws of Nature," gives a very aninvato.l
d.'scription of the meth.xl employed by the Indians to take
these fonuidable creatures-a nietho.l equally ingenious ami
eruol. Knowing from e.Kperience that the ])owers of the
gymnotus are not adciuatc to a constant volley of shocks
they contrive that the shocks shall bo expended on the hor.ses
mstoad of themselves.

Haying found a i)ool containing electric eels, they force a
troop of wild horses to enter the pool. Tho disturbed eels
immediately attack the intruders, and destroy many of thorn
by repeated shocks; but by constantly forcing fresh sui.-
phes of horses to invade tho p.>ol, the powers of the
gynmoti become exhausted, and they are then dragged out
with impunity. ^^

THE SHORT SUN-FISH.

This order derives its name from the curious structure of
the jaws, winch are fixed together in a very peculiar manner.

Iho biioiiT buN-iisii has been frequently taken in almost
ull parts of our coasts. It is of a most singular shape,
looking ,x.s If three-fourths of a very large fish had been cut
off, leaving only the head and shoulders, something like a
marine Baron Munchausen's horse.

It attains to a very hu-go size, and has been known to wei-^i

inches ^'"''"'^'' '^'^ ^''"°^'' ^""° """'^ ^'''^' ^'^''^ ^^"

It lives mostly at the bottom of tho sea, but frecniently

rises to the surfiice, and lies, perhaps, asleep, floating >vith the

_L

coi'.tmrv offeef." TIk-
.vo foot loii^'j but ouo
iilil hiivo given u very
lor wiis fairly knockoil
-^Is, iiur (lid lie rocovor
lilt tlio shock Clin pans
ig it. Mr. Bryant and
jiDiirin^' ott" tl;o water
l)ccn placed.
' gives a very animated
y the Indians to take
equally ingenious and
tt the ])Owers of the
slant volley of shocks,
xpended on tlio horses

;tric eels, they force a
. The disturbetl eels
leatroy many of them
ly forcing fresh .snp-
tlio powers of the
xro then di-agged out

3 curious structure of
ery peculiar manner,
ontly taken in almo.st
nost^ singular shape,
•go fish liad been cut
rs, something like a

been known to weigh
J only fom- feet five

a sea, but freciuently
leep, floating with the

NATUBAI, HISTORY.

447

Onler III. PLf:c'T0GSAT//I.—(0r.Xl\tHr6,, plaited; 7««'«»«- *''" >'''*
Kiunily I. Dioilontldtc— (Gr. A(», aoublo ; 6!oi5i, a tooth.)

OBTUAiWRlscus.— (Or. 'Opeayopiirno,, a. Sucking-pig.)

MoliV (Lat, a MilUOmc), the Short iiuii-fah.

tide. Sailoi-8 in this case are fond of trying their skill with a
hari)oon. When struck, it uses very powerful but exccedingl}'
awkward eftbits to escape. The sailors, of course, eat it, as
they do almost anything.

THE STUUQEON.
The remaining fishes belong to »: • C;artilaginous sub-
class ; that is, their skeletons are cor..p...ded of cai-tdage, and

not of true bone. ., , f ii

The first sub-order possess free giU-covers like those ot all

y

448

NATl llAI. lllftTonY.

Siib-daH'4 IT. I'lSCKS ClloXniJOl'TERYlill. :iir. X«VJ/)oi,cartilftg.':
mtfjjyiov, 11 till.)

SnhcnUr r. KLllUTHKUol'OMt. — (Or. 'tKtuBfflof. free; ni3na, n liil "i
covor.)

Family 1. . . AoiiiunKerldie.— (Liit. /lr/;.«/(«(', a Stiir^'oon.)

Ani'KNsr.n.

^0-

btiuiu. Oit .Stuiijton.

tlic proceding fish ; but the remainder I)reatho by means
cltlior (.f Hlits, as in tlio sliarlis, or liulew, as in the iamiireys.

'I'lie Stuugkons are remarkable for tiic rows of b(jny plates
exteudinfi along the body. It is exceedingly common in the
northern parts of l':uroi)e, where regular tisberics are organized
for its capture. Almost every part of it is used. Isinglass
is obtained by drying and shredding the air-bladder ; caviare
is made of the roe of the female, and the flesh is extensively
l)reserved both by pickling and salting, besides the large
ipiantities that are consumed fresh. The flavour of its flesh
is said not to bo unlike veal.

It has occivsionally been taken on our coasts, usually by
entangling itself in the nets, and although it then does some
injury to the nets by its violent struggles to release itself, it
is otherwise perfectly liamless. Yarrell mentions that a
sturgeon measuring eight feet six inches in length, and weigh-
ing two hundred and three pounds, was taken in a stake net
near Findhon in lt<.'33. A specimen was once caught in the
Esk, weighing four hundred and sixty i)0unds. The female

. -Uir. Xiyipoi, cnrtiltif.'f:
». t'lve ; jriijuo, a liil m
Stiir'-con.)

2V brwitho by lueana
s, us ill the lampreys.
:io rows of bony plates
diiij^'ly coiiinion in the
■ tiHherics are oi-ganized
it is used. Isinglass
10 air-bladder ; caviare
;he flesh is extensively
ng, besides the largo
rhc flavour of its flesh

our coasts, usually by
:)ugh it then does some
gles to release itself, it
•rell mentions that a
;s in length, and weigh-
iis taken in a stake net
ras once ca\ight in the
y pounds. The female

NATUnAI, iriHTOUY,

•llf)

always dopositH her eggs in fresh 'vater, and the young, whou
hatched, descend to tJie sea, and are supposed not to return
npiin until, in their turn, they seek the fresh water in order
to deposit their spawn.

Sub-order II. TnF.M.vToi'Nfii.— (Or. Tprj^ut, iv hole piorced through niiy-

tiling J iri'^w, I broiitho.)
Riinily I. . . SoyllTclio.— (Or. 2Ki\ta, a Dog-fish.)

SCTLLtCM.

•wi«>"%WI8P^

Cftnicnla (Lat. o little Day), the Little S/iolted Dni/fith.

The SiiAnKS and Kays have no gill-covers, but the water
passes thi'ough live elongated apertures on each side of the
head.

Tlie Sharks arc proverbially ferocious and dangerous crea-
tures, and are the pest of those seas which they infest. Their
mouths are funiished with sevenil rows of sharp jagged teeth,
which can bo iiiised or depressed at pleasure, and which can
cut through a limb or even the body of a man with the
greatest case. The mouth of these fishes is placed beneufh
the head, so that a shark cannot seize a prey at the surface
of the water without turning on its side, which evolution
often gives time for its expected prey to escape.

The Little Spotteb Dog-fish is the most common of the
Slmrks that visit our shores. It is principally known on
account of the havoc it makes among the fish during the
seasons of the various fisheries, for which reason it is most
especially detested by the unfortunate fishci-men, who not
unfrequently, together with their expected sjioil, dniw up a

a G

NATURAL HISTORY.

450

few dotv-firfh in their nets. The dog-fish, on finding them-
selves ent^mgled, immediately commence tearing the nets to
pieces with their sharp and powerful teeth.
' Tlie empty eggs of this fish are often found washed up on
the sea-shore, and called l)y the name of " mermaids' purses."
Tliey are oblong, and furnished at each corner with a long
semitransparent convoluted tendril, the use of which is appa^-
rently to entangle and fix the egg among the sea-weed, and
thus prevent it from being washed on shore until the young

is hatched. - , e iu

A considerable quantity of oil can be obtiuned trom the
brain of the dog-fish, and the skin, in common with that of
other cartilaginous fishes, is made into shagreen.

Family II. SquaMdoJ-
Sqtjalus. — (Lat. a Shark.)

Carcharias (Gr. a Shark ; from Kopxapor. jagged ! »« alluaion to its teeth),
the White S/iark:

The White Shark is a well-known scourge of the Mediter-
ranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This is the creature so
detested by sailors, who, when they have caught a " shirk,"
subject it to every possiole indignity.

This voracious creature has been known to swallow an
entire man, and as it is in the habit of lurking about ships
for the sake of the ::,crap8 thrown overboard, and almost inva-
riably swallows whatever is cast over the side, the contents of
its stomach are often of a most heterogeneous description.
The sailors always amuse themselves by seeing what the shark

UY.

g-fish, on finding tliom-
lencc tearing the nets tc
teeth.

■ten found washed up on
.e of " mermaids' purses."
each corner with a long
the use of which is appa-
imong the sea-weed, and
an shore until the young

m he obtained from the
in common with that of
ito shagreen.

; Shark.)

agged ; in allusion to its teeth),

•A:

\TX scourge of the Mediter-
1. This is the creature so
jy have caught a " shirk,"

en known to swallow an
hit of lurking abouc ships
iverboard, and almost inva-
er the side, the contents of
heterogeneous description.
es by seeing what the shark

NATURAL HISTORY.

451

had " stowed away," and the substances thus brought to light
have been most curious. The entire contents of a lady's
work-basket, down to the scissors, were found in the interior
of one shark, and another had actually swallowed an entir„
bull's hide— a circumsfcuice which led the operating sailor to
remark that the shark had swallowed a bull, but could not
*' fiis'^cst" tlic hiuG.

The amphibious South Sea Islanders stand in gi'cat dread
of the Shark, and with good reason, for not a year elapses
without several falling victims to tlie rapacity of this ternfic
animal. Nearly thirty of the natives of the Society Islands
were destroyed at one time by the sharks. A storm had so
injured the canoe in which they were passing from one island
to another, that they were forced to take refuge on a i-aft
hiistily foi-med of the fragments of their canoe. Their weight
sunk tiio raft a foot or two below the surfac the water,
and, dreadful to say, the sharks surrounded them and dragged
them off the raft one by one, until the lightened raft rose
above the water and preserved tlie few survivors.

SphyunIas.— (Gr. from 2</>0pa, a Hammer.)

Zygsena (Gr. Z<l7oii'o), the llaiumer-headed Sharl:

The Hammer-headed Shark inhabits the same latitudes.
This curiously constructed fish closely resembles the white
shark in all respects but the head, which is widened out at
each side, exactly like a double-headed hammer or mallet.

452

NATURAL HISTORY.

The eyes, being placed at each extremity of the head, must of
course possess a very extended power of vision.

The Thresher, a fish which has a curious habit of springing
Gilt of the water aud inflicting a violent blow with its tail on
any object that annoys it, belongs to the Shark tribe.

Family IV. Pristlda;.— (Gr. nplans, the Sawfish.)

PUISTIS.

Antiquorum (Liit. </ the Awientu), the Sawfish.

The Sawfish is found in the greatest perfection in the tro-
jiical seas, although it also inhabits the Mediterranean. The
weapon from which the fish derives its name, is a flat, long
prolongation of the head, on each edge of which are set hard
tooth-like projections, cui-ioualy inserted into the bone.

This fish has been known to employ its saw in the attack
of the whale, burying the apparently inappropriate weapon
to the very root in the body of the whale ; nor are instances
wanting where the saw has been found firmly imbedded in
tlie hull of a ship.

The strength of the Sawfish is very great. Captain ^Vilson
gives an account of the capture of a Sawfish, measuring
twenty-two feet in length, and weighing nearly five tons.
After the fish had been entangled in a net for several hours,
making violent efforts to esaipe. Captain Wilson got a rope
firmly fixed round its saw, and set thirty men to haul at the
rope. The whole thirty could not move it one inch, nor was

y of the head, must of
f vision.

iouH habit of 8i)ringing
it blow with its tail on
le Shark tribe.

IS, the Sawfish.)

a), the Sawjish.

;t perfection in the tro-
e Mediterranean. The
ts name, is a flat, long
3 of which are set hard
ed into the bone.
y its saw in the attack
r inappropriate weapon
halo ; nor are instances
ad firmly imbedded in

great. Captain Wilson
a Sawfish, measuring
;hing nearly five tons.
I net for several hours,
tain Wilson got a rope
rty men to haul at the
)ve it one inch, nor was

'Ifr-

NATURAL HISTOUV.

453

it until one hundred men had been pulling at the rope for
nearly the whole of the day, that they succeeded in dragging
it on shore. Even then it made such violent strokes with its
saw, that they wore forced to fasten strong guy ropes to
prevent it from cutting them to pieces. It was finally dis-
abled by a Spaniard, who cut through the joint of tlie tail.

Family V. Raldiu.— (Lat. Raia, a Skate or Ray.)
TourEDC— (Lat, Cramp or numbneaa.)

Scutata (Lat. shielded), tfie Torpedo.

The Torpedo may fairly be considered a British fish. It
affords a second instance of the electric power residing in a
fish. The orgiins that produce the electric shock are shown
externally by two elevations extending from the eyes about
half down the body.*

Although it has once or twice been caught on our coasts,
it is usually found in the Mediterranean, where its powers are
well known, and held in some awe. The shock that the

• Those who would wish to examine the structure of this most singular or^an,
are referred to the Museum of the College of Surgeons, where is a series of beautiful
wax models, admirably illustrating the entire structures.

t54

NATURAL HISTORY.

Torpedo Rives, of course, varies according to the size of the
fish and its state of health, \>nt a tolcraljly largo Hsh^ in good
lioalth, can, for the time, disalilo a strong man. From the
ettbcts of its shock, it is in some parts called the Cramp-fish.
Colonel Montagu notices a Torpedo caught on a turbot
lino, at Tucky. It weighed about one hundred pounds, and
completely puzzled the fisherman, who found it liaiging dead
on the hooks, and had never seen such a creature before.
Colonel Montagu iiuaintly remarks, that had it not been dead,
the fisherman would certainly have ha<l a shock that would
have made him remember the species again.

lUJA.

Clavata (Lat. from Clavm, a nail), the Thornbach Skate.

The Rays are at first sight not unlike the turbot and sole,
l)ut a closer examination will show that the Rays really swim
with their backs upwards, whereas the turbot swims on its
side. The movement of the Pay is very curious, and is ad-
mirably expressed by the word "sluddering" — used by an
old fisherman.

The Skate is caught in abundance on our shores, and in
England is much used as an article of food, although in
Scotland it is used principally for bait.

[ing to tho size of the
xljly largo fisii in good
•ong mail. From tho
called the Cnvinp-fish.
0 caught ou a turl)ot
! hundred pounds, and
found it huiging dead
Lich a creature before.
,t had it not been dead,
<\ a shock that would
igain.

NATURAL HISTORY.

455

The Thornback Skate derives its n'^'",^^''™ . *^^/S
armature of tho tail, Nvith which the fish defends ^tsel m «
vigorously by bending itself almost into a «;-'»>«"-'^l^;" J
ShTng about with its tail. The female of the 'l^hornback
Ltels termed a Maid. It often attams to a large size, the
largest knoNVTi being twelve feet m length, and nearly ten

"Thelaws of the Rays are exceedingly P»--^f"l' ""f^^^^!,^^
them to crush with perfect ease the various shell-hsh on

which they feed. . , • . • „„„^ wlfb n

The Stino Ray is another species, which is armed %Mth a
Ji boi^ in its tail, with 4ich it can inflict painful and
even dangerous wounds.

m

ke Thornback Skate.

ike the turbot and sole,
it the Rays really swim
le turbot swims on its
ery curious, and is ad-
iddering" — used by an

3 on our shores, and in
5 of food, although in

Sub.order III. CYCtOBTOMl.-(Gr. KiK\o,, a Circle ; aT<iMa, the mouth.)

Family 1 FetromyzonIdK.-(ar. n^Vpos, a Stone ; t^Ho,, I "uck.)

petuomYzon.

/^>:^<^^

llarinuB (Lat. Marine), the Lamprey.
These curious fishes, in many respects the lowest in
organimtion of the vertebrate animals, are ''•"^^ remarkable
for the singular construction of the mouth which, formed
like that of tlio leech, enables it to hold firmly to any object
by suction. The breathing apparatus appears extei-nally to
consist of fourtceii small apertures, seven on each side of the
neck. Their progress through the water is accomplished by
a Kipid undulating movement.

40 G

NATURAL HISTORY.

The Marine Lamprey is found in tho Meditoirnnean, iiiul
in most of the northern European rivers. It has also been
discovered in America. A few are caught in tho Tlianios
ahuost every year, but the Severn is its usual haunt. Like
many other fishes, it tnivels for many miles up rivci"S for the
purpose of depositing its spawn, at which time it is considered
to be in the highest perfection.

Tlie spawn is deposited in furrows, some excavated by the
l)arent Lamjjreys, who, l)y the help of their sucker-like
mouths, rapidly remove even large stones.

LAMPETUA.

Fluviatllis (Lat. of the river), the Lampern.

The LAMrERN, or River Lamprey, is plentifully found in
many rivers of England.* It was formerly held in gi-eat
repute as bait for turbot, cod, and other fish, but in con-
sequence of the diminished supply other substances have
been employed. Its length is usually from twelve to fifteen
inches. In some counties it is called Seven-eyes, in allusion
to the breathing apertm-es in the neck.

• It is extremely common at Ashboume in Derbyshire, inhabiting the Dove anil
its tributary brooks. Strange to say, the inhabitants of Ashbourne held it in some
abhorrence, and there was only one individual possessing suflicient strength of mind
to eat them. He found them a most agreeable addition to his ordinary diet.
The Lamperns, or Lampreens as they were called, used to lie in masses of eighteen
or twenty together in a hole, and if disturbed, set oil' down the stream with some
speed.

lie Mediteiranoan, ami
era. It has al8o been
3iiught in the Tliamcs
ts usual haunt. Like
miles up rivera for the
ch time it ia cousidorcd

some excavated by the
) of their sucker-like
nes.

the Lampo-n.

is plentifully found in
formerly held in gi'eat
other fish, but in con-
other substances have
• from twelve to fifteen
Seven-eyes, in allusion

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family II. Myxiuldic.
MyxIne (Gr. Mv^lvos, from ;ui/{o, ulime.)

4.')7

Glutinosa (Lat. glutinous), tU Myxine or Glutinom Jlag-fith.

The Myxine, which, although a decided fish, was classed
bv Liuuffius among the worms, occui-s frcciuont y on the
eastern coasts of this countiy. The fishermen find it within
the bodies of fish attached to the hues. The Scarborough
fishermen call such fish "robbed," as the Myxine, m the
course of a single tide, will devour the whole hsh, except the
skin and bones. It is usually found m the body of the

''*'\t is quite blind, but is supposed to derive considerable
aid from the eight barbidcs ranged round its mouth.
Six individuals have been found in the body ot a single

haddock. , , r

AlotK' the under surface of the body are two rows ot
pores, from which the Myxine is enabled to throw out a most
copious gelatinous secretion, apparently for the purpose of
esJape from its enemies. The length of the Myxiue is from
twelve to fifteen inches.

fshire, inhabiting tlie Dove and
8 of Ashljourne held it in some
ssing suflicient strength of mind
addition to his ordinary diet.
ised to lie in masses of eigliteen
olf down the stream with some

4.58

NATURAL HISTOUY.

Cla.<s VI. MOLLUSCA.— (Lat. from muUu, soft ; properly, a soft nut.)
Order . CKPJ/A LOPO DA.— (Qr. Kf<>>o\i|, the head; iruui, a foot.)
Fiimily, Octoptdo). — (Gr. 'OicTti. eight ; iroiis, a foot.)

Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Cuttle-fish.

The Mollusca have neither spino nor bones, the nervous
system consisting of a number of nervous knobs called
" ganglia," which give oft" filamentous nerves in dift'crent
directions.

Few Molluscs possess eyes, but in one or two, as the snails
and slugs, those organs are to be found, and in the liigher
Molluscs, such as t)>e Cuttle-fish, we see not only large and
brilliant eyes, but also organs of hearing.

The Cephalopoda, so called from the organs of movement
suiTOunding the head, are divided into naked and testaceous*
or covered with a shell.

The Common Cuttle-fish is an examjjle of a naked
cephalopodous mollusc. This repulsive looking creature is
common on our shores, and is, in spite of its unpleasant

• Derived from Lat. lesla, a shell.

*»-i

NATURAL UIBTOtlY.

459

't ; proi)erly, a soft nut.)
be head ; trout, a foot.)
, a foot.)

Cuttle-fisL

lor bones, the nervous
nervous knobs called
us nerves in different

ne or two, as the snails
md, and in the liighcr
see not only large and

e organs of movement
I naked and testaceous*

example of a naked
ive looking creature is
spite of its unpleasant

, shell.

appearance, often used for food. Its eight long ^f^f^^l^^
unns are covered with suckers of various sizes enabln.g their
owner not only to fi.K itself firmly to the rocks on which it
dwells but to seize and retain with the greatest tenacity any
unf..rtunate fish or shell that may happen to come within its
reach Its powerful j.arrot-likc beak enables it not only to
devour fishes, but even to crush the shells and Crustacea that
.re- entangled in its deadly embmces. In this country ho
Cuttle does not gi-ow to any great size, but in the Indian
Seas it is absolutely dangerous, and the crews of boats aie
forced to be armed with a hatchet, to cut off the arras of the

'""Thefe ^aro few who have not heard of the coloiir called
"sepia." This is, or ought to bo, prepared from a black pig-
ment, secreted V)y the Cuttle-fish, and used in order to escape
its foes, by blackening the water with the ink, an<l hurrying
olf under shelter of the dense cloud of its own creating Dr
Huckland actually drew a portmit of a fossil Cuttln-hsh with
some of its own ink that still remained in its body

The substance sold in the shops as cuttle-fish bone is
a chalky substance se.;reted from the mouth of the fish, and
composed of an infinite number of plates, joined by myriada

of little pillars.* i „n,o^ liUn

The entire body is soft, and encased in a coarse, leather-like

kill, unprotected by any shell.

THE NAUTILUS.

The Argonaut, or Nautilus, is an example of the testaceous
Molluscs This curious creature, about which so many
mai-vcUous and poetical tales have been told, is very abundant
in the Mediterranean.

It has been clearly proved that the Nautilus does wot urge
itself along the surface of the water by the expanded arms
used as sails. These arms are in fact used to cover the sliell,

. At a meethia of the Ashmolea.i Society at Oxford, Dr. Buckland, ^hik-
I found in the Saurian's stomacli."

460

NATURAL HISTORY.

AnooNAUTA. — (Lat. a tailor in the $hip Aiyo.)

Argo (Lat.), the Aryotmut or Paper Nautilun.

and it is from these tliat the beautiful shell is secreted. The
Argoniiut propels itself through the water by violently ejecting
water from the tube with which it, as well as the cuttle-fish,
is furnished for that purpose. The colours of the living
animal of the Nautilus are exceedingly beautiful.

The arms of this creature arc furnished with suckers. Its
ehell, when the creature is living, is flexible and semi-
transparent.

The fossil Ammonites belong to the testaceous Cepha-
lopoda.

lY.

tlu: shij) Argo.)

NATl'HAL IllWoriV.

4fil

*aper Nautilua.

1 Hhcll is secreted. Tlie
iter by violently ejectinf{
i well as the cuttle-fish,
) colours of the living
y beautiful.

shed with suckers. Its
is flexible aud scmi-

the testaceous Cepha-

Order . . (IASTFJU)POt>A.—(Ot. roffrifp, tho belly ; wowf, a foot.)
Sub-order, Pi:i,moubanciiiSta.-(/'«/wo, tho lungs; brmchia, pllH.)
Faniily . Liiimcldio.— (Or. AtlMoJ, a Slug.)

MMAX.

Ater (Lat. black), the Bhuk Slay.

Shells lire secreted from a j.iirt of the inhabitant called
tho "nmntlo," and of course, as tho shell is always added
round the rim, as may bo seen by taking a small snail m the
spriu", it naturally follows, that as the animal becomes
larger, so the mantle becomes larger, and secretes a Itirger

ring of shell. , . j ■ i

Many shells, as that of the oyster, are deposited in layers,
a fine membrane interposing between each layer : they are
therefore called membranous shells. Most membranous shells
are lined with a brilliant enamelled substance, called "nacre:
"mother of petxrl" is tho nacre of tho pearl oyster. ITiat
of the fresh-water mussel is a beautiful azure.

The other structure of shells is called "porcellaneous,
because they look like porcelain or china. The common
cowie is a well-kno\%Ti instance of a porcellaneous shell.
Some shells are so transparent as to resemble glass, and are
therefore called " vitreous."* , , , ,i -

Shells are divided into Univalve, or one-valved shells, such
as the snaU ; and Bivalve, or two-valved shells, such as the

* Derived from Lat. lilruui, glass.

■MM

«

462 NATUKAl, UIMTtiUY.

oyster. TIioho of tlic utiivitlvo itioIIiihch nro capiihle of
pnitnctin^i thoiuHolvoH wlicn witlidniwu iiiMido tlio hIicII by
a houiy plato ciillod tho " oporculiirn," * which complotolv
oloMSH up tho iijx '•tuix', and which may bo wen in the
periwinkle. Tlu^ *■' -^inj^ incnibnuic found in the coiiunon
snail, if taken in the jnter, in culled the ei)ipliruninii,+ and iw
BU|ipoHed to bo hardened nuicuH.

Tho (Jastcropoda move by meanH of a fleshy dine or foot
on tho under Hurface of tho body, and by the alternate
cxpanHive and coiitructivo inovemont** of thin foot, the
creature is euablod to crawl. Tho Oawteropoda inhabit both
land and water, unlike tho bivalvew, which are excluHivoly
inhabitants of the latter olement.

If tiie shell of a (jasteropodouH mollusc bo broken, it has
the i)ower of repairinj.' the injury by secreting fresh layers of
shell from the mantle within.

Tho Sluos arc well-known invaders of our gardens, and,
together with the siuiil, the cater])illar, and the mysteriouH
" blight," are objects of tho gardener's most intense hatred.
The Ulack Slug is usually found by hedge-banks, and in
gnis.sy meadows. It seldom ventures out by day, CHpooially
if tho day be bright, but at night, when tho dew is on the
gromid, it may be seen trailing its dark length through the
herhage, or eagerly devouring the leaves. J The small Orcy
Slug {/Amax cinerea,) is more common ni gardens than the
black slug.

THE COMMON SNAIL.

Several species of Snails inhabit this country, among
which tho Ediblo Snail {Helix pomatia), the Bolted Snail
{Helix nemoralU), and tho common (jlarden Snail {Helix
aspersa), are tho most couiipicuous. Tho Ediblo Snail wa^
im)iorted into England by the Romans, who prized tliem
highly, and fattened them in a building erected for that
express purpose, as indeed they are now in some parts of the

» Lai. a cover or lid. + Or. 'Eiri'j.paKM". « cover.

J While employed at night in decoying moths, by means of a fragrant compound
of sujtar. Iwer, and rum, spread on the trunks of trees, I med constantly to lind my
bait attacked hy huge slugs of all kinds, descending and a n. dinf ' iwards the sweet
but dangerous banquet.

Hcs arc capuhlo of
iiisidi! tho hIk'U ) '
* wliich c<)nnilctt;l.>
ly lio wen in tlu'
nd in tin; coimiion
u[)il)liruf{niii,t and is

flesliy (Umc or foot
d ))y the alterimio

of tliiH foot, thi'
ropodii iuliubit liotli
liicli nro oxcluHivoly

wc bo broken, it bas
•eting frodh layorw of

o{ our pirdeiiH, and,
and tbo myKturioiis
moMt intense hf.trcd.
iod),'o-banl<H, and in
t by day, especially
m tho dew is on the
lenf?th tbrouRh tho
i4 The Hinall Grey
m gardens than the

L

his country, among
i), tlic Belted Snail
liardei\ Snail {llelu-
'he Edible Snail was
18, who prized them
ing erected for that
in some parts of the

fr*^P'i7)U'», a cover.
&n» of u frntfrant compound
, I used constantly to find my
l« rt. dini-' ' >*ard»tlie sweet

NATUHAI, HISTOUV.
I-Vmlly, HeUot.lro.— (Or."EAi4, uv, ted.)

IIKI.IX.

4r,.T

AiipersB (Lat, ipnnkUd), the Common Snail.

Continent. This snail grows to a largo size, nearly attaining
the magnitude of an onhnary closed fist.

The eyes of the Snail are placed at tlie extremity of the
tentacula, or " horns" iw they art! usually called.

Tho common garden snail is so well known that no descrip-
tion of it is needed. It lays eggs very largo in comparison
with tho size of the parent; they are about the size of small
peiu*, round, soft, and semi-transparent. Thoy are deposited
about two inches below tho surface of the earth.

This creature is very tenacious of life. A living snail was
exhibited at the Ashmolean Society at Oxford, which had
made a long sea voyage, packed up in cotton wt)ol. An
immei-sion in water soon brought the inhabitant to view, and
when it was exhibited it was crawling about a box in perfect
health.

THE ROYAL STAIRCASE WENTLETRAP.

The RoYAi. Staircask Wentlethap affords u- an excellent
and most beautiful example of the Turbinida). It is a native
of tho Chinese and Indian seas, and was formerly so scarce
that a specimen two inches in length would sell for a

464

NATURAL HISTORY.

Family, Turbinldse.— (Lat. Turbo, a Whorl.)
ScalabIa. — (Lat. Scala, a Ladder, or stairs.)

Family. Conildse. — (Or. Kuvos, a Conei)

CONUS.

Pretiosa (Lat. valualle), l/ie Jioi/al Staircase Wentktrap.

Generalis (Lat. getieral), the Cone.

hundred pounds. Even now, a very fine specimen cannot be
obtained under six or seven pounds. For this reason, the
specific name " pretiosa " was affixed to it by Lamarck.

As an example of the large family of Cones, we will take
the common Cone, whose beautiful marbled coloiu- and elegant
sliape render it a most attractive shell.

THE MONEY COWRY, AND THE WHELK.

The Cowries are not less celebrated for the elegance of their
form and the beauty of their markings, than for the curious
c'rcumstance that one species is used as current coin in
Guinea and Bengal, thus being employed for the same purpone
by two entirely distinct races of men, situated in different
quarters of the globe. Their value is of course small in
proportion to gold or silver. At the present time a rupee in

loo. — (Or. Kuvos, a Conei)

NUS.

ntletrap.

3 (Lat. general), the Cone.

e specimen cannot be
For this reason, the
it by Lamarck,
f Cones, we will take
led coloiu' and elegant

IE WHELK.

■ the elegance of their
than for the curious
as current coin in
for the same purpooc
situated in different
3 of course small in
3sent time a rupee in

NATURAL HISTORY.
riiiiuJj-, Cyprrclda;.— (Or. from Kvrpos, Cyprus.)

AH1CIA.

46,'5

Fiunily, Buccinldic.— (Lat. Baccinum, a Trumpet.)

lirtcfNf.M.

Monota (Lat. the stamp on money), the Money Cowry.

Undatum (Lat. wavy), the Whelk.

Bengal is worth 3,200 Cowries, the value of the rupee being
'2s. 'Sd. of our money.

The IJucciNin.E are so named from their fancied resem-
blance to a trumpet. The common Whelk is everywhere
abundant on our coasts, and is taken in such profusion that
it is largely cxj)orted for food, and may be seen on the street
stalls of the metropolis cxj)0sed for ssUe, like the oyster and
periwinkle.

Tlie prolioscis of this creature is of a most singular struc-
ture, and by means of the numerous teeth with which it is
armed, it i.^ able rapidly to bore its way through shells, and
then to feed upon the unfortunate inmate. Tlie hermit crab
often takes possession of the empty shells of the Whelk.

Tlie famous Tyrian pm-ple was obtained from one of the
Buccinida;, Purpura imbricata.

H H

iGi")

NATUUAI. niSTOUY.
Family, Muricldro. -(Lat. Miire.t; the puq.le sheU-fiwh.)

MUBEX.

Tribi-ilu-s ^Lat. a TImtU), the Thorny Woodcock.

The beautiful Thorny Woodcock, sometimes culled by the
uame of Veuuis' comb, is an excelleut example of the MuncuUe.
This elegant shell is an inhabitant of the Indian Ocean.

(Jrder, OYi 'LOBRAyCIIIA TA.—{Gr. KukAoj, a circle ; ^pdyxia. gillK.)
KaiiiUy ••ateUltUc— (I.at. Patella, a Porringer.)

PATET.r.A.

Vulgfita (Lat. made comvMii), the L'niq>et.

The Limpets ai-e spread over every latitude, except the
Arctic regions. The common Limpet is to be found on eveiy
rock and large stone at the sea-side. The variety of its
attachment to the rocks is very curious, imcl well repays a

cai

pe

its
it I
is :
adi
pr(
tin
oh

lin

tli(
be

0

all
tu
of
fir
of

e shell-fitth.)

'oodcoclc.

mes called liy the
3 of the MuriciiUf.
idian Ocean.

ircle; 3p<£7xi«.gill'')

'Amiiet.

titude, except the

I be found on every

riie variety of itw

and well repays a

NATUnAI. HISTORY.

4G7

carcftil exainin.'ition. Every one who has seen a living lim-
pet knows how firmly it fixes itself to the rock. This is done
by the inhabitant creating a vacuum on the under surface of
its body, which causes the pressure of the atmospliere to ko> p
it so tightly fi.^ed to the rocks, that a blade of a strong knife
is required to detach it. Frequently the margin of the shell
adapts itself to the shape of the substance to which it adheres,
proving that it must remain fixed in the same spot for a long
time, and rendering it difficult to imagine from whence it can
obtain sufficient nourishment to support life.

Sometimes a liu'ge shell may be picked tip covered with
limpets, that adhere firmly to it in spite of the rolling <>f
the waves, and the tossings about to which it must necessarily
be subjected.

Order, CONCH 11 ERA.— {Gt. Kiyxv, a Mussel-shell ; ipepw, I liear.
Family, Pectiuldie. — (Lat. Pectcn, a Scallop.)

PECTEN.

Jacobaeus (Lat. from a projter name), the Scallop.

We now arrive at the Bivalve JIolluscs. It has been
already stated that the Bivalves aio all aquatic. These crea-
tm-es are enabled to keep their shells firmly closed by means
of a powerful muscle. Those who have attempted for the
first time to open an oyster, must be convinced of the strength
of this muscle. The two shells are united by a powerful and

408

NATURAL mSTORY.

cxtromcly clastic hin^c, wliich after the death of the animal
oneiis the shells wi(lulj\

'I'lic IJivulvds do not enjoy sucli powei-s of loc(Mnotion as
the Ihiivalves, yet some, as the fresii-water mussel, can urge
tlienisclves ulonj,' by means of a fleshy ovj^mi called the foot ;
au.l so powerful in some is this organ, that by means of it
the animal can not only burrow in the Siind, but actually leap
out of a boat. Tlie rapid opening and slmtting ot tho
valves is use.l by some, as the scalh^s as a means of progres-
sion It is believed that the Bivalves have no visual organs.

The common Scai.U)P is found along our southern coasts,
und in tho seas of Europe.* This shell was formerly used as
the Itad'jo of a pilgrim to the Holy Land.

His pilgrim's statr lie liore.

And nx'U tlie Scallop in his Imt before."

OsTBEA.— (Gr. "Orrrpfov, ftn Oyster.)

'=«»•:

Edulis (Lat. edible), the Oyster.
The Common Oyster has been for many ages considered^as
delicacy for the tabic. ' ' " " "' *

In the times of the ancient Romans,

. It is a singular fact, that in the stoin-ch of the common Scallop is f^^^^^^
canhy ilepcsit, which, «h,ii boiled in nitric acid m order to '' »''»^« "'^,^"3 *^^^^^^
other^portior,s: exhibits m.der a powerful >"i"oscope ammalcules precise^ sm^^^^ o
those whicli, in a fossil slate, form the earth on which the town of Uichmona in
America is built. .

latli of the animal

1 of loc(jniotion as
mussel, can urge
m called the foot ;
at by means of it
I, but actually leap
[ sluitting of the
means of progrcs-
no visual organs,
ir southern coasts,
is formerly used as

tcr.)

■^flK--

NATURAI. HISTORY.

■Ui!)

J ages considered as
;he ancient Romans,

mnion Scallop is found an
■ to dissolve the animal and
aalcules precisely similar to
the town of Uichmond in

we find that our " Native Oysters " were exported to Rome,
and there placed in the Lucrine Lake, where they wore fattened.

On our coa-sts the oystei-s breed in large l.ieds, to which vast
(piantities of young oystei-s are conveyed by the fishermen,
and suffered to increase without molestation. Newly-formed
beds are untouched for two or three years. During the mouths
of Mav, June, and July,* tiie oysters breed, and are considered
unfit for food. At this time the young, called "spat" are
deposited in enormous numbei-s. Tliey instantly adlierc to
the substance among which they fall ; and tiiis, whatever it
l)e, is called " cultch," and is protected by severe penalties.
Ai)0ut May the fishermen separate the spawn from the cultch,
which is tlien thrown back into its former place. After .May
it is felony to ,'istiu'b the cultch, as were it removed, mussels
and cockles wouM rapidly take the )>lace of the oysters.

The oysters are taken in the proper season by the "dredge,"
a kind of small net fastened round an iron fraine-work, wliicti
scoops up the oysters and many other marine animals.

The ])art of the Oyster called the " beard," is in reality the
respiratory ai)i)aratU8.

THE PEARL OYSTER.

The Pearl Oyster is the animal from which those highly-
valued ornaments, pearls, are extracted. The pearl is nothing
more than " nacre," deposited in the shape of globular drops
instead of being spread over the inner surface of the shell,
in which case it is known as Mother-of-pearl.

These valuable shells are found both in the Old and New
World. Ceylon is very famous for its pearl fisheries. The
fishermen are trained to remain a long time under water, and
assisted in their descent to the bottom of the sea by a hca>-y
weight tied i., their feet. They rapidly gather all the Pearl
Oysters in their way into a basket, and when in want of air,
give a signal to their friends above, who draw them to the
surfiice by a rope. The Oysters are then left to putrefj- for
some weeks, when they are carefully washed, and the pearls
extracted.

• Most people are acquainted with the proverb, that oysters are in season duriiig
the months in which is the letter R.

tTO

NATUnAL niSTOKY.

Family, Meleagrintdop. — (Gr. MiXtaypls."!

MEr.F.AOnlNA.

V

Miirgaritifi'ra (Lat. Margarita, a pearl ; fern, I bear), the Pearl Oyster.

The Chinese have a method of forcing oysters, or rather
mussels, to form pearls, by aitfully placing beads in their
shells, round which a layer of nacre is deposited, and the
beads then perfectly resemble real pearls.

THE MUSSEL.

Tlie Sea Mussels are usuidly fixed where the tide leaves
thein alternately wet and dry, and it is worthy of notice that
those "shell-fish" which are exposed to variations of this
kind are enabled to close their shells so firmly as to prevent
any evaporation. One species is extensively used as aii
article of food.

i,yp(i.)

lar), </«' Pcaii Oyster.

oysters, or rather
iig beads in tlieir
lepositcd, and the

ere the tide leaves
I'thy of notice that
variations of this
mly aa to prevent
ively used as an

XATUnAI. IIISTOUV.

I-'oiuilv, SlytilUliu.— (Gr. MvtIKos, h Miis.-'el.)
mytTi.us.

471

Ivlftlis (Lat. edible), the Edible Mussel.

Tlie river muascls occasionally produce pearls of some
value, 'i'he nacre of these mussels is of a Iteautiful a/ure
blue.

Older, CfRRIIOPODA.— (Gr.ntvri, five; ?\o(r(ua, u plate.)
PENTAI.A8MI8.

AuatifBra (Lat. Ooose-bearing), the Bernicle.

At first sight, the Bernicle beara a close resemblance to a
mussel-shell fixed to a long stem. On a closer examination,
iiowever, the difference is at once apparent. The shell is in

472

NATURAL HISTOIiy.

fact composed of Jive pieces, ami through the aportiirc o;f tlic
nhell are thrust two rows of arms, or '• cirrhi," us thov aro
more properly called. These cirrhi servo to ciitaii^le the
small cnistacea or molluscs which pass neiu- tlieir splure of
action, and which are then carried to tlie moutii and s{)eedily
devoured.

The Hernicle is always found adhering to some lirgei-
olijcct, usually floating wood, and is very common on the
hulls of ships. Although the perfect animal is permauuntly
fixed, it has been discovered that the young an; true and
capable of locomotion; nor is it until a week or two lias
j)a.ssed, that they finally settle themselves.

The name Anatifeni or Goose-bearing, \\an been ^iven
to this animal on account of the ancient story of the jiro-
duetion of the Bernicle-goose. This fable has already been
related under the article, Bernicle-goose.

(;ia

Sill
On
Sill
Kill

ui
ci
T
ai
d
F
tl
a

he aporture of tho
irrhi," an thov iiro
0 to cntimt,'ki tlui
car their Kjjhcre of
:ioutli and s[)cedily

g to some lirger
y common m\ tlu)
lal is pornianL'ntly
)uiig are five ami
week or two law

, liius been iiven
story of the j)ro-
haa already been

NATUUAL HISTORY.

473

CI1W8 VII. . cnuSTA.Tl*.— (Ut. Ciiula, u cruBt or RhoU.)

Sub-elnss I. MALACOSTUACA.— (Or. MaAaicJs.Hoft; c(rTTpoKoi',aslioll.\*

Order I. . . D£CA/'dlfA.--(Ov. AfVo, ton ; iroiis, a foot.)

Sub-order I. I)kc,\1'oua-ukaciiyDu.\.— (Or. Bpox>5i, Hli<"t ; oipd, 11 tail.)

Fiiuiily I. . . Cancertdio.— (Lat, Cancer, a Cruh.)

CANCKH.

PagQruB, tlie Vrub.

The Crustacea arc almost all aquatic animals. They have
no internal skeleton, but their body is covered with a strong
crust, which serves for protection as well as for strength.
Their whole framework consists of a series of rings fitted to,
and working in each other ; some forming limbs, and others
developing into the framework supporting the different organs.
From this reason, they and the remaining animals, as far as
the star-fishes, who have no limbs, are called "articulated"

animals. .

Their method of growth is veiy curious. Other animals as

• So called because their shell is soft compared with that of the univalve or bivalve
mulluscH.

474

SATUnAL Mi.sTOKT.

♦licy increase in wizo c.x))orieii(e no ])articiilar inconveniciicc.
Not HO the ( JruMtaeca. Their liodieM are closely eiivelopcd in a
Htroii}!, unyielding mail, which cannot grow with them. Their
armour is thcrotore cunt off' every year, and a frcnh coat formed
to Huit their increased dim"n«ions. Not only is the armour
cast off, but even the covering of the eyca, the tendons of the
ela\V8, and the (iiiiiit/ mnnhrnui nf t/ie Dtoinach, ivith Hh teeth.

Tiiey all also poHKesstho ciu'ioiiH power of reproducing a lost
or injureil lindt. In the formci- case, a fresh limb HUpplies the
place of that lost ; and in the 1 rter case, tho animal itself
shakes off the injured joint, and a new one soon takes its
place. Lobsters, when alaniied, frequently throw off their
elaws.

Th(! Decapods, aa their name imports, arc the fortunate
pijsHessors of ten legs, five at each side. They also pobsess
three jiaii-s of jaws, besides the teeth in the stomach. Ttiey
breathe by means of bmuchiro or gills, fixed at each siud of
the throat, or clajst, often erroneously called the head.*

Tlie Common CuAis belongs to il.c short-tniled Decapods.
If is abundantly taken on our coasts by fishermen, who
em])loy for its capture a wicker bosket called a " creel " or
crab- pot. The crab-pots are made each with an aperture
which permits the animal to enter, but forbids its egress —
just like a common wire mouse-trap. A piece of a fish is
fastened at tiie bottom of thu creel, and the whole apparatus
let down to the bottom of the sea, guarded by a line connected
with a float, by means of which the fish:, n len dmw it up and
then remove it.s contents. Each float has a peculiai* mark, by
which the fisherman knows his own. When taken, the crabs
are ke])t alive in well-boats, until wanted.

< These animals have no distinct head; that and the thorax being merged into
what naturalists call " ceplialo-thorax," or head-thorax.

Sub

Fun

hii
th
til
th
St
th
cr
ne
hi
hi

ar
h(
ol

uliir inconvcniencf.
oHol)' enveloped in ii
V with them. Tiieir

a frcMh coiit formed
only is the armour
I, the tendons of the
(ich, with its teeth.
f reproducing a lost
sii limb supplies the
le, the animal itself

one soou takes its
tly throw off their

\ arc the fortunate
They also pobsess
ho stomach. Ttiey
ixed at each siuo of
led the head."^
)rt-tailed Decapods,
by fishermen, vho
called a "creel" or
. with an aperture
forbids its egress —
\ piece of a fi.sh is
ho whole appai'atiis
by a line connected
I len draw it up and
a pernliai' mark, by
icu taken, the crabs

thorax being merged into

NAivn.vt. msTouY.

47f.

Siibordor II. DECAroDA-ANOMor B.\. -(Gr/AfOMo'i unftCCUHtoiucd ; «ii»»o.

n tail.)
Kiiinily HI. . ragurldw.— (Gr. \i,]~)vvm, to fix ; oifi, a tnil.)

paoCbus.

Bernharclus (Lat. proper name), the Hermit Crul.

The Hkiimit Thau is not so well protected as most of
his relations, for his tail has no shel'.y armour. lli^ is
therefore forced to protect his undefended tail by jiut-
ting it into an empty shell, usually that of a whelk, and
then walks about, dragging his curious house after him.
Sometimes, two hermit crabs wish to obtain possession of
the same shell, and then there is a battle royal. When the
crab gi-ow8 larger, he only has to change his oUl [shell for a
now one, and it is very amusing to see them slipping their
tails, fii-st into one shell, and then into another, until they
have pleased themselves with a good fit.

The Land Crabs make annual excursions to tho sea in large
armies. They go straight forward, and nothing except a
house or such iusurmountablc barrier can stop them. Those
of Jamaica arc particularly celebrated.

476

NATUKAL HISTORY.

Hub-order III. DECAPftDAMACBOimA.— (Or. Mawprft, liugi-; aipd.n tail.)
Family V. , . AgtocTiUo.— (Or. 'Aittok(;i, n Li.bntfr.)

PoTAaoDlus.— (Gr. IIoto^i, n rivor ; $tdu, to liva.)

I

, I

Astftcus, the Cmy-fidi.

The long-tailed cnistaceaiis include the Lobster, Shrimp, itc.

The RiVEK CiiAY-FiSH is common in most of our rivers
and brooks. It resides in holes in tlio bank, sometimes
excavated by itself, but more often the deserted habitations
of water-riits. In rocky situations it lives under and among
the stones. The excellence and delicacy of its flesh causes
it to l)e much sought after. The usual method of catching
those animals is by lowering a net to the bottom of the
water, baited with a piece of meat. The cniy-fish soon
discover this and come in numbci-s to the bait, when the net
is suddenly haxded up, and most of the cray-fish secured.
Some, however, escape by darting off backwanls, a movem.ent
produced by the violent bending of their tiiils. It is a
favourite amusement with boys to search for them in their
holes, and drag them from their concealment.

CO

ta
pi

pf

a

nt

ac

In

F(i

ol
h

tp6l, large ; odpd, a. tail.)
iHtor.)

$vi<ii, to livu.)

Lobster, Shrimp, «i'c.
1 inoHt of our riverw
bo bank, sometimoH
deserted hubitationw
cs imdcr and ainoiiK
y of its flesh eiuises
method of catching
the bottom of tho
The cniy-fish soon
e bait, when tho net
10 cray-fish secured,
jkwanls, a movement
heir tails. It is a
!h for them in their
iiieut.

NATIK.VI. iriSTORV.
AtTXcL't.

477

GammttruB, the Lobster.

Tlin common Lobster is found in ff.vat abundance on our
coasts; usually in tho clear rocky %vaters. The hshermen
t.iko great numbers of lobsters in baskets made on tho same
l.rincb.le as those used for the capture of the crab. Iho
.owerful tail of the lobste.-s enables them to sprmt: through
!i .n-eat distance if alarmed, and they have been seen to i«iss
n "ai-ly thii-ty feet. They direct their course with wonderftU
accumcy, and can throw themselves throi.gh apertures hardly
larger than the size of their bodies : of course they spring tail

*" Thriiisp of the lobster's claw is so tight that to break
off the claws is often tho only method of (bsengagmg its

"Although enormous quantities are destroyed every year
they are so prolific that the supply never fails.

'fhe so-called lady's-fingers of tho Lol ,ter arc its breathing
appamtus.

478

NATURAL HISTORY.

Kiunily Vr. Crangonrdoe.— (Or. Kpayyoi^, a Shriiiii).)

CKANOOH.

Fiiinily VIII. Paloemonldse.— (Ur. noAaf/iav, a proper name.)

PAI./KMON.

Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Shrimp.

Serratus (Lat. toothed, jagycd), the Prawn.

These two imimals are so familiar to every one as to need
but little description. Both are taken in nets swept along
the sandy bottom of the sea. The chief distinction in the
appearance of these two creatures is the senuted or toothed
ridge which runs along the back of the head or rather cara-
pace. When in their natural state, they are of a brown colour,
and only assume the pinkish hue when boiled. Spirits of
wine has the same effect.

The Fresh- Water Shrimp (Gammarus Pulex), and the
Water-Flea {Daphnia Pulex), both so common in our rivera
and ponds, are placed among the Crustacea).

Y.

Shriuip.)

TlaKalfiuv, a proper name.)

toothed, jarjrjcd), the Prawn.

o every one as to need
!n in nets swept along
;hief distinction in the
he serrated or toothed
to head or rather eara-
y are of a brown colour,
len boiled. Spirits (jf

arus Pulex), and the
common in our rivei-s
taceo!.

NATUn.VL HI8T0RV.

Cla-ss VIII. ARACHNfDA.— (Or. 'Apcfx"')'- ^ Spider.)
Order .. /'W3/O.V.17iLl.*-(Liit. yuZmo, the Lungs.)
Fiimiiy. . AranoIdfo.—(Lat. .Branca, a Spider.)

MtoXlb.— (Or. MU70AT), the Shrew-mouse.)

479

Avicularla (,Lat. AvioCdurf, a link Bird), the Bird Sjiider.

The Class Araciinida, or the Spiders, are by many sup-
posed to be insects. Such, however, is not the case. The
Araclmida possess eight legs, while the true Insects only
have six ; they undergo nc transforaiations, they posse.ss no
wings or antenna) (the place of the latter organs being su^)-
[jlied either by two jointed claws, as in the Scorpions, or by
two fangs, as in the Spiders); and their eyes are simple instead
i)f compound.

Could people divest themselves of the horror felt at the
sight of these creatures, especially of the larger sort, they
would be well repaid by the interesting instinct displayed by all
the Spiders, who do not differ from each other more in form
tlrai in habits. Those of our own country afford an ample field,

* So called, because the animals belonging to this class breathe by means of air-
sacs, called by Latreille, Pneumobranchioe, or lung-gills. The Trachcana, on the
contrary, breathe by means of trachese, or air-tubes branching through the whole
system, like the insects.

->s*i

I

480

NATURAL HISTORY.

which haa been as yet but imperfectly trodden. Tlicrc are
the Gofwamer Spidei-s, wlio float high into the air, borne upon
an almost invisible thread ; the Water Spidei-s, who form an
air-tight dwelling under the wave ; the Hunting Spiders, tliat
creep stealthily upon their prey, and then spring on it like
lightning ; the beautiful Garden Spiders, who weave fronj
theii- self-afForded stores their geometrical nets ; the Pirate
Spiders, who skim over the surface of the waters, and snatch
lip the drowning and helpless fly; together with many others,
whose ft)rm and habits must be familiar to any observer of
Nature.

On account of the limited space that can be given to each
Class, a short account of some of the principal species of this
class is all that can be given.

The enormous Spider represented above is a native of
Surinam, and was brought into notice by that indefatigable
naturalist, Madame Merian. Her account of it is very siiort.
She relates that it carries about with it a habitation,
resemliling the cocoon of some of the moths, and that it is
armed with sharp fangs and inflicts dangerous wounds, at
the same time injecting into the wound a poisonous liquid.
She also tells us that it feeds principally upon ants, but that
in theii- absence it drags little birds out of their nests, and
then, as she patheticidly observes, " sucks all the blood out of
their poor little bodies." * Here, however, it is generally sup-
posed that ^Madame Merian has been imj)08ed upon, as is
evidently the case in another portion of her work, where she
has drawn a ciu-ious insect, compounded of the head of a
lantern-fly, and tiie body of a cicada. She seems to have
had her doubts on the subject, for she says, " The Indians
told me." t

The common Garden, or Geometrical Spider, as it is called
from the mathematical regularity of its net, is an excellent
example of the Spidei-s. The net is formed from a gummy
substance secreted in an apparatus called the spinneret,
through the holes of which the gummy secretion is drawn
and becomes hard when exposed to the air. Each thrwid

* " Formicarum defectu, ipsas e nidis tollunt aviculas, omnemque corpufiilin
cTuorem i'.\su(?iint."— Merian. Met. Insect. Sur. p,18.
f'Persuasuin mihi ab India est."— Id. p. 49.

IS
CO

ot!

m
en
ai
til

I'l

ol

si
b

li
w

h
a
t

mmmmm

trodden. Tlicrc arc
;o the air, boi-no upon
Spidera, who form an
Hunthig Spiders, tliat
len spring on it like
jrs, who weave fron;
cal nets ; the Pirate
lie waters, and snateh
ler with many otiiers,
-r to any observer of

can be given to cacli
incipal species of this

bove is a native of
by that indefatigable
it of it is very short,
ith it a habitation,
moths, and that it is
angorous wounds, at
1 a poisonous liquid.

upon ants, but that
t of theii' nests, and
8 all the blood out of
!r, it is generally sup-
imposed upon, iis is

her work, where she
id of the head of a

She seems to liave

says, " The Indians

Spider, as it is called
I net, is an excellent
■med from a gummy
tilled the spinneret,
y secretion is drawn
e air. Each thread

las, omnemque curpii»'?iiliK

NATURAL HISTOnV.

481

is composed of many thousand lines. When the web is
completed, the Spider generally hides itself under a leaf or
other convenient lurkiug-place, and from thence pounces
upon any unwary fly that has entangled itself in tlie slender
meshes. Sliould tlie fly be a large one, the Spider nijiidly
encircles it with fresli tin-eads until it lias boun-l its wings
and legs to the body, and then breaking otV the lew throails
that held it to the net, bears it oft" triumplumtly to its hiding-
place. Frequently the (ieometrical Spider sits in tiie centre
of the web, apparently enjoying the air, and if disturbed
sliakes tlie net so violently that its shape is completely obscured
bv the i-apidity of the vibnitions.
' The House Spider makes a thicker and irregular web, and
bides itself at tlie bottom of a silken tunnel communicating
witli the web.*

Several endeavours have been made to procure silk ti'oin
spiders, but although sufficient has been obtiiined to weave
.doves from, yet spiders arc so pugnacitais that they cannot
be kept together. The eggs of the Spiders are enclosed m
a silken bag, and when hatched, the young keep closely
together, and when disperaed by an alarm, soon reassemble.

The Tarantula, whose bite was fabled to procbice convul-
sions which could only be appeased by music, is a spider of
considerable size, inhabiting the south of Europe. It lives m
lioles about four inches deep in the ground.

THE SCOUriON.

These formidable creatures inhabit most of the hotter parts
of the globe. They are quite as pugnacious as the s])iders,
and if several are placed in one box, they will light until few
survive, who immediately devour their fallen foes.

Tlie maxilla; of the ScoitriON are developed into large claws,
like those of the lobster. With these, the Scorpion seizes its
m-ey, and while holding it pierces it with its s+iug, which is
situated at the extremity of its tail. The twil is composed of
six joints, rendering it very flexible.

• An acquaintance of mine had «o far t.-inied a Iiufre house spicier, that it wotilii
conu. anfl tlike a fly out of his hand, lie .tales, thai as It sat at the bottom of its den.
its lyes Bleanied like diamonds.

I I

IMH

NATURAL HISTOBY.
Family, Scorpiontdic. — (Lnt. Scorpio, a Scorpion.)

SCORPIO.

Europa;ua (Lat. European), the Scorpion.

The sting of this cvoature is exceedingly ])ainful, and with
some persons dangerous , indeed, tlie sting of tlie large black
Scorpion of Ceylon is said to cause death.

CI
Si
Oi
Fi

Order, TEA CIIHA RIA. — (i'rom Trachea, a word uged to represent the
tubes through which insects and other animals breathe ; —
the windpipe.)

Family, Acartdtc. — (Gr. 'A(capi, a Mite.)

ACaBUS.

These creatures are mostly minute, requiring the aid of a
niicroecope fully to develop their form ; but some are consi-
derably larger, and their orgiins can be distinguished with the
naked eye. In this order are included the common cheese-
mite, the harvest-bug, the water mites, tfcc.

NATURAL HISTORY.

483

a Scorpion.)

corpion.

;ly i)aiiiful, and with
ig of the large black

'd UBod to represent the
ier animals breaths ; —

iq Hiring the aid o( a
but some arc eonsi-
;stingiiisihed with the
the common cheese-
;c.

Class IX. . INSECTA.— (Lat. Insecure, to cut into.)
Sub-class I. INSKCTA MANDIIiULATA.— (Lat. mandave, to chow.)
Order I. . . COLEOPTERA.—(Gt. KoAtrfs, a sheath ; -mlpov, a wiug.)
Family I. . Ciciudelldic. (Lat. a Glowwor,:i.)

cicindEi-a.

Campostria (Lat. of the Jidda), the Tiger-beetle.

The body of an insect is divided or cut into three parts,
called the head, the thorax, and the abdomen. The body is
defended by a homy integument, divided into rings and con-
nected by a softer membrane. The legs are six in number.
Many insects possess wings, and in all the rudiments of those
orgsms are perceptible. The eyes are compound, that is, a
number of eyes are massed together at each side of tl>e head ;
and so numerous are they, that in the compound eyes of the
ant are 50 lenses, in the house-fly, 8,000, in the butterfly,
17,000, and in the hawk-moth, 20,000.

The insects pass through three tninsformatious before they
attain their perfect form. The first state is called the larva*
because the future insect is masked under that form ; the
second is called the jnipa,^ on account of the shape often
a,ssumed ; and the third is called the imayo,X as being the
image of the perfect creatiu-e. Insects breathe by means of
air-tubes, called tracheae, which penetrate to every part of
the body, even to the extremities of the limbs, antenna; and
wings. The air gains access to the tubes by means of small

I

* From Lat. Larra, a mask.

t From Lat. tmago, an image or cfllgy.

.t From Lat. Pupa, a doll.

484 NATUIIAI, HIHTOUV.

apertures called spimcles. The tubes are provcntcfl from
collapsing? by a delicate thread v.-ound spirall)'^ botweou the
two momi)ranos of which the ttibcs are coniposed. This won-
derful iuid beautiful arrangement not only prevents the tubes
from collapsin;jf, but keeps them flexible. There are, accord-
ing to Stepiions, whose arnuigement is the one usually followed,
fourteen orders of insects. Exami)les will be given of each,
and their names explained. The most perfect insects are
placed first.

There are two great divisions of insects, namely, those which
bite and eat solid food witli jaws, as the beetles, locusts, bees,
«fec., and those which suck li(piid food thi-ougii a proboscis, as
the butterflies, flies, &c. The first order of insects derives its
name from the sheath or covering with which the wings are
defended.* This is a very extensive order, as, exclusive of
exotic and other foreign beetles, tiicro have been discovei'cd
no less than three thousand : five hiuidred inhabit this
country. The fii-st in order of the Britisii insects, are the
TiSER-itEETLES, SO callcd from their activity and vonieity.
Tlie most common of these is the oi-dinary Green Tiger-
beetle, that may bo seen any hot summer's day, glancing
in the sun on Siindy banks. The exceeding beauty of this
insect is be3'^ond all description. The u])per surface of tiie
])ody is a deep, dead green, changing luider the microscope
to a glossy gold, shot with red and green, tiie surface of the
abdomen covered by the wiug.s, and the entire undcr-surfiice
of the body, brilliant emerakl gi-ecn, and when the insect is on
the wing it sparkles in the sun like a flying gem. Nor is this
the last of its attractions, for when handled it gives forth a
scent closely resembling that of the verbena. It is indeed as
beautiful among insects as the tiger is among beasts, and is,
perhaps, the more ferocious of the two. It runs and flies
with gi'cat activity, and takes to the wing as easily as a bee
or fly, and is in consequence rather difficult to captm-e without
a net. Its jaws are long, sharp, cui-ved like a sickle, and
armed with several teeth. Its eyes are largo and i)rominent,
enabling it to see on all sides. Its length is rather more than
half an inch.

* Tliis, aa well as th» general covering of insects, is composed principally of a
lubstance calleit by chemists, chiliiw.

tl
W

SI

ire prevcntoil from
Iiimli)' between tlio
inposoil. This won-
y jn'cvonts tlie tubes
'J'here me, accoffl-
one usually followed,
11 1)0 j^iven of each,
perfeet insects are

namely, those which
)eetles, lucuBtH, bees,
•ouj^li a proboscis, as
of insects derives its
which the winjrs are
der, as, exclusive of
ave been discovered
mdrod inhabit this
tisli insects, are the
tivity and vonicity.
iinary Green Tijrer-
uiers day, glancin<j;
jding beauty of this
i])per surface of tlie
nder the microscope
n, the surface of, the
entire under-siuface
ivhen the insect is on
ng gem. Nor is this
lied it gives f(jrth a
ena. It is indeed as
miong beasts, and is,
I. It runs and flies
ng as easily as a bee
It to ca])turo without
d like a sickle, and
argo .and prominent,
i is rather more than

s composeil principally of a

NATUKAL IIIBTOUY.

Fniiiily, CiiruWdH?.— ((ir. KdpaPot, a Beetle.)

CA HA Ill's.

485

Cancellatus (Lat. chcr/uei-ed), the Ground-beetle.

The Ground-bketle is one of our lai-gest and most beau-
tiful beetles. Its general colour is a coppery gi'een, and it^
wing-cases are ornamented with several rows of oblong i-aised
spots. It length is about an inch.

Family, SilpLIdte.— (Gr. ilK<pv, a Burying-beetlo.)
NecbophSous.— (Gr. NwpJs, a flead body; <payM, to eat.)

Vespillo (Lat. a hearer of the dtad), the Burt/inyhcetle.

This curious beetle derives its name from its habit of burj^ng
any small dead animal left on the surface of the ground ^Vith
such rapidity docs it work, that two beetles have been knomi
to cover up a sparrow within a few hoiu's ; and so unwearied

4«G

NATUIlAt, IIISTOUV.

aro thoy, that if aovcml Buryiug-beotlos are placed in a vessel
filled with earth, and kept eoustautly 8upplio<l with dead
frogH, mice, ikc, tlioy will eontinuo to Iniry them as long as
the supply is kci)t up. The object of tiiis remarkable instinct,
so beneficial in its effects, is to furnish food for the young
wlio are hatched from eggs laid in tiie body of the animal
during its burial. In tiiis way innumerablu carcases whicli
would pollute tlw atmosphere ai-o removed, and made bene-
ficial to the soil.

Family, Lucantda3. — (Lat. Lucaims, the Stag-beetle.)

LUCANUS.

Family, QeotrupTdro. — (Gr. r»j, the Earth; rpviraa>, to bore.)

OEOTRurES.

Family, MelolonthlJso. — (Or. Vlr]\o\6v9t], a. Cockchaffer.)

MET/JLONTIIA.

Cervus (Lat. a filar/), tlie Slay-beetle.
Stercoi-arlus (Lat. Dinig), the Dor-beetle.
Vulgaris (Lat. common), tlie Cockchaffer.

The Lamellicohn Beetles are exceedingly urscful to man-
kind. Many of them act as scavengei-s and farmera, for they

not
the

1
so
one
tha
tliii
whi
son
the
insi

the
the
cal
roi
ma

wo
rot
Jav
cm
eig
Fo
bii

mi
up

ge

hat
t
of

clyi
tli.-i
Ilia
Sic.
liai

N.VTUnAL HISTOnY.

•487

! placed in a vessel
H)l)lie(l with dead
y tliein us long us
jmarkiiblo instinct,
Dod for the young
)()dy of the animal
ble ciirciises which
d, and made bono-

Stag-beotle.)
rpinrdw, to bore.)
11 Cockchatfer.)

leetle.

r-beetle.

chafer.

igly useful to man-
id farmers, for they

not only remove putrefying substiincos from tho surface of
the ground, but bury them beneath.

The STAti-iiKKTi/; is tlie largest of British insects. Although
so formidably armed, it is ([uito hannless, and only uses its
enormous jaws to bi-eak tlie tender bark of trees, in onler
that tlie Si'ip, '.n whicli it feeds, may exude. Tho UKJUth of
tills beetle is very small, and is furnished with a brush, with
which it licks up tho food. Several of these beetles lived for
some time on moist sugar. During the winter, it hides in
the earth, making for itself a kiml of cave, very snun)th
inside.* This beetle is common in the New Forest.

The Doii-HKETLE is a very common English insect. At
the approach of evening, it may be seen wliirling round in
the air with a didl humming sound. Tho countiy children
call it the Watchman, comparing it to a watchman going his
rounds in the evening. It usually lays its eggs on a rounded
mass of cow-dung, and then buries the whole mass in the
ground. When caught, it jjretends to bo dead.t

The CocKC'iiAFFER needs not much description. Its lana
works great mischief during the s))ring, as it feeds on the
roots of plants, and cuts them off with its sharp sickle-like
jaws. Where many <jf tiieso "gi-ubs" have been, the gmss
"curls up, and dries like hay. One farmer actually collected
eighty bushels of the gi-ubs of tho (-ockchaffer <m his farm.
Fortunately the thrushes, iilackbirds, rooks, and many other
birds ai-e inveterate destnjyers of the grui)s, and devour
myriads of them. It is for this purpose that these birds pull
up tho grass, and not to 8i)oil or devour the herbage, as is
generally supposed.

The huge Hercules and Atlas Beetles, and larger still, the
rioliath licetle, belong to the Lamellicorns.

* In the Aslimolcan Miist-um, Oxford, i» an excellent specimen of the winter
linbitatinn of this beetle, with the beetle itself encloneil.

t The Uor-hectle is verv tenacious of life. I have now in my cabinet a specimen
of this insect, which I took on the wiiift. It hail lost several lefts, one winu-cover or
clvtron, the ifhnti- of the contents of the .nbilomen, and part of the thorax. 1 suppose
that a bird nuist have been eatinj; it. and have lieen disturbed, for when thrushes,
bliickbirds, jackdaws, Sec. eat lari;e beetles, they lie-in by pickinR otf the winRs. limbs,
&c 1 also look, in May IS.Vi, a nockchatler walking along very unconcernedly, who
had lost both his wings and elytra, and all the contents of the i-bdomen.

488

NATL'IIAI. HISTORY.

Family, LnnipyrI(liD.-(Or. Adfivu, to iliiiic j odpd, n tftil.)
i.AMi'fms.

Noctilnoa (Lat. uii/IU-iJiiniii;/), thv Ulomcmtn.

Tho (iu)\vwoiiM may be hucu in tlu; wunn Rxiiimcr cvcniiips,
Mhcddin^' its piilo i,'reen light on gmtwy banks. The female
insect givoK. out a mnch stronger light than the male, and
there is sumo light visible oven in the larva. The light of thiH
insect proeeeds fron\ tlie abdmien. The light given out by
tiie firefly, another kind of beetle inhabiting South America,
proceeds from three yellow t)d)ercles placed on the throat.
The gnd) or larva of the (ilowworm is of a singidar form, and
is furnished with a brush at the extremity of the tail, with
which it cleanses its body from dust or the slimu of the snails
on which it frecpiontly feeds.

THE DEATH-WATCH.

Tlie formerly terrildc Death-Watch, is now generally
known to be merely a small beetle. Indeed it is nothing
more thun the creatiu'c that perftjrates the round holes in old
"worm-eaten" furniture and wood-work. Tlie "ticking"
is produced by striking the head against the wood. If there
is a Death-Watch iu the room, it is easy to incite it to begin
to tick, by striking with the head of a pin on the panelling.
There are .several insects that produce this sound, the Anobium
striatum, 'tesselatum, and pertinax. The last-named is so

inc ; oipd, a ttiil.)

Olmoworm.

nil Rutnmer cvcniups,
r banks. Tlic foiualo
thim tho male, and
;iX. Tho light of this
10 light given out by
iting Suutii Auii'rica,
laced on the throat.
' a singular form, and
iiity of the tail, with
le slime of the s'uuils

I.

H, is now generally
Indeed it is nothing
he round holes in old
)rk. Tho "ticking"
t the wood. If there
y to incite it to begin
pin on the panelling.
s sound, the Anobium
'lie last-named is so

NATUnAl. niSTOKY.

Family, Ptintdic.

ANonIrM,

tH9

TesHoliltuiii (Lat. Uiutlattd), the Death- Watch.

calle.1 fr.aii the pertinacity with which it simulates death if
alarmed, preferring to sutler tho severest treatment rather
than give signs of life.

Fainil. , CernmbycIdK.-(Or. Ktpdixpvl the MuhIc Ueetle.)

CKUAMIIVX.

JloaihntuB (Liit. mudci/), the Mimkbeette.

The beautiful Beetles of which the common ^[usk-Beeti.e
is an excellent example vaiy. considerably m size ; some
being several inches in length, while some are hardly one-

490

NATUBAL IIIHTOIIY.

(luiirtor of an inch lonj». Tlio cxtromo length of thoir aiitcm»«
iH tlio luoHt coiiHpiouoiiM proporty, iiml from that pooixliarity
they iiro at oneo rcooguiscil.*

Tlio Musk.-l)0()tlo is a lartjo insect, coniinuu in most [)iirtH
of Englan<l. It is cxtronioly common at Oxford, and is fonnd
in did willow-treoH, with whicii Oxford ia snrronndoil. Its
pccnliar scent, something reHonibling tluit of roses, often
iMJtrays its presence, when its green colonr wonld iiiive kept
it concealed. When tonched, it emits a cnrions sonnd, not
unliiio that of the bat, bnt more rofombling the faint semteh-
ing of a perpendicularly-held slate pencil. Its larva i)orcs deep
holes in the trooi, which oro often quite honoycoml)ed l>y
them.

TUE ROVE BEETLE.

The RovE-nEKTLKS form an exceedingly extensive section.
S(jme are so small as to retinire the assistance of the microscope
to discover their shajjc, and others, as those rejn-esented on the
next page, are more than an inch in length. The small 8i)ecies
are usually on the wing, and it is very amusing to see them
alight, and with thoir Hexihle tails tuck tlieir long and beauti-
fully shaped wings under the elytra, run about for a moment,
and then again take to flight. These ai-e the creatures that
cause so mucli annoyance by flying into one's mouth or oye
in tlie warm months.

The GiiEAT RovE-«Ei5TLE is commonly found upon decaying
animal substances. It is most formidably armed with two
large, evu'ved, sharp mandibles, the bite of which is tolembly
severe; and more than once, when the creatiu'c hius iiccn
recently feeding upon jjutrid substances, dangerous results
lia^e followed.

I much regret that want of space has withheld mo from
giving accounts of many most interesting beetles, particularly
some of the Carabida-, ilie Silphidaj, Ptinidie, and the Water-

* A smiill moth, Ade\a de GetTeUa, possessc- ilie same peculiarity. Tlie length
of the moili i'- about a Miiarter of an inch, and ' le length of the antenna- more than
an imh ami i half. The antenna- wave about with every breath of air. .^^ if the
insect had In- ome entangled in a apldST's wiV>, and escaped with some of the loose
threads floating; about it.

he
rei
foi

we

Wll

an
an
(la

1>}

mi
ce
ar
us
th
th

cii
th

im

NATUIIAL IIIHTOBV.

401

li of their untenmc
a tluit poouliurity

noil in nioNt psirts
xfonl, iiiid in t'ouml
1 surrouudod. Its
it of rosoH, often
• would hiivo kept
cufions rtdimd, not
; the fivint Kcmtch-
[ts liirva bores deep
honeycombed liy

■ extensive section.
!Oof the microscope
rc])rescnted on the
. The small species
using to see them
ir lonjjc and beauti-
itout for a moment,
) the creatures that
one's mouth or oye

amd upon decaying;
y armed with two
' wliich is tolerably
creature has boon
dangerous results

withheld mo from
lectles, particularly
die, and the Water-

! lUTUliaiity. Tlie k-n^'th
of the anttnnff inorc Ihan
ry breath of air. ii^ If the
It'll with some of the loose

Knmily, Stiiiihylin[<ltc.~((lr. iraipuKTvot, tho llovu-buotlo.)
CnEonilLVs.— (dr. Kptdi, fl.wh ; <f)iA«rf, to love.)

Maxillusus {Lilt, large-jawed), Ihe Itove-beetle.

beetles. These last inhabit the water, aud swim with
remarkable activity. They occasionally come to tin; surface
for a fresh supply of air, which they carry down between the
elytra and the up[ier surface of the abdomen. They fly very
well, but the construction of their limbs prevents aiem from
walking. They cannot be kept in a limited ii\m<v, as they
are very fierce aud voracious, and in one case when a male
and female were placed in ajar tilled with water, only om
•lay elapsed before the mule was found dcul uidhalf dcvom. d
by his disconsolate widow.

The Earwig is placed in an order by itself, cnlltd Der-
maptem from the soft elytra. The winp* are lavi;;o and e.\-
coedin^'ly beautiful, and the method of folding by which they
are packed under the very small elytra is very curious. Tlie
use of the forceps sceniB principally for the purjiose of folding
the wings and placing tlcm m their proper position under
the elytra. Ten specie; of earwigs inhabit England. Tlie
eggs of the earwigs are hatched, and the young protected by
the parent.

492

NATURAL HISTORY.

Order III. ORTJIOPTL'RA.— {Or. "OpBos, straight ; Trripoi/, a wiug.)
Family . . Locustldre. — (Lat. Lwiisla, a Locust.)

Tartarlca (Lat. of Tartar;)), the Lociisl.

These posts of the warmer countries of the earth belong
to the order called Orthoptera, because the wings are not
folded transvei-sely.

They fly in countless myriads, and where tliey descend,
they devour every particle of green herbage — the trees are
stripped of their leaves, the grass and corn is eaten to the
very ground ; for their jaws are so strong as to inflict a severe
wound when the insect is incautiously handled. Nor does
the mischief end with their life, for their dead bodies often
accumulate in such numbers tliat the air is even dangerously
infected. They infest Africa and central Asia, but they
annually make inciu'sions to Europe, where the damage they
occasion is miich less reparable than in their native lands,
for there the power of vegetation is so great that a few days
repair the injuries caused by them, but in Europe a whole
year is reipiired for that purpose. The following account of
these creatures is extracted from Mr. Cummiug's South
Africa : —

ght ; irripov, a wing.)

t.)

fcgv-

le Locust.

i of the earth belong
se the wings are not

where they descend,
;rhage — the trees are
corn is eaten to the
5 as to infl'ct a severe
' handled. Nor does
leir dead bodies often
ir is even dangerously
ntral Asia, but they
'here the damage they
in their native lands,

great that a few days
ut in Europe a whole
3 following account of
Mr. Cummiug's South

NATURAL HISTORY.

493

" On the following day I liad the ))loasuro of beholding the
first flight of locusts that I liad seen since my ai'rival in the
colonj'. Wo were standing in tlie middle of a plain of
unlimited length, and about five miles across, when I observed
tliem advancing. On they came like a snow-storm, flying
sl(jw and steady, about a hundred yards fi'om the ground. I
.stood looking at them until the air was darkened witli their
masses, while the plain on which wo stood became deuselj'
covered with them. Far as my eye couhl reach, east, west,
north, and south, they stretched in one unbroken cloud ; and
more than an hour elapsed before their devastating legions
had swept by

" Locusts aftbrd fattening and wholesome food to man,
bii'ds, and all sorts of beasts ; cows and hor.<es, lions, jackals,
livienas, antelopes, elephants, &c. devour them. We met a
]iarty of Batlapis carrying heavy burdens of them on their
l>acks. Our hungry dogs made a fine feast on them. The
cold frosty night had rendered them unable to take wing
until the sun sheuld restore their powers. As it was diflficidt
to obtain sufficient food for my dogs, I and Isaac took a
large blanket, which we sjjread imder a bush, whose Itrauches
were bent to tlie gi-ound with the mass of hicusts which
covered it, and having shaken the branches, in an instant I
had more locusts than I could carry on my back ; these we
roasted for oui-selves and our dogs."

Our common grasshoppers belong to this order, but require
no description.

Tlie Cockroach {Blatta orientalis), erroneouslj^ called by
housewives, the "Black-beetle" (it not being a beetle at all,
and its coloiu- being a I'eddish brown), belongs to the family
Blattlda). It was originally brought from abroad, and has
comi)letelj'^ domesticated itself, just as the l)rown rat has
done, so that few houses ai'e free from it.

THE MOLE-CRICKET.

The curious insect called the Mole-Cricket is not un-
common in England. It inhabits sandy banks, digging dccj)
holes, and forming chambers, in which the eggs are laid.

J

494

NATURAL IIISTORT,

Family, Achettdae. — (Qr. 'Ax^ras, a Chirper, i.c. the Grasshopper.)
Gryllotalpa. — (Lat. Oryllun, a Cricket ; tclpa, a, Mole.)

Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Mok-Cricket,

The fore legs closely resemble those of the mole, and are
used for the same purpose. From its not unmusical cry it
is called in some parts of England the ChiuT-worm, and
near Oxford the rustics call it " Croaker."

PhtllIa.*— (Gr. *iKKov, a Leaf.)

itf
ni
sii
so
ini
M
its

«g
CI:

fis

thi

Follata (Lat. like a leaf), t/te Leaf Intect.

The Leaf Insect is an inhabitant of South America. Not
only does it resemble a leaf in shape, but even in colour, and

• I have preferred to place tliese two insects in close proximity, as they both
afl'ord a curious instance of resemblance to another part of creation.

vol
insi
are
flie
wir

.c. the Grasshopper.)
tplpa, a Mole.)

Cricket.

the mole, and are
ot unmusical cry it
i ChuiT-worm, and

iaf.)

f Intect.

3xith America. Not
even in colour, and

se proximity, as they holli
of creation.

NATURAL HISTORY. 496

its legs may 1)o easily mistaken for dry twigs. Even the
ramified veinings of tlie leaf arc preserved on its wings. It is
singular that while some insects closely resemble vegetables,
some vegetables, as the Orchidacere, should as closely reseml)le
insects. Nearly connected with this insect, is the Pmying
Mantis, so called from the curious manner in which it holds
its fore legs. It is very voracious and exceedingly quarrelsome,
fighting with the fore legs, which it uses lilio a sword. In
China, the inhabitants ketp them in cages, and set them to
fight as in other countries certain barbarians keep cocks for
the same purpose.

Order IV. NEUROPTERA.—iSir. titSpov, a. nerve; irrtpor, a wing.)
Family . . LibelluIIdaj.— (Lat. Libellulu, a Dragou-fly.)

LiiiKr,i,i"r,A.

Depressa {L&t. flattened), the Dragon-fly.

Well do the Dragon-flies deserve their name. Fierce,
voracious, active, and powerful, they are a scourge to the
insects. Few but the Coleopteni can escape them. They
are on the wing nearly the whole day, seizing and devouring
flies, spidera, and various insects ; nor can even the broad-
winged buttei-fly escape them : so voracious ai-e they, that

J

496

NATURAL HISTORY.

when holil in the liiuid thoy will dovour flics, A-c, if held
within their reach, and tlioy have even been known, when
their l)(vlios have been severed in two, to eat flies, althon-ih
they had no stomach to i)nt them in." A very jiTcat variety of
these beautifid insects inhabit Enjjland. Some, tlie Aj>;rionulie,
whoso head resL-nibles that of the liannner-hoaded shark, arc
of every vivid colonr imaginable, floatin-;; in tiie air like beams
of azure, emerald, and I'osv li-^dit, vi'iiile othci's liave their wings
niarkcd with large indigo-coloured spots. 'IMie larva of the
Dra-'on-fly inhabits the water, and is <\nitc as voracious as m
its perfect state. Attixed to its head, a curious set of organs
called the mask, which it can extend, seize its prey, and hold
it to its moutii.

Family, MymieleontdoB.— (Or. Vl6,}nr)^, lui Aut ; \(av, a Liou.)

MYBMELKOK.t

Fonuiciii'iuu ^L^t. <>f ««'.^)> t lie Ant-lion.

This insect in its perfect form, although very elegant,
e-xhibits no peculiarity, but in its larva state its habits are so
extraordinary as to have excited general attention. As it is
slow and awkward in its movements, it has rccoui-so to
stratagem for capturing the agile insects on which it feeds.
Choosing a light sandy soil, it digs for itself a conical pit, at
the bottom of which it conceals itself, leaving only its jaws

* I once caiisht a draRon-ny i;i ray net, and while holding it hy the wings I pn-
sentel to it no less than thirtv-seven large Hie- in rapid succession, all of which it
devoured, togeth«r with four long-legged spiders. U would probably have eaten an
many more had I not been tired of catchin;! (lies for it.

t The winged Ant- Lion is reduced one-half in size.

oc

in

I'i
iti

to

tu
sii
to
se
sn
es
be

ca

so
ar
cc
Si
sh
Tl
A
«a
it
or
1.
sii
ho
in
fi^
re
re
of

Wi

ov
Tl

wi
M

■Hi

iiir flies, etc., if lielil
. been known, when
;o cut flies, iilthonjih
L very orcat variety i)f
Some, tlje AgrioniiUe,
ler-iioiiiied Hhark, are
in the uir like bcauiH
liers liave their wings
*. The hxrva of the
ite as voracious as in
curious set of oi-gans,
ize its prey, and hold

Ant ; Kfwv, a Lion.)

; A nt-lion.

though veiy elegant,
state its habits are so
,1 attention. As it is
s, it has recourse to
cts on which it feeds,
itself a conical pit, at
leaving only its jaws

lioldirg it by the wings I pn-
pid succussion, all of whicli it
would probably have eaten an
t.

NATURAL HISTORY.

497

exposed. Wlicn an unwary insect approaches too near the
edge of the pit, tlie sand gives way, and down rolls the insect
into the very teeth of tlie concealed Ant-liox, who instantly
pierces its prey with its calliper-shaped fangs, and sucks out
its juices through the jaws, which are hollow. Should, how-
ever, the Ant-lion miss its i)rey, and the insect endeavour
to escape, its captor instantly makes sucli a turmoil by
tossing up the sand witli its closed jaws, and covering each
side of the pit with the moving grains, that the insect is
tolerably certain to be l)rought down to the l)ottom, and is
seized l)y tlie Ant-lion, who immediately drags it below the
simd. When the insect is very strong and struggles hard to
escajic, the Ant-lion shalics it about as a dog does a rat, and
heats it agiunst the ground until it is disabled.

The Termites, or White Ants as they are very en-oneously
called, belong to this order. These insects live in large
societies, and build edifices, sometimes of enormous si™,
and almost as hard as stone. Twelve feet in heiglit is quite
common, so that were wc to compare our works with theirs,
St. Peter's in Kome, and St. Paul's in London, ftill infinitely
short of the edifices constructed Ity these little creatures.
The common Termes hellicoms, or warlike Termite, inhabits
Africa. Not only does it build these houses, but runs
galleries midergi-ound, as, curiously enough, although blind,
it always works either at night or in darkness. In each house
or community, there are five difierent kinds of Termites :—
1. the single male, or king, whose life is very short ; 2. the
single female or queen : these are the perfect insects, and
have had wings, but have lost them soon after their admission
into their cell ; they iilso have eyes ; 3. the soldiers or
fighting men : these po&sess large jaws, do no work, but
repel advci-saries and watch as sei\tinels ; 4. the pupai, wiio
resemble tlie workers, except that they possess the rudiments
of wings ; and ty. the larva), or workei-s. Those do all the
work, i.e. they collect food, attend to the queen, and watch
over the eggs and young, and build and repair their castle.
These are more numerous than all the other kinds.

On the approach of the rainy season, the pupa) obtain
wings and issue forth in swarms. Few, however, survive.
Myriads are devoured by birds, i-eptiles, and even by man ;

498

NATURAL HISTORY.

and maiiy ni-c carried out to sen, and periMh there. Those
that do escape arc aiieedily found hy the hxbourcrs, who
enclose a i)air in a chiy cell from which they never emerge.
The male soon dies, but the female. >• fter rapidly increasing to
neai-ly three inches in length and one in breadth, continues
to lay eggs luiceasingly for a very long time. This cell
becomes the nucleus of the hive, and round it all the other
cells and galleries are built.

These insects are terribly destructive, ua they eat tlurough
wooden beams, furniture, Ac, leaving only a thin shell, which
is broken down with the least extra weight, and many are
the occasions when an inisuspecting individual, on seating
himself on an appai-ently soiuid sofa or chair, finds himself,
like Belzoni in the Pyramid, reposing among a heap of dust
and splinters,

Mr. Cumming describes the habitations of the Winte Ant

in these terms : —

" Throughout the greater part of the plains frequented by
blesboks, numbers of the sunbaked hills or mounds of clay
formed by the white ants occur. The average height of the
ant-hills in these districts is from two to three feet. They
are generally distant from another from one to three hundred
yards, being more or less thickly placed in different parts.
These ant-hills are of the greatest service to the hunter,
enabling him with facility to conceal himself on the otlier-
wise open plain."

THE CADDIS-FLY.

This fly is well known to every angler V)oth in its larva
and in its perfect state. The larva is a soft white worm,
of which fishes arc exceedingly fond, and it therefore reqtiires
some means of defence. It accordingly actually makes for
itself a movable house of sand, small stones, straws, bits of
shells, or even small living shells, in which it lives in perfect
security, and crawls about in search of food, dragging its
house after it. When it is about to become a pupa, it spins
a strong silk gi-ating over the entrance of its case, so that,
the water necessary for its respiration can pass through, but

'.r'wh there. Those
the labourers, who
they never emerge,
apidly iuci-easiug to
breadth, continues
g time. This eell
and it all the other

IS they eat through
• a thin shell, which
ight, and many are
iividual, on seating
chair, finds himself,
uong a heap of dust

18 of the White Ant

plains frequented by
s or mounds of clay
verage height of the
;o three feet. They
one to three hundred
d in different parts,
•vice to the hiuiter,
imself on the otlier-

;ler both in its larva
I a soft white worm,
i it therefore reqxiires
,' actually makes for
stones, straws, bits of
lich it lives in perfect
of food, dragging its
come a pupa, it spins
Lie of its case, so that
can pass through, but

NATURAL HISTORY.

49!)

Order V. TRlCIIOPTERA.-{Qr. 0pil Imir; nr^pov, a wing.)
l-'aniily, PhijgauI(ln;.~((Jr. tpiyavoy, a dry stick ; alluding to tboir
habitations.)

phryoanEa.

^''-M-y.R

w %

>^^-i;j&^

«>:=

Grandis (Lat. larye), the Vadd'n-jl!)*

at the same time all enemies are kept out. When the time
for its change has aiTivcd, the piqia bites through the grating,
rises to the surface, and crawls out of the reach of the wivter,
which would soon bo fatal to it. The skin then splits down
the back, and the perfect insect emerges.

The order is called Trichoptcra, because the wings, instead
of being covered with scales as are those of butterflies, are
clothed with hairs. — There are many species of Caddis-flies.

THE ICHNEUMON-FLY.

We have now reached a most important and interesting
order. In it are containeil the bees, wasps, ants, &c. This
is the only order where the insects possess stings. The
wings are four in number, with certain veinings uj)on them,
the shape and number of which in many cases distinguishes
the species.

• In this cut the cases of the Caddis-worm are of tlie natural size, b\it tlie insect
in the centre is reduced one half.

wiauiuwinw!"

NATURAI, HI8T0HV.

Onler VI. IIYMENOPTf:RA.—(Oir. 'Xn^v, a Membrane; itripov, a

wing.)
Family . . It^hiKMimonidic.— (Or. 'Ixvtunuv, a Huuter.)

PlMI'LA.— (Or. nI/iirA.i?M'i t" till')

Mauit'cstiltor (Lat. a pointer out), the Ichneumoit-fly.

The Ichneumons form a very lar<;;c section. Tlioy aro
most useful to mankind, as one iclnicumon vnll destroy more
caterpillare than a man could kill in his lifetime. Thoy
do not, as most other insects, deposit their eggs upon vegetable
or dead animal substances, but they actually bore holes in
othci- insects while they are still in the larva state, t^nd
leave the eggs to hatch in their living receptacle. The most
common ichneumon is a very small insect, not so largo as
an ordinary gnat. This little creature may be seen searching
for caterpillars. It generally selects the common cabbage
caterpillar, and sitting upon it, pierces with its sting, or
ovipositor as it is called, the skin of the caterpillar, and
deposits ..n egg. After repesiting this operation many times
it flies oft", .and the caterpillar proceeds as before in the great
business of its life, that is, eating, and continues in apparently
perfect health until the time for its change into the chrysalis
state occurs. The good condition of it, however, is merely
deception, for the offspring of the little ichneumon have all
this while lieen silently increasing in size, and feeding on the
fat, &c. of tlie cateipillar, but cautiously avoiding any vital
part, so that the plump appearance of the caterpillar is merely

T

o!

n

a

th

lombriino ; -nripiv, a

iintor.)
1.)

■hneumoii-flij.

itction. They iiro
n Mali ilestroy more
lis lifetime. Tlioy
3ggs upon vegetal>lo
lally 'i<oro holes in
le larva state, i).n<l
aptaclc. The most
ict, not so largo as
ay 1)0 seen searehing
e eommon cabbage

with its sting, or
the caterpillar, and
eratiou many times
I before in the great
tinues in apparently
;o into the chrysalis

however, is merely
ichneumon have all

and feeding on the
1 avoiding any vital
caterpillar is merely

NATLHAL IllSTOUY.

.OCIl

produced by the young ichneumons lying snugly under tlie
skin. Just as tiie caterpillar commences its change out
come all the ichncununis, looking like little white maggots,
and immediately each sjiins for itself a yellow oval case,
frequently eiivelo])ing the form of the now cnuiciatcd
(•ateri)illar. In a few days a little lid on the top of each case
is pushed open, and the jjcrfect flics issue foith, and
immediately commence their own work of destruction.*

t'liiaily. FonjiicidiB.— (Lilt. Purm'im, an Aiit.»

FOllJliCA.

Rufa (Lat. red), the Wood Ant.

The remaining Hymenoptera are furnished with true stings,
that is, with stings to which is attached a poison apparatus,
like that Iwlcnging to the teeth of venomous snakes.

The Wood Ant is the largest of our British species. It is
found principally in woods, and builds a large nest, which
looks like a hillock of sand and earth, intermixed with bits
of stick, leaves, &e. Tlie interior of this liill is chambered
out into a variety of apartments, and is tnivei-sed by passages.
The so-car.ed ants' eggs are not eggs at all, but the pupa cases
of the insect, and if opened, the perfect insect is seen curled
up inside. In the autumn, the ants burst forth by thousands,
and may be seen liovering in clouds above the nest. 'Hieir

* I examined numbers of caterpillars in the course of disBection, and aeldoni found
them free from Ichneumons. 1 took nut nf one small |?oat caterpillar l.'i7 of these
insidious destroyers. 1 found them useful auxiliaries in dissection, as they had
usually consumed all the fat, leaviuR the important organs ready cleared.

'^'JT ' ii ' ■

.•502

NATUUAL uisTonr.

boaiitiful win>^s do not last long, for when a feumlo unt.
escapoH, and founds an infant colony, her wingH are Hoon hwt.
Few do oHcapo, as tlio nirds find thctic living clondH a nuwt
agrooablo and jilontiful repast.

Ants do not, as Iuim Ix'cn ho frefpientiy said, lay up Htores
of com for the winter, for tlu-y are in a Htate of torpidity
during the cold nionthH. and n tjniro no food. Moreover, an
ant would find iw niueli difficulty in eating or digesting a
grain of corn a« wo sliould in <levouring a truKs of sstraw.

In each nest are three kinds of ants,— males, t'omales, and
neuters, or workers.

Family, VoHpidBC.— ^Lut. Veupa, a Wivsp.)

VI SPA.

Crabro (Lat. a Hornet), the Hornet.
Vulgaris (Lat. common), the Wasp.

Let U8 honour the Wasps as the first paper-makers, for of
that material is the nest composed. The paper is rough and
coarse, certainly, but it is still jKiper. Th(3 Wasp, in order to
make this paper, rasps off fibres of decayed wood, which it
afterwards mo^es with its teeth into a pulp, and then spreads
the pulp in layers, when it hardens and form'* coarse paper.

The dreaded Hornet is usually found 'n woods, where it

chon a fenmlo iUit
witi)^ nro Hoon lout,
iriujj; cIoiuIh tv most

,' said, lay up Htores
a Htiite of torpidity
'oofl. Moreover, an
,tinj< or digoBting a
, truKs of straw.
-inalcH, iJinnleB, and

I \Vll81).)

0

fornet.
Waiip.

papei'-inakci's, for of
10 paper is rough and
iio Wasp, in order to
ayed wood, which it
ulp, and then spreads
forni'< coarse paper,
d 'i woods, where it

N'ATUHAI, UISTOUY.

.'50;]

liuilds its ncHt in tlio hollows of frees. A deserted hut is a
fuvourito H])ot, and when occupied liy a full nc^^t of hornets,
is not particidurly safe to enter,* as the sting of this insect is
ixjciiliarly severe. It feeds upon other insects, and even
attacks and devours the forniidalile wasp.

Tiie Common Wasi- huilds it?* nest in the groimd, usually
in IxinkH. The comb is laid horizontally, an<l not vertical!)'
like those of the bee. As the colls are made of paper, they
will not hold honey, nor does the was]) endeavour to collect
honey, although it is very fond of it, and never loses an
opportunity of robbing a l)ee-iiive, although its natural food
is flies or other animal substances. Nor <''>es it despise
sugar, as every grocer's window testifies. Vny few wasps
survive the winter, and tliose who do, immediately set about
forming a new nest, Only a few cells arc made at first, I ait
the number rapidly increases, until the nest is funiisliod with
about sixteen thousantl cells.

Some wasps build nests upon the Ijrauches of trees, and
others suspend them from the I 'ranches.

THE IJ E E.

Tliis useful little creature is so well known that a length-
ened description of it would bo useless. A merely general
sketch will be (juite sufficient.

The cells of the bee are, as is well knowii, t ade of wax.
This wax is secreted in the form of scales mm r six little
flaps situated on the under side of the insect. Ft is then
pulled out by the bee, and moulded with other scales until a
tenacious piece of wax is formed. The yellow substance on
the legs of the bees is the pollen of flowers. This is kneaded
up by the bees, and is called bee-bread.

The cells are six-sided, a form which gives the greatest
space and strength w^ith the least amount of material, but the

* In 1847, while on an entomological excursion in Bagley Wood, I saw fiveliorneti
sittinK '" ft row, gnawinK a dead branch. 1 was rather fearful of disturhinK tin ni,
hut at (lif a.ime time, they were niuchw inleil for u museum. They were all «ccu,id
liy tappiUK' each in succession with a t ', and receiving it in my net as it flew otf.
Kach bit a hole in the net, which had to be repaired before it could be used again
with safety.

I

S04

NATlKAI, IIIMruKV,

K.iuiily, ApliUc— (bit. Aiiit, n Uoo.)

AfU.

MelHflcn (Lat. Mtl, honey ; /lun', to luiike), the Honey Ike*

niethoil onuiloycd by the bees to give the cells that Hliajjc is
not known. Tlie cells in which the drone or male bees are
hatched, arc much larj;er than those "f the ordinary or worker
hue. The edj^es of the colls are strenf^heiied with a sidxitHUcc
called propolis, which is a {,nmimy material jirociired from
the buds of variotis trees. This propolis is also used to stop
U[) crevices and to mix with wa.\ when the comb has to
be strengthened.

The royal cells are murh larger than any others, and are of
an oval slmijc. When a worker larva is placed in a ruyal
cell, and fed in a royal manner, it imbibes the principles of
royalty, and becomes a ciuecn accordingly. Tliis practice is
adojjted if the (jueen bee should die, and there be no other
queen to take her place.

The Queen Bee is lady paramount in her own hive, jmd
sufters no other queen to divide ride with her. Should a
strange queen gain admittance, there is a battle at once, which
ceases not until one has been destroyed.

* In the fut, the upper figure U the Uuecn IJce ; that on the left the Worker; and
that on Uie right the Drone.

Ci

a

CI

tl
11

tl
1'

is
T
tl

!t

T

w

tl

ni

ai

tl
w

I

Hi

liilO.)

f), Me lluney Ike*

10 ceiln that Hliiij)o is
no or lUiilu hecs tiro
u ordinary or worker
It'll witli a .snl)s(:inco
L'liiil jirocured i'rom
1 is aUo used to stop
n the com!) has to

tiy others, and are of
is placed in a royal
)es the priuciploH of
y. This practice is
i there be no other

iier own hive, iiud
rith her. Should a
battle at once, which

m tilt; left the Worker; and

NATUriAI, inSTOIlY,

;•)().".

At the Hwnrniinj; time, the old (pieen is sadly put out iiy
tJie encroachments of various young (|iiei'n», who each wish foi
the throm.', and at lawt is so agifiiti d that she rushes out of
the hive, atti udod by a hirge body of .^ubjijcts, and thus the
first swiu'ui is foniied. In seven or eight days, the ([Ueeii
next in age also departs, taking witli her another sujijily of
subjects. When all the swiuius have left the original hive,
the remaining (|ueens fight luitil one gains the throne.

The old niothod of destroying bees for the sake of tli»'
honey was not only cruel but wasteful, as by burning Konir
ihy " j)utf-ball " the bees are stupefied, and shortly return to
consciousness. The employment of u " cup" on the hive is
an excellent plan, as the bees deposit honey alone in these
caiiM, without any admixture of grubs or bee-bread. Extra
hives at the side, with a commuuicatior. .'nn the original
hive, are also useful.

The (pieen bee lays about eightc i thouaan^'. eggs. Of
these about eight liundred are males »r '^(Jnos, it il four or
five queens, the remainder being worke. t.

THE SWALLOW-TAILKD RUTTERP'LY.

We now arrive tit the Haustellato Insects, so called, because
they suck liquid food through an a[i])aiiitus resembling the
proboscis of an elepluint. The tinst order of haustellate insects
is the Lkpidoi'TKHA, containing the butterflies tuid moths.
The butterflies alwiiys fly by day, from which circurustance
they are sometimes called Diunial I.opidoptera. Most of the
moths fly by night, and are called Nocturnal Lepidoptera,
This is not a rule, however, as many moths fly by day.

Huttei-flies are usually lighter in the body than moths, from
which insects they are easily distinguished by the shape of
the antenna*, which in the butterflies arc slender, and termi-
nate in a small knob, but in the motli> termiuiite in a point,
and are often beautifully fringed.

The name Lepidoptera is given to these insects because
their wings are covered ■with myriads of minute sctdes, by
which the beautiful colouring of the wings is produced.

506

NATURAL HISTORY.

Sub-class II. INSF:CTA HAUSTELLATA.— {Lat. /touriVe, tosuckup.)
(Jrder I. . . . LEPrDOPTMA.-{Qr. \crU, a Scale; irTf'po.;, a wiug.)
Family . . . Pa]iilionIda3.— (Lat. Papilio, a Butterfly.)

I'APir.To.

Machaon (Gr n proper name), the Swallow-tailed Butterflij*

These scales vary in size and shape, according to the species,
or tlie part of the wing from whicn they are taken. Under
the microscope they are most exquisite objects, and well repay
a long and careful examination.

The Lepidoptera pass through three distinct changes before
assuming their perfect form. They first exist in the lai-va
state, in which state they are called caterpillars. They then
pass to the pupa stiite, when they are knomi by the name of
"aurelias"t or " chrysalides," J both words being derived
from words signifying gold, from the golden lustre of the
pupa of certain butterflies. When they have remained in
tlie ])upa state during a time, varying from a few days to two
years, they burst their shells and issue fortli in theu- full and
perfect beauty. This tmnsformation has for many ages been
used as an illust-ition of the resurrection after death.

The beautiful insect represented above is not veiy un-

This flguri. v., About one-third smaller than the insect,
t Xpi/vor< gold.

t Lat. Aurum, gold.

-(Lat. haarive, to suck up.)
a Scale ; irrepoj', a wing.)
Juttei-fly.)

loio-taikd Buttcrfli/.*

sording to the species,
ey are taken. Under
abjects, and well repay

distinct changes before
st exist in the ka-va
terpillars. They then
mown by the name of
words being derived
golden Instre of the
:icy have remained in
rom a few days to two
forth in then- full and
as for many ages been
on after death.
lOve is not very un-

ect. t Lat. Aurum, gold.

1

NATURAL HISTORY.

.'0';

common in .some parts of England, especially in the fenny
parts of Cambridgeshire. *

It flies with exceeding rapidity, nearly in a straight line,
and is very difficult to capture.

The colour of the wings is black, variegated most beauti-
fully with yellow markings, and near the extremity of each
hinder wing is a circular red spot, surmounted by a crescent
of blue, and the whole suiTounded liy a black ring.

Vanessa. — (Lat. « prnpcr mtme.)

ARGYNNIS.

Adippe (proper name), the t^'dver-spotled FrifiUar//.
Ataloutii {proper luiiiie), Ike Red Admiral.

The FuiTiLLARiES are well deserving of notice for tlie
delicacy of their colouring, and the beouty of their markings.
The Silver-spotted Fritillaiy is remai'kable for the peculiar
appearance presented by tlie under f-iu-face of the wings,
which look as if they had been studded with pieces of
bm-nished silver leaf It is found mostly on thistles in

* I once saw it in the water-meadows near Oxford.

508

NATURAL IlISTOKV.

woods, and is very common in Bagley Wood near Oxford,
about the end of J\inc, or during July.

The Reu Admiral is one of the most gorgeous of our
butterflies. The colour of the wings is a deep black, relieved
Ijy a broad band of scarlet across each, and a series of
semicircular blue marks edge each wing. It is usually
found in woods and lanes, where there are nettles, as the
larva feeds upon that plant. It appeara about tlie middle of
August.

Family, Sphiugldas.
AcheiiontIa.— (Gr. 'Axtpif^tos, belonging to Acbeiou.)

de
afl

U

m
fn
rei
bo

wa
di(
wl

an

a

on

thi

th.

ap

th(

las

<lei
thi
vej
af

tlu
ad(

AtrSpos (Gr. proper name ; one of the Pates), the Death's-head Moth.

This family is called Sphingidse on account of the sphynx-
like attitude that the caterpillars of some species assume.
The larva of the Puss-moth (Cerura viniila), is particularly
celebrated for this position. It holds the plant.s on which
it feeds with its hinder feet, and raises the fore part of its
body, just as the sphynx is rcj)rcsented. When in this
position, it seems so remarkably self-satisfied, that the gar-

it i

lie s
pop

Wood near Oxford,

t)8t <;orfj;ooiis of our
I deep black, relieved
ich, and a series of
'ing. It is usually
i arc nettles, as the
about the middle of

ing to Acbeiou.)

the Death's-head Moth.

jount of the sphynx-
ome species assume.
lula), is particular 1}'
the plants on which
the fore part of its
ted. When in this
tisfied, that the gar-

XATURAL nisTouy.

309

doner of Rosel, a famous naturalist, was quite disconcerted,
atfirming that he never saw insects hold their heads so high.

The Deatu'h-iieai) Moth is tlic largest of the British
Lepidoptera, as it not unfrcquently measures nearly six
inches across the wings. Its rather ominous name is derived
from the singular marking in the tliorax. which does not
require much imagination to represent a skull an<l eross-
bones.

Some naturalists have asserted that this moth makes its
way into beo-hives, and robs the inhabitants of their honey,
disarming their resentment by a curious squeaking noise
which it has the power of producing.

The uneducated nistics have a great hoiTor of this insect,
and consider its appearance as a most disastrous omen. In
a small village removed fi'om the influence of railway's,
on one Sunday morning, as the inhabitants were going
through the churchyard, a Death's-head Moth appeared on
the path. Every one recoiled in dismay, and no one dared
approach the dreaded object. Srndry heads wore shaken iit
the evil omen, and various prophetic remarks made. At
last, the blacksmith summoned up courage, and with a great
jump, came down on the unfortunate moth, and happily
destroyed it.* The people were in blissful ignorance that as
there were several fields near planted with potatoes, on which
vegetable the caterpillar generally feeds, there were probably
a few hundred of Death's-head Moths in the vicinity.

In common with many other nocturnal insects, the eyes of
tlie Death's-head Moth shine at night like two stars, which
adds considerably to the ten-or inspired by its appearance.

* I have this specimen now in my possession; it is of course mashed quite flat.
It is a very singular fact, that those who, living so much in tlie open fields, would
lie supposed to have a correct knowk-due of natural phenomena, are really profoundly
iu'uorant of facts that pass daily before their eyes. I have alreadj mentioned the
liopiilar superstitions regarding efia.

: 5

J

010

NATURAL mSTOBY.

Family, Arctildaj.— (Ui-. 'ApuTor, a Bear; -in allusion to the iioimliu-
name of the larva,)

akotIa.

Tl

wi

ni!
wi

Caja (Lat. prosier name), the Tiger-molh.

'Diis common but l)eatitiful moth is found in the beginning
of autumn. It inins on the ground with such swiftness as to
bo often mistaken for a mouse.* The larva is popularly
called "the woolly bear." It is rather large, and is sur-
rounded with tufts of long elastic hairs of a reddish brown
colour, which serve as a defence against many enemies.
When distm-bed, it rolls itself round, just as a hedgehog
does, and if on a branch, suffei-s itself to fall to the ground,
when the long hairy covering defends it from being injui-ed
by the fall. When the cateqnllar is about to change into
a pupa, it spins a kind of hammock, and lies there until it
comes forth as a moth.

* £ have more than once, seen a kitten chasing a tiger-moth among the flowera in
It ijarilen, evid tly deceived by its resemblance to a mouse.

Ill
h;
m

Hi

■m

allusion to the jpoimlur

h

ger-itwtL

*

)und in the beginning
11 such Ewiftneiss as to
10 larva is popularly
;r large, and is siir-
i of a reddish brown
ainst many enemies,
just as a hedgehog
:o liiU to the ground,
it from being injured
ibout to change into
md lies there until it

er-moth among the flowers in

Duse.

NATUUAL C'STOBY.

511

The colour and markings of this moth vary considerably,
'i'he usual tints arc, the thorax brown, the body red striped
with black. The two anterior wings are cream colour,
marked with bold patches of a deej) b -own : the posterior
wings are bright red, spotted with bluish black.

Family, Oeonietridse.— (Or. rtofitrpris, a L.md-meaaurer.

OuB.MTEBYX. — (Or. Oipd, a Tail ; m-tpiv, a wing.)

Family, Alucitida;.

alucIt.\.

Rambucai'Tii (Lat. Samlutiis, the Elder-tree), t/ic .Swallow-taild/ Mul/i.
Hexadactyla (Or. "E^, six; 8o;ctuAoj, a fluger), the Many-phiiiied Afotli.

The larvjo of the Geometrida} move in a very singular
manner. When preparing to make ;i step, they hold firmly
l)y their hinder legs to the substance on which they arc
moving, and then stretch out then- body to the fullest extent,
as if measuring their distance. After these preliminaries,
they take a firm hold with the fore feet, and di-aw the hinder

r,\:

NATURAL HISTOrtY.

fcot up to tlieni, fimniuj,' tlioir body into an arcli or looi>.
When ftt t't;.st., the caterpilhu-H oftou decoivn sta uSis^erver by
theii- close r'^scmlilance to twij>:s, as they stretch ihomselv'H
out motionlotH from the hmncli.

Tlie family in very lai-jre, aiifl crntains ri;:;Ly iiit( restiim-
species, but ^.ant of space compelH \ae to omit all i>ul the
insect represented above, tht Swallow-taii.eI' ;.ioTn. The
catei-jiiliar of I his moth fcotlK principally on the eider. wDlow,
and lime, and tbo moth ap,)Ci>iT in June and .July. It is one
of tlio largest rf M/t* British <iLMmetrida), as the isproad of the
wing considerubij exceeds two inches. Its olour is a ^.alc
yellow, and the lines across the wiu,.r8 aif deep yellow. It
derive.-' its name from the shape of thi hin'ier win,:;s.

The Many-plumki) Moth is foiu I t> wards the cIomo of
autunu!, usually running about windows It is v .iy small,
ro. asuiing barely liali au inch across the wingn. The structure
of tbe wingH bt very curious, each of the two anterior wings
be.au' (H^idbd into eight beautiful feather-like niys, and each
? th.e }iow(ei-ior into four rays. Nearly n.lHed to this are the
i.onmon Feather Moths, the most cominon of which is the
White-plumed Moth, whoso wings measniH? nearly an inch
across, and are divided into five feathered r;ns.

msymr

NATUll.M, mwTiiKV.

513

ito an arcli o!- loup.
coivi: ,'4u uhcicrver by
ly stretch ihomselvfs

ins TiiiLy ipJ( restit'vu-

to omit all hut the
-TATLEi. Moth. The

on the eider, willow,
iiud July. It is one
, as the ;;()r'.Mul of the

Its froluur is a j.nIo
ftiv deep yellow. It
linder win^.s,
bi -wards the cloao of
vh. It is Viy small,
w'mgH. The structure
le two anterior wings
3r-like mys, and each

:illied to this are the
iinon of whicli is the
Lsnro nearly an inch
d rovs.

Urder H. UIPTHRA. ((ir. A.'t, twin: ; 7rrf>.,i', a ^m^'.)
Kiunily, Ciilicidii;. -(Lilt. Vnkj; a (Jnat.)
COUJX.

Family, (Eatrldiu.— (Or. OfiTTpoj, the Gnfl-fly.i

tESTUU.S.

Piplens (Lnt. hummivf/), the Gnat.

Bovis (Lat. of the Oj-), the Gad-jly,

The insects of this order possess but two wings, the place
of the othci-s being supjilied by two little organs something
like drum-sticks, called " balancei-s." Without these the in-
sect seems to be unable to direct its flight.

All are familiixr with tiie Common Gnat. This pretty tor-
mentor passes its hu-val existence in the water, iu which state
thousands may be seen in any uncovered water- outt, wrig- ;!ing
about with the most imtiring energy, or rcposiag head down-
wards, only leaving the end of the tail at the surface. The
reaison for this is very cmnous. This larva breathes through
its tail, and is moreover enabled by means of a fring; of hau-s
to carry air down witii it.

It is a singular circumstance, that although the lixrva lives
in the water, yet were either the eggs or the perfect insect to
be Bulmierged, they would be destroyed. The instinct of the
Gnat in order to fulfil all three conditions is very beautiful.
When the Gnat wishes to deposit its eggs, it rests on a leaf
or twig on the sui-fiice of the water; it tlien takes each egg
sopai-ately, and fastens them side by side in such a manner
that they actually form a little boat, which will neither iill

L I,

r)i4

NATUKAl. HISTOKY.

"■ i&

with water nor iipMCt, however tlie water nmy be agitated. In
a few (lays tiu; eygs are hatched, wlicn a little lid opens in
the under end of each egg, and down tumbles the larva into
the water.

After remaining in the water for some days it assumes the
pupa form. In tliis state it floats at the surface with the
Imck of the thorax uppermost. Soon this splits, and the in-
sect emerges, standing on its own cast skin, which forms a
raft for it until its wings arc fully dry, when it takes to flight,
leaving behind it the empty shell floating on the water. This
ciuinge may bo witnessed any warm day in suumier.

The G.vDi'LY has fi-om the most ancient times been known
OS the terror of the herd. At the sound of its approach the
cattle are driven almost mad with ten'or. The young gad-
flies are nom-ished under tlio skin, where they remain luitil
they are fit to p.jss into the pupa state, when they bury
themselves in the ground, aud after a few days spent under
the earth, iasue forth in their perfect stiite.

Order IV. APlIANIPTERA.—iGr. 'Aipavi,,, invisible ; irTipov, a wiug.)
Family . . Pulicidte. — (Lat. Fulex, a Flea.)

PULKX.

»->,

^**-.

Irritans (Lat. irntating), the Flea.

The strength and agility of this curious but annoying little
insect is perfectly wonderful. Many of my readers have doubt-
less seen the exhibition of the Ind\istrious Fleas, who drew
little carriages, and carried comparatively heavy weights with

ay bii iigitatutl. I n
littlo lid u|icus ill
ibks tlio liuvii into

[lays it assumes the
lu mirt'aco witli tlio
; nplits, uml tlio in-
ikin, winch t'onns a
)U it takes to tiight,
oil the water. This
a HUiumcr.
; times been known
of its approach the
. The young gad-
; they remain until
,0, when tliey bury
,v days speut under

risible ; irripov, a wing.)

Flea.

8 but annoying little
y readers have doubt-
jus Fleas, who drew
f heavy weights with

NATUHAI, IIISTUItV.

:.l.-.

tho greatest oiwo. Thu appamtus witli wiiicli it extractH the
blood of its victims is very curious, and forms a beautiful
object under a microseopo of low power. Its lea)) is trcmeii
dous in jiropdrtion to its size. This property it enjoys in
common with many other insects, among which tlic ("ommon
GrasMlio])i)er, the Frog-hoi)i)er, and the Hnlticas, or Turnip-
flies are conspicuous. In all these insects tho hinder pak of
lugs are very long and powerful.

I am here most reluctantly compelled to close this little
work. Most willingly would I have entered into a sketch of
tho remaining classes. These, however, are so numcrou.s, and
their habits are so diflerent from those of the creatures whom
we have already examined, that even a very slight descrip-
tion would consume too much space and time.

Here, then, I take my leave of tho reader, with a sincere
hope that the penisiil of this little work will not only have
proved interesting, but will also have given him some insight
into the beautiful order of the animated world.

I N I) K X.

Bi
B<
Hi

AiinoMiNAi.lA, 423.

Arn'Tl'-Mr''>., I'^").

ArK"», SIS.

Abk'tiiin, Ii4,

.lUl'i''lllH', ■"'.^.

Ar(!iH PlicaKnnt, Sl.'i.

Alprnnils, VJI'i.

Aiiipi"lln(e, 26.1.

ArKMiuH. il07.

A(iinth<)i)li.TVKU, 412.

AinpelU. 26.V

Ariria, 165.

Aciridir, m.

Anipbibiuii, lOn.

Ariel, 140.

AcHruH, IN2.

Anan, 362.

Aries, 1 14.

Accentor, 24i(.

Anatidw, 362.

Arietann, .102.

-KcilKe, 21!).

Anatifera, 471.

Armadillo. 186.

Accenloriii.-i', 24i).

AnatiniB, .162.

Ar(|uatus, 318,

Acciplter, 213.

Anchovy, 431).

Arvensis, 291.

AccipitrcB, KM).

AiiKler, 422.

Arvicola, 108.

AcripitreH niurni, ISO.

An^'iiilla, 443.

Arvicollna, 107.

AccipitreB Nootunil, 21<i

AnKuinus, 410.

Aainu.s, 161.

AccipltriniB, 212.

Anttuis, ■Mi.

Aspcr»a, 463.

Achcrontia, 50H.

Anobium, 481).

Abu, 164.

AehitUlfC, 4(14.

Anseres, .1.57.

Astacida!, 470.

Adpcnaer, 448.

AnseriniE, 3.M.

A»tacus, 476, 477.

Acipenserida-, 448.

Ant, Wood, 501.

A.Htur, 212.

Acutirostrin, 443.

Ant-Eatcr, 187.

Atalanta, 507.

Adder, PulT, 392.

Ant-I.ion, 4!)«.

Ateles, 20.

Ailippe, JiO?.
Admiral, Red, 507.

Antbua, 2,55.

Athene, 218.

Antii|uoruin, 4.5",

Atra, 356.

vUKyptius, 117.

A "■. 12.

Atrata, .■kil.

VEsalon, 210.

Ajihaniptcra, 514

Atricapilla, 245.

jUthereus, 378.

Apiaster, 231.

AtropoB, .508.

Afriranim, 171.

ApidiE, 504.

Auk, (ire,. , -ttiil.

AKaniidfe, 388.

Apis, 50 '

Auratus, 124.

AKile (iibimn, 16.

Apivor .04.

Aureus, 62.

AKilis, 16.

Apods, _.,0.

AuritUH, 28.

AKoutI, 112.

ApteryginaD, 336.

Australi 3,38.

AKUti, 112.

Apter\ X, 316.

Avellaii.jiiUB, 119.

.Mauda, 2«l.

Apu», 224.

Avi'ularia, 479.

Alaudariii>, 211.

Aquila, I»8, ,183.

Avi . 190.

Alaudinie, 21)1.

Arahicus, 149.

Avoc ct, 340.

Alba, ,340.

Aracbnida, 479.

Avoci'tta, 349.

AlbntroK, Wandering, -174.

Arancidif, 479.

Axis, 158.

Albus, 326.

Araiu'us, 81.

Alca, .Ifiii.

Araraunii, 298.

Bahyroiissa, 1?'^

Alcedinidn-, 2,10.

Ariti ., 510.

Bnetrian Camel. 152.

Alcedlninii'. 230.

An 1, 368.

Haitrianus, 152.

Alredo, 230.

Ar. ,^e, 510.

Badger, 69.

A ' .• 161.

Ar i.yx, 121.

llaloena, 9.^

Al. ,168.

A 72.

B.ihenida-. 91.

AloiH.i, 368.

Ardea, 342.

Baltiinori' Driole, 283

AUwator, 404.

Ardeidae, 341.

Baltiiiionis, 28,1.

AlliRatoridjc, 404.

Ardeina;, j42.

Barbaras, 30.

Alpinus, 121.

Artjo, 460.

Barbatus, 190.

Alucif", 1'

ArK'inaut, 4flO.

Barliel, 424.

Aluri utt!, ^il.

Ari; ;iauta, 460.

BarbuB, 424.

He
Be

Be

Be

Be

Be

Bei

Bic

Bir

Bis

Bit

Bin

IIIk

III:.

Bla

Bla

Bla

Ilia

Blii

Hlo

IMu

2!

Klu

lir>n

Boa

Boh

Bui(

Boo

Bos

Bos.

Bosi

Boti

Bov

Bov

Bovi

Bow

Brad

Brai]

Brar

Jlrea

Br-v

Bn

Buhl

IIuIh

Buh<

Bucc

Buoc

Buce

ArKii», .IIS.
Art-'iiH riicasnnt. .Il.i
ArK\ iini>, ."^O/.
Arirlii, (li.i.
Arii'l, no.
Arifx, 1 It.
Arietnni,, .1112.
Arinadillii. Ksii.
Aniiintus, .1IH.
Arvunsls, !i<Jl.
Arvirola, 108.
Arvirnllna, 107.
A.siniis, Hi I
A»i)cr»a, Ki.i.
As.H, 1(14.
Astaclda-, 178.
A.HlacuH, 47«, 477.
Astur, 211!.
Atatantn. .VI7.
Ati'lus, 211.
Atlitnc, 21.S.
Atra, 3,W.
AtralB, .iill.
Atrica|iilla, 24.5,
Atrojiort, '"'<.
Auk, (irf, Kill
Aiiratus, i-'4.
Aureus, (12.
AuritUH, 2S.
Austral! im.
Avellaii riUN, II!).
Avi' iilaria, 47i>.
Avi l»0.
Avii. .1, ;H!t.
Avoii tta, 349.
Asia, I5,S.

BaliyruusHa, I7(:
Bactrian Camel. I. '2.
BuCrianus, 152.
DaclKer, (!».
Balana, !):'
Hali'piiida', '.'l.
HaltiniDre Oriole, 2S3.
llaltiinimis. 283.
Uarharus, 30.
Barliatus, 190.
BarlH-l, 424.
llarbiiH, 424.

n-irn-owl, J20.

I talle'l lIuniminB-blrd,

Hal, l.on(f-e«red, 28.

Vampire, 2J.

BatrachU, 40(j.
BeaKlc, 53.
Bear, 72.

Orizjly, 73.

Polar, 7S.

Bearded Vulture, V.tu.
Heaver, 109.
Hee-eater, 231.
Beetle, Burying, 485.
Cockrhaffer, 486.

- Dor. l-M.

- Ground, Isfl.

Stag, 4HH.

TlKer, 483.

BcnilmrdUH, 47,5.

Berulcla, ,158.

Bcmlcle, 471.

Bemicle (ioone, 358.

Beriu, ,394.

BIconiln, 178.

Bird M|,ider, 47».

Binon, 129.

Bittern, :.44.

Hlackhird, 2fi0.

Illiiek Grouse, ,324.

Ml;,i k Swan, 3fil.

Blai'K eap WarWer, 345,

Black-hacked 'lull, 37(;.

Blatta, 403.

Blattidce, 493.

Blindwomi, 385.

Hloodhound, 51.

I. ue and Yellow Macaw,

I'OS.
•Hue Titmouse, 251.
Bon, 395.
Boar, 175.
Botmiiian Waxv, ,
Boiciie, ,395.
Booby, 579.
Bos, 123

.i3.

r.).

Boscha^
Boselaji
Botaun
Bovid .
Boviii
Bovis, ,ji3.
Bower-bird, . ,tln, 2>
Bradypida-, l.-iS.
Bradypu-, 183.
Brama, I":
Bream, a
Bri'viroatii,, 419.
Bri h Turkey, 327.
Bubalus, 178.
Bubo, 220.
Buboiii.i. 219.
Buccii uT, 4(i5.
Buociiiiim, 4(i5.
Buceros, 293.

INDEX.

BucerolidiB,20J.
Bufo, 40N.
Bufl'alo, 120.

''ape, 128.

Biitrelus, 12(1.
Bullilo;,', 50.
HmIIIIiii'Ii,292.
Bull-froi,', 407.
lliirrowln«-owl, 218.
Iliirylnif-lieetle, 4x5.
Bustard, Great, 339.
Buteo, 203.
Buteoniriw, 203.
Buttcrtlv, Atalanta, 507.

KritlUary, 507.

Swallow-taUed, 606

Buzzard, 203.

CalialluH, 102.
f'acalUB, .301.
Cnihaldt, 98.
('addi»-/ly, 499.
fairer, 128.
I'aja, 510.
Calamodyta, 241.
''allarias. 440.
'alUlhrix, 22.
Camel, 149.
Cameltna, 149.
Canielopardalls, M(i.
Camelopardina, 14i,.
<'anielU8, 149, ,330.
Campcstris, 483.
Canada Lynx, 43.
Canadensis, 43.
Caneellatus, 485.
Cancer, 173.
Cancerida, 173.
Caiiicula, 449.
Canis, 48,
Canina, 49.
Cannabina, 287.
Canorus, 30(i.
Cape Bulfalo, 128,
Cape PenRuin, 370.
CapercailUe, 323.
Capvbara, 113.
Capra, 142.
Capri'.ili<, 155.
Capr Agiilse, 222.
Cap li'/itiT, 222.
'iip! HulKii 222,
•"■a 'las, 4,"..).
' ,485.

Cb>4i, 42.
Carbo, :i-,0.
Carcliarid.>, 450.
Carduelis, 286.
Carp, 423.
Carpio, 423.
Carrier Pigeon, 313.
Caryocatactes, 270.
Casoar, 333.
Cassowary, 333.
Casuariuti, 933.

M M

C17

Cat, 40.

Civet, 48.

Caudata, 271.
Caudatus, 252.
Caudivnlvului, 78,
Cavy, 113.
CebidiH, 20.
Cephalopoda. 458.
Cephalus, 429.
Ceranihycidir, 489.
Cerambyx, 488.
Cerastes, ,393.
CerthldiB, 237.
Certhiniv, 237.
Cerroliptes, 78,
<'i'rvina, 155.
Cervun, 155, 488.
Ccte, 91.
Challlneh, 2,8.5.
Chameleon, 389.
Chameleonida;, 389.
Chamois, 141.
Charadrida-, 340.
Charadrlnu-, 340.
Chelidon, 227.
f" 'onia, 399, 401.

iuniada-, 401.
iiienopii, 301.
Chetah, 44.

Chicken, Mother Cary's,37 2.
Cliitr-chair, 2).').
Chinmey Marl in, 225.
Chiuipansee, 12.
Chinchilla, 110.
Chinehillina, 118.
Chloris, 288.
Chloropus, 355.
Chough, 278.
Chnsaetos, 198.
Chi . olopha, 2,34,
Chui, 429.
Cicindela, 483.
Cicindelidip, 483,
Ciconia, 340.
Ciconinae, 34ti.
CInclus, 250.
Circus, 215.
Citrinella, 290.
Civet Cat, 40.
Civcita, 40.
Clavata, 453.
Clotho, ,392.
Clupea, 434, 436, 437.
Clupeida;, 434. 430.
Coaita, Spider Monkey, 20.
Coati Mondi, 77.
Cobra de Capello, 397.
Cockatoo, Great Sulphur,

,301.
Cockchaffer, 486.
Cockroach, 493.
Cod, 440.
(Vrlebs, 285.
(' - rulcus, 251.
rtj.'a, 483.

.-518

Collared Tee Tee, U.
(,'oUurio, J6«.
CdlubridiB, .197,
Colillirina. .103,
('olulirin, ^.1.1.
rolyintilda-, Mfl.
{'oiu'olor. .18,
Condor, 194.
Cone. I'' k.
ConK< Mi.
Ooiilld.T, 464.
CoiiiroMtres, 4(!9,
Constrictor, 305.
Conus. l(i t.
Coot, 3M.

Cora Humming Bird, 234
Coracin, :i7l>.
CoraclttH, 228.
Coraciida-, 22S,
CoraciiniK, 228.
Corax, 27.1.
Cormorant, 380.
<'orncrake, 334.
Corone, 278.
C'orvidm, 2(iD.
Corvtniv, 270.
CorvuK. 273.
Cotile, 22(1.
Coturnix, 322,
Cowry, 405.
Crab, 47.1.

Herroi*. 475.

Crabro, 302.
CVacticornls, 348.
Cnne, 541.
<"iiiUKon, 478.
OranKonids, 478.
Cray-flah, 470.
Crecca, 364.
Creeper. 237.
Creophilus, 491.
Crex, 354.
Cricket-Mole, 494.
(Mcetua, 107.
Criatatn, 110.

Criatatua, 2 16, 340,360,409.
Crocodile, 402.
Crocodillda;. 402.
Crocodiliis, 402.
Croas-bill, 293.
Crotalida;, 390.
Crow 278.

Nutcracker, 270.

Crustacea, 473.
Cuckoo, 300.
Cuculid.T, ,100.
Cuculina', 306.
Cuculus, 306, 412.
Culex, 513.
Culicida;, 513.
Cunicularia. 218.
Cuniculus, 115.
Curlew, 318.
Curvirostra, 293.
Cyaneuii, 21S.

INDEX.

Cyolostoml, 455.
Cydiilnit, MO.
Cynnua, ;wo.
CynncephaUm, ll*.
'vprifi'liB, 403.
1 ,priiuila-, 42.1.
Cvprinua, 423, 42 4.
C'vpacliniE, 224.
Cj paelua, 224,

Daboliirk, 367,
Dace, 428.
Dactylophorl, 41J.
Duma, l.'iO.

Oariliird Warbler, 243.
Oii^pi'lii". 184.
Da\vpiii;i, 186.
Daaypructa, 112,
Daayproctina, 112.
Daavpua, 1H6.
Deaili's-head Moth, M)S.
Death-Watih, 489.
Decapoda, 473.

Anomoura, 473.

liriicliyura, 473.

Matroura, 470.

D2cunianu«, 103.
Deer, Fallow. 139.

Muak. 154.

Rein, KiO.

Delphinidie, 99,
Uelpblnua, 99,
Denieraus, 370.
Dendrosaura. 389.
Dentiroatrcs. 241.
Depreaaa, l''5.
l)erniapter:i. 491.
Diilaetvla, 188,
Didi Iniiina, 88.
Dldulpliya, 86,
Didina-, 337,
nidua, 337.
liidontidiE, 447.
Oifjiiiedea, 374.
Dipina, 1 17,
Dipper, 256.
Diptera. 513.
Dipua, 117.
Dodo, 3.17.

DOK, Bull, 50.

Newfoundland, 49.

Kinn Charlea's, 50.

Shepherd'a, 59.

DoK-nsh, Spotted, 449.
Dolphin, 99.
Domeatic Fowl, 317.
Domeatica, 40.
Domeaticus, 289.
Dor Beetle, 4>ifl,
Donuouae, 119.
Dory, John, 419.
Double-crested Humming-

Bird, 234.
Dove, Ring, 307.
Turtle, 309.

DrB'n, SSS.

Dm in, Klylnir, 388.

Dru«on-lly, 495.

Dronialua. 334.

Duck, Wild, 362.

Duck lilUcil Platypua, 189.

Duriaaua, 390.

DzigKuetal, 104.

Eaule, Golden. 198

WhitelHiided, 2ti.

F.aied-owl, (it, at, 220.
I'.iirwln, 491.
Kcheneldit', 420.
Kcheneia, 420.
ErtopisteH, 310.
Edible Muaai'l, 471.
Kduli*, 471, 408.
Eel, Sharp-nosed, 443.

I'.leclric, 443.

Elder Duck, .165.
Eland, I.Ki.
Elauoidea, 206,
Elaphua, l,^6.
ElectricuH, 443.
Elephant, 167.

Seal, RO,

EU'phantida', 167.
Elephantioa', 167,
Eleph.i», 167.
Elk, 161.
Emberiza, 290.
Emberizina-, 290.
Eniirnld Bird of Pa/adlae,

2, so.
Kimi, 334.
Eniydosauri, 402.
Encraaicholus, 439,
EliRraulia, 43U.
Entellu^ 18.
Ephlaltes, 219.
Epopa. 232.
Equlda>, 102.
Equua. 162.
F.rinaceus, 82.
Erinacina, 81
Erithacua, 2ii.
Krminea, 06.
Erythacina!, 247.
Esculent Swallow, 227.
Esocida;, 430.
Esox, 430.
Euchore, 139.
Europea, 79.
Europa>ua, 82.
Excubitor, 2H6.
Exoc(ttua, 432.
Exulans, 374.

Fiibcr, 417.
Falco, 207.
Falcon, Peregrine, 208.

Swallow-tailed,20fl.

Falconlda!, 198.
Falcunina;, 207.

P«

r«

F.
F(
Vt
ft
Fl
Fl
Fli
Fli

n

Fii

Fli
Fli
Fl(
Fl
Fl'
Fl'
Fl
Fo
Fo
Fo
Fo
Fo
Fo
Fo
Fo
Fr
Fr
Pr
Fii
Fr
Fr
Fr

Fr

Pr
Fr

Pii
Fu
Fu
Fu
Fu
Fu

(i«
tia

n«

(is
Oa
Oa
Ga
Qc
Oa

CfO

Cia
Oa
Oa
Oa
Ga

Dr»'i, SRS.

I)ra .11, Klylnu, S88.

Dnucn-lly, HU.

DrmnalU". .1,14.

Duik, Wild, ,K)2.

!)\irk lilllLil l'Utypu«, 101).

I)url><u», 31)0.

I)2lKKueIal, lilt.

E»Kle, Oolden. I OS

Whlteli.'ijilcil, 2»S.

Eiifi'il-owl. (inat, 220.
FarwlR, 401.
Ki-lifiii'itlu', Vii>.
KchenriK, 42(1.
Kctoiilsten, :I10.
Edible Munail, 171.
Eduli^, 471, 4(i,s.
Eel, Shari)-no»ed, 44S.

Klccliic, 445.

Elder Duck, 3(i.'>.
Eliind, \3IS.
KUnuldeii, 200.
ElaphuH, l.Vi.
KlOTlrlcun, 443.
Elephant, lli7.

Seal, SO.

Eleptiantida", Ili7.
EU'phantinii-, 167.
Klephas, 167.
Elk, 101.
Einberiza, 200.
Emberizlna-, 200.

Ell" raid Bird of Paradise,

Eimi, ,134.
Emydosauri, 402.
Encraaklidlvis, 439.
EliKraulis, 411!).
Entellii- IH.
EphialtLS, 211».
Epops. 232.
Equldiv, l(i2.
EquHs. 1U2.
Erinaceua, 82.
Erinacina, HI
Eritliacus, 2 i .
Erniinea, 60.
Erythaoina!, 247.
Esculent Swallow, 227.
Esocida;, 4,10.
Esox, 430.
Euchore, 139.
Europea, 70.
EuropEEUs, H2.
Excubitor, 2(i6.
Exococtus, 432.
Exulans, 374.

Faber, 417.
Fulco, 207.
{. Falcon, PereRrine, 208.

8wallow-tailed,20fl.

Falcoiiidffi, 138.
Falcuuins, 207.

Fallow (I, T, 150.
Kaniillaris, 48.
F.irlo, 434.
FilJdir, 28.
Felina, 28,
KelU, 40.
I'irsj, 28.
liter, 100.
Field rirc, 2.18.
Kishinif.froK, 422.
l-'l«iilro»tre», 222.
KlssirOHtres Diuniir

2-2 (.

Noctuma', 222.

Flaminuo, .Ufl.
Flanilnea, 221.
Fluva, 294.
Flea, 514.

Flycatcher, Hpiitted, S84.
Flying Biiulrrel, I 'I.
KlyinK Draifon, 388.
Flylng-tl»h, 432.
Foliata, 404.
Formica, SOI.
Formlcaruni, 40(1.
FonnlcariniB, 2.1(;,
Fumiicidir, 301.
Fowl, domestic, 317.
Fox, 63.
Knxhound, 32.
FragUi'i, 385.
!■ islercula, 368.
I'regata, 383.
Friffate Pelican, 383.
FrlngUla, 289.
FrinKlllidiE, 285.
Friiillary, Silver-spotted,

.■in?.

Frog, 406.

Bull, 407.

Fishing, 422.

Tree, 407.

Frugilcgus, 273.
Frnmentarius, 107.
Fulica, .156,
Fuligulina-, 305.
Fulmar Petrel, 372.
Fulvus. 196.
Furcatir -, 206.
Fusca, .7.

(iadfly, 513.
(iadidep, 440.
linlbula, 2B3.
(iallinnp, 314.
(lallini.U, 355.
(•allinulins, 353.
Gallopavo, 310.
Gollua, 317.
Oammarus, 477.
(iannct, 379.
Ciarrula, 228.
Oarruluiiii. 269.
Gamilus, 265.
(iasteropoda, 461.
Gazella, 139.

INDEX.

Gaxelle. 110.
(ircko, .18(1.
(iiMkolidlf. 38fl.
fieiMMoitaura, 385.
Oeneralin, 464.
Genet, 17.
Oenetta, 47.
Geomelrldir. 311.
Geotriipes. 48(>.
(fcolrupldie, 4H6.
(iibbon, Agile, 16.
Giganteui. 315.
(ilraHii, 146.
(ilralfe, ltd.
Olarialh, 372.
GladiiiH, 417.
Glandnrius, 260.
(illres, 103.
(ilow-wonn, 488.
(ilutinoaa, 437.
Gnat, 313.
Gnoo, 1.13.
Gnu, 1.13.
Goat, 143.
Goat-sucker, 222.
Gobio, 426.
Goldllnch, 286.
Gold-ll»b, 424.
Golden-crested Wren, 246.
Golden Eagle, 109.
Golden Oriole, 263.
Goose, Ilernicle, 358.

Holan, 379.

Goshawk. 212.
Gouldii, 234.

Gould's II ummlng-bird,234.
Gracilis, 24.
Gracula, 279.
Gradicnlla, 409.
Grieca, ,100.
Gralla-, 340.
Grandis, 409.

Grasshopper Warbler, 241.
Great Auk, 360.
Great Itustanl, 3.19.
Great-eared Owl, 220.
Great Grey Shrike, 266.
Great Titmouse, 250.
Great Spotted Woodpecker,

302.
Grebe. Crested. .166.

Little, ,167.

Greenllnch, 288.
Green Woodpecker, 304.
Greyhound, 60.
Griffon Vulture, 196.
Grisola, 264,
Ground Beetle, 483.
Grouse, Red, 325.

Black, 324.

Gruina!, 341.
Gninniens, 131.
Gru», 341.
Gryilotalpa, 491.
Gryphon, 190.

519

Gudgeon, 426.
Uuilleuinl, .171.
Guinea Pig, 113.
Gull, lllack backed, 376.
GuIm, 68.
Gurnard, 412,
GyinnotidB!, 443.
GymnotuH, 415,
Oypiietiilrt', 106.
Gvpaetus, 100.
Gyrfalco, 207,
Gyrfalcon, 207.

Hag-fish, Glutinous, 437.
HalLietus, 200.
Hammer-headed Shark,

451.
lliuuster, 107.
Hare, II 4.
Harengus, 437,
Harrier, Hen, 215.
Hassehiuistii, .193.
Hawk-owl, 216.

Sparrow, 213.

Hedge Accentor, 249.
Hedgehog, 82,
Helicidie, 463,
Helix, 463.
Hen Harrier, 213.
Hennlt Crab, 473.
Heron, 342.
Herpcstes, 47.
Herring, 430.
Hexadactyl.Tc, 511.
Hippocampus, 419.
Hippopntamina, 181
Hippopotamus, ISI.
Hircus, 1 13.
Hinindinida-, 224.
Hirundo, 223, 377.
Hispida, 2,10.
Hobby, 209.
Holodactyli, 414.
HominidK, 1.
Honm, 1.
Honey Bee. 504.
Hoopoe, 2.12.
Hornet, 502.
Horribilis, 74.
Horse, 162.

•, Sea, 419.

House Sparrow, 289.
Howler, I'rsinc, 21.
Humming-bird, Bar-tailed

234.

Cora, 234.

l'"uhle-crested,234.

Gould's, 234.

Ruby-throated, 233

Hunting Leopard, 44.
Hydrobata, 256.
Hydrochajrina, 113.
Hydrochirnis, 113,
Hyajna, !,,■
Hyenina, 4j,

Ibex, 142.

Ibis, Sacred, 347.

Ichneumon, 47.

Ichneumon-fly, 500.

Ichneumonidee, 500.

Icterinsc, 283.

Icterus, 283.

Iguann, 387.

Iguanida;, 387.

Impennis, 309.

Indicus, 167.

Ineptus, 337.

Insecta, 483.

Insecta Haustellata, 506.

Insecta ManUibulata, 483.

Irritans, 514.

Jacana, 353.
Jacchus, 23.
Jackal, 62.
Jackdaw, 277.
Jacobaeus, 467.
Jaguar, 37.
Jay, 216.
Jerboa, 117.
Jerboldte, 116.
John Dory, 419.
Jubata, 44.

Kahau, 17.
Kangaroo, 84.
Kestrel, 211.
Kingfisher, 230.
King Vulture, 195.
Kinkajou, 78.
Kite, 205.
Koodoo, 135.
Kudu, 135.

liacertinidae, 384.
Lagopus, 325.
Lammergeyer, 190.
Larapem, 456.
Lampetra, 456.
Lamprey, 455.
Lampyris, 488.
LampyridBB. 488.
Landrail, 354.
Lanidse, 266.
Laniger, 110.
Laninae, 266.
Lanius, 266.
Lapwing, 340.
Laridse, 376.
Larinae, 376.
Lark, Sky, 291.
Lams, 376.
Larvatus, 17.
Lathami, 327.

INDEX.

Leaf Insect, 494.
Lemur, 24.
Lemurida;, 24.
Leo, 30.
Leopard, 35.

Hunting, 44.

Leopardus, 35.
Lepidoptera, 506.
Leporida?, 114.
Lcptoglossa;, 384.
Lepus, 114.
Leuciscus, 428.
Leucocephalus, 202.
Leucopsis, 358.
Leucorodia, 345.
Leuooryx, 137.
Libellula, 495.
Libellulida!, 495.
Limacida;, 461.
I.imax, 461.
Limosinx, 343.
Limpet, 4C6.
Linnet, 287.
Lion, 30.
Lizard, 384.
Llama, 153.
Lobster, 477.
Locust, 492.
Locusta, 492.
Locustella, 241.
Locustidae, 492.
Long-eared Bat, 28.
Long-tailed Titmouse, 252.
Lophiidae, 422,

Lophius, 422.

Loris, 24.

Lotor, 76.

Loxia, 293.

Lnxina, 293.

L\icanid8e, 486.

Lucanus, 486.

Lucius, 430.

Lupus, 61.

LuscinidaB, 241.

Luscininae, 241.

Luscinia, 242.

Luscus, 68.

Lutra, 71.

Lynx, 43.

Macaco, 24

Macaw, Blue and Yellow,

!!98.
Machaon, 506.
Mackarel, 415.
Macrocephalus, 98.
Macrocercus, 298.
Macropidae, 84,
Macropina, 84.
Macropus, 84.
Maculata, 158.
Magpie, 271.
Major, 84.
Malacopterygii, 423.
Malacostraca, 473.

Mallard, ,162.
Mammalia, 1.
Man, 1.
Mandril, 19.
Manifestata, 500.
Manina, 184.
Manis, 184.

Many-plumed Moth, 511.
Margaritiftra, 470.
Marinus, 376.
Maritimus, 73.
Martin, 227.

Chimney, 225.

Sand, 226.

Marmoset, 23.
Marmot, 121.
Mamiotta, 121.
Marten, I'ine, 64.
Martes, 64.
Mastiff, 65.
Maxillosas, 491.
Maxima, 411.
Maximus, 220.
Meadow Pipit, 255.
Meantia, 4)0.
Megapode, Mound-making,

328.
Megapodidae, 327.
Mcgapodius, 328.
Melanotis, 42.
Meleagrina, 470.
Meleagrina!, 319.
Meleagrinida', 319.
Meleagris, 319, 320.
Meles, 69.
Mellifica, 504.
Mellivora, 68.
Melolontha, 486.
Melolonthida;, 486.
Menurina", 239.
Merlin, 210.
Meropida;, 231.
Meropinae, 231.
Merops, 231.
Merula, 260.
Migratoria, 310.
Milvina, 204.
Milvus, 205.
Minor, 367.

Misseltoe Thrush, 257.
Mississipensis, 404.
Mocking Bird, 261.
Modularius, 249.
Mola, 447.
Mole, 79.

Mole Cricket, 494.
MoUissima, 365.
Mollusca, 458.
Monedula, 277.
Moneta, 4fi5.
Money Cowry, 465.
Monkey, Entellus, 18.
———— Proboscis, 17.

Spider, 20.

Monoceros, 102.

Mallard, 362.
Manimalin, 1.
Man, 1.
Matidril, 19.
Manifestata, 500.
Manlnn, 184.
Manis, 184.

Many-plumed Moth, 511.
Martjaritifi ra, 470.
Marinus, 37(i.
MaritinuiH, 73.
Martin, 227.

Chimney, 225.

Sand, 226.

Marmoset, 23.
Marmot, 121.
Maniiotta, 121.
Marten, I'ine, 64.
Martea, 64.
Mastiff, 65.
Maxillosas, 491.
Maxima, 411.
Maximua, 220.
Meadow Pipit, 255.
Meantia, 410.
Me);apode, Mound-making,

328.
MegapodidiE, 327.
Megapodius, 32S.
Melanotis, 42.
Meleaf?rina, 470,
Meleattrinas 319.
Meleaffrinida', 319.
Meleaftris, 319, 320.
Meles, 69.
Melliflca, 504.
Mellivora, 68.
Melolontha, 486.
Melolonthidse, 486.
Menurinffi, 239. '

Merlin, 210.
MeropidiJE, 231.
Meropinae, 231,
Merops, 231.
Merula, 260.
MiRratoria, 310.
Milvina, 204.
Milvus, 205.
Minor, 367.

Misseltoe Thrush, 257.
Mississipensis, 404.
Mocking Bird, 261.
Modularius, 249.
Mola, 447.
Mole, 79.

Mole Cricket, 494.
Mollissima, 365.
MoUusca, 458.
Monedula, 277.
Moneta, 465.
Money Cowry, 465.
Monkey, Entellus, 18.

Proboscis, 17.

Spider, 20.

Monoceros, 102.

Monodon, 102.
Mormon, 19.
Morrhua, 440.
Morse, 90.
Morunga, 89.
Moschatus, 132, 489.
Moschifcrus, 154.
Moschina, 154.
Moschus, 154.
MotRcilia, 253.
MotaciUinae, 253.
Moth, Death's-head, 508.

Many-plumed, 511.

Swallow -tailed, 511.

Tiger, 510.

Mound-making Megapode,

328.
Mouse, 105.
Mura;nid£B, 443.
Murex, 466.
Muricida;, 466.
Murida), 103.
Murina, 103.
Mus, 103.
Muscicapa, 264.
Muacicapidre, 264.
Muscicapina;, 264.
Muscicu.s, 259.
Musculus, 105.
Musk Beetle, 489.
Musk Deer, 154.
Musk Ox, 132.
Mussel, Edible, 471.
Mustela, 67.
Mustelina, 64.
Mute S«an, 360.
Mycetes, 21.
Mygale, 479.
Myoxina, 119.
Myoxus, 119.
Myrmecopnaga, 187.
Myrmecophagina, 187.
Myrmeleon, 496.
Myrmeleonidee, 496.
Mysticetus, 92.
Mytilidae, 470.
Mytilus, 470.
Myxine, 457.

Naja, 397.
Narwhal, 102.
Nasua, 77.
Natrix, 398.
Nautilus, Paper, 460.
Neciophagus, 485.
Neuroptera, 495.
Newt. Common, 409.
Niger, 12.
Nightingale, 242.
Nisus, 213.
Nivea, 217.
Noctiluca, 488.
Nova; Hollandiaj, 334.
Nucifraga, 270.
Numenius, 351,

INDEX.

Numida, 320.
Nut-Cracker C.1W, 270.
Nuthatch, 238.
Nyctea, 217.
Nyctisaura, 386.
Nylghau, 134.

Ocelot, ,39.
Octopidae, 458.
Octopus, 458.
CEnas, 308.
ffistrida', 513.
(Estrus, 513.
Olor, 360.
Onca, 37.
Onocrotalus, 382.
Ophidia, 390.
Opossum, 86.
Orang Outan, 13.
Oreas, 130.

Oriole, Baltunore, 283.
Oriolini^, 263.
Oriolus, 263.
Omisraya, 234.
Omithorhynchina, 189.
Ornithoruynchus, 189.
Orpheus, 261.
Orthagorisous, 447.
Orthoptera, 492.
Ortvgometra, 354.
Oryx, 137.
Osprey, 200.
Ostrea, 468.
Ostrich, 330.
Otina;, 339.
Otter, 71.
Otus, 339.
Ounce, 36.
Ourapteryx, 511.
Ovihos, 132.
Ovis, 144.
Owl, Bam, 221.

Burrowing, 218.

(ireat-eared, 220.

Hawk, 216.

Scops-eared, 219.

Snowy, 217.

Ox, 123.

Musk, 132.
Oyster, 4()S.
Oyster, Pearl, 470.

Pachyglossae, 380.
Pacos, 153.
PaguridiB, 47b.
Pagurus, 473, 475.
Palamedeidse, 353.
Palaimonidae, 478.
Patemon, 478.
Palffiomis, 300.
Palmatus, 161.
Paluiiibarius, 212.
Palumbus, 307.
Pandion, 200
Paniscus, 20,

521

Panther, 35.
Papa, 195.
Papilio, 506.
Papilionldce, 506.
Paradise, Emernld Bird of,

280.
Paraiilsea, 280.
Paradiseida;, 280.
Paradoxus, 189.
Pardalia, ,39.
Parra, 353.

Parrakeet, Ringed, 300.
Parrinse, 353.
Partridge, 321.
Parvulus, 239.
Passenger Pigeon, 310.
Passer, 289.
Passerea, 222.
Patella, 466.
Patellida!,466.
Pavo, 314.
Pavoninee, 314.
Peacock, 314.
Pearl Oyster, 470.
Pecten, 467.
Pectinida, 468.
Peewit, 340.
Pelagica, 372.
Pelias, 394.
Pelccaniu-B, 378.
Pelecanina, 378.
Pelecanus, 382.
Pelican, F.-igate, 383.

'-V'hite, 382.

Penguin, Cape, 370.
Pentadacxyla, 185.
Pentalasmis, 471.
Perca, 414.
Perch, 414.
Percidffi, 414.
PerdiciniP, 321.
Perdix, 321.
Peregrine Falcon, 208.
Peregrinus, 208.
Pemia, 204.
Petrel, Fulmar, 272.

Stormy, 272.

Petromyzon, 455.
Petromyzonidaj, 455.
Phaeton, 378.
Pliaetonina;, 378.
Phalacrocorax, 380.
Phatagin, 184.
Phasianidae, 314.
Phasianina", 315.
Phasianus, 315.
Pheasant, 316.
Philomachus, 352.
Philomela, 242.
Pha-nicopterinae, .357.
PlKPnicopteros, 357.
Pha'nicura, 247.
Phoca, 87.
Pliocajna, 100.
PhocidoB, 87.

522

INDEX.

Phocina, 87.

Phryganea, 499.

PhryganidfB, 499.

Phyllostomina, 25.

Pliyllia, 494.

Pliysetcr, 98.

Pica, 271.

Picidae, 302.

PicincE, 302.

Picta, 134.

Picus, 304.

Pied Wagtaa, 253.

Pike, 430.

Pigeon, Domestic, 312.

Passenger, 310.

Pilaris, 258.
Pilchar.-'. 436.
Pilchardus, 436.
Pimpla, 500.
Pine Marten, 64.
Pipiens, 513.
Pipit, Meadow, 255.
Piscatorius, 422.
Pi3cesChondropterygii,448.

Ossei, 412.

Platalea, 345.
Plectognatlii, 447.
Pleuroncctidae, 441.
Podicepina', 366.
Podiceps, 360, 367.
Poephagua, 131.

Pointer, 54.

Polecat, 66.

Polyglottus, 261.

Porcupine, 111.

Portax, 134.

Potaniobius, 476.

Pouter, 312.

Pratensia, 255.

Prawn, 478.

Presbytes, 17.

Pretiosa, 464.

Primates, 1.

Pristid.-fi, 452.

Pristis, 452.

Proboscidea, 89.

Procellaria, 372.

Procellaridw, 372.

Procellarinae,372.

Procyon, 76.

ProcyonincB, 76.

Proteidee, 410.

Protous, 410.

Psetta, 441.

Psittacidic, 298.

Ptarmigan, 326.

Pteromys, 121.

PtUonorhynchinae, 282.

Ptilonorhynchus, 282.

Ptionidoe, 452.

Pulex, 515.

Pulicida;, 515.

Puff Adder, 392.

Puffin, 308.

Fugnax, 352.

Pulmo^ranchiata, 461.
Pulmonaria, 479.
Puma, 38.
Putarius, 66.
Pvrrhocoracinte, 279.
Pyrrliiila, 292.
PyrrhuUnai, 292.

Ouagga, 166.
«uail, 322.
(iuerquedula, 364.

Rabbit, 115.
Racoon. 76.
Raia, 454.
Raid*, 453.
Rallida-, 354.
Rullinte, 354.
Ram, 144.
Kamphastidic, 296.
Uampbastidina.", 296.
Rainpbastos, 296.
Rana, 406.
Rangifer, 160.
Rat, 103.

Water, 108.

Ratel, Honey, 68.
RattlP-^nake, 390.
Raven, 273.
Recurvirostra, 349.
Recurvirostrinae, 349.
Red-Admiral, 507.
Red-backeu Shrike, 238.
Redbreast, 248.
Redstart, 247.
Regalis, 33.

Regulus, 246.

Reindeer, 160.

Religiosa, .347.

Reniora, 420.

Reptilia, 384.

Reptilivorus, 214.

Respiendens, 229.

Resplendent Trogon, 229.

Rhinaster, 178.

Rhinocerina, 177.

Rhinoceros, 177.

two-homed, 178.

Ilombill, 295.

Ring-dove, 307.

Ringed Parakeet, 300.

Snake, 398.

Riparia, 226

Roach,.428.

Roebuck, 155.

Roller, 228.

Rook, 275.

Rosmarus, 90.

Rove-beetle, 491.

Ruffled Lemur, 24.

Rubicilla, 292.

Rubicula, 248.

Rul<ra, 336.

Ruby-throated Humming-
Bird, 233.

Rufa, 245, 501.
Ru;r, 352.
Rupicapra, 141.
Ruatica, 225.
Husticola, 350.
Uuticilla, 247.
RutUus, 428.

Sable, 65.
Sacred Ibis, 347.
Salamandridfe, 409.
Salientia, 406.
S.ilnio, 433, 434.
Salmon, 433.
SalmonidiB, 433.
Sambucaria, 511.
Sand Martin, 225.
Sapiens, 1.
Sappho, 234.
SarcorhaniphidEE, 194.
Sarcorhamphos, 194.
Satin Bower-Bird, 282.
Satyrus, 14.
Saura, 384.
Saw-liah, 452.
Scalaria, 464.

Scillop, 4<i7.

Scansores, 296.

Scincidoe, 385,

Sciurina;. 120.

Sciunis, 120.

Scolopacida;, 348.

Scolopacinie, 350.

Scolopacinus, 351.

Scolopax, 350.

Scomber, 415.

Scomberid*, 415.

Scombrus, 415.

Scops-cared Owl, 219.-

Sc.irpio, 482.

Scorpion, 482.

Scorpionidm, 482.

Scoticus, 325.

Scrota, 175.

Scutata, 453.

Scyllida;, 449.

Scyllium, 449.

Sea-horse, 419.

Seal, 87.

Elephint, 89.

Secretary Bird, 214.
Sericeus, 282.
Serpentarius,214.
Serratus, 478.
Sexcinctns, 186.
Shark, White, 450.
Hammer-headed,

451.
Sharp-nosed Eel, 443.
Short Sun-tish, 447.
Shrew, Mouse, 81.

Water. 82.

Shrike, Great Grey, 266.

Red-backed, 288.

Rufa, 24S, 501.
Ilutr, 352.
Hupicnpra. HI.
Iliistica, 225.
Kusticola, 350.
Hutiiilla, 247.
RutUU8, 428.

Sable, 65.
Sacred Ibia, 347.
Salaniandrida!, 409.
Salientia, 406.
Kaliim, 433, 434.
Salmon, 433.
Salinonidse, 433.
Kambucaiia, 511.
Sand Martin, 225.
Sapiens, 1.
Sappho, 234.
Sareorbani])hida!, 194.
Sarcorhamphos, 194.
Satin Bower-Bird, 282.
Satyrus, 14.
Sanra, 384.
Kaw-!ish, 452.
Scnlaria, 464.
Scallop, 467.
Scansores, 290.
HcincidjE, 385.
Sciurinse. 120.
Sciurus, 120.
Scolopacidw, 348.
ScolopaciniE, 350.
Scolopacinus, 351.
Scolopax, 350.
Scomber, 415.
Scomberida!, 415.
Scombrus, 415.
Scops-cared Owl, 219.-
Scirpio, 482.
Scorpion, 482.
Scorpionidi-e, 482.
Scoticus, 325.
Scrota, 175.
Sciitata, 453.
Scyllida;, 449.
Scyllium, 449.
Sea-horse, 419.
Seal, 87.

Eltphint, 89.

Secretary Bird, 214.
Sericeiis, 282.
Serpentariua,214.
Serratiis, 478.
Sexcinctns, 186.
Shark, White, 450.
Hammer-headed,

451.
Shaqj-nosed Eel, 443.
Short Sun-tish, 447.
Shrew, Mouae, 81.

Water, 82.

Shrike, Great Orey, 266.

Hed-backed, 268.

Shrimp, 478.
Silphida-, 4S5.
Silver-spotted FritiUary,

507.
Simla, 14.
Simiadffi, 12.
Siskin, 287.
Sitta, 238.
Sittina;, 238.
Skylark. 291.
Slender Loris, 24.
Sloth, 183.
Slowworm, 385.
SluK, 163.
SnaU, 463.
Snipe, 351.
Snowy -owl, 217.
Solan Goose, 379.
Sole, 442.
Solea, 442.
Soniateria, 364.
Sonu-Thrush, 259.
Sorex, 81.
Spaniel, Water, 50.
Sparrow, 2»9.
Sparrow-hawk, 213.
Spectrum, 25.
Spermaceti Whale, 98.
Spheniscina;, 370.
Splieniacus, 370.
SphiiifjidiB, 608.
Sphyrnias, 451.
Spider Bird, 479.
Spinus, 2ii7.
Spoonbill, White, 345.
Spotted Flycatcher, 264.
Sprin^'bok, 139.
Squalus, 450.
Squirrel, 120.

FlyinR, 121.

StaK, 156.

Beetle, 486.

Staphylinidn- 491.
StarlinR, 284.
Steinbok, 142.
Stellaris, 344.
Stercorarius, 486.
Sterna. 37k.
Steminip, 378.
Stoat, 06.
Stockdove, 308.
Stork, 346.
Stormy Petrel, 372.
Strepsiceros, 1,35.
Striata, 45.
Strijtida', 216.
StriginiB, 221.
Strix, 221.
Strobilosaiira, 387.
Struthio. 330.
Struthionida;, 330.
Struthioninje, 330.
Sturgeon, 448.
Sturio, 448.
Sturnidce, 282.

INDEX.

StuminiE, 284.
Sturnus, 284.
Sub-brachiata, 440.
Subbuteo, 208.
Suckin(,'-lish, 420.
Suina, 175.
Sula, 379.
Siilphurea, 301.
Sun-fish, 447.
Sumia, 216.
Sumina!, 216.
Sus, 175.

Swallow, F.sculent, 227.
Swallow-tailed Butterfly,
506.

■ Moth, 511.

Swan, .160.

Black, 301.

Swift, 224.
Sword-lish, 417.
Sylvia, 243.
Syngnathidas, 419.

Talegallus, 327.
Talpa, 78.
Talpidaj, 78.
Talpina, 78.
Tantalinas 347.
Tapir. 174.
Tapirina, 174.
Tapirus, 174
Tarandus, 100.
Tarantula, 481.
Tarda, 339.
Tartarica, 492.
Taurus, 123.
Teal, 364.

Tee-Tee, Collared, 22.
Temporaria, 406.
Tench, 427.
Tenuirostres, 232.
Tern, Common, 377.
Terrestris, 174.
Terrier, English, 57.

Scotch, 58.

Tesaelatur.i, 489.
Testudo, 399.
Testurdinida;, 399.
Tetradactyla, 184.
Tetrao, 323, 324.
TetraouidiE, 321.
Tetraonince, 323.
Tetrix, 324.
Thalarctos, 75. «
Thalassidroma, 372.
Thrush, Miascltoe, 257.

Song, 259.

Thynnus, 416.
Tiger, 33.

Cat, 39.

Moth, 510.

Beetle, 483.

Tigris, 33.
Timidus. 114,
Tinea, 427.

523

Tinnunculus, 211.
Titmouse, Blue, 251.

Great, 250.

LonK-tailed,252.

Toad, 408. r- ■

Toco, 2M. •'■'

Toucan, 296.

Torpedo, 452.
Toniuata, 398.
Torquutus, 22.
Torquilla, 305.
Tortoise. 399.
Toucan, Toco, 296.
Trachearia, 482.
Tragus, 141.
Tree Frog, 407.
Tremalopnea, 449.
Tribulus, 466.
Trichecina, 90.
Trichecus, 90.
Trichoptera, 499.
Tridaclylus, 183.
Trigla, 412.
Triglida', 412.
Tringina?, 352.
Tripudians, 397.
Triton, 409.
Trochilida;, 233.
Trochilus, 233.
Troglodytes, 12.
Trogon, 229.
Trogonida;, 229.
Troile, 371.
Tropic Bird, 378.
Trout, 434.
Tuberculata, 387.
Tumbler Pigeon, 312.
Tumulus, 328.
Tunny, 416.
Turbi'nida?, 464.
Turbot, 441.
Turdidoe, 256.
Turdina;, 257.
Turdus, 257.
Turkey, 319.

Brush, 327.

Turtle, 401.
Turtle-dove, .309.
Turtur, 309.

Two - homed Rhinoceros,
178.

Ulula, 216,
Uncia, 3<).
Undata, 243.
Undatum, 465.
Ungulata, 123.
Unicornis, 177.
Upupidee, 232.
Upupina-. 232.
Urbicn, 227.
Uria. 371.
Vr , 371.
Urogallus, 32.1.
Uropsophus, 390.

i

/

..:^«i5«S*SE*feS*«S:«-:

n

024

Ursirta, 72.
Uraina, 72.
Ursine Howler, 21.
Ursinus, 21.

Vampire Bat, 25.
Vampiriis, 25.
Vanellus, ,140.
Vanessa, 507.
Varius, 35.
Vertebrata, 1.
Varus, 386.
Vespa, 502.
Vespertilionidte, 25.
Vespertilionina, 28.
Vespidae, 502.
Vespillo, 485.
Viper, 394.
Viperina, 390.
Viperidai, 392.
Virginiana, 86.
Viridis, 304, 401.
Viscivoruu, 257.
Vitulina, 87.
Viverra, 40.
Viverrinie, 46.
Vivipara, 384.
Volant), 388.

INDEX.

Volitane, 432.
Vulpes, 63.

WaRtail, 253.

Walrus, or Morse, 90.

Wandering Albatros, 374.

Wapiti, 157.

Warbler, Blackcap, 245.

Dartford, 243.

(irasshopper, 241.

Wasp, 502.
Water-Hen, 355.
Water Slirew, .S2.
Water Rat, 108.
WaxwiuK, Bohemian, 265.
Weasel, 67.

Wentletrap, Royal Stair-
case, 464.
Whale, 91.

Spermaceti, 98.

Whelk, 465.
Whistling Swan, 360.
White Pelican, 382.
White Shark, 450.
White Spoonbill, 345.
White-headed Eagle, 202.
Whitethroat, 244.
Wolf, 81.

Wolverine, 68.
Wood Ant, 501.
Woodcock, ,160.
Woodcock, Thorny, 466.
Woodpecker, Green, 304.

Spotted, 202.

Wren, 239.

Golden Crested, 216.

Wryneck, 305.

I

Xiphias, 417.

Yak, 131.
Yarrellii, 254.
Yellow Bunting. 290.

WagtaU, 254.

Yuncinae, 305.
Yunx, 305.

Zebra, 165.
Zebu, 125.
ZeidiE, 419.
Zeus, 419.
Zibellinr., 65.
Zootoca, 384.
Zygxna, 451.

THE END.

k. ClAY, miNIEBi BilEAli SXBJitt HIlT.

MAR ^81949

Wolverine, 08.
Wood Ant, 501.
Woodcock, 350.
Woodcock, Thorny, 4rM.
Woodpecker, Green, ,104.

Spotted, 202.

Wren, 239.

Golden Crested, 2 16.

Wryneck, 305.

*

Xiphias, 417.

y^ak, 131.
ITarrellii, 254.
Ifellow Buntinp, ^»0.

WiiRtaiJ, 254.

ITuncinae, 305.
Ifunx, 305.

!ebra, ICS.
!ebu, 125.
!eid!E, 419.
'.eus, 419.
libellini:. C5.
lootoca, 384.
lygsena, 461.

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