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Pub. lv WEallock Lendon Muscum Piccadilly Avritasine .
A COMPANION
TO
MR. BULLOCK’S
LONDON MUSEUM
PANTHERION ;
A BRIEF DESCRIPTION
NATURAL anp FOREIGN CURIOSITIES,
ANTIQUITIES,
AND
Productions of the Fine Arts,
Collected during Seventeen Years of arduous Research, and
at an Expense of
THIRTY THOUSAND POUNDS ;
And now open for Public Inspection in the
Cqpptian Cemple,
JUST ERECTED FOR ITS RECEPTION, IN
PICCADILLY, LONDON,
OPPOSITE THE END OF BOND-STREETs;
By Wm. BULLOCK,
FELLOW OF THE LINNZAN SOCIETY, AND HONORARY MEMBER OF
THE DUBLIN SOCIETY.
cet
O Nature! how in every charm supreme !
Whose vot’ries feast on raptures ever new,
O! for the voice and fire of Seraphim,
To sing thy glories with devotion due ! BEATTIE:
THE TWELFTH EDITION.
eT STS RNS
PRINTED FOR THE PROPRIETOR.
1812,
The full value given for rare and un-
common Quadrupeds, Birds, Fishes, Rep-
tiles, Shells, Old Paintings, Carvings on
Wood or Ivory, Stained Glass, ancient and
foreign Arms and Armour, or any uncom-
mon production of Art or Nature.
Reynetl, Printer, Piccadilly, Londoz.
ADDRESS.
Mr. Buttock respectfully begs leave to solicit the atten-
tion and patronage of the Nobility, Gentry, and the Public,
to an Establishment for the advancement of the Sctence of
Natural History, which in magnitude and expense, he pre-
sumes, is unparalelled, as the work of an individual,
The very flattering and general approbation which ho-
noured the Exhibition of his MusEuM on its first opening in
a temporary situation in London, was a convincing proof
that his future efforts for the extension and improvement of
the Collection would be duly appreciated. His exertions to
obtain articles of rarity and interest have, therefore, been
unceasing. In most departments, the subjects have been
doubled in number ; the specimens are choice, in the high-
est possible preservation, and are arranged according to the
Linnzan system. They consist of about Fifteen Thousand
species of Quadrupeds, Birds, Reptiles, Fishes, Insects,
Shells, Corals, &c. &c. collected during twenty years of
unwearied application, and at an expense exceeding thirty
thousand pounds,
A2
¢
lV
In adapting the Edifice which Mr. Buttock has just com-
pleted for his present Collection, by displaying it advanta-
geously for the Study of the Naturalist, the Instruction of
the Curious, and the Amusement of those who are delighted
in viewing the Beauties of Nature, or the Curiosities of Art,
he has endeavoured to render it worthy of the British Me-
tropolis, whilst he has also provided the means for enlarge-
ment, as future additions shall accumulate.
One department of the Museum (the Pantherion), com-
pleted with much labour and great expense, is entirely
~ novel, and presents a scene altogether grand and interesting.
Various animals, as the lofty Giraffa, the Lion, the Ele-
phant, the Rhinoceros, &c. are exhibited as ranging in their
native wilds and forests ; whilst exact Models, both in figure
and colour, of the rarest and most luxuriant Plants from
every clime, give all the appearance of reality; the whole
being assisted with a panoramic effect of distance and ap-
propriate scenery, affording a beautiful illustration of the
luxuriance of a torrid clime.
The Museums of France have been enriched with the
spoils of nearly the whole Continent, and the Gallery of the
Louvre contains more treasure in Painting and Sculpture
than perhaps will ever again be amassed in one Collection,
But though her active and persevering Ruler, desirous of
making his capital the centre of every attraction, has con-
tributed to the Museum Naturale, every specimen of Na-
tural History which in the present state of the Continent
could be procured, our unrivalled Navy, and the extension
of our Colonies throughout the habitable world, present
such advantages to this country, that the writer feels con-
fident, that if his exertions are seconded by the Public as
Vv
they have hitherto been, he will very shortly be enabled to
make a Collection of Natural History far surpassing any
thing of the kind at present in existence; and he pledges
himself to exert his utmost power in accomplishing this im-
portant work.
To the numerous Royal, Noble, and liberal Contributors
to his Museum, by whose kindness his Collection has been
enriched by so many valuable articles, which could not have
been procured by pecuniary means, Mr. BULLOCK returns
his unfeigned thanks.
When the information and delight which may be derived
from this Exhibition, especially by the rising generation,
are considered, the great sum expended in forming it, and
the erection of the present large and commodious building
for its reception, the Proprietor trusts that the terms will be
approved of,
Ticket, not transferable, 14. 1s.----Subscriber for Life,
102. 10s.
MUSEUM, PICCADILLY,
March 28, 1812,
NAMES
OF THE
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN
WHO HAVE PRESENTED CURIOSITIES TO TRE
SAuseunt,
ee
HER MAJESTY.
Her Royal Highness the
PRINCESS CHARLOTTE OF WALES.
Their Royal Highnesses the :
DUKE AND DUCHESS OF YORK.
PPESrasEEs:
Charlotte-st. Fitz.
Adams, (MtcRe..vscccss cece aes voyuer
Aiton, Wm. Esq. F. L.5S.......00. Kew
Allan, ‘Thomas, Esq. ...s00s seve Edinburgh
Anderson, Mr. F. L.S.
Angus, Charles, Esq..,....0s0000.0. Liverpool
. Ashton, NeEsqaeteiscccv.5t eseee Liverpool
Atherton, Edward, Esq. .......... Liverpool
Banks, Lady
Banks, Sir Joseph .....ssovcesseseee London
Barclay, Dr. ..c.cscccsrccoesereseees Edinburgh
Barr, Captain ,...c.cccccsssosesene) Ld0erpool
Barrow, Captain ..ecccrssoevssseeee Liverpool
Vil
Battersby, Miss ...osressscsssceesee
Bedford, His Grace the Duke of
Birchall, 5. Esq. os. sleshisdasecene
Bissett, James, Esq. ...sssssesssees
Blackburn, J. Esq. -M. P...sseceee
Bly lVEr ss)... occcvens aieaatee aah
Blundell, Henry, Esq. ....:csaee
Blundell, Bryan, Esq. ........+006
Bolton, John, Esq. ..sssseccoeeeeee
Bolton, Mrs. sicssescescorsnceesvcess
Bootle, W. Esq. M. P. .sseceeees
Bowdon, Joshua, Esq. .+.scesseeee
Boscawen, Hon Mrs. | sccseesecee'’s
Brettargh, Mr. J. ssccccsecceecs ok
Bright, ad eaawanaan servers
Broadbent, Me. <enbeewmuaeiaee ‘
Brogden, H. Esq. a
Braces Mise te essd..niecrenass ees
Buckingham, Marquis’ of
Bulloch; J ssseseas Miistaatia eainpuaseans
Burns, is Esq. coe eoccsereroeneeonce
Cavan, Earl of
Caldwell, Charles, Esq. .....s000¢
Campbell, Captatn~.-<..-+. emenedens
Chappel,: Reme AIbS ...2s.<5.005s4-5--
Chichester}, Wa thiol so ocacscdaceaceese
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Cowdroy, William, Esq. « *
Cox, Lady Hippisley...... oneue meee
Cullum, Sir Thomas, Bart. .
Curries Vigan site he déanencs ek
Dadford, Thomas, DEN, cutwarseds
Dalrymple, Lieut.-General
Darnley, Earl of
Dublin
Leeds
Birmingham
Hale
Durham Place
Ince Hall
Liverpool
Liverpool
Liverpool
Latham House
Liverpool
St. James’s Palace
“Trafford Hall
Bristol
Hull
~ Clapham
Demerara
Surinam
Glasgow
Liverpool
Liverpool
Leicester
Liverpool
London
Liverpool
Manchester
«» Bury St. Edmunds
Liverpool
Wolverhampton
Vill
Dartmouth, Countess of ...cesseree
Davies, Gen. . . Blackheath
Dean and Chapter of ‘Christchurch Oxford
Dickson, William, Esq. ......+0+ Liverpool
Directors of the Blue-coat School Liverpool
Drake, J. Esq, ..0'..cssevees sesoeee Gt, Berkhampstead
Dublin, Royal Society of
Dundas, Lord
Durham, Bishop of
Edwards, Rev. Mr. ...s+0.. cseccee Lynn
Edwards, Mr. 8. F.-L.S...00c00. Brompton
Egerton, Hon. Miss .......seeeeere Windsor Castle
Ellis, Edward, Esq....... uietevevees Strensal Hall, York
Essex, Countess of
Fawkes, Walter, Esq...seseceeees Farnley Hall
Fisher, Lieut.ooRe Noesssscstecsvess Liverpool
Forbes, William, Esq..ssssceeeeees Liverpool
Ford, Mrsvsiiiiiun. savseeseneviever Upper Brook- street
Francillon, John, Esq. F.L.8... Norfotk-street
Frazier, Mr. F, L. a Chelsea _
Fryer, Drivin. Cidvessestassecsvense «+ LUQStPOCk
Gascoyne, Mrs. I....sscecvseeee Childwall Hail
Geddes, JP Bsq3 sess. sees csssseee eee Glasgow
Gordon, Colieecsss secsssssasssosewre Chelsea
Graham, Col... 22.3 c-eseeseeredde Glasgow
Green (late) Mr....... dsesvecceseee «+ Lichfield
Gurney (late) B. Esq......see0006. Norwich
Haldane, Lieut.-Col........0«e06. Croydon
Hardy, James, Esq.....csecscoeeee Glasgow
Harrington, Lady I.
Harrison, A. Esq. F. L. S.....0668 Westminster
Harper, William, a sini'a tal este . Liverpool
Haycock, Mey ivessseccceceovevens: »Ldverpool
Hanson, A Is sey foe
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Sandringham Hall,
Henley, H. H. Esq. F, Li Sincere Norfolk
1X
Holswilders, D. Esq.ssse-soeeeeeee
Horner, Col...... Mcasers ret estece
Horseley, J. W. Esq.
Howell, Thomas, Esq....
Hoy, M. Esq.
Humphries; \Mt. G.p.civecsceceses
Hunter, Admiral
Irby, J. Esq..ccoes Detdencacaee seeee
Danes, WHEREAS 6 cconinnislv Si vieraia'd B
Samucson; | nga hides. ccongenenanne
Jennings, C. Esq......0ccrcseceeses
Johnson, James, E. Esq.....-es00e
Johnson, Robert, Esq.......00+0e
Jobirs6n; Waekisocs |. nncereonersess
Kemble, Rev. Mr........ssccceeves
Kaox, .Miprissen iicsnenssorssscees
Koster) do TR Ese. .. stccoores lasdew
Pate c WEG sivaslisicnavsmanccrmnemme
Laurence, Charles, Esq.......-0+
Lambert, A. B.Esq. V.P.L.S...
Leach, Mr. W. E. F. L.S.
Leger, Hon. Goly-St¢ vioveciccese
Lettsom, Dr. F. L.S.
Leicester, Sir John, Bart.........
Liverpool, Earl and Countess of
LGundes? VISA s ccoceneececnnpe
M< Dougal, Dee oi ss owiads ete
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M‘ Niel, Lieut. Gen.........00008. ;
Madden,
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Miller, Captains. <avevseass pio
Mitford, Miss
Moira, Earl of
Moor, Henry Glover; Esq......
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Surinam
Mills Park, Some?
setshire
Coventry
London
{ Britwell House,
| Maidenhead
St. Lucia
London
Chelsea
Bristol
Liverpool
Calcutta -
Birmingham
Chichester
Liverpool
3, Fenchurch-street
Liverpool
Grosvenor-street
Dublin
Tabley
Liverpool
Gla gow
Dublin
Bath
Dublin
Tavistock-street
Hull
Liverpool
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Manto, Drigwititcsosisiness seossee Edinburgh
Munro, Miss....cccecscescevseseees « Edinburgh
Neilson, William, Esq.......+0+e Liverpool
Niel, Patrick, Esq...... satiantdena . Edinburgh
Nixon, Mrwtgniad. .cawasias aaekiats Coventry
Nugent, Droiesceiees: bose seeweuaen yy 5 aici eaves
ames’s
Parke, We Bsqcee.ss onances seecakles Rickevich in Iceland
Parry, Henry, Esq...+.+sssseeseee Liverpool
Pasco, Captain, R. N.
Phillips, Leigh, Esq. F.LS....... Manchester
Plaisted, Mr.....0.. <eappebvanenciens Chelsea
Pollock, Mrscii.i:.2. eee eee Dublin
Polit Vrs Mp saesa.. saaasnaniets'enkirs Exeter ’Change
Powell, Captain, sc.cscsacnnsenecias Liverpool
Preston; RGMeTGi0.} s.ie.smnnsaintlasanse Liverpool
Prise, Majoriauan...cac0asaeccuses Frogmore
Puleston,€ColsEmral.....cccceesace Wrexham .
Ray Mir, beeteivisk. cs sijsinomisemociaiie 22, Gower-street
Ranier, Captain, R.N. ve
Read, Ladiywaitices..+.sensonwanhle Curzon-street
Roach Captainyis:, .rscovonesaeete Liverpool
Robinson, Col. M. P.sesesecsseeeee rape Kealart pewlncke
folk
Roscoe, William, Esq. F.L.S... Liverpool
Salt; Jonathan, Esq. F,L.S...... Sheffield
Sandbach; Mrivesesceckaesdadiseese Liverpool
SALtOrus, VEG se Ae. capeserssesces . Chelsea
Salisbury, Bishop of
scott,, Corse isd. ...ccvaneasewun Edinburgh
Sharp, Thomas, Esq.........000 «. Coventry
Sharp, RevcpWlaeth. .cccasdacnamane . Coventry
Shefiield, Lord
Sheridan, Thomas, Esq........00
Smith, Dr.J. Hoe: L483. 388 Norwich
Smith, William, Esq......-....00 Dublin
Smyth, RevaWohit.... sssesccws eee Liverpool
Xi
Somerscales, WELT ws cecudscswsccaese Huil
Sowerby, Mr. F.L.S........ 00006 Mead-pl. Lambeth
Stainiforth (late) Thomas, Esq. Liverpool
Stainiforth, Samuel, Esq.......... Leverpool
Stanley, Lord, M. P........+eseeee Knowsley
Stanley, Col. M. P......-.ses000+. . London
Stanhope, Spencer, Esq. M. P.
Snow, Mr, Surgeon........sesseeee Highgate
Steel, Mrs......ccccseveees slitaisietielas Anglesea
Stephenson, W. Esq. ....-+--+eeee Norwich
Stuart, Captain.....-sssssssessseee Edinburgh
Symmons, ——, Esq. F.L.S... Paddington House
Teignmouth, Lord.......... ciusas yA ORHOT .
Thompson, Mr. Artist
Thorpe, J. Esq.
Towisend. (REV. J icssssscesessesss,:, Dele
Trigge, Lady......scsesssseseseees - Saville-row
Trafford, Joha, Esq.....seseseseees rafford House
Turmeau, John, Esq.....c.seseeeee Liverpool
Turner, William, Esq......... cose Llangollen
Ditit, Miso. ewcteenccccsvecapencscas Birmingham
Vandes, Le Count De............. London
Vaughan, Rev. Ker, F.L.S...... Devonshire
Walker, Peter, Esq. F.L.S... Edinburgh
Weallis, Miers. Sti aecetatetse css Huil
Wallis, GEOrzes.. ..cyececweds cone Hull
Ward, R. Esq......ccccsescsovecees Sheffield
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Wilkinson, J. Esq.....sccecceovee » Bath
Wilson; UME i.5...0sccseesencseeee Glasgow
Wilson, Ere jenseaccccnsscndensses College, Edinburgh
Wise RaQ ys cavasnds oceans Gabanee Charlton
Wilson, Sir Thomas............ ww» south End
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Wright, Dr. Peter......ecccesceee Glasgow
Wright, R. Esq. F. L. S....e00 .. Lichfield
York, Dean of
Young, Dr. Ba bePic sscscosrassar SUEICIA
A
COMPANION
TO THE
Pantherton.
NATURAL HISTORY:
QUADRUPEDS.
‘These are thy glorious works, Parent of Good.
* * *%F FF BH F B® BF BB BR F * * ®#
Thou sitt’st above those heavens
To us invisible, or dimly seen
In these thy lowest works ; yet these declare
Thy goodness beyond thought, and power divine
Micron,
Tne PantuHenion is an exhibition of Natural His-
tory, on a plan entirely novel, intended to display
the whole of the known Quadrupeds, i in a manner that
9
Z
will convey a more perfect idea of their haunts and
mode of life than has hitherto been done, keeping
them at the same time in their classic arrangement,
and preserving them from the injury of dust and air:
it occupies an extensive apartment, nearly forty feet
high, erected for the purpose. ‘The visitor is intro-
duced through a basaltic cavern (of the same kind as
the Giants Causeway, or Fingall’s Cave, in the Isle
of Staffa) into an Indian hut, situated in a Tropical
Forest, in which are displayed most of the Quadru-
peds described by naturalists, with correct models
from nature, or the best authorities, of the trees and
other vegetable productions of the torrid climes, re-
markable for the richness or beauty of their fruit, or
the singularity of their foliage; the whole assisted
by an appropriate panoramic effect of distance, which
makes the illusion produced so strong, that the sur-
prised visitor finds himself suddenly transported from
a crowded metropolis to the depth of an Indian forest,
every part of which is occupied by its various savage
inhabitants.
The Linnzan arrangement of Quadrupeds com-
mences at the first opening on the left-hand -of the
entrance, where, dispersed on rocks and the branches
of a large Orange-tree, are about sixty species of the
genus Simia; consisting of Apes, Baboons, and
Monkeys. It is difficult to determine the species of
many of them, and others are not yet described by
any Naturalist; those known are numbered, and will
be found as follows :
MONKEYS,
1. The Barbary Ape, or Magot (Simia Inuus)
Ys a morose, ill-natured animal, but by means of
severity may, in a state of captivity, be made to
perform a number of actions which surprise us, by
their near approach to those of man,
2. The Pig-iailed Baboon (Simia Nemestrina).
Is a wative of Sumatra, and is very familiar and
gentle in its behaviour towards strangers, but appears
melancholy in a state of captivity.
3. Variegated, Tufted, or Ursine Baboon (Simia
Mormon). .
This Baboon is very numerous about the Cape of
Good Hope, and is one of the largest of this tribe of
animals, measurig when full grown, nearly five
feet in height. It is very strong, fierce, and libidi-
nous, yet at the same time is capable‘of attachment
and gratitude. One that was sent to me in the
year 1803, had two deep wounds in his. loins,
owing to the pressure of a heavy chain by which
he was confined ; on appearing anxious to ex-
amine the wounds, it readily presented the lacerated
part to inspection, and after one side was dressed
with a very sharp mixture (though at the same.
time it was agonized with pain) it opened the
other wound for the same application, which it con-
‘inued to do until such time as the excoriated places
4
were healed. It remained at the Museum some time
afterwards, and although mischievous to the family,
yet, on the least motion of my hand, or on my ut-
tering an angry word, it was all attention and submis-
sion. These Baboons in their native country do con-
siderable damage to the gardens and plantations,
carrying on their depredations in large troops, with
such boldness and resolution, as excite astonish-
ment. ‘
4. Ribbed-nose Baboon (Simia Maimon).
Is about two feet from nose to tail, an active and
sprightly animal, greatly resembling the above Ba-
boon, but not so large, nor the colours so bright, and
is playful, but not so malignant.
The French naturalists have made this the young
of the former, and from the change I have observed
in those of different ages, I have no doubt of their
being right.
5 and 6, Lion-tailed Baboon, male and female (S.
Silenus). |
These are very remarkable and highly extraordi-
nary animals ; they are natives of Ceylon and other
parts of India, and are, in their native state, wild,
ferocious, and mischievous: the female lived many
years in the menagerie of her Royal Highness the
Duchess of York, who presented it to the Museum.
7. Wood Baboon (S. Silvatica). |
An active, roving species, inhabiting the woods of
Africa.
8. Crested Baboon (S. Cristata). A native of
India,
9. Dog-faced Baboon (Simia Hamadryas).
A very large and fierce species, remarkable for the
5
long grey hair with which it is covered; is rarely
brought to Europe; is a native of the hottest part
of Africa, where it is said to be found in vast troops,
and to be very fierce and dangerous.
This was brought from Arabia by Lord Valentia.
10. Green Monkey (Simea Sabea),
A most gentle, playful creature, inhabiting several
parts of Africa and India; in its native regions it is
said to be of a beautiful green colour, which fades to
an olive grey soon after its arrival in this country.
11, The Mustache (S. Cephus). Inhabits Guinea.
12. White eyelid Monkey (S. Atthiops),
A native of Madagascar, gentle and diverting in
its manners.
13. The Chinese Monkey (Simia Sinica).
14. White-nosed Monkey (Simia Petaurista).
A native of Guinea, only thirteen inches high; tail
twenty inches long. An entertaining, gentle animal,
shewing great attachment to the person who feeds it.
15. The Negro-Monkey (Simia Maura). From
Africa.
16. Palatine Monkey (Simia Rolaway),.
This beautiful and gentle animal was brought from
the Slave Coast in Africa; its colour appeared to have
changed much on its being confined, as the rich bay
on the inside of the limbs was turned to a yellowish
white ; its singular white beard gave it, whilst living,
an air of great gravity, and its manners were quite
inoffensive and mild. _1t died in the collection of Mr.
Polito, in the winter of 1808, owing probably to the
severity of the weather.
C
6
17. Long-nosed Monkey (Simia Nasuta).
18, 19, and 20. Three specimens of the Long-
armed, Four-fingered, or Spider Monkey (Simia Pa-
niscus).
One of these was received from South Ameri-
ca in the summer of 1808, and lived for some
time. In general, its appearance was extremely
disgusting ; the arms were of an extraordinary
length, and the hands destitute of all appear-
ance of thumbs; the tail is also of a great length,
is bare for a considerable way near the tip,
by means thereof it could reach any thing as well as
with its hands. The whole animal, except the face,
hands, and end of the tail, is covered with long
coarse black hair, thinly disposed, except on the
head, where it grew forward in the same manner
as the haman species, giving to its mulatto-coloured
face the appearance of a miserably wretched old
man. Its disposition was extremely gentle and in-
offensive, but so timid, as never to be familiar; if
held by the hands, it uttered a doleful cry, and fre-
quently tears ran from its eyes, but never shewed
the least inclination to bite.
21. A white variety of the above.
22. Royal Monkey (Simia Seniculus).
Is a native of Cayenne, and is sometimes called
the Preacher, or Howler, from their custom of as-
sembling together, and making a most horrible noise
in the woods.
23 and 24. Fearful, or Ring-tailed Monkey (Simia
Trepida).
Native of Guinea; of a lively disposition: is fre-
quently kept in France.
"j
25 and 26. Varieties of the above.
27 and 28. Male and female of the Sgwzrred
Monkey (Simia Sciurea).
This is one of the smallest and most beautiful of
the Monkey tribe; is a native of South America,
and with difficulty kept alive in this country.
29. Fox-tailed Monkey (Simia Pithecia).
The hair of this singular animal is very long, and
of a dark brown, or nearly black colour; it is about
the size of a large cat; is a native of Guinea, and is
said to be very fierce in its disposition.
30. Several specimens of the Striated Monkey, or
Sanglin (Simia Jacchus).
This extraordinary little animal, no larger than a
Squirrel, is an inhabitant of Brazil. In a native
state these Monkies are supposed to feed upon fruits,
but in a state of confinement they will occasionally
feed on insects, snails, &c. Edwards, in his Glean-
ings, makes mention of a pair of these animals, which
belonged to a London merchant, who resided at
Lisbon; they had young at that place. These, at
their birth, were exceedingly ugly, having no fur:
they would frequently cling fast to the teats of the
dam; and when they grew a little, used to hang
upon her back and shoulders. © When she was
tired, she would rub them off against the wall, or
whatever else was near, as the only mode of ridding
herself of them. Ou being forced from the female,
the male immediately took them to him, and suffered
them to hang round him, to ease her of the burden.
Her Royal Highness the Duchess of York has
lately succeeded very well in breeding these diminu-
tive and delicate little animals.
C2
8
31 and 32, The Great-eared Monkey (Simia Mi-
das).
About the size of a Squirrel; the colour black,
except the hands and feet, which are orange. It is
a native of Cayenne and Brazil.
Red Monkeys (Simia Rubra), male and female.
Natives of Senegal and the hottest parts of Africa ;
a harmless and playful species.
"cIgrt flay APPOINT UNISTYY USUIT YOVING Nf AQ Gny
“4 be ACCUM }
c
MAUCAUCOS (LEMUR).
These are placed on the branch of a tree, near the
third window. ‘They are generally mild and gentle
in their disposition, and inhabit the warmer parts of
India.
1. Slow Lemur, or Tailless Maucauco (Lemur Tar-
diradus). :
About half the size of a cat, and is a native of the
coast of Coromandel. According to the pleasing
description of the late learned Sir Wim. Jones, in the
4th volume of Asiatic Researches, its manners are
gentle and interesting ; it sleeps during the day, and
feeds on fruits.
2. Woolly Lemur, or Mongoz (Lemur Mongoz).
About the size of a cat, is a native of Madagascar,
feeds on fruits, and ina state of captivity is sportive
and harmless.
3. The Poito (Lemur Potto).
This is an inhabitant of Guinea.
4. Ring-tailed Lemur, or Maucauco (Lemur Catta).
This is a very beautiful, gentle, harmless, and en«
tertaining animal, frequently kept tame by ladies; it
is a native of the warmer parts of India, and feeds on
fruit, which it eats sitting upright, and holding in its
fore paws. The young ones were lately bred in this
country.
5. Little Maucauco (Lemur Minutus).
Is about the size of a mouse; is an elegant little
10
animal, and bears a strong resemblance to the Mon-
Key tribe ; is the only specimen known in England.
Dr. Shaw has figured a small Lemur in the 14th
volume of the Naturalists Miscellany, but it is much
larger, and destitute of the mane, so conspicuous in
this species,
BATS, (VESPERTILIO).
These are placed in front of the Lion’s Den, op-
posite the entrance. ;
Madagascar, or Vampyre Bat (Vespertilio Vam-
pyrus). |
This uncommon animal is called, by Buffon, the
Rousette ; it measures upwards of 3 feet from the tip
of one wing to the other ; the body is nearly as large
as that of a cat, but it resembles a rat in the shape of
the head; it is covered with short hair of a reddish
brown colour; the top of each wing is armed witha
strong claw, with which it fastens itself to the branches
of trees; it has likewise five sharp claws en each
foot. Some of those animals grow to an enormous
‘size; and in the islands of the East Indies they-are
sometimes seen in such numbers, that they darken
the air at noon-day: they are carniverous, and very
ierocious. In a scarcity of flesh and fish, they feed
11
on vegetables and fruits of every kind. This is the
Bat to which Linnzus applied the title of Vampyre,
on the supposition of its being the species of which
60 many extraordinary accounts have been given re-
lative to its power of sucking the blood of men and
cattle. |
In the autumn of 1810 I had, for a short time, a
living one of a large size, from the East Indies, and
contrary to what has been asserted of it by writers,
found it a most inoffensive, harmless, entertaining
creature ; it refused animal food, but fed plentifully
on succulent fruits, preferring figs and pears, and
licked the hand that presented them, seeming de-
lighted with the caresses of the persons who fed it,
playing with them in the manner of a young kitten ;
it was fond of white wine, of which it took near half
a glass at a time, lapping it like a cat. ‘This had a
very evident effect on jts spirits, as it then became
extremely frolicsome and diverting, but never once
attempted to bite. It slept suspended, with its head
downwards, wrapping its satin-like wings round its
body in the form of a mantle. I several times per-
mitted it to enclose the end of my little finger in its
mouth, for the purpose of observing if it would
attempt to draw blood, but not the slightest indica-
tion of such intention appeared, and I have strong
reason to doubt the stories related so greatly to its
disadvantage.
Madagascar Bat, with the wings closed.
The Long-eured Bat (Vespertilio Auritus).
This is one of the most common English Bats, and
may be frequently seen, during the summer even-
ings, pursuing the various insects on which it feeds.
In the same Case is a White variety of this animal,
12
in which the delicate and admirable structure of the
wings is finely shewn.
The Great Bat (Vespertilio Noctula). The largest
of the British species.
The Horse-shoe Bat (Vespertilio Ferrum Equinum)
with its young ; taken in the Abbey Church, Bristol.
SLOTH (BRADYPUS TRYDACTYLUS).
Three of these are on the stem of the American
Aloe, near the head of the Rhinoceros.
These are of all quadrupeds the most slothful and
indolent. « Nature (says the Count de Buffon) seems
** to have created this ill-constructed mass of defor-
‘© mity for nothing but misery.” ‘They have neither
canine nor incissive teeth; their eyes are dull and
heavy, their mouths wide and thick; their fur re-
sembles dried grass ; their thighs are almost disjointed
from their haunches ; their legs are very short and
badly shaped ; they have no soles to their feet, nor
toes separately moyeable ; but only two or three
claws, excessively long, crooked downwards and
backwards. They can neither seize on prey, nor
feed on flesh, and are therefore reduced to live on
Jeaves and wild fruits. ‘hey take up a long time in
erawling to a tree, and are still longer in climbing
J = Sanglin ‘ ‘
ae Vhvee led . Moth. a
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1S
to its branches, When at last one of them has ac-
complished its end, it fastens itself. to a tree, crawls
from branch to branch, and by degrees strips the
whole of its foliage; in this manner it remains
several weeks without moistening its food ; and when
it has consumed itsstore, and the tree is left quite
naked, unable to descend, it continues on till hunger
presses, which becoming more powerful than the
fear of danger, or even death itself, it drops to the
ground, without being capable of exerting any effort
to break the violence of the fall. Its manners are
sluggish to an excessive degree; its general appear-
ance disgusting; its voice plaintive, piteous, and
even horrible. It can live a prodigious time without
food: Kircher says forty days. It has vast strength
in the paws, and fastens its claws into any thing with
such force, that they cannot be disengaged: hence,
when beasts of prey attack this animal, it adheres to
them so strongly, that they are both found dead in-
each other’s grasp.
ANT-EATERS (MYRMECOPHAGA).
These are placed next the Monkeys, near the
model of one of the Turrets, or Nests of the Termi-
tus or White Ants of Africa, which are often of the
height of ten feet, appearing at a distance like the
villages of the natives.
D
14
The Ant-eaters are destitute of teeth, but have
protruding snouts, through which they draw the in-
sects which form their food on their long clammy
tongues.
The Great Ant-cater, or Tamanoir (Myrmecophaga
Jubata). .
This is the largest of the Ant-eaters, as well as
the most singular in its appearance ; it is upwards of
six feet in length, and has a very slender snout, out of
which it protrudes its worm-like tongue into the
nests of ants, on which it feeds. It is a native of
South America, from whence one was some years
since brought alive to Spain: it was fed on raw
meat, cut small, of which it ate four or five pounds
a day.
- The Cape Ant-eater (Myrmecophaga Capensis).
Though the above is called the largest of this re-
markable family, yet this may be considered the
heaviest, as its weight sometimes exceeds 100Ibs.
It burrows in the ground and sleeps by day.
Little Ant-eater (Myrmecophaga Didactyla).
Inhabits Guinea, and the hottest parts of South
America. They climb trees in quest of a species of
ant that builds its nest among the branches; they
thrust out their clammy tongues into the nest, and
draw them into their mouths covered with insects.
Their tail is of great use to them in climbing, as they
twist it round the branches to prevent falling.
Middle Ant-eater (Myrmecophaga Tetradactyla).
- Inhabits South America, goes out in the night, and
sleeps during the day ; when irritated, it seizes on a
stick or other object with its fore claws, and fights
sitting on its hind legs; the extremity of the tail is
15
naked and prehensile, by means of which it is ena-
bled to suspend itself to the branches of trees,
Porcupine Ant-eater (Myrmecophaga Aculeata,
Shaw’s Zoology, vol. 1, page 175).
This is one of those curious animals which have
been lately discovered in New Holland; it differs
from all the other Ant-eaters in having the body
covered with sharp spines, resembling porcupines’
quills, only they are shorter and thicker in propor-
tion. It has a remarkably long, tubular snout, with
a very small mouth, out of which it shoots its
tongue, in the same manner as the others. It
burrows under the ground with the greatest ease,
nature having furnished it with amazing strength in
its legs and feet.
Another Porcupine Ant-eater, varies from the above
in the lightness of the colour of the spines, and their
being shorter, and more covered with stiff whitish
hair; probably of a different sex, or a younger
animal,
D2
16
The Manis, or Scaly Ant-eaters, are placed with the’
last, to which they have a strong aflinity, except the
covering of the body, which in these are strong,
horn-like scales.
Pangolin, or Short-tatled Manis (Manis Pentadac-
tyla).
A remarkably fine specimen of this extraordinary
and highly curious animal, measuring five feet in
length; it is a native of Africa and India, and its
principal food is the white ant, against the united at-
tacks of which Nature has given its impenetrable
coat of armour. It was brought to this country by
Mr. Samwell, Surgeon, who was with Captain Cook
during his voyages of discovery.
Long-tailed Manis (Manis Tetradactyla).
This rare animal is a native of India and Africa.
{t is perfectly gentle and harmless, though it has the
most formidable appearance, being entirely covered
with large sharp scales, which it erects when irritated.
Buffon says ‘The most cruel and voracious of beasts,
** such as the Tiger and the Panther, make but use-
‘* Jess efforts to devour these armed animals; they
tread upon and roll them, but when they attempt
to seize them, are grievously wounded; _ they
can neither terrify them by their violence, nor
* crush them by their weight,”
g6
Another specimen of this singular animal, near
it, differs in having double the number of scales,
which are only half the size.
Near the above, are two specimens of the nine-
banded Armadillo, with a young one, and one of the
eight-banded.
It receives the name of Armadillo, or Hog in
Armour, from the Spaniards, and from the impenetra-
it
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17
ble coat of mail with which it is furnished by nature
for its defence. It. is a native of South America,
where there are several kinds; but the principal
difference consists in the number of bands or folds, of
which the armour that covers the body is composed.
It is a harmless, inoffensive animal, feeds on roots,
herbs, and other vegetables, grows very fat, and is
much esteemed for the delicacy of its flesh. The
Indians hunt it with small dogs, trained for the pur-
pose: when it is surprised, it runs to its hole, or at-
tempts to make a new one, which it does with great
expedition, having strong claws on the fore feet, with
which it adheres so firmly to the ground, that if it
should be caught by the tail, whilst making its way
into the earth, its resistance is so great that it will
sometimes leave its tail in the hands of its pursuers ;
to avoid this the hunter has recourse to artifice, and
by tickling it with a stick, it gives up its hold, and
suffers itself to be taken alive. If no other means
of escape be left, it rolls itself up within its covering,
by drawing in the head and legs, and bringing the
tail round them, as a band to connect them more
forcibly together; in this situation it sometimes
escapes by rolling itself over the edge of a precipice,
and generally falls to the bottom unhurt.
Next to these is the huge Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros
Unicornis) which may be considered as one of the
most powerful of animals; in strength, indeed, he
is inferior to none, and his bulk (says Bontius)
equals the Elephant, but is lower only on account
of the shortness of his legs. The length of the
Rhinoceros, from head to tail, is usually twelve
feet ; and the circumference of the body nearly
equals that length: its nose is armed with so hard
and formidable a horn, that the Tiger will rather
18
attack the Elephant, whose proboscis he can lay
hold of, than the Rhinoceros, which he cannot face
without danger of having his bowels torn out by the
defensive weapon of his adversary. The body and
limbs of the Rhinoceros are covered with a skin so
hard and impenetrable, that he fears neither the claws
of the Tiger, nor the trunk of the Elephant. It is
said to turn the edge of a scymetar, and to resist
even the force of a musket-ball. ‘The upper hp of
the Rhinoceros is capable of great extension, and
is so pliable, that the animal can move it from side
to side, twist it round a stick, collect its food, or seize
with it any thing it would carry to its mouth. The
Rhinoceros, without being ferocious, or carniverous,
is totally untractable and rude: it seems at times to
be subject to paroxysms of fury. The one which
the King of Portugal sent to the Pope, in the year
1513, destroyed the vessel which transported it.
Like the hog, the Rhinoceros wallows in the mire, is
a solitary animal, and delights to rove near the banks
of rivers. Itis found in Bengal, Siam, China, ‘and
other countries of the East, where it feeds on the
grossest herbs, preferring thistles and shrubs to the
finest of pasturage. The female produces but one at
a time, which during the first month exceeds not the
size of a large dog: at the age of two years, the
horn is not more than an inch long; at six years old,
it is ten inches long, and grows to the length of
three feet—From the peculiar construction of his
eyes, the Rhinoceros can only see what is imme-
diately before him. When he pursues any object,
he proceeds always in a direct line, overturning any
thing in his way. His sense of smelling is so acute,
that his pursuers are obliged to avoid being to wind-
ward of him: they follow him at a distance, and
watch till he lies down to sleep ; they then approach
19
‘and discharge their muskets into the lower part of
his belly.
A fine specimen of the Elephant (Elephas Maxi-
mus). This stupendous animal lived for many
years in Exeter ’Change, and was remarkable for
its docility and obedience to its keeper. Fora fur-
ther description of this identical animal, see “© Won-
ders of Animated Nature,” just published, p. 111.
BEASTS OF PREY (FER /).,
Close to the Elephant commence those animals de-
nominated by Linnzus, Fere, w hich contain all
the beasts of prey.
1. In a lowden is the Wolf (Canis Lupus) from
Hudson’s Bay; it is of an unusual size, and the
colour is lighter than those of Europe.
2. The Striped Hyena (Canis Hyzna).
A young animal from the Cape of Good Hope,
little more hen half its full size.
3. The Jackal (Canis Aureus).
These inhabit the warm parts of Asia and Bar-
bary, prowling by night, sometimes in flocks of two
20
hundred together, hunting in concert: at the cry of
one, all within hearing howl prodigiously, and urge
other beasts to hunt the stag, whilst the Lion or
Tiger, lying in wait, seize the prey, and first satisfy-
ing themselves, Jeave the remainder to the Jackals ;
from whence originates the tale of their being the
Lion’s provider.
4. The Barbary Jackal (Canis Barbarus).
5. Cape Jackal (Canis Mesomelas).
6. Black Fox (Canis Lycaon).
This inhabits the colder parts of America, and is
said to be the most crafty of its tribe ; its skin is also
of the greatest value, as fur.
7. The Arctic Fox (Canis Lagopus), in its sum-
mer dress.
8. and 9. Ditto in its winter cloathing.
These inhabit the most northern parts of America ;
frequent the sea shore, and occasionally feed on shell
fish.
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FELINE TRIBE.
In dens, and on the large rocks facing the entrance,
are disposed the whole of the Feline tribe, containing
the most cruel and rapacious of animals,
In a cavern, is the Lzon (Felis Leo), and near its
feet, sleeping on the ground, a Cub about four
months old.
2. The Panther (Felis Pardus).
Is seen issuing from a den: it is an untame-
able animal, and next in size to the tiger. It
inhabits Africa, Barbary, the remotest parts of
Guinea, and the interior of South America; is ex-
tremely fierce, and attacks every living creature
without distinction, but happily prefers the flesh of
brutes to that of mankind. ‘The ancients were well
acquainted with these animals. The Romans drew
prodigious numbers from Africa, for their public
shows. Scarus exhibited 150 of them at one time;
Pompey 410; and Augustus 420. They probably
thinned the Coast of Mauritania of these animals ;
but they still swarm in the southern parts of Guinea.
The skin of the Panther was presented by Mr. Po-
}jto.
3. The Jaguar (Felis Onca).
Is a most fierce and destructive animal, in its man-
ner resembling the Tiger. It is an inhabitant of
South America.
4. Walking on the top of the rock, above the
Lion’s den, is the Hunting Leopard (Felis Jubata).
E
22
This animal was received from Senegal, and was
perfectly tame, having never been subject to con-
finement. Jn India they are trained for the taking of
game: three living ones were shewna few years
since in the Tower, that were part of a pack belong-
ing to the late Tippeo Sultan. This animal has not
retractile or sheathed claws, like the rest of the feline
tribe.
5. The Black Leopard (Felis Discolor),
This was of a most untameable and ferocious tem-
per, which it constantly exhibited, without distin-
guishing the person that fed it from others. It is
said to be an inhabitant of Java.
6. The Puma, or American Lion (Felis Concolor),
with its young.
This is the largest of the American beasts of prey,
sometimes measuring five feet from the nose to the
insertion of the tail. It is an animal of great
strength and fierceness, sometimes climbing trees,
and springing at whatever may pass beneath, The
young were produced at Exeter-’Change, and are
remarkable for the spots with which they are covered
whilst in a state of infancy.
7. Margay, or Tiger Cat (Felis Tigrina).
This diminutive species has all the evil propensities
and appetites for rapine of the Tiger; it resides prin-
cipally on trees, preying on birds. It is a native of
South America. |
8. The Serval (Felis Serval).
Was received from Senegal; it likewise inhabits
India and Thibet, residing mostly on trees, and
avoiding man, unless when enraged.
9. Cinerous Cat, This appears to have been de-
93
scribed only by Mr. Pennant. It was a native of
Senegal, and its disposition was not so fierce as the
generality of its kind.
10. The Persian Lanx (Felis Caracal).
Was received from Senegal. It is sometimes tamed
and used in the chace of the smaller Quadrupeds,
also Herons, Cranes, Pelicans, &c.
11. American Lynx (Felis Lynx).
At the end of the rocks on which the above are
placed, follow the
VIVERRA, or WEASEL GENUS.
1. The Ichnewnon (Viverra Ichneumon).
In India, but still more in Egypt, the Ichneumon
has always been considered as one of the most useful
and estimable of animals; since it is an inveterate
enemy to serpents, rats, and other noxious creatures
which infest those regions. In India it attacks with
courage that most dreadful reptile, the Cobra de Ca-
pello, or Hooded Snake. It also diligently seeks for
the eggs of crocodiles ; for which reason, as well as
for its general usefulness in destroying all manner of
troublesome reptiles, it was held in such a high degree
of yeneration by the ancient Egyptians, as to be
E2
24:
regarded as a minor deity, or one of those benevolent
beings proceeding from the Parent of the universe,
For the purposes above specified, it is still domestica-
ted by the Indians and Egyptians in the same manner
as the cat in Europe; and it has also the merit of
being easily tamed, aud performing with alacrity all
the offices of that creature. Like many others of this
tribe, it is a most dangerous enemy to several animals
Jarger than itself, over which it gains a victory. and
sucks their blood. Ina wild state it frequents rivers
in quest of prey, where it is reported to swim and
dive like an Otter, and continues a length of time
under water. As it 1S a native of warm climates,
it of course is greatly injured by a removal to the
cold regions of Europe, to the variations of which it
generally falls a victim.
2,and 3. The Coat? Mondi, or Brasilian Weasel
(Viverra Nasua).
A native of South America. They may easily be
domesticated. One that I kept a considerable time
was so familiar, that it was with difficulty it could be
kept from ascending to my shoulders, and when I
was present would at any time attack any strange
dog that approached his apartment. It afterwards
conceived a strict friendship, which continued till
death, for a long-armed Monkey (Simia Paniscus) :
they were inseparable companions ; but I suspect the
object of attraction was the warmth they received
from each other in keeping close together.
4, Striated Weasel (Viverra Putorius).
It isa native of North America, and remarkable
for the intolerable stench which it emits when irrita-
ted, which is so powerful as to prevent either men
or dogs from pursuing it: even the clothes of persons
25
who are near it are obliged te be buried in the ground
for some time before they can be purified,
5. The Skunk (Viverra Mephites).
This, like the last, defends itself by emitting so in-
tolerable an odour, as to overpower whatever pursues
it; this sometimes happens in the houses of the
settlers in North America, when their whole stock of
provisions are rendered useless.
6. The Civet (Viverra Civetta).
This Cat is sometimes erroneously called the Musk
Cat. Itis a native of the hottest climates of Africa
and Asia; yet it is capable of living in temperate or
even in cold countries, if it be carefully defended
against the injuries of air, and provided with delicate
and succulent food. The Civet Cat is a wild, fierce
animal, and feeds on its prey in the same manner as
the fox. In Holland they are frequently reared for
the sake of their perfume, which greatly resembles
musk. This is produced in a pouch under the tail ;
and those that keep them for this purpose put them
into a long narrow box, in which they cannot turn ;
this box is opened behind twice or thrice a week by
the person who collects the perfume, who drags the
animal backwards by the tail, and keeps it in that
situation by placing a bar before it, while with a
small spoon he scrapes the odoriferous substance from
the pouch in which it is produced.
7. Three-striped Weasel (Viverra Hermaphrodita).
It is a native of Barbary, and very destructive to
poultry.
8. The Genet (Viverra Genetta).
This beautiful little animal was kept for some time
alive, and. was suffered to play at liberty in the
26
house: in some parts of the East it is doinesti-
cated, and is very useful in clearing the houses of
vermin.
9. and 10. Spotted Fitchets of New Holland (Vi-
verra Maculata).
11. The Otter (Mustela Lutra). )
Is pretty generally diffused over Europe, North
America, and Asia as far as Persia; it feeds princi-
pally on fish, and is very destructive to our ponds
and rivers; it lives in holes under ground, the open-
ings to which are beneath the surface of the water.
The bite of the Otter is extremely severe, but they
are capable of being tamed, and taught to fish for
their owner, which they do with the greatest address,
as they are capable of remaining a considerable
time under water.
12. The Pekan (Mustela Canadensis).
13. The Martin (Mustela Foina).
Inhabits the woods of most parts of Europe, feed-
ing on birds, and other smaller animals.
14. The Pine Martin (Mustela Martis).
Is occasionally found in the pine forests in the
northern parts of our Island.
15. Fisher Weasel (Mustela Nigra),
16. The Stoat, or Ermine (Mustela Erminea).
Is found principally in the wilds of Russia, and
other cold countries. It is from the skin of this ani-
mal that the valuable white fur is made. They are
said to change their colour, being brown in summer
and white in winter.
27
On a tree near these is the Glutton (Ursus Gulo).
A yoracious animal, inhabiting the northern parts
of Europe, Asia, and America: it preys on deer,
hares, and the smaller quadrupeds, frequently con-
cealing itself among the branches of trees, from
whence, springing on the shoulders of whatever
passes, it adheres firmly to them, till they drop from
fatigue or loss of blood. Their skins are valuable as
fur.
28
OPOSSUMS (DIDELPHIS).
Near the farthest corner from the entrance are
placed the Opossums (Didelphis).
Till the discovery of New Holland, most of the
then known animals of this genus were natives of
America. Australasia has, however, added more
new species to this extraordinary family than were
before known: they are most remarkable for the
abdominal pouch with which the females are fur-
nished, which can be opened or shut at pleasure, in
which the young are concealed in time of danger.
Virginian Opossum (Didelphis Opossum). In-
Habits the warmer parts of America, climbs trees,
and springs from branch to branch by- means of its
strongly prehensile tail.
2. The Marmose (Didelphis Murina).
3. New Holland Opossum (Didelphis Caudivolva).
This has been brought alive to this country, and
is a pleasing, cleanly animal.
4, and 5. Kangaroo (Didelphis Gigantea).
Of all the curious animals which the vast Island,
or rather Continent of Australasia has presented
to our view, the Kangaroo must be considered
as one of the most extraordinary 5 its size, gene-
ral conformation, teeth, and other particulars, con-
spiring to render it a most interesting object to
every naturalist. The first discovery of this re-
markable quadruped was in the year 1770, when
29
Capt. Cook was stationed on the Coast of New Hol-
Jand. It is the only quadruped our colonists have
yet met with in New South Wales that supplies
them with animal food, There are two kinds; the
largest that has. been shot weighed about 140tbs.
and measured from the point of the nose to the end
of the tail 6 feet 1 inch; the tail 2 feet 1 inch;
head 8 inches; fore leg 1 foot; hind legs 2 feet 8
inches; circumference of the fore part of the body
near the leg 1 foot 1 inch; and of the hind part
3 feet. The smaller kinds seldom exceed 60tbs.
This animal is furnished with a pouch similar to that
of the Opossum, in which its young are nursed and
sheltered. It feeds on grass and other vegetable
substances. In their native state these animals are
said to feed in herds of thirty or forty together ; and
one is generally observed to be stationed as if
apparently on the watch, at a distance from the rest.
One of the most remarkable peculiarities of the
Kangaroo is the extraordinary faculty which it pos-
sesses Of separating at pleasure, to a considerable
distance, the two fore teeth in the lower jaw. The
Kangaroo may be considered in some degree as
naturalized in England, several having been kept
for many years in the Royal domains at Richmond,
which have during their residence there produced
young, and promise to render this most elegant
animal a permanent acquisition to our country.
6. The Busk Kangaroo, Not described by any
writer.
7. and.8, Kangaroo Rats (Didelphis Tridactyla).
This species, which from its colour and the general
aspect of its upper parts, has obtained the title of the
Kangaroo Rat ; is about the size of a rabbit; the ge-
F
30
neral shape of the animal resembles that of the Kan-
garoo, but is far less elegant, the proportion of the
parts less pleasing, and the hair, which is a dusky,
cinerous brown, of a coarser nature. In its teeth it
agrees with the great Kangaroo, except that it has
eight instead of six front teeth in the upper jaw, the
two middle ones being sharp-pointed: the fore teeth
in the lower jaw are like those of the Kangaroo as to
shape and position, but are smaller in proportion 5
the grinders are three in number on each side both
above and below, the foremost being fluted or chan-
nelled with several longitudinal ribs; the two re-
maining ones plain. The structure of the hind feet
in this species resembles those of the Kangaroo, but
the fore feet have only four toes. The female is
furnished with an abdominal pouch for the reception
of the young. Some of this species were imported in
a living state from New Holland, and brought forth
young. Its native name is Poto Roo,
9. The Porculine Opossum (Didelphis Obesula).
10. Spotted Opossum (Didelphis Maculata).
11. and 12. Flying Opossums (Didelphis Volans),.
These are natives of New Holland, and Dr. Shaw
seems to speak of them as the most beautiful of
quadrupeds. Their general appearance is that of a
large Flying Squirrel, to which they are nearly
allied.
12. A White Variety of the above.
13. Squirrel Opossum (Didelphis Sciurea).
Is a beautiful animal, greatly resembling the for-
mer, except in size.
14, Zebra Opossum (Didelphis Cynocephala).
This animal, which is the only one known in any
31
collection, is a native of Van Diemen’s Land, where
it inhabits among the caverns and rocks in the high
and almost impenetrable glens of the mountamous
parts of that country: it is the largest carniverous
animal yet discovered in New Holland, measuring
from the nose to the end of the tail five feet three
inches ; it is said to be extremely voracious, which
will scarcely be doubted, when it is known that the
one described in the ninth volume of the Linnzan
Transactions, p. 179, had in its stomach the partly
. digested remains of the Porcupine Ant-eater; it is
said to have a shert gutteral cry, and appeared ex-
ceedingly inactive and stupid. |
15. Pigmy Opossum (Didelphis Pygmza).
This is. the least of all the Opossums; is not
larger than a common mouse: it is a native of
New Holland.
WOMBAT.
The Wombat is a native of New Holland. A living
one was brought to this country by Mr. Brown,
librarian to the Linnean Society, who went as a
naturalist with Capt. Flinders, on his voyage of dis-
covery ; it lived in a domesticated state for two years
in the possession of Everard Home, Esq. to whom, in
a paper read to the Royal Society, June 23, 1808,
we are indebted for the following observations :—* It
F2
52
“ burrowed in the ground whenever it had an oppor«
“ tunity, and covered itself with earth with surprising
** quickness ; it was quiet during the day, but con-
** stantly in motion in the night; was very sensible
* to cold; it eat all kinds of vegetables, but was
“« particularly fond of new hay, which it ate stalk by
“ stalk, taking it into its mouth like a Beaver, by
** small bits at a time; it was not wanting in intelli-
“* gence, and appeared attached to those to whom it
** was accustomed, and who were kind to it; and
** when it saw them it would put its fore paw on the
“« knee ; when taken up, it would sleep in the lap: it
** allowed children to pull and carry it about, and
** when it bit them, did not appear to do it with
“* anger or violence. It appeared to have arrived at
** its full growth, weighed about twenty pounds, and
«* was about two feet two inches long.”
The Brazilian Porcupine (Hystrix Prehensilis).
This very curious animal measures about two feet
six inches in length, and is entirely covered, except
the tip of the tail, with short, strong, and very sharp
spines, of which the largest is about three inches ; it
inhabits woods, and climbs trees, in which it is assisted
by its prehensile tail. They are inhabitants of the
warmer parts of South America. Both the specimens
in this Collection were kept some time alive in Lon-
don. Their food was entirely of a vegetable nature,
and their manner mild and inoffensive ; their voices a
weak, tremulous cry, somewhat resembling that of a
young pig, but not so shrill or loud,
Near this is the Canada Porcupine (Hystrix Dor-
sata).
‘The spines of this are longer and sharper than the
last, but owing to its being covered with long, hair,
are not visible but on close inspection ;_ it sometimes
aS
climbs trees, and is killed by the Indians of North
America as an article of food; the beautiful orna-
mental works on their dresses and utensils are exe-
cuted with the dyed quills of this animal.
CAVYS (CAVIA).
These are all natives of the warmer parts of Ame-
rica; they feed on vegetables, and either burrow in
the ground or live in the hollows of trees.
1. and 2, Spotted Cavys. Burrow in the banks of
rivers, having three outlets to each dwelling; are
easily tamed, like the common Cavy or Guinea Pig ;
its flesh is much esteemed, and eaten by the Por-
tuguese and Spaniards of America.
3. The Long-nosed Cavy (Cavia Aguti). Some-
times called the Java Hare. Is frequently imported
into this country.
4, The Rock Cavy (Cavia Aperea).
5. and 6. River Cavy :(C. Capybara). It is the
largest of the Cavias, and the only one known to have
been brought to this country ; it lived two years in
the possession of Mr. Kendrick, of Piccadilly; was
extremely gentle, and fed on vegetables, though in a
state of nature they are said to dive and catch fish
with great dexterity. A singularity in the animal,
\ G4
which has not been noticed by writers, is, that on the
outside of each hind foot, it has a large, horny pro-
jection, four inches long and two broad, probably
intended to assist it in swimming,
BEAVER.
The Beaver (Castor Fiber).
The Beaver is a native of the most northern parts
of Europe, Asia, and America; in its natural state
lives in well-regulated societies of from two to three
hundred each, constructing their habitations of wood
and clay in the most astonishing manner, with the
greatest regularity ; but when taken from their native
haunts they are said, by all naturalists who have had
an opportunity of observing them, to lose their instinct
and become a stupid and sluggish animal. The fol-
Jowing anecdote may, however, be relied on :—a pair
of them was purchased a few years since by Mr.
Polito, for the purpose of exhibiting in his Collec-
tion; they were put into an upper room or loft,
with a quantity of green sticks and boughs for their
food; on visiting them in the morning, only one
acould be discovered, which was lying ina state of
evident uneasiness in a corner of the room: at last,
after some search, the female was found to have died
in the night, and the male had remoyed her to an
35
obscure part of the place, and covered her carefully
over with wood, so that no part of her could be seen,
and had then retired to the place where he was
found.
MARM OT.
The Marmot (Arctomys Marmota).
The Marmot, when taken young, is more capable
of being tamed than any other wild animal; it will
easily learn to perform feats with a stick, to dance
and obey the voice of its master; it bears a great
antipathy to the dog, and when it becomes familiar
ina house, and is certain of being supported by its
master, it will in his presence attack the largest dogs,
and boldly fasten on them with its teeth. They are
natives of the Alps and Pyrenean mountains, and
remain in a torpid state from the end of September
to the beginning of April. They live in societies,
from five to fourteen in number, in burrows which
have several passages constructed with great art; the
principal apartment at the end is warmly lined with
moss and hay; and it is asserted that this work is
carried on by the whole company; that some cut the
finest grass, others pull it up, others take it in their
turn to convey it to the hole; upon this occasion, it is
atlded, one of them lies on its back, permits the hay
to be heaped on its belly, keeping its paws upright
36
to make room, and in this manner is dragged, hay
and all, to their common retreat. Whenever they
venture abroad, one is placed as a centinel, sitting on
an elevated rock, while the others amuse themselves
in the fields below ; and no sooner does he perceive a
man, aneagle, a dog, or any other enemy, than he
informs the rest by a kind of whistle, and is himself
the last to take refuge in the cell. These animals
run much swifter up hill than down; they climb trees,
and run up the clefts of rocks with great ease: indeed
it is ludicrously said of the Savoyards, who are the
general chimney-sweepers of Paris, that they have
learned their trade from the Marmot,
SQUIRRELS (SCIURUS).
These are a numerous and active race of animals,
dispersed over most parts of the world ; their food is
wholly vegetable, of which they lay up stores for
their winter provision. |
1. The Black Squirrel (Sciurus Niger).
Inhabits North America, where it does much mis-
chief to the maize plantations.
2. Grey Squirrel (Sciurus Cinerius),
This is also a native of America, and is so great a
pest to the farmer, that very considerable sums have
een paid for their destruction.
37
3. Pair of Russian Squirrels, A variety of S,
Vulgaris.
4. Palm Squirrel (S. Palmarum).
Inhabits the hot parts of Africa and Asia: feeds
principally on cocoa nuts.
5. & 6. Ground Squirrel (S. Striatus).
Native of the colder parts of America and Asia;
burrows under ground, and has cheek pouches, with
which it carries home its winter stock of provisions.
7. Flying Squirrel of America (S. Volucella).
Is less than the common European, being not above
five inches long, and is of a grey ash colour on the
back, and white on the under parts; he has black
prominent eyes like a mouse, with a large broad flat
tail. ‘The name seems to imply that he is endowed
with wings like a bat, which however is not the case;
for he has only a loose skin on each side, extending
from the fore to the hinder feet, with which it is
connected ; this skin he can stretch out like a sail,
which holds so much air, that it buoys him up, by
which means he can jump from one tree to another at
a great distance, insomuch that some have thought
he had the faculty of flying. He feeds on the same
provisions as other squirrels, and may easily be made
tame; but he is apt to do a great deal of mischief in.
corn fields, by cropping the corn as soon as it begins
to ear.
8. & 9. An undescribed species from Senegal.
oO)
38
HARES (LEPUS).
1. American Hare (Lepus Americanus).
2. American Hare, just receiving its winter cloth-
ing, which in the northern part is entirely white.
3. Hare from Senegal, greatly resembling the
common, but the hair much shorter and finer, and
the animal of a less size than ours.
4. Angora Rabbit (Lepus Angorensis).
The Lama (Camelus Glama).
This is a native of the Peruvian mountains, and
was the only beast of burthen known to the original
inhabitants: it resembles the Camel in being able to
abstain from drink for a considerable time, and travels
about three German miles a-day, carrying a burthen
of 150tb. This specimen is about six months old ;
bred in 1811, by I. Thorpe, Esq. of Chippenham
Park, near Newmarket, and is the only one ever
produced in this country.
The Vicuna (Camelus Vicuna).
This is another of the Peruvian animals, with
39
which, till lately, we have not been well acquainted.
It inhabits the highest mountains of the Andes im
flocks; is timid and gentle, but very swift: it car-
ries small burthens, although it is not easily tamed ;
their wool is extremely fine; from it is manufactured
cloths of the most exquisite softness and beauty,
known by the name of Vigona Cloth. This speci-
men is the only one ever brought alive to this
country ; it was in the extensive Menagerie of Mr.
S. Polito, to whose liberality in encouraging the im-
portation of foreign animals the public are indebted
for the knowledge of many interesting subjects be-
fore unknown.
The Memina, male and female (Moschus Memi-
na).
These were received from Java; one of them
lived some time in the Menagerie of her Royal
Highness the Duchess of York, who presented it to
the Museum. ‘The other was presented by her
Royal Highness the Princess Charlotte of Wales,
The Stag (Cervus Elephus).
A remarkable fine specimen of this noble animal ;
presented by the Earl of Derby, in whose park at
Knowsley it led the herd for seyeral years.
G2
40)
CAMELOPARDALIS (GIRAFFA),
The Camelopardalis, or Giraffa (Camelopardalis Gis
raffa) which is by far the tallest of all known quads
rupeds, measuring the extraordinary height of seven-
teen feet three inches from the hoof of the fore foot
to the top of the head, whilst (so disproportionate
is the form) that the body scarcely exceeds that
of a horse. Till lately the existence of so wonderful
an animal was doubted by many Huropean Natura-
lists, who ranked it amongst the fabulous monsters of
antiquity.
This specimen was lately killed at a considerable
distance, in the interior of the Cape of Good Hope,
by the Rev. Mr Edwards, an African Missionary,
now travelling in that country, under the patronage
of Lord Caledon, the Governor of the Cape. It
is represented as an harmless, timid animal, living
in small herds of six or seven together, in the plains
that border on Caifraria: they are so extremely
shy and wary, that it is with the greatest difficulty
they can be approached: they feed on the fruit
of the wild apricot, and on the tender branches of
several species of Mimosa. This specimen, which
is a full grown male, and very rich in colour, is
allowed to be the finest ever brought to Europe, and
is in the most perfect preservation.
Such is the excessive rarity of this singular animal,
that from the decline of the Roman Empire till the
middle of the eighteenth century its existence was
deemed extremely problematical, if not in the high-
est degree chimerical. ‘The contradictory accounts
of Oppian, Heliodorus, and Strabo, at periods whey
4}
curiosity might have been amply gratified, and inves-
tigation have received the fullest and most satisfactory
conviction, by attending the public games (upon
which occasions, Pliny informs us, it was frequently
exhibited), were alone sufficient to create justifiable
doubts, and propagate an opinion of the inaccuracy
of the statements and inadvertency of these writers
upon the subject. ‘The narratives of succeeding tra-
vellers, who felt little inclination to observe, or whose
opportunities of observation were limited and few,
only tended to increase this perplexity, already too
intricate, and by their dark, ambiguous details,
equally opposite and vague, to confirm the previous
supposition of its fabulous and imaginary origin.
That this conjecture should have been strengthened
by a perusal of the several relations of our travellers
and naturalists, ought not to excite surprise, when
we remember we are told, by one, that the length of
its fore-legs is double that of those behind—by ano-
ther, that this disparity does not exist—by a third,
that such is their astonishing length, that a man
mounted on horseback may with ease pass beneath its
body,—and by a fourth, that in point of magnitude,
it does not exceed the size of a small horse.
From such a contrariety of evidence, the veracity
of the traveller became disputed, and the credulity of
the naturalist an object of derision. ‘The whole was
rejected as a fictitious invention—was classed with the
crude abortions of Pliny’s fervid imagination; and
such was the influence of this variety of testimony,
that though Capt. Carteret had given a distinct account
of a Giraffe killed at the Cape of Good Hope in the
year 1769, Mr. Pennant still refused to yield his as+
sent, till convinced by personal inspection of a skin
preserved in the University of Leyden. The cloud of
uncertainty, however, which has so long hovered
4:2
over the real form of this beautiful and extraordinary
animal, has of late years been dissipated by the mi-
nute descriptions of Gordon, Vaillant, and Sparrman.
From them we have learned its size, its proportions,
and peculiarities, with an accuracy and fidelity both
laudable and decisive. Yet, whilst we are fully ac-
quainted with the external qualities of the Girafla, it
is to be lamented we know so little of its habits.
An extreme docility, and remarkable passiveness of
disposition, form the prominent features of its cha-
racter. Antonius Constantius, a writer of the fifteenth
century, and one of the earliest of modern travellers
who has noticed it, mentions one which he saw led
through the streets of Fano, so gentle and quiescent
in its conduct, that the children of the town brought
bread and fruit, which it patiently ate from their
hands, and received the gratuitous offerings of the
spectators at their windows as it passed. Mr. Gor-
don also records an anecdote of the Giraffa slain by
himself, which represents it in a truly amiable and in-
teresting light. Having wounded it with a musket-
ball, it suffered him to approach it as it lay upon
the ground, without offering to strike with its horns,
or shewing any inclination to revenge itself. He
even stroked it over the eyes several times, which it
only closed without evincing any signs of resentment.
When its throat was cut, for the purpose of procuring
the skin, and whilst lying in the agonies of death,
it struck the earth with its feet, with a degree of
violence and force far exceeding that of any other
animal. In these, Mr. Vaillant informs us, lay his
only means of defence; yet such is the rapidity
with which he is enabled to exert them, that the
succession of their movements almost escapes per-
ception; and so powerful are the blows inflicted,
that they are sufficient to repel the attacks of the
43
Lion, though of little avail against the fury and impe-
tuosity of ‘the Tiger.
Its general food consists of the leaves of a species
of Mimosa, called by the natives, kanaap, and by the
planters, Pomel deer though when grass is to be
obtained (which from the scarcity of pasture in the
southeri provinces of Africa is but seldom) in com-
mon with other horned cattle, it joyfully partakes of
such a repast. An erroneous opinion, however, has
been promulgated, that when feeding upon shrubs
and herbage, it is compelled to extend its legs to a
considerable distance, in order to bring its mouth in
contact with the earth. ‘This, Mr. Vaillant, who has
been peculiarly explicit upon the subject, contradicts,
from his own experience and observation both whilst
grazing and drinking, and pertinently remarks, that
if we wiil compare the length of the neck with that
of the legs and body, we shall discover there is no
necessity for this unnatural assistance. This testi-
mony is also confirmed by the representation given of
the Giraffa in the beautiful Praenestine pavement of
Sylla, where we observe it delineated amidst a herd
of African quadrupeds, browsing in the customary
posture of other beasts.
Ad
ANTELOPES (ANTILOPE).
1, The Blue Antelope (Antilope Leucophcea), was
received from Senegal; is also found at the Cape of
Good Hope.
2. Corrine Antelope (Antilope Corrina).
3. Female of the above.
4. The Harnessed Antelope (Antilope Scripta).
A most beautiful speciés found near the Senegal
river. Presented by his Royal Highness the Duke of
York.
5. Pigmy Antelope (Antelope Pygmea).
This beautiful and diminutive species is only nine
inches high. It inhabits the hotter parts of Africa,
and is said, by authors, to be capable of leaping
a wall twelve feet high; it is easily tamed, but
is so tender as not to survive a removal from its
native clime. ;
The Broad-tailed Sheep. A curious African spe-
cies, sent by the Dey of Algiers to the Earl of Liver-
pool, who presented it to the Museum.
The Zebra (Equus Zebra). This extremely
beautiful animal is a native of the hotter parts of
Africa, and is frequently seen in herds in the neigh-
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bourhood of the Cape of Good Hope; they are
however so extremely wild and cautious as rarely to
be taken, and are of a disposition so vicious and
untameable as seldom to submit to the bridle, even
when taken young. In size, the Zebra is superior to
the Ass; in its colour it is much more elegant:
the ground is white or cream colour, and the
whole animal is decorated with very numerous black
or dark brown stripes, disposed with the utmost sym-
metry in a manner not easily to be described.
The Pecari, or Mexican Hog (Sus Tajasu).
Inhabits the warm parts of America, feeding on
vegetables and reptiles: is said to attack and devour
the Rattle Snake with impunity.
On a Rock, near the Sea View, are placed the
SEALS.
\
The Common Seal (Phoca Vitulina).
This animal is a native of the European Seas, and
is found about all the coasts of the Northern hemis-
phere, and even as far as the opposite one, being seen
in vast numbers about the southern polar regions.
Weare informed by Mr. Pennant, that it also inhabits
some fresh-water lakes, asthat of Baikal, Aral, &c.
Seals may often be observed sleeping on the rocks
H ;
46
near the coast; but when approached too near, they
suddenly precipitate themselves into the water.—
Sometimes they sleep sound; and it is affirmed by
some, that the Seal sleeps more profoundly than
most other quadrupeds. ‘The structure of the Seal is
so singular, that, as Buffon well observes, it was
a kind of model on which the imagination of the
Poets formed their Tritons, Sirens, and Sea-gods,
with a human head, the body of a quadruped, and
the tail ofa fish. ‘The Seal is possessed of a con-
siderable degree of intelligence, and may be tamed,
so as to become familiar. The female Seals produce
their young in the winter season, and seldom bring
more than two at abirth. It is said, that they suckle
their young ones for about the space of a fortnight on
the spot where they are born, after which they take
them out to sea, and instruct them in swimming and
seeking their food, which consists of fish, sea-weeds,
&e.
Falkland-Isle Seal (Phoca Australis). -
Remarkable for the structure of the hind-feet, the
webs of which extend far beyond the claws, which in
the fore feet are wanting.
A small Seal, from Davis’s Straits, supposed to be
Phoca Pucilla.
Near this, on the right hand side, is seen, as de-.
scending from a rock, the Whzte, or Greenland Beur
(Ursus Maritimus).
This is a far larger species than the common Bear,
and is said to have been sometimes found of the
length of twelve feet. ‘he head and neck are of a
more lengthened form than in the common Bear,
and the body itself is longer in proportion. The
whole animal is white, the ears are round and small,
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the eyes little, and the teeth of extraordinary mag-
nitude; the hair is of great length, and the limbs are
extremely large and strong. It seems confined to
the coldest part of the globe, being found within
eighty degrees of north latitude, as far as any navi-
gators have yet penetrated. The shores of Hudson’s
Bay, Greenland, and Spitsbergen, are its principal
places of residence; but it is said to be carried
sometimes on the floating ice as far south as New-
foundland.—The Polar. Bear is an animal of tremen-
dous strength and fierceness. Barentz, in his voyage
in search of a North-east passage to China, had
proofs of the ferocity of these animals, in the Island
of Nova Zembla, where they attacked the seamen,
seizing them in their mouths, carrying them off
with the greatest ease, and devouring them in the
sight of their comrades. It is said that they some-
times will attempt to board armed vessels at a distance
from shore, and have been repelled with difficulty.
Presented by S, Staniforth, Esq. of Liverpool.
On one of the Basalt Columns near the Sea, is
the Platypus (Platypus Anatinus).
Of all the quadrupeds yet known, this seems the
most extraordinary, exhibiting the perfect resem-
blance of the beak of a duck engrafted on the head of
a quadruped ; so great was the resemblance, that Dr.
Shaw, who published the first account of it, could
scarcely refrain from thinking it a deception; but
we are since become acquainted with the animal and
its habits. It is a native of New Holland, and is
found in fresh water lakes in the neighbourhood of
Port Jackson, in the muddy banks of which it pro-
cures its food. Governor Hunter observed a native
spear one with great dexterity; but it used its sharp
claws with such strength, that it was necessary to
confine it between two boards in order to extract the
H 2
48
barb, when it ran off with greater speed than from
the structure of the fore feet it seemed capable of
doing on the land. |
Near the Zebra is, perhaps, the largest specimen
of the Land Tortoise ever brought into this country
the shell alone measuring 3 feet 2 inches in length,
and near 6 feet in circumference ; it is the Testuda
Indica of Linnzeus. :
Twisted round the Trunk of the Large Tree be-
hind the Zebra, is a specimen of the Great Serpent of
Surinam ; and on the ground, with its head erect, near
the window opposite the Stag, is another from the
Brazils ; presented by his Royal Highness the Duke
of York: they are near 20 feet long, and are of the
kind that has usually been called the Boa Constrictor, .
but they belong to the Genus Coluber.
On the Rocks, near the commencement on the
Land Side, is the Coryphene, or Dolphin—see Com-
panion of the Museum, p. 106. :
The Torpedo Ray (Raja Torpedo).
Frog Fish (Lophius Europezus).
Young Shark—see Companion to the Museum,
p- 114. 7
Porcupine Fish—see as above, p. 108.
Near these are a pair of those immense Shells, the
Chama Gigas of Linneus. They are the largest of
all known shell fish, being 3 feet across, and weigh-
ing upwards of 300Ib. This is the Cockle mentioned
by voyagers as capable of dining a whole ship’s
company. The fish is said to weigh 40tb.: it is
black, but not ill-tasted, and is generally cut into
steaks and broiled.
BOTANICAL SUBJECTS
IN THE
PANTHERION.
Turovucu the windows on the left side of the entrance
is a fine specimen of Citrus Aurantium, the Seville
Orange.
On entering the room on the same side, forming
the division of the first and second windows, is Atro-
carpus Incisi, the Bread-fruit Tree.
The fruit of this tree the inhabitants of the La-
drone, Phillipine, and most of the islands in the
South Seas, use as bread. Dampier says, “ that in
“«* Guam, one of the Ladrone islands, there is a cer-
** tain fruit called the Bread-fruit, growing on a
** tree as big as our large apple-tree, with dark leaves.
‘© The fruit is round, and grows on the boughs like
“© apples, of the bigness of a good penny-loaf:
‘« when ripe it turns yellow, soft and sweet; but the
** natives take it green and bake it in an oven till the
* yind is black; this they scrape off, and eat the inside,
50
which is soft and white like the inside of nev
«« baked bread, having neither seed nor stone ; but,
“ if kept longer than twenty-four hours, it is harsh.
« This fruit is in season eight months in the year,
«* and the natives feed on no other sort of bread du-
«* ying that time.”
Somewhat to the right of the foregoing, ata dis-
tance from the window, is Agave Americana, Ameri-
can Aloe, in bloom.
The next division of the windows is formed by
Citrus the Five-fingered Lemon, or Citron, an
agreeable acid fruit, which is used by the inhabitants
of hot climates for the same purposes as the Common
Lemon.
Fronting the third window, is Musa Sapientum, the
Banana. This plant is to the inhabitants of the
West India Islands, what the Bread-fruit Tree is to
the countries where it is indigenous, the staple article
of food: the fruit is so essential to the natives of
_ tropical climes, that they never go to a distance
without taking a quantity of it with them. When
« the West Indians undertake a voyage, they make
“a provision of paste of Banana, which in case of
‘« need serves them for nourishment and drink ; for
*« this purpose they take ripe Bananas, and, having
“ squeezed them through a fine sieve, form the solid
“ fruit into loaves, which are dried in the sun or in
«« hot ashes, after being previously wrapped up in
« the leaves of the Indian Flowering Reed.”
When they make use of this paste they dissolve it
in Water, which is very easily done, and the liquor,
thereby rendered thick, has an agreeable acid taste
imparted to it, which makes it both refreshing and
nourishing,
51
‘Twining round the stem of the Banana, is Passi-
flora Quadrangularis, the Square-stalked Passion
Flower. This is the only species producing an
eduble fruit, which in the West Indies is known by
the name of Granadilla.
The stem dividing the third and fourth windows, is
the Annona Reticularis, Custard Apple. This, with
two other species, are frequently confounded under
the appellation of sweet and sour sop.
Placed between the Rhinoceros and Elephant, - is
Dimocarpus Litcht, which produces a beautiful straw-
berry-like fruit,
Ata short distance to the right, is a variety known
by the name of Mandarin Orange; when ripe it has
a peculiar fine flavour, and has the appearance of
being double.
Trained on the fourth window is a curious variety
of Peach, which is cultivated in China, on account
of its luscious fruit.
Trailing on the Rocks over the Den of the Lion,
is the Bottle Gourd, a native of the West Indies.
Projecting as from the back of the room, are seen
the Fruit of Addinsonia Digitata, the Boabad. This
is one of the largest of the vegetable tribe, being (as
we are informed) sometimes found exceeding seventy
feet in circumference ; the leaves as well as fruit are
used by the negroes for food: the latter they dry and
then pound; after which, they mix the powder with
their drink, which in some measure allays the violent
perspirations that frequently prove dangerous in hot
climates,
52
From the centre division is seen a fruit known to
the Chinese by the name of Date.
The two centre window frames and divisiofi are
formed of a branch of Quercus Suber, the Cork Tree.
In the adjoining window, is a small branch of
Passiflora Alata, the Winged-stalked Passion Flower.
Nearly opposite the centre of the same window,
is Carica Papaya, the Papaw Tree, with its fruit in
different stages of maturity.
The division of the next window, is Pstd:wm Pyre-
ferum, the Guava, or Bay-Plum, a fruit frequently
imported into this country in the form of jelly, from
the West Indies.
In the back ground, to the right of the Papaw, is
Borassus Flabelliformis, the Palmira, Fan, or Malabar
Palm. From this plant the natives of India obtaina
very agreeable liquor susceptible of vinous fermen-
tation, from which they either distil a spirit, or by
evaporation obtain sugar. The leaves of this and
other species are used by the inhabitants of Asia and
Ceylon as paper, requiring no other preparation than
to be separated and cut smooth with a knife; they are
written upon while fresh with a steel, or stylus ; the
characters thus traced are rubbed over with charcoal}
or other black substance, which gives them the dis-
tinctness of engravings. The wood of this tree is of
a dark colour, elegantly veined with yellow, and is
used for buildings and domestic purposes. The
leaves are also used for umbrellas, one of which
Thunberg asserts, ‘ is sufficiently large to shelter six
*« persons from rain.”
In front of the last, is Urania Speciosa, an interest-
ing and highly curious plant, nearly approaching in
external appearance the Strelitzia and Heleconia.
53
Behind this, towards the corner, is Pandannus Odo-
ratissimus, the Nicobar Bread-fruit. This, though
of so tempting an appearance, is but very indifferent
food, and is but seldom eaten but in cases of necessity.
Behind the Pandannus, is Citrus Decumana, the
Shaddock, the fruit of which was cast from recently
imported specimens.
At a few paces to the right, is Cocus Nucefera, the
Cocoa-nut Tree. This well known tree rises to the
height of sixty feet ; is crowned with a bunch of ten
or twelve leaves, each leaf being from ten to fifteen
feet in length, and composed of a double range of
flag-shaped leatlets: the cocoa is of slow growth ;
but, to compensate for this, it lives long, and regue
larly bears fruit three or four times in the year. In
Ceylon, it is a common practice to make an incision
in the flower sheath, from whence issues a white
sweet liquor, of a pleasant flavour, which the natives
call Toddy. This distils from the wound, and is res
ceived in earthen pots or chatties, which are sus-
pended from the branches.
It is a wholesome and cooling drink, while fresh,
but this is not long, as it contains a quantity of sugar,
and of course, in the warm climate of Ceylon, it soon
ferments; in the space of twenty-four hours it be-
comes acid, and after a time proves intoxicating,
The fruit of this tree is the Cocoa Nut, so generally
known in this country ; when half ripe, it contains a
quantity of clear water, better known by the name of
milk; this has a pleasant smell and most agreeable
taste: in countries where the heat is intense, and the
ground frequently parched for want of moisture, the
milk of this nut proves, from its coolness, a delightful
and refreshing beverage. |
I »
54
Every part of this tree is destined for the servicé of
man: of the rind of the nut the natives make their
cordage and nets; of a light, loose substance that
grows among the branches, cloth of various kinds,
and for various purposes, is manufactured; the
branches and stems are used in buildings and for
domestic purposes, while the leaves are employed to
cover the roofs and repel rain: these last are also
made into mats, baskets, and other domestic utensils.
Embracing the stem of the Cocoa, is a beautiful
variegated species of Gourd, cast from a specimen
raised in this country.
Fronting the last window on this side, is a beautiful
and high-flavoured, though diminutive, species of
Orange, modelled from a drawing in the possession
of Sir Joseph Banks, whose unbounded liberality in
forwarding scientific enquiry, the proprietor of this
Establishment has gratefully to acknowledge—as,
from Sir Joseph’s Personal dircctios, the use of his
library and valuable collection of fruit, the principal
part of these curious exotic vegetables were mo-
delled.
On the stem, dividing the two last windows, is
iMangifera Domestica (the Mango), the fruit of which
is well known in this country as a pickle.
Fronting the Cameleopard, is Areca Catechu (the
Betel Tree), whose fruit is in this country known by
the name of Betel Nut (and used here as a dentifrice);
it grows in clusters at the top of the stem, in the
manner of the cocoa; they are about the size of a
hen’s egg, and the natives chew them in the same
manner as tobacco is used in this and other coun-
tries.
The nuts are prepared by first cutting them in
55
slices, and sprinkling them with slacked lime, and
then wrapping them in leaves of some species of pep-
per, which they masticate with the nut. The wood
is used in building the habitations of the natives. In
America, the trunks of the trees are used as water
pipes, for which purpose they are admirably adapted,
from the hardness and durability of the wood.
The Passion Flower, climbing the tree, is of the
same species as the one already described with the
Bannana. |
Continuing to the right, is Thea Virides (the Green
Tea Plant) which is now pretty generally cultivated
in most conservatories and green-houses in this king~
dom,
Growing from behind the trunk of the large tree
in the corner, is the Mimosa Scandens, Climbing Mi-
mosa. The immense pods or seed vessels are hang-
ing pendant from a small branch; in one of the small
windows fronting the sea view, a pod is placed,
which serves to shew the exact form: it is not a
large specimen, as they are frequently met with full
four feet in length.
From the last-mentioned window is seen, Rizzo-
phora Gymnorhiza the Mangrove or Oyster ‘Tree.
This is a native of the East Indies, where it attains
the height of ten or twelve feet; it affects moist situa-
tions, generally within the influx of the sea, where
the tide can wash its stem. There is something ex-
ceedingly curious in the manner which nature has
chosen to conduct the seed of the Mangrove to the
earth; it is a remarkable deviation from the general
rule, and is simply thus:—The fruit produces a
single seed, inclosed in an oblong capsule, which,
when ripe, begins to germinate without falling from
the tree. A little radicle makes its appearance from
I
56
the top of the capsule, from whence it proceeds in the
form of a ligneous fibre, till it is more than a foot
long ; in this state the seed hangs pendant, till by its
weight, added to the continual occilations to which it
is subject from the slightest breath of air, it is dis-
engaged from the capsule and falls to the ground.
The process which follows is common to other seeds.
The seeds are said to fall so as to rest in a vertical
position; this may easily happen where the ground
is Continually moist and soft enough to receive any
impression, which is constantly the case where these
trees are found.
In China, the bark is employed to strike a black
dye; it emits a very strong sulphurous exhalation
and the wood, which has the same odour, burns yery
briskly and with a dazzling flame.
In consequence of the Mangrove growing as it
were in the water, it becomes the resort of fishes,
particularly oysters; the last deposits its spawn upon
the stems and branches, which in time become loaded
with them ; and the oysters gathered from such si-
tuations may readily be known by pieces of the wood,
which are generally attached to the shells.
From the circumstances above related, the tree has
taken the common appellation of Oyster Tree.
Rising on two green stems, are the heads or flowers
of Cyperus Papyrus, the Papyrus. They are placed
rather to the left of the Mangrove.
From this plant the ancient Egyptians formed their
books or papers. For this purpose, the thick part of
the stalk was cut in two; the pellicle between the
pith and the bark, or perhaps the two pellicles, were
stript off and divided by an iron instrument, which
was probably sharp pointed, but did not cut at the
edges. This was squared at the sides, so as to be
i-
Hike a ribband, then laid upon a smooth table, after
being cut the length the leaf required.
The Egyptians applied the Papyrus to several
purposes, independent of the manufacture of paper.
The roots sometimes served them for fire-wood, and
were formed into different domestic utensils. Of the
stems, interlaced together, they constructed a kind
of boat; and of the interior bark, they made their
sails, mats, clothes, cordage, and coverlids of their
beds.
The boats made of Papyrus resembled great bas-
kets, compactly woven together, and plaistered with
some resinous substance. It was probably in a ves-
sel of this kind that Moses was exposed, when he was
found by the daughter of Pharaoh, on the banks of
the Nile.
[For the above and other interesting accounts of
the Botanical subjects in this Exhibition, we are
indebted to Wood’s Zoography. ]
END OF THE PANTHERION,
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belt
Lately was Published,
IN SEVEN LARGE OCTAVO VOLUMES, WITH A
LIFE OF THE AUTHOR;
A DICTIONARY
Of the various Terms used in Natural History,
AND APPROPRIATE COPPERPLATES,
Price 5/. 5s. in Boards, or 6/. well Bound, or with the
Plates elegantly coloured, in boards, 61, 6s.
or well bound, 7/. 7s.
A GENERAL
SYSTEM OF NATURE,
THROUGH THE THREE GRAND KINGDOMS OF
Animals, Vegetables, and Minerals ;
SYSTEMATICALLY DIVIDED
INTO THEIR SEVERAL
Classes, Orders, Genera, Species, and Varieties; with
their Habitautions, Manners, Economy,
Structure, and Pecultarities.
Translated from the last Editions of the celebrated
SYSTEMA NATUR,
BY SIR CHARLES LYNNE:
AMENDED AND ENLARGED BY THE IMPROVEMENTS AND DISCOVERIES
OF LATER NATURALISTS AND SOCIETIES,
By WILLIAM TURTON, M. D.
AUTHOR OF THE MEDICAL Gtossary, Kc, &e,
‘* Thus may our life, exempt from public haunt,
“« Find tongues in trees, books in the running brooks,
** Sermons in stones, and good in every thing.”
SHAKESPEARE.
a ngage
LONDON:
PRINTED FOR LACKINGTON, ALLEN, AND CO, TEMPLE OF
THE MUSES, FINSBURY-SQUARE,
Man, always curious and inquisitive, and ever desirous
of adding to his useful knowledge, among other
sources of amusement and instruction, is naturally
Jed to contemplate and to inquire into the works of
Nature. He looks with grateful reverence upon
those vast families of created beings, which it has
pleased the Author of all things to place subordinate
to his wisdom and power: he examines, with wonder,
their formation, habits, and economy ; and hears, with
delight, the narrations of those who have sought after
the Natural Curiosities of distant countries.
That this beautiful and inviting study may be faci-
litated, and that the whole of the productions and
inhabitants of this our globe may be arranged and
conveniently exhibited, systems have been invented,
reducing them to their several kingdoms, classes,
tribes, families, and individuals; with their names,
habitations, manners, economy, and appearance.
These have enjoyed their various degrees of repute
and excellence; but the amazing comprehension,
Jearning, and labour, of the celebrated Sir Charles
Linné, has produced a system so clear and simple,
so compendious and accurate, that the lover of
Natural History may directly discover the name and
properties of whatever subject may fall in his way, or
he may choose to investigate. .
In systematic arrangement, the student has this
peculiar advantage, that by immediately arriving at
the name, the whole of its known qualities are at once
displayed to him; but without a systematic classifica-
tion, he wanders in obscurity and uncertainty, and
must collect the whole of its habits and peculiarities
before he can ascertain the individual he is examining.
Mi
_ The traveller, for example, who wishes to collect
the more curious subjects of Natural History, finds a
bird, whose name, habits, and economy, he is desirous
of investigating ; from its conic, sharp-pointed bill,
slender legs, and divided toes, he finds that it belongs
to the order Passeres; and from its thick, strong,
conyex-bill, with the lower mandible bent in at the
edges, and the tongue abruptly cut off at the end, he
refers it to the genus Loxia, or Grosbeak ; and run-
ning his eye over the specific differences, he imme-
diately determines it, from its exactly answering to
the specific character, “ Body above, brown ; beneath,
yellowish-white ; crown and breast, pale yellow;
chin, brown; to be the Phillippine Grosbeak (Loxia
Phillippina) a little bird which he finds is a native of
the Phillippine Islands, and endowed by nature with
instinctive notions of preservation and comfort, nearly
approaching to human intelligence; that it constructs
a curious nest with the long fibres of plants, or dry
grass, and suspends it by a kind of cord, nearly half
an ell long, from the end of a slender branch ofa tree,
that it may be inaccessible to snakes, and safe from
the prying intrusion of the numerous monkies which
inhabit those regions; at the end of this cord is a
gourd-shaped nest, divided into three apartments, the
first of which is occupied by the male, the second by
the female, and the third containing the young; and
in the first apartment, where the male keeps watch
while the female is hatching, is placed, on one side, a
little tough clay, and on the top of this clay is fixed a
glow-worm, to afford its inhabitants light in the night-
time.
The angler catches a fish, and from the singularity
of its appearance is desirous to ascertain its place in
the Science of Ichthyology, its name and habits ;
by its “broad pectoral fins, which more or less re-
semble the feet of quadrupeds,” he finds it belongs
iv
to the genus Lophius; and by its “depressed body,
and rounded head,” he discovers it to be the Common
Angler, or Fishing Frog (Lophius Piscatorius), a
heavy, sluggish animal, that swims with difficulty,
lurks behind sand-hills and heaps of stones, and
throws over the long slender appendages resembling
worms, or baits, with which its head is furnished, in
order to entice the little fish to play round them, till
they come within its reach to devour them.
That the English student may be put in possession
of this vast treasure, comprehending and illustrating
all Nature through the three kingdoms of Animals,
Vegetables, and Minerals; a translation from the
last edition of the Systema Nature of Linné, by
Gmelin, amended and enlarged by the improvements
and editions of later Naturalists, is now undertaken at
great labour and expence.
The expediency of this translation has long been
acknowledged, and the want of it often lamented ;
and it shall be a principal view of the Editor to de-
liver it in as intelligible and as useful a form as the
nature of such a work will admit. The Linnean
terms will be rendered as nearly as possible to the
idiom of the English language ; and a general Ex-
planatory Dictionary of such’as are peculiarly ap-
propriate to the Science will be affixed to the last vo-
jume, which will also contain a biographical account,
and a fine portrait of the author. The work will be
accompanied by such copper-plates as are properly
introductory to the several departments of Birds,
Fishes, Insects, Botany, &c. And for the conve-
niency of such as wish to become acquainted with
the productions of their own country, the different
subjects of Natural History, hitherto found in Great
Britain, will be pointed out by an asterisk. It will
be printed nearly in the same form as Withering’s Bo-
Vv
tanical Arrangements, and will make seven large
octavo volumes. ;
* He that enlarges his curiosity after the works of
Nature,” says a celebrated writer, “ demonstrably
multiplies the lets to happiness. A man that has
formed a habit of turning every new object to his
entertainment, finds in these productions an inex-
haustible stock of materials upon which he can em-
ploy himself without temptation to envy or malevo-
lence; faults, perhaps, seldom entirely avoided by
those whose judgment is much exercised upon the
works of art. He has always a certain prospect of
discovering new reasons for adoring the Sovereign
Author of the Universe, and probable hopes of ma-
king some discovery of benefit to others, or of profit
to himself.”
The traveller who has leisure and inclination to be
acquainted with this charming Science, who may
find it necessary to determine what animals are fit
for food, and what are poisonous, or who may wish
to add whatever new materials may occur to him ;
the collector of such subjects as are valuable either
for their beanty or their rarity, and who may wish to
arrange his cabinet according to the laws of Nature
and Science ; and the retired and private individual,
who may desire to fill his vacant hours with a natural
knowledge of the various objects around him, must,
except they be well acquainted with the Latin Lan-
guage, and the technical terms peculiar to the Science,
be for ever ignorant of the means by which this in-
formation may be best obtained.
Had Natural History been .more scientifically
known, Jzlton would not have described the Whale
as a scaly animal, nor the Snake as having a hairy
mane: nor would the arms of many of our nobility
have been supported by the representations of com-
vi
pound animals, existing only in the wild imagination
of fanciful dreamers,
The advancement of Agriculture, and most of our
arts and manufactures, must depend in no small mea-
sure upon our comparative knowledge of Natural
History, particularily Chemistry and Botany ; and
these will doubtless become enlarged as this Science
is more studied, and more known.
The Editor therefore hopes, that in delivering
this work in the English Language, he is adding
something to the stock of innocent amusement, and
something to general utility.
See
ho , ies
eA ia }
aye mt sie
i ohne
is Hil, Ment ;
eet Hy bit
ss a Co ty '
G Companion
TO
MR. BULLOCK'S
LONDON MUSEUM.
Ee Te
The Number at the Corner of each Case refers
to the Page of this Catalogue, in which it is
described.
SANDWICH ISLANDS.—Case. +
Lerrrr A.—A superb Cloak, made of the black fea-
thers of the Powhee bird, ornamented with a broad
checquered border of red and yellow. This Cloak is
so long, as to touch the feet of the wearer, and is
considered of the greatest value. it is worn by none
except the chiefs, and by them only on particular oc-
casions; as they never appeared in them but three
times during Captain Cook’s stay at Owyhee, viz. at
+ Several of the articles in this Case were once the property
of the celebrated Captain Cook.
B
2
the procession of the king and his people to the ships,
on their first arrival; in the tumult when the unfortu-
nate commander fell a victim to their fury and mis-
taken resentment; and when two of the chiefs
brought Azs bones to Captain Clarke.
B.—Red-feathered Cloak, decorated with yellow,
from ditto. The ground of these elegant and singu-
larly beautiful cloaks is net-work wrought by the
hand, upon which the feathers are so closely fixed,
that the surface resembles the thickest and richest
velvet, both in delicate softness and glossy appear-
ance.
C.—A Helmet, composed of wicker-work, covered
with red feathers.
D.—Another Helmet of a different construction,
covered with black feathers. These helmets, with —
the dresses, form the principal riches of the chiefs of
the South Sea Islands.
E.—A large Hat, made of red, yellow, and black
feathers; remarkable for its resemblance in form to
those of Europe.
F.—Two Neck Ornaments, made of different co-
loured feathers, from the Sandwich Islands.
G.— Breast Plate, or Gorget, from Otaheite, made
of wicker, covered with feathers, and ornamented
with rows of shark’s teeth.
H.—Small Idol, of black wood, from ditto.
I.—War Club, from the Sandwich Islands. This
club, which belonged to a chief of Owyhee, is
armed with a very hard, sharp, polished stone, which
makes it somewhat like a battle-axe; the other end
is pointed, for the purpose of a pahoo or dagger.
K.—A Basket, from the Friendly Islands.—That
the untutored Indians of the South Seas exceed the
3
artists of every civilized nation in this kind of work,
the above basket is a proof ; for it is of so close a tex-
ture, as to hold any liquid. It was used by the gen-
tleman (who brought it from the South Seas, and
presented it to this Museum) as a punch bowl.
L.—Fish Hook, from the N. W. coast of Ame-
yica.
M.—A Necklace, made of the teeth of the Pec-
cary.
N.—Head Ornament, made of mother-o’-pearl and
tortoiseshell, New Caledonia.
O.—A beautiful Fly-flap, purchased at the sale of
the late Leverian Museum. In the first part of the
Reference Catalogue to this once celebrated reposi-
tory of curiosities, an account is given, in a note, of
the manner in which it came into the possession of Mr.
Samwell, the late surgeon of the ship Discovery, who
published a Narrative of the Death of Capt. Cook ;
he informs us he brought this Fly-flap home with him,
of which he gives the following account :—“ The
*« natives of the Sandwich Islands always endeavour
“ to carry off the dead bodies of their friends slain
“ in battle, even at the hazard of their own lives,
«* This custom is probably owing to the barbarity
“ with which they treat the body of an enemy, and
“ the trophies they make of his bones ; a remarkable
“instance of which I met with at Atowai. Toma-
*« taherei, the queen of that island, one day paid us
a visit on board the Discovery, accompanied by
“her husband, Taeoh, and one of her daughters by
a former husband, whose name was Oteeha. The
young princess, who was called Orereemo-horanee,
‘* carried in her hand a very elegant Fly-flap, of a
Curious construction. The upper part of it was
‘( variegated with alternate rings of tortoiseshell and
B 2
A
« human bone; and the handle, which was polished,
“ consisted of the greater part of the os humeri (bone
“ of the upper arm) of a chief, called Mahowra;
“ he had belonged to the neighbouring island of Oa-
** hoo; and in an hostile descent he made upon this
** coast had been killed by Oteeha, who was then
** king of Otowai. His bones were in this manner
“* carried about by Orereemo-horanee, as trophies of
“her father’s victory. ‘The mother and daughter set
** a great value upon it, and were not willing to part
“ with it for any of our iren ; -but Tomataherei hap-
** pening to cast her eye upon'a wash-hand basin of
** mine, which, was,;of queen’s ware, -it struck ‘her
‘“« fancy, and she offered to exchange. I accepted:
** of her proposal, and the bones of the unfortunate
**« Mahowra came at last into my possession,”
-P.—An Under Garment, made ‘of the bark of the
Touta or Cloth-tree, curiously decorated, from the
Sandwich Islands; presented by the Rev. Doctor
Clarke. ! TO O@
Q. and R.—Two Caps from Africa ; one made of
grass, which, for fineness of workmanship and regu-
larity of pattern, exceeds any thing of the kind of
European manufacture. What must appear wonder-,
ful in this work of art is, that it is knit with wooden
sticks after the manner of stockings. ©
The one marked R, was presented by Captain,
Campbell, aud is made of the fibres of bark. ,
In the other Case of South Sea articles is the upper’
part of the Chief Mourner’s Dress of Ceremony at:
the Funerals of Otaheite. The part worn over the:
face is of large plates of mother-o’-pear| shell fas-
tened together with fibres of the cocoa nut; opposite
the right eye is a hole for the purpose of seeing:
through ; the edges of the face-plates are bordered’
with the long tail-feather of the tropic bird, and
5
make an-elegant appearance 3 across the breast is
stretched a most elaborate drapery, composed of se-
veral thousand pieces of mother-o’-pearl, each sepa-
rately drilled and fastened together in a manner that
would be found difficult for an European artist to
copy, even with the advantage of iron tools, which
were totally unknown to these islandeys,
' This very interesting article was (with many other
valuable curiosities) presented to the Museum by Sir
Joseph Banks, whose liberality and patronage of
every thing connected with the promotion and dif-
fusion of knowledge and science, are too well known
to be noticed here.
In the same Case are two of the monstrous and un-
couth Idols, made by the natives of these islands.
The ground is of wicker, worked into a rude and
enormous representation of the human head. ‘They
are covered with red feathers, and the mouth (near a
foot long) is thickly set with teeth of the seal. The
eyes are composed of pieces of mother-o’-pearl, with
a round knob of black wood in the centre, and the
head of one of them is rendered more terrific by
being adorned by a large quantity of the snaky
tresses of the natives.
A fine Feather Helmet and Cloak from the Sand-
wich Islands, presented to the Museum by the Rev.
Dr. Clarke; and an extremely curious pair of Brace-
lets, made of boar’s teeth, presented by Mr. G.
Humphrey.
On the Rail of the Gallery are hung a number of
the weapons, &c, of the South Sea Islanders, among
which are—
Tabooing Rods, or Wands. One of them is made
of a beautiful close-grained red wood, and is pointed ;
6
on the other is the head of the Eatooa, or God, finely
carved. These wands are carried by the priests, and
sometimes by another person particularly appointed
to that office, who is called Tonata (or the Taboo
Man). ‘They are made use of on various occasions,
both public and private, and any thing touched by
them is considered as prohibited or forbidden. The
word Taboo, used emphatically to denote any thing
sacred, eminent, or devoted. When a particular
space of ground is tabooed, several of these rods or
wands, tufted with dog’s hair, are fixed up, and until
they are removed, no person will presume to tread on
that ground. Otaheite.
Different kinds of long War Clubs used in the
Friendly Islands. ‘These are made of wood, equal in
hardness to the Brazilian, and superior in beauty to
mahogany ; and when it is remembered that iron and
steel are wholly unknown to these people, few speci-
mens, for laborious and skilful workmanship, can vie
with them. ‘The carving, though executed with no
other instrument than a shell, a shark’s tooth, or a
flint, by dint of industry and ingenuity is perfectly
uniform in pattern, and highly ornamental.
Paddle or Oar, with which the natives of the
Friendly Islands row their canoes. It is about five
feet long, and six inches across the widest part, and
yet is so light as to weigh little more than a pound.
Various kinds of short Hand Clubs, or Pattapatioos,
of different forms and materials. They are worn by
the natives of the South Seas, in the same manner as
daggers are worn by the Asiatics, and are usually
made of hard wood, bone, green jade stone, or ba-
saltes.
A Knife, from the Sandwich Islands, made of wood,
edged with shark’s teeth, used by the natives of those
islands for cutting up their enemies taken in battle.
7
Basket, from New Zealand.
Axes, or Adzes, made of very hard black stone of
the basaltes kind. ‘The hatchets are wrought ina
regular form with much labour, by rubbing one stone
against another; with these the natives cut the wood
for their canoes, war clubs, and household utensils ;
the heads of these axes are firmly fastened to the
handles with strong cords, made of the fibres of the
cocoa nut twisted together,
A large Fish Hook, for taking the shark ; it is one
foot long and six inches broad, and is made of a
crooked piece of wood, pointed at the end with a
substance resembling horn. Otaheite.
Near these are several of the Military and Domes-
tic Implements of New Holland; presented by Dr.
Jamieson.
Small Glass Case, marked A.
A pair of ponderous Ear-rings, made of white
shells, from Christian’s Island.
A Necklace of human bone, from New Zealand.
A Seaway Feather Necklaces, from the Sandwich
sles.
Gaiters, worn by the dancers of the Sandwich Isles.
The ground-work is a strong, close netting, on which
are fastened several hundred small shells, which,
when put in motion, produce a rattling sound, to the
music of which the dancers keep time.
Inthis Case is also a variety of the Fishing Tackle
ef the Sandwich and Friendly Islands, The hooks
cs)
are made of mother-o’-pearl, bone, or wood, pointed
or barbed with small bones or tortoiseshell. They
are of various sizes and forms; that marked A is the
most common: it is between two and three inches
long, and made in the shape of a fish, which serves
asa bait. Bis of a tortoiseshell.
The lines are made of different degrees of strength
and fineness. That marked C is the finest kind, and
is of human hair plaited together, and is used chiefly
for things of ornament. D is a specimen of the com-
mon icin, made of the bark of the cloth tree, neatly
and evenly twisted in the same manner as our com-~
mon twine. E is a softer kind, made of the bark of
a small shrub called Areemah, plaited together, and
is flat. ‘That marked F is of great strength, being
made of the plaited sinews of some sea animal.
They likewise make another sort of cordage, which
is flat and very strong, and used principally in lash-
ing the roofs of their houses, or whatever they wish
to fasten together ; it is made of the fibrous strings of
the cocoa nut husk, in the same manner as our sailors
make their points for the reefing of sails. That on
the shark hook is of this kind. Considering the ma-
terials of which these hooks and lines are formed,
their strength and neatness are really astonishing:
« and in fact (says Captain Cook) we found them
“* upon trial far superior to our own.”
The Combs marked G are from the Friendly Islands,
and are specimens of their exquisite wicker-work.
A quantity of Fishing Lines, made from human
hair, brought from the South Seas.
A Net Mesh from the South Seas.
A Shoe of a Chinese Lady.
A Shoe of Count Borulaski, the Polish Dwarf.
A Tattowing Instrument, from Otaheite. Captain
9
King, in his continuation of Captain Cook’s third voy
age, vol. iii, page 135, observes ‘ That the Sand-
“wich Islanders have the custom of tattowing the
** body in common with the rest of the natives of the
<* South Sea Islands, The arms and hands of the
** women are also very neatly marked, and they have
“a singular custom among them, the meaning of
« which (Captain King says) we could never learn,
« that of tattowing the tips of the tongues of the
«* females, Began: some information we received re-
‘© lative to the custom of tattowing, we were inclined
«to think it is frequently intended as a sign of
“mourning on the death of a chief, or any other
ee calamitous event; for we were often told, that such
‘© a particular mark was in memory of such a chief,
«« and so of the rest. It may be here too observed,
*« that the lowest class of natives are often tattowed
* with a mark that distinguishes them as the property
© of some chief.”
Model of a Canoe. Nootka Sound:
New Zealand Canoe. 7
Models of Canoes of different nations—Eskimaux,
Davis's Straits, New Zealand, &c.
Lines for Fishing, made of human hair.
Basket to hold liquids; from the Sandwich Islands,
South Seas.
- Bread- Pounder, from Otaheite. It is made of
black basaltes, and is an astonishing effort of labour,
executed by a people to whom the use of iron in-
struments are unknown. It is used in pounding the
bread fruit.
Spear-Caster, from New Caledonia, by means of
which the natives strike fish with a surprising celerity.
Caps, from Nootka, or King George’s Sound, made
Fe
10
of sea gtass finely woven together; on one is dee
signed the process of their whale fishery. ‘* This
< (says Captain Cook) though rudely executed,
“* serves to shew, that though there is no appearance
«¢ of the knowledge of letters among them, they
have some notion of representing actions in @
lasting way, independent of what may be recorded
in their songs and tradition.’ They are worn by
both sexes without distinction.
Hats, from South America, made of the feathers
of parrots and other birds.
Matting, from the South Sea Islands.
A Mantle, from New Zealand. This kind of or-
nament passes under the right arm, and ties over
the left shoulder, by which means both arms are
at liberty. It is made of flax so curiously knotted
together, that on examination it must astonish the
beholder, more especially when he considers that it
was made by a nation to whom the loom is unknown.
Wooden Sword, from Botany Bay. It is worthy of
remark, that when Captain Cook first discovered New
Holland, he was surprized to behold the natives so
expert in handling the sword after the European man-
ner, from which he concluded they had seen and co-
pied the use of that weapon. —
Bows and Arrows of different nations.
Two small Cloaks, made of feathers, to cover the
shoulders—from the South Seas.
ee
ce
ee
_ Glass Case of Botanical Subjects, marked B.
Most of the articles in this Case were presented to
4
ij
the Museum by Dr. James E. Smith, President of
the Linnean Society.
Specimens of the Bark of the Lagetto Tree, the
curious texture of which resembles gauze. King
Charles II. (it is said) had a pair of ruffles and a
cravat made from this bark, which were presented
to him by a merchant from Jamaica, which he fre-
quently wore. The cloth of the South Sea Islands is
made from a similar bark.
Fine specimen of the Banksia Serrata, in flower.
This is one of the four species of Banksia described
in the Supplementum Plantarum of Linnzus, speci-
mens of which are contained in the Herbarium of that
great naturalist, now in the possession of Dr. J. E,
Smith,
The Banksia Serrata is considered as the most
stately of the genus: its trunk is thick and rugged.
It is a native of New Holland, and received the de-
nomination of Banksia in compliment to Sir Joseph
Banks.
Banksia Serrata in Fruit, a fine specimen.—New
Holland.
Wooden Pear, Xylomelum Pyriforme. This spe-
cies was first discovered at Botany Bay, when the
coast of New South Wales was first explored by Sir
Joseph Banks and Dr. Solander. The natives cal) it
the Merry-dugur-ro. The tree which bears this
ligenous Pear is an evergreen.
Heath-leaved Banksia, Banksia Erici-folia ; from
New Holland.
Yellow Gum, from Botany Bay. Xanthorrheea
Hastile.
Cylista Comosa, from Sierra Leone.
Afzelia Speciosa, from Sierra Leone,
‘Ce
12
- New Zealand Flar (Phormium Tenax) of which
’ the natives make their cloaks, twine, &c.
Strings of Beads, made of Aromatic Berries, from
South America.
Pod of a very large Bean. ‘Cotton in the Pod and
in Flower,
CURIOSITIES
From North and South America,
A Dress worn by the Eskimaux Indians, principally
made of seal skins, with the hairy side outwards. It
is a kind of jacket, nearly resembling a carter’s frock,
with a hood to it, that fits tight round the face, which
is the only part of the body that is seen; the skirts
of the frock reach nearly to the knee, and under it
are worn a kind of drawers, made of the same ma-
terials as the above: the legs are covered with stock-
ings made of skin, with very thick hair on, and over
these are drawn a pair of curious boots, made of the
skin of some sea animal. The whole of this dress is
well calculated for the cold climate where it is worn.
The sewing is performed with small sharp fish bones,
and the sinews of the whale split into thin fibres for
thread; yet we believe that few European tailors
could exceed either the neatnéss or strength of the
work.
Halter, made of the bark of the Lagetto’ or Chb-
bage Tree.
KS
Maucassons, or Shoes, worn by the Indians of North
America, ornamented with Porcupine quills and tas-
sels of red hair. The leather is said to be dressed in
blood, which prevents the wearer’s feet from freez-
ing ; on which account they are often used by Euro-
peans in that country.
A Quiver of poisoned Arrows, with the Tube used
in discharging them; brought from Demerara. These
instruments of destruction are nine inches long, and
about the thickness of a small quill; they are made
of a light wood, sharply pointed, and are dipped in
poison to the depth of two inches, which generally
proves fatal to the object that is wounded by them :
they are discharged with unerring certainty, by being
blown through a hollow tube of wood, nine feet long.
Near the quiver hangs a small basket, which contains
a down-like substance, a small piece of which is put
into the tube after the arrow, which prevents the.
escape of the air, and causes it to fly with almost in-
credible velocity.
An ornamental Belt, used by the North American
Indians, for bringing home the skins of animals taken
in hunting excursions.
Bow and Fish Arrows, from the North-West coast
of America.
Several Pouches, some of them very curious; from
North America.
Pair of ornamental Garters, principally made of
Porcupine guills; from North America.
A Purse, or Tobacco Pouch, made of the Skin of
the Stiffling or Squash, ornamented with tassels of
Deer’s hair; from North America.
Ornament for the neck, made of the shells of some
small hard nut ; from Demerara,
14
Bow and Quiver of Arrows, from Demerara.
Several Musical Instruments, from Demerara, among
which is a kind of Flute.
A great variety of Bows and Arrows, from Suri-
nam.
Calumet, or Pipe of Peace, used by the North
American Indians, to smoke. tobacco, bark leaf, or
herb, when they enter into an alliance on any serious
occasion or solemn engagement; this being among
them the most sacred oath that can be taken, and the
violation of it is thought deserving of the punishment
_of Heaven.
A Snow Shoe, from Hudson’s Bay, upwards of five
feet long ; it is very light, and covers such a space as
prevents the feet of the wearer from sinking into the
snow.
A pair of Snow Shoes, for a child.
A pair of Snow Shoes, from Canada, not so long as
the preceding, but broader and rounder in front.
Neck Ornament, made of Feathers, from South
America.
Two Hammocks, of curious workmanship, from
South America; presented to the Museum by the
Hon. Col. St. Leger, of Dublin.
Small Glass Case, marked C.
A Wampum Belt, of great value among the Indian
Chiets of North America, often given and received as
a token of peace.
15
A Cap, from Africa, made of plaited Grass.
Chinese Money. ‘These pieces have square holes
through them, and are always strung together. Se-
venty-six of them are the value of an English six-
pence.
Rouge, used by the Chinese ladies to colour their
faces.
Specimen of the Cloth made of Amianthus, a soft
species of Asbestos, that will remain in the hottest
fire without burning. Pliny mentions his having seen |
napkins of this cloth, which being taken from the
table after a feast, were thrown into the fire, and b
that means were better cleansed than if they had been
washed in water. But its principal use, according to
that author, was for making shrouds for royal funerals,
to wrap up the corpse, so that the human ashes might
be preserved distinct from those of the wood.
Asbestos, or Mineral Flax, in its natural state.
Mica, or Talc, used for windows before the inven-
tion of glass. Clear white plates of this substance are
used for glazing the lanthorns of men of war, as fire
has little effect on it.
AFRICAN CURIOSITIES.
A singular Musical Instrument, from the Slave
_ Coast, somewhat resembling the Italian Sticcado: it
is made of pieces of hard sonorous wood, of different
lengths, placed upon a frame, under which are fixed
gourds of various sizes. It is played upon by beating
it with two sticks, with balls at the end. On the
coast of Africa it is called Balafou; and when it is
played by a skilful hand, it produces an agreeable
harmony.
A small kind of Stzccado, made of sonorous wood.
An Instrument, consisting of a small square board,
on which are fixed pieces of very pliant-wood, which,
on being struck, produce a musical sound.
African King’s Sceptre, in shape like a rod, being
made of small split pieces of bamboo cane. These
are valued according to their length, for by that the
rank of the person is known ; that of the King’s being
made of the longest joints of bamboo that can be
found in his dominions. . |
Curious Sword, formerly the property of a Man-
dingo Chief. Inclosed in the hilt is a fettish or charm,
to preserve the wearer’s life, composed of a piece of
skin of the Iguana, which in that country is held
sacred.
Curious Cartouch Boxes.
A circular Fan, covered with a parchment-like skin,
curiously painted,
7
Several Pouches, some of them very singular in
construction.
A pair of Sandals, or Shoes. These, in Africa, are
seldom used.
Common Black Bottle, curiously cased with wicker-
work.
African Comb, similar to that of the Sandwich
Islands.
A rude Necklace, composed of stones that have holes
naturally through them, without boring:
African Spoon, made of wood,
Curious Wooden Fan,
A Lady’s large Pocket, or Pouch, finely embroidered
with the needle-work of the country.
African Bows and Quivers of long poisoned Arrows.
Great variety of African Lances, Arrows, and Dag-
gers.—See the Daggers in the Armoury.
A small instrument, similar to a Scottish Mull,
used for the purpose of grinding tobacco into pow-
der.
African Long Drum, covered at the end with
skin.
African Pair of Bellows, of very curious con-
struction.
African Harp.
An African Flambeau, made of F Cee filled
with a resinous gum.
Pouch or Pocket, made of grass, used by Negro
servants to carry letters, &c.
A kind of Hammock, of singular net-work, used in
Africa, either for sleeping or travelling.
D
18
Small Gourds, covered with Net-work, on the
mesh-knots of which are strung a kind of Black Ber-
ries, that produce a sound similar to castinets. ‘They
are used by the Africans when they dance.
An African Charm, called Fettish, consisting of a
Ram’s Horn, to which is suspended a brass chain and.
bell. ‘This is worn round the neck, and is imagined
by the wearer to charm or drive away evil and tor-
menting spirits, and preserve life. It was taken from
the breast of a black man engaged in battle, by Cap-
tain Clarke, of the ship Roebuck, of Liverpool, who
presented it to the Museum.
Specimen of African Cloth, made of grass.
_ A curious Sleeping Net, or Hammock, from Africa ;
presented by Captain Roberts, of Liverpool.
WORKS OF ART.
Beautiful Equestrian Model of Edward the Black
Prince in Armour, finely executed by Mr. G. Bul-
lock of Liverpool.
Portract of Mrs. Siddons in Queen Catherine, and
Mr, Kemble in Coriolanus, by ditto, :
Capital Group of Figures, representing the Progress
of Inebriety ;
A Blind Beggar, led by a Child ;
Frederick the Great in his last illness ;
And, a Dead Christ.
19
- [The last four pieces are all modelled by Mr.
Piercy, in coloured wax, and are universally admired
by every lover of the arts, for the correct and spirited
manner in which they are executed. ]
A small Anatomical Figure, from the original of
Dr. Hunter, done in Rice Paste, of its natural
colour.
An exquisite Model, in Rice Paste, of the Death
of Voltaire, by Mons. Oudon, of Paris.
Gothic Model of an Ancient Armoury, on a scale of
an inch toa foot. It contains accurate models and
representations of every kind of Armour and Warlike
Weapon used in the British Armies, from the Norman
Conquest to the Restoration of Charles I.
Group of Flowers, wonderfully cut in white Marble.
Model of a Chinese Pagoda, made of Mother-o’-
pearl, ornamented with carving and gilding.
Complete Model of a Man of War, only six inches
long.
A ditto, entirely of Ivory.
View of the Lake and City of Geneoa, most inimi-
tably carved in Ivory.
The City of Messina, taken from the Sea; the
shipping, &c. executed with astonishing minuteness ;
some of the vessels, though not more than half an
inch in length, have the sails, rigging, men, &c,
perfectly distinct.
Windsor Castle, with the Thames.
Greenwich Hospital, with Shipping, &c.
Two pieces with Stags in a Forest,
[The above six are all in Ivory, carved in the most
exquisite manner by Messrs. Stephany and Dresh. ]
20
Sixteen hollow Balls of Ivory, cut within each
other out of one solid piece by the Chinese in the
most wonderful manner, every ball being pierced of
a different pattern, almost as fine as lace.
Another ditto, with only eight Balls.
Several beautiful turnings in Ivory, by Mr. Perry,
of London.
Picture of a Saint sailing on his Cloak, in Marble
of its natural colours.
Beautiful Imitation of Flowers, made entirely of
Shells, by Miss Humphreys, of Leicester-square.
Case of lowers, made of Butterfly’s Wings.
Floly Family, from Carlo Maratti, done in Wool,
at Rome.
Picture of Birds, executed with Feathers.
Picture, which being viewed in different directions,
produces three diflerent subjects,
A Dutch Merry-making, from Teniers, in coloured
Straw.
A Jew Rabbi, done with a hot iron on Wood.
Several copies of Lingravings with Pen and Ink, by
Mons. Mongenot,
Model of a Man of War, of sixty guns, entirely of
Chrystal Glass; an early work of the Proprietor.
Complete Model of a seventy-four gun Ship at
anchor, only six inches long.
Profile Heads of the following celebrated Painters :
Titian, Rafaele, M. Angelo, Corregio, Carracci, and
Carlo Maratti,
2]
THE ARMOURY.
“€ Charm’d with the sight, the ardent breast is fir’d
“© With thoughts like those which ancient bards inspir’d.”
Tuis department of the Museum is fitted up in
an appropriate and elegant manner, representing
the interior of the halls of our ancient nobility.
The armour and various implements of war displayed
in trophies, or on figures placed under gothic
canopies, forcibly call to our minds the times of chi-
valry, and the days when our ancestors, by their
deeds in arms, carried victory and conquest to every
part of the world, and were “ single handed” able
to reduce that country toa state of vassalage that now
threatens the independence of every government on
the continent. Amongst this collection of antiquities,
the Armour is what attracts the attention of every
visitor; here an ample field will be open for medi-
tation: the form, make, and materials of these war-
suits will be a source of admiration and_ surprise:
and when a thought is cast on the warriors, whose
strength enabled them to bear such a weight of me-
tal, and at the same time were capable of exerting
themselves, performing under it every exploit ;
enduring every toil of war; he will feel himself as
the offspring of a dwindled race of mankind.
The Figure on the Horse is dressed in Hauberk, or
ancient suit of mail, such as worn in the army of
William the Conqueror, when he invaded this coun-
try. It is composed of small rings of iron, which,
22
passing through four others, are riveted together in
such a manner as not to prevent any motion of the
body. Besides their ordinary clothes, the knights”
wore under their Hauberk a loose garment, called
Gambeson, which descended as low as the knee ; it
was stuffed with woollen or cotton, and quilted; its
use was to deaden the stroke of a sword or lance,
which, though it did not divide the mail, might se-
verely bruise the body. Between the Hauberk and
Gambeson a breast-plate of iron, called a Plastron,
was occasionally put on; and over all, men of family
wore surcoats of satin, velvet, or cloth of gold and
silver, richly embroidered with their armorial bear-
ings. Thus enveloped, and loaded with such a num-
ber of weighty incumbrances, it is by no means won-
derful that in the midst of summer, in the heat, dust,
and press of an engagement, men at arms should be
suffocated in their armour; an event which we learn
from history often happened. Besides the inconve-
nience of being thus swathed up like an Egyptian
mummy, a man could have but little power of action,
and this in some measure accounts for the small
number of knights slain in an engagement with
cavalry only: probably as ransom was so great an
object in those days, they rather wished to capture
than kill their enemies, and for that purpose endea-
voured to unhorse them; for when overturned,
they were immoveable, and lay on the spot till
remounted by their friends, or overtaken by their
enemies. This venerable relic of antiquity came
originally from the Castle of Tong, in Shropshire,
and was presented by the Rev. Mr. Buckridge to the
Museum of the late Richard Green, Esq. of Lich-
field, from whence it was purchased by the present
Proprietor. It is presumed that this Hauberk is the
only perfect one of the kind remaining in England,
25
as there is not a specimen exhibited either at the
‘Tower or British Museum. In the Treatise on
Ancient Armour, written by the late Francis Grose,
Esq. F. A. S. a description is given of this identical
Suit of Mail, in vol. 2, page 9, plate 21. This
figure is mounted on a fine Horse, which is likewise
covered by a suit of Ancient Armour, composed of
several thousand plates of steel and brass, firmly
united by riveted iron rings, of the same construction
as the Hauberk, along with which it is supposed to
have been worn. ‘This kind of horse armour is be-
lieved not to have been common, even at the time
when it was in use, as not a single specimen except
the present has reached us, nor has a correct repre-
sentation of it been published. On this account it
must be highly interesting to those who are fond of
examining such relics of antiquity.
The Figure on the left hand is dressed in a
complete suit of Pikeman’s Armour, worn by the
arquebusiers and musketeers, at the first introduction
of fire-arms. It is in fine preservation, and be-
longed to an officer who probably used it at the
memorable siege of Latham House, as it was preserved
at Cross Hall, in that neighbourhood, a considerable
number of years, It was presented to the Museum
by Col. Stanley, M. P. the present proprietor of
Cross Hall.
On the right hand is the Figure of a Knight, in
a suit of bright Steel Armour, of the time of Queen
Elizabeth: this is called Plate Armour, and is of
more modern date than the mail, as it came into ge-
neral use about the middle of the fourteenth century.
At its first introduction it was made of prodigious
strength and thickness, and was fitted to every part
of the body so close, that it was impossible to pierce
it with a lance,
In Front of the Gallery,
‘Above the figure on horseback, is a suit of ame-
luke Armour and Accoutrements, consisting of a Coat
of Mail and Helmet: a Shield made of the skin of
a Rhinoceros; an elegant and curious Gun, and a
magnificent Sabre and Battle Axe. The Coat of
Mail is made nearly in the same manner as the
Hauberk, only the work is more beautiful : the col-
lar is of crimson velvet, on which in gold studs is
written in Persian the following characters :—‘‘ Ali
Fatima Husain Alla Mohammed.’ On the breast is
a Talisman, or Charm, to preserve the wearer’s life.
The stock, lock, and barrel of the musket is
richly ornamented, and mounted with silver. This
curious piece was taken from the Turks by Count
Orlow, the Russian General; afterwards exchanged
with an English gentleman for a fine horse: the gen-
tleman - presented it to the Right Hon. Lord Paget,
who gave it tothe Lichfield Museum, from whence it
was purchased by the present Proprietor.
Near these is the Haubergeon or Norman Suit of
Mail. ‘This is made in the same manner as the Hau-
berk, only it is without sleeves, and reaches no lower
than the waist. By the statute of Winchester, pass-
ed in the thirteenth year of the reign of Edward I,
every man possessing lands to the yearly amount of
fifteen pounds, and forty marks in goods, was obliged
to keep in his possession an Haubergeon, an won head-
piece, a sword, a knife, and a horse.
On the opposite side of the Mameluke Armour, is
a curious ancient Buff Suit, about the time of Charles
25
the First; presented to the Museum by the Bishop
of Durham.
Near this is the Roundel, Bbriluches, or Norman
Shield. (See Grose’s Ancient Armour, plate 34,
vol. ii.) ‘This shield derived its name frou its cir-
cular figure; it is. made of rings of iron,
fastened together, studded with brass, and lined a
leather, but they were sometimes compbsed of oziers,
boards of light wood, sinews or ropes coveted with
Jeather, plates of nee or stuck fall of nails in con-
centric circles or other tigures. ‘The Norman sol-
diers carried this shield fastened to a strap and hung
over the shoulder. The roundels of metal, parti-
cularly those richly embossed, seem rather to have
been insignia of dignity, anciently borne before ge-
nerals or great officers, than calculated for war, most
‘of them being too heavy for convenient use, or too
slight to pease the violence of a stroke, either from : a
sword or battle-axe.
pr
GLASS CASE OF GUNS.
Left-hand Side of the Armoury.
A very curious modern Fowling Piece, made by
©. Malbon of Chester ; ; it has two pans, the hind-
E
26
most is shut by means of a short lever or regulator,
while the foremost is used. It fires twice with once
charging.
A very curious Double Wheel-lock Musket, from
the Grand Duke of Tuscany’s Gallery at Florence.
This piece has two pans, two wheels of steel, and
two flints ; by which contrivance it discharges twice
with once loading.
A beautiful small French Fusee, of capital work-
manship.
Two Highland Pistols, of different workmanship.
At the bottom of this Case is a curious ancient
Missal, on its original stand, made of a solid piece of
Oak, in an extremely curious manner.
Guns ranged on the right-hand of the figure of the
Musqueteer.
A large Brass-barrelled Air Gun, by Kolbe.
The air being condensed between the outer and
inner barrel, and the pump in the butt giving it the
appearance and portability of a common gun.
Ancient Snaphaunce Musket.
American Rifle, taken at Fort Washington.
Magazine Gun, made at Pontefract, in Yorkshire,
by Martin Raynald; it may with ease and safety be
fired eight times in half a minute, with only once
charging.
27
GUN CASE.
Right-hand Side of the Armoury.
A most superb Turkish Musket. The barrel richly
damasked and inlaid with gold ; the stock is of ivory
mounted in silver, closely inlaid with gold, and orna-
mented with precious stones.
This magnificent and costly article was, with
several other interesting curiosities, presented to the
Museum by Sir Joseph Banks.
A curious and beautiful ancient Spanish Wheel-
lock Rifle, the whole stock of which is entirely
covered with the most exquisite inlaid work, in ivory
and mother-o’-pearl, representing a variety of figures
of men, beasts, birds, flowers, &e.
A fine Persian Match-lock, silver-mounted, the
barrel richly damasked and inlaid with gold.
An elegant Turkish Sword, of singular form, called
the Yatagan; the whole scabbard and hilt of silver,
richly embossed and chased.
Tn the bottom of this Case is an illuminated ma-
nuscript Missal,
E2
28
GUNS.
On the Left-hand Side of the Figure in Plate
Armour.
A large and ponderous English Match-lock, date
on it 1640,
An ancient English Fowling-piece, with a snap-
haunch lock, the stock richly-inlaid with ivory and
pearl shells engraved. This piece is supposed origi-
ually to have belonged to the Skeffington family,
formerly owners of Fisherwick, now the property of
the Marquis of Donegal.
A Magazine Gun, made in Italy in the year 1666,
which, when loaded at the butt end, may be dis-
charged, by moving a short regulator, ten times in
less than half a minute.
On the left side of the Armoury, over the Gun
Case, is the Brigandine Jacket. This is mentioned
in Jeremiah, ch. li. v. 3. andin an act passed by
Philip and Mary, in 1558, It was used principally
by the archers, and took its name from the light-
armed troops who first wore it, being called Bri-.
gands. It is composed of a number of small plates
of iron, sewed upon quilted linen through a small
hole in the centre of each plate, the edges laid over |
each other like tiles, or the scales of fish: these
scales are coyered with cloth, so as to have the
29
appearance of quilting; it is proof against the push
of a pike, or the stroke of a sword, and yet is ex-
tremely pliable to every motion of the body. The
Helmet for this suit is called a Skull, or Steel Cap.
On the other side of the Canopy is a suit of
Armour, such as was worn by the cavalry in the time
of Oliver Cromwel) ; it was called Dutch Light
Horseman’s Armour.
Trophy of Persian Armour, consisting of a beauti-
ful Match-lock Gun; a Shield made of the skin of
the Rhinoceros (bullet proof); a Bow Case and
Quiver of Arrows. Ona line with these, is a Trophy’
of curious Guns and Swords of various kinds; among
the latter are two with Pistols in the hilts, taken on
board the Ville de Paris. Near this is a Suit of
Pikeman’s Armour complete; on each side of which
is a Trophy of Fire Arms, consisting of a curious
and extraordinary shaped Spanish Match-lock, of the
kind first used; the stock is inJaid with ivory, very
much curved, and intended to be placed against the
breast when fired. A very singular English Match-
lock, and several Wheel-lock and other Pistols.
Trophy of Chinese Armour, consisting of a Sword,
Shield, Helmet, and Bow and Arrows,
On the right-hand side of the Armoury, forming
a part of the rail in front, is a Long Gun, purchased
at the late sale of the Leverian Museum. With this
piece, General Wedderburne (brother to Lord Lough-
borough) was killed, when reconnoitering a fort in
the East Indies. The distance from the fort was so
great, that the shot. could not be accounted for,
until the place was taken, and this long gun dis-
covered,
30
An Indian Match-leck Musket.
An Iron Spear, the handle of which is hollow and
plated; it is from India, and used in hunting. An
ancient Pike. The last three articles form a part
of the rail.
Dispersed in various parts of the Armoury, are the
following articles, mostly labelled : —
A great variety of Pieces of Armour, for all parts
of the vody; among which are several pieces
presented by the Corporation of Stafford to the
Lichfield Museum; and a number of Back and
Breast Plates of different kinds, given by the
Corporation of Coventry to this Collection.
Impression of a fine Roman Helmet.
An open-fronted Helmet, found in a ditch near
Wigan, a few years since, on the spot where
the Earl of Derby had a battle with the Parliament
forces in the year 1651, in favour of Charles II.
A Helmet found at Carthage, about the year 1800,
by J. Jackson, Esq. of Basinghall-street, London :
it greatly resembles the Morions worn m Europe
in the time of James I.
An open-fronted Helmet.
Several Pot Helmets, or Iron Hats, with broad
brims.
The Plastron, or Breast Plate, usually worn under
the Hauberk, &c. &c.
A very curious Mahratta Horseman’s Sword,
between four and five feet long, of excellent tem-
per; the blade, which is yery thin, is fixed into
31
a kind of gauntlet that reaches nearly to the
wearer’s elbow, and in which there is a grasp
across the inside for the hand. See Grose, pl, 50,
Nos. 1 and 2.
Two Highland Swords and Targets.
A variety of ancient Swords, of different nations.
A large Two-handled Sword, nearly six feet long.
Singular Iron Pike and Gun-rest.
Great variety of Gun Locks, some of them very
curious.
Halbert, made in the time of Oliver Cromwell,
formerly carried before the Mayor of Chester.
Indian Match Lock.
A Sack Bottle.
An ancient Hat, made of the undressed skin of the
Wild Boar.
A pair of Warrior’s Gloves, made of Buffalo’s
hide.
An ancient Buff Gauntlet, or covering for the
left arm, worn in the time of Charles I. by Sir
Francis Rhodes, of Balborough-hall, in Derbyshire,
It is contrived to answer the purpose of a shield,
being composed of three skins of buff leather, and
of strong pasteboard.—It is figured in Grose’s
Ancient Armour, vol. ii, plate 39, fig. 5 and 6.
An ancient Cross Bow, remarkably strong.
The Stock of a very rich Arcubalista, or Cross
Bow, found about the year 1773 by some labourers
32
en Bosworth Field, renowned in history for the victory
obtained by the Earl of Richmond (afterwards
Henry VII.) over Richard III. in which Richard
lost his crown and life. It is so exquisitely carved,
as to authorise a conjecture that it was the weapon
of no mean warrior: indeed very few specimens of
the chisel of the present day excel it. The bow is
unfortunately lost, and the iron-work that remains
is much corroded_ by lying, as it assuredly did,
298 years in the ground; on it there are yet to be
discovered a number of studs and ornamental pieces
of gold. It is made of yew, the compact texture of
which wood has so well preserved it from decay.
In a scarce poem, written by Charles Allen, which
contains a particular account of the battle of Bos-
worth, are the following lines :—
‘¢ The archers stript their sleeves, who must define
« The controversie here debated on,
«© The sun of Richmond’s hope was in the sign
‘¢ Of Sagitarius, and there chiefly shone.
s The feathers of their shafts sung as they went,
«* Being newly set to the one-string’d instrument.”
This fine remain of antiquity is figured and de-
scribed in the Gentleman’s Magazine for February
1784, and which, with several other antiquities in this
collection, were exhibited before the Royal Anti-
quarian Society, in the year 1803.
A number of Pikes and Lances from Africa,
Great variety of Irish Pikes, such as were used
in the late rebellion.
A collection of Ancient and Foreign Stirrup Irons
and Bridle Bits; some of them of an extraordinary
size and weight.
Ancient Brass Hanging Candlestick.
-~if
ye ay ie
ji Ce
Yoke
P ate
Sor" Drakli But WA SLUM UG FIword
Pub.bv WBullock , London Museum, Piecadith My 111112 .
Cs.
C3
Small Glass Case.
_ An ancient Sword, formerly used by the English
Noblemen in their Hunting excursions. Qn the hilt
and scabbard of this sword {which are of ivory)
are most exquisitely carved the death of every animal
of the chase, comprising more than ninety-seven
figures.— This admirable work of art serves in some
measure to shew in what a magnificent manner our
ancestors followed their favourite amusements; and
it is imagined that few artists of the present day
could produce so exquisite a performance. Within
the scabbard are a knife and fork.
A very rich pair of Spurs, found in the spring of
1800, in ploughing Bosworth Field ; they are ef brass,
enamelled, and very perfect.
A singular Iron Spur, the rowels of which are
13 inches in circumference.
Curious Tron Spur, enchased with silver; found
on Bosworth Field.
Ancient Iron Spur.
Pair of Gilt Brass Spurs, such as are worn by
the Knights of the Bath on days of ceremony.
Ancient Brass Snuffers and Stand of curious work-
manship.
_ Ancient Irish Brass Sword, found near Navan,
in Ireland, supposed to have been in use before
iron was known in that country.
F
4
Ancient Brass Celt, found at Winwick, near War-
rington, Lancashire.
Iron Arrow, purchased from the Leverian Museum,
found in the year 1792 in the field on which stands
the Castle of Harwood, Yorkshire.
Leather Skull Cap.
An ancient Brass Dish, supposed to be Saxon ;
on the bottom is a rude representation of the Annun-
ciation, and round the edge a legend in Saxon letters.
Chinese Sword, of singular make, with a scabbard.
of wood, curiously carved.
A Moorish Spur, which weighs one pound three
ounces; instead of rowels, it is armed with sharp
pikes of the thickness of a person’s finger, and about
four inches in length. This singular instrument
appears better designed to kill a horse than to urge it
forward.
A large Turkish Powder Flask, mounted and em-
broidered with silver, formerly belonging to Prince
Hugene, at the sale of whose effects it was purchased.
Presented by Henry Blundell, Esq. Ince Hall.
An ancient Leather Bottle, embroidered with silk ;
it holds nearly a gallon.
Bandileers, or Wooden Cylindrical Boxes, used
by the Musketeers of the reign of James and
Charles I. for carrying their powder. Twelve of
these were fixed to a belt worn over the left shoul-
der. The bag that carried the bullets was suspended
to the belt.
Ancient Cornet. This horn is supposed to be of
the earliest invention, and to have been one of the
first kind of musical instruments used in a military
band,
3S
Case in Armoury.
A curious ancient Dish, inlaid with mother-’o-pear!
and various coloured glass, &c.—Ancient Work
Basket, made of cane and different coloured silk.—
Large Hat, made of cane, curiously wrought, of the
time of Elizabeth.
Pair of ancient Stockings, of crimson silk and
gold ; they are very strong, and curiously ornamented
on the top; supposed to be of about the time of
James I,
F 2
SHOES OF DIFFERENT NATIONS,
.
Roman Sandal. The strings which lace it in front,
the sides, and bottom, most ingeniously made out of
one piece of leather; it was found at the depth of
fourteen feet, in cutting peat in Hawford Moss,
Cheshire.
Turkish Slipper, of yellow leather.
Persian Shoe, red leather, embroidered with silver,
East India Shoes, of curious form, and highly or-
namented.
A Pair of Bramin’s Shoes, from the East Indies,
Perhaps no article of dress, to the eyes of Europeans,
will appear more extraordinary than these shoes :—
they are made of hard wood of one piece, in the
form of the sole of the common shoe, raised from
the ground about the height of a patten, by a pro-
jecting piece of wood being left at the foot and at
the heel. They are fastened to the feet by a peg of
wood that stands between the two largest toes, which
secures them in walking.
Chinese Men’s Shoes; one of them of cane, beau-
tifully wrought ; the other of satin embroidered ; the
sole of woollen cloth, near two inches thick, and
bent up before in sucha manner as to keep the toes —
constantly raised.
37
Pair of Shoes worn by ladies in China, whose
feet have been cramped by the use of the iron
shoe; and a Model of the Leg and Foot. These
are of a size so extremely diminutive, that on the
first view it appears impossible they could have been
worn by a full grown person; they are rather more
than four inches long, and are not an inch wide in the
middle. This ridiculous custom is said to be per-
formed by breaking the bones of the feet of the fe-
males while infants, bending the toes under the soles
of the feet, applying a tight bandage, and over that
an iron shoe, which prevents the feet from enlarging,
and render these unfortunate victims of fashion crip-
ples for life.
An African Sandal.
A Russian Lady’s Winter Shoe ; it is of leather,
with a sole of wood, lined throughout with thick fur.
Maucason, or Shoe of the North American In-
dians, ornamented with dyed porcupine quills.
Snow Shoe of a child, from Canada.
38
BIRDS.
Almighty Being !
Cause and support of all things, can I view
These objects of my wonder; can I feel
These fine sensations, and not think of thee ?
ecu
td
Tue Ornithological department of the Museum
contains probably a greater number of species than is
to be found in any other collection: they are in the
highest possible state of preservation, and arranged
in their respective families, according to the Linneean
classification, in a manner that has met the approba-
tion of the scientific naturalist as well as the general
visitor; as combining the whole of the Birds of one
genus together, and exhibiting them in the order they
stand in the Systema Nature, in such a way as to
convey an idea of their haunts and mode of life.
King of the Vultures (Vultur Papa).
The Vulture is the most ravenous of the feathered
race, since he kills prey not from choice, but in
general devours only such animals as are dying, or
found dead and putrid. His sense of smelling is so
exquisite, that he is able to scent a dead carcass at
an amazing distance. ‘“ ‘They are,” says Pennant,
«‘ oreedy and voracious to a proverb, and not timid, »
«for they prey in the midst of cities, undaunted by
‘¢ mankind.” In some of the battles of the Hast,
39
where vast slaughter takes place of elephants, horses,
and men, voracious animals crowd to the field from
all quarters, of which Jackalls and Vultures are the
chief. Even in the places where the last are at other
times seldom observed, the plain on these occasions
will be found covered with them. Vast multitudes
will be seen in the air, descending on every side to
partake in the carnage. These the Indians believe to
be brought by having an instinctive presentiment of
slaughter some days before the event. It is ob-
served, that Vultures in general become less nu-
merous as the climate becomes colder; and that in
the more northern countries they are never found.—
They are undoubtedly a kind dispensation of Provi-
dence in the hotter regions, to prevent the putrid
effluvia of the dead from too much injuring the health
of the living.
The black one in the same Case is a young bird
of the same kind, previous to its attaining its perfect
colour.
BRITISH EAGLES.—No. 1.
1. The Female of the Golden Eagle (Falco Chrysaé-
tos). Shot near London.
2. The Fishing, or Sea Eagle (Falco Ossifragus).
This extremely fine species, which measured 7 feet
9 inches in the extent of its wings, was killed in
40
March, 1810, in Lincolnshire, in the park of Sir
Joseph Banks, by whom it was presented to the
Museum.
3. White-tailed Eagle (Falco Fulvus).
4, Black Eagle (Falco Melanaetos).
EAGLES, No. 2.
In this Case is a variety of Birds of the Falco ge-
nus: .several of them are very rare, from South
America; those known have their name attached to
them. . Among the most conspicuous is a fine speci-
men of the Bald, or White-headed Eagle (Falco Leu-
cocephalus). It is found in great plenty on the
shores of Hudson’s Bay; and J am informed by my
brother (Lieut. Buttock, R. N.) who passed several
winters at a Block-house on the coast of Labradore,
that these birds were so bold as to be extremely
troublesome, by watching for and seizing the game
killed by the guns of our people, and often contend-
ing with them for the prize.
Golden Eagle (Falco Chrysaétos),
This is one of the largest birds of the- rapacious
tribe ; it measures, from the point of the bill to the
extremity of the tail, upwards of three feet; its
breadth, from wing to wing, about eight feet; and
weighs from 16 to 18 pounds. The strength of this
noble bird is such, that it can with ease carry a
lamb; -and several instances are recorded of its
See eS)
Gol CF ree va Vi the c Aare :
Lub. by WE Bull: vi, London Museum Piccadilly April ride .
41
having carried off children. It is found in various
parts of Europe, but abounds most in the warmer
regions; it has been known to breed in the moun-
tainous parts of Ireland; it lays three, and sometimes
four eggs, of which seldom more fica two are pro-
lific. It is finely preserved in the act of preying
on the White Hare of Scotland.
HAWKS.
*
This Case contains 17 Birds of the rapacious kind,
gracynlly inhabitants of this island.
. Moor Buzzard (Falco Erugenosus).
. Common Buzzard (Falco Buteo),
. Peregrine Falcon (Falco Peregrinus).
. Ring-tail (Falco Pygargus).
pee ie ge
Hen Harrier (Falco Cyaneus).
This and the last are now proved to be male and
female.
6. Kestrel (Falco Tinnunculus).
4. Kestrel, female.
8. Sparrow-hawk (Falco Nisus);
G
42
9. Merlin killing 4 Leveret.
10. Domingo Falcon (Falco Dominicencis).
Is one of the smallest and most beautiful of the
Hawks.
11. Domingo Hawk, female.
¥2and 13. Names unknown.
BUTCHER BIRDS (LANIUS).
These are the last genus of the rapacious tribe ;
they are bold and quarrelsome, mostly preying on
small birds, which they tear in pieces, sticking the
fragments on thorns. Some of them are natives of
this country.
OWLS (STRIX).
This Case contains 13 of the most remarkable Birds
of this genus, from the largest to the smallest
known. They are carnivorous, and in general prey
by night: those of this country, feeding principally
on mice, are protected in the barns of our farmers
on that account.
43
1. The Great Horned Owl of Hudson’s-Bay (Strix
Bubo) approaches nearly to the size of the Eagle:
it is found in the most cold countries, and preys on
hares and the larger species of game, &c.
2. Large Owl, unknown.
3. Snowy Owl (Strix Nyctea). This extremely
beautiful and majestic bird is found in Europe,
America, and Asia: contrary to the habits of the
others, it preys by day on herons, hares, mice, and
sometimes Carrion—in winter it is quite white.
4and 5. Pair of Canada Owls (Strix Eunerea),
These make a near approach to some of the hawks.
6. The Tawney Owl (Strix Stridula) inhabits this
country.
7 and 8. The White or Barn Owls (Strix Flammea)
with their young.
9. The Short-eared Owl (Strix Brachyotos) a rare
British species, visiting us the latter end of summer,
and departing in spring.
10, Little Owl (Strix Passerina). The smallest
and most rare of the British Owls, little larger than a
blackbird.
11 and 12. Indian Horned Owls (Strix Indica) aig
seven inches long—the smallest known Owl.
G2
4.4,
Small Case of Owls.
The Sooty Owl, or Cinerous Owl (S, Cineria).
- One of the peeuliarities of the Ow! genus, is the
disproportionate largeness of the eyes: this species
however is an exception to that circumstance, for in
this, although one of the largest of the family (30
inches long) the eyes do not exceed those of the
most minute. This does not appear, to haye been
noticed by any author, probably from their not
having examined them while living. It is a native
of Hudson’s Bay, and is said to prey in the day
on hares, grouse, &c. Presented by Mrs. Lean, of
Fenchurch-street.
~ The Barred Owl (S. Nibulosa). Is likewise a na-
tive of Hudson’s Bay.
Three other Small Owls, one of them from Monté
Video, undescribed ; remarkable for its long and
slender legs,
PARROTS (PSITTACUS).
These Cases contain a numerous and elegant dis-
play of the Parrot tribe, consisting of about ninety
species of Maccaws, Cockatoos, Lories, Parrots, and
Paroquets, of the most splendid and beautiful plu-
mage, properly arranged and named,
45
Of all the foreign birds, the Parrot is best known
in this country, and is most admired, nor without
reason, as it unites the greatest beauty with the
greatest docility. Its voice more exactly resembles
the human than that of any other bird, and is capable
of numerous modulations, which even the tones of
man cannot reach, The facility with which this bird
is taught to speak, and the degree of memory which
it possesses, are not a little surprising. So numerous
are the stories respecting the loquacious faculty of the
Parrot, that they would fill a volume. Parrots are
uncommonly numerous in the tropical climates: the
forests swarm with them, and the beauty of their plu-
mage, though not their natural voice, adds a degree
of vivacity to the lovelicst of scenes. Though the
Parrot is commonly domesticated in Europe, it will
not breed here on account of the cold. It indeed can
survive our cold winter, but its spirits and appetite
are both visibly affected by severe weather. It then
becomes torpid and inactive, and seems quite changed
from that bustling bird which it appears beneath a
more genial sky. Nevertheless, with proper atten-
tion, it will live a number of years under the protec-
tion of man. The extreme sagacity and docility of
this bird forms the only apology that can be made for
the time which is spent im teaching it to talk. At
first it obstinately resists all instruction, but seems to
be won by perseverance; makes a few attempts to
imitate the first sounds, and, when it has once ac-
quired the articulation of one word distinctly, the rest
of the lesson is generally learned with great ease.
The sagaeity and docility, however, which Parrots
shew in a domestic state, seem also natural to them
in their residence among the woods, ‘They live toge-
ther in flocks, and mutually assist each other against
their enemies, either by their courage or their notes
46
of warning. They breed in the hollows of trees,
where they make their nests. The larger kind lay
only two or three eggs; but it is probable that the
smaller ones lay more. The natives are very assidu-
ous in finding out the places where they nestle, for
the purpose of procuring the young; because those
prove the most tractable and lively which are reared,
in confinement. Indeed the Indians are not anxious
to possess these birds for their talking alone, for sale,
or for their beauty, but also for food; since, though
some are ill-tasted, others are very delicate eating,
particularly the paroquet kind. Numerous as the
species are, and widely as they are disseminated over
Asia, Africa, and America, yet it appears that they
Were not very generally known to the Greeks. The
green Paroquet with a red neck was the first of this
family imported into Europe: for Onesicrites, the
conductor or admiral of the fleet of Alexander the
Great, brought them from the Island of Taprobane,
the modern Ceylon. ‘They were indeed so new and
uncommon, that Aristotle, in his 8th book of animals,
seems not to have seen cheat and mentions them
only from report; for he says, “there is an Indian
bird, called the Psittace, which is said to speak.”
The beauty of these birds made them however ob-
jects of luxury among the Romans, who lodged them
in cages of silver, or shells, and of ivory ; and the
price “of a parrot often Exceeded that of a slave. To
enumerate what number of distinct species of these
birds have already been discovered, would be impos-
sible, since our vessels from New Holland and the
southern islands are daily adding new ones to this
extensive and beautiful genus.
The one in the larger Case, marked unique, is the
‘property of A. Harrison, Esq. of Parliament-street,
47
Westminster, to whose liberality I am indebted for
many of the rare productions of New Holland: it
was received from Port Jackson, where it was killed
by Colonel Johnson, and the only one known to have
been killed at the colony.
TOUCANS (RAMPHASTOS).
This Case contains twelve of these highly singular
birds, among which are the following:
White-throated Toucan (Ramphastos Toco). Male
and Female.
The bill of this curious bird is of a most uncommon
size, being nearly as large as the whole body, which
gives the bird somewhat the appearance of having
thrust its head into the claw of a large lobster; this
extraordinary bill is seven inches and a half long, and
seven in circumference ; if is extremely slight, and as
thin as parchment. ‘This bird, so formidable in ap-
pearance, is quite harmless and gentle ; it feeds prin-
cipally on pepper, which it devours very greedily,
gorging itself in such a manner, that it voids it crude
and unconcocted; this, however, is no objection to the
natives using it again. They even prefer it to that
which is fresh gathered from the tree; and seem per-
suaded that the strength and heat of the pepper is
qualified by the bird, and that all its noxious qualities
are thus exhausted. It is a native of South America.
AS
The Pzperine Toucan ( Ramphastos Piperivorus).
Male and female.
Arucart Toucan (Ramphastos Aracari).
Is anative of South America, remarkable for the
great size of its bill, as well as the beauty of colour.
Yellow-breasted Toucan (Ramphastos Tucanus).
Inhabits South America: habits, similar to the last.
In the same Case is the Brazilian Motmot (Momo-
tus Brasiliensis).
This beautiful and remarkable bird is about eighteen
inches long, though the body is not larger than that
of athrush: it inhabits unfrequented forests, building
its nest on the ground, or in holes abandoned by the
Armadillo, and lays two eggs; feeds on insects,
which it macerates in water.
Near the last is a variety of it from Mexico, with
the crown of the head roufous, and the feather of the
tail not bare as in the other,
Above these is the Channel Bill, of New Holland,
(Scythrops Psittaceus). The only one of that genus
known.
SSE
ABYSSINIAN HORNBILL,
(Buceros Abyssinicus ).
This Case contains fine specimens of the Male and
Female of this rare and very curious bird. They are
49
upwards of 3 feet long; the extraordinary protube-
rance in the front of the head of all the birds of this
genus, is in this species very remarkable, appearing
as if cut through.
These birds were lately sent from Senegal, where
they are said to arrive in a very exhausted state dur-
ing the hot winds that blow from Abyssinia. Ina
state of confinement, they feed on rats, lizards, and
ether small animals.
HORNBILL, No. 2,
The African Hornbill (Buceros Africanus).
Of all the various forms which are met with in the
heads of animals, those of the Hornbill appear the
most extraordinary ; to the enormous bill of the 'Tou-
cans, nature has added a still larger projection from
the forehead along the upper mandible, the precise
use of which has baffled the research of the most at-
tentive naturalist. Sixteen different species of these
birds are enumerated by travellers and writers, the
heads of many of which are preserved in this collec-
tion.
Pied Hornbill (Buceros Malabaricus).
Black-billed Hornbills (B. Nasutus). Male and
female. They are natives of Senegal, and feed on
fruits.
Red-balled Hornbill.
H
50
Dr. Latham, in his Synopsis, makes these only va-
riety of the former. Linnzus thought them male and
female, and Buffon thought they differed only from
age ; but by comparing them, the beak will be found
to differ exceedingly in shape, so much so, as to leave
no doubt with me of their being distinct species.
CROWS (CORVUS).
This Case contains a great variety of the birds of
this genus, some of which are highly beautiful in their
plumage, while others surprise by their singularity.
The various kinds are found by navigators inhabiting
every part of the known world. They are in general
clamorous and mischievous birds, easily tamed, and
several imitate the human voice distinctly. They are
promiscuous feeders ; carrion is a favourite food, but
they do not object to cater for themselves by killing
rabbits, young ducks, chicken, or any small animals
they have strength to overpower. ‘Ten species are
found in Great Britain.
ROLLER (CORACIAS).
These are, in their manner and general habits,
much allied to the last: many of them are of the
most vivid plumage, of which the Senegal Roller wil!
serve as an example.
51
ORIOLES (ORIOLUS).
AND
GRAKLES (GRACULA).
This Case contains about 40 Orioles and 8 Gra-
kles.
The Orioles are chiefly natives of America, where,
by their prodigious numbers, and their voracity, they
do great injury to the plantations of corn; many of
the species build pendulous nests, some of which are
suspended at the extreme ends of the branches of
trees, with the entrance either at the bottom or
side.
They are birds of considerable beauty, the general
prevailing colour being black, contrasted with bright
red and yellow.
The Grakles are mostly natives of India, where
they are frequently kept in cages: some of them
imitate the human voice much nearer than any of the
parrot kind, for which reason they are frequently
brought to this country. ‘They principally feed on
vegetables.
52
BIRDS OF PARADISE.
This Case contains, it is presumed, the finest col-
lection of the birds of this kind in Europe, either ia
respect of number, variety, or preservation,
Greater Bird of Paradise (Paradisea Apoda).
No birds have perhaps more puzzled the naturalist
than those which are termed Birds of Paradise. They
have been described as the inhabitants of the air,
never resting on the earth, and living on the dews of
heaven. Others have asserted, that they live on in-
sects; while some have insisted, that they have no
legs; others again contend, that they have not only
strong and large legs, but that they are birds-of prey.
But the fact is, that the inhabitants of the Molucca
Islands, perceiving the inclinations the Europeans have
to obtain these birds, and at the same time taking ad-
vantage of their credulity, originally practised many
deceits in order to enhance their value. Error how-
ever is not of very long duration ; and, in the present
instance, it was at length discovered that these birds
had not only legs, but that they were so dispropor-
tionably large, that they took away a considerable
share of the elegance of the birds ; on this account it
is not improbable they were deprived of them by the
islanders. Buffon, in his history of birds says, this
beautiful bird is not much diffused, it is in general
confined to that part of Asia which produces the
spiceries, and especially the islands of Arou. It is
known also in the part of New Guinea opposite to
those islands ; but the name which it there receives,
Burung Arou, seems to indicate its natal soil. The
ae.
Pub.lv Whullock, London Museum Pixcadily April 2.2822 .
53
Bird of Paradise is supposed to subsist on the aroma-
tic productions of these islands; at least, it does not
live solely on dew. Linnzus says, it feeds on large
butterflies; and Bontius, that it sometimes preys
upon birds. Its ordinary haunt is in the woods, where
perching in the trees, the Indians watch it in slender
huts, which they attach to the branches, and shoot it
with their arrows of reeds. The ancients seem to
have been totally unacquainted with the Bird of Pa-
radise. Belon pretends that it was the Phoenix of
antiquity ; but his opinion is founded on the fabulous
qualities of both. The Phoenix, too, appeared in >
' Arabia and Egypt, while the Bird of Paradise has
remained always attached to the oriental parts of Asia,
which were very little known to the antients.—The
extreme elegance of the tail-feathers of this bird
have made them expensive articles of female deco-
ration.
Lesser Bird of Paradise.
This differs from the last, in being considerably
less, and in having a long flowing feather at the sides,
of a much finer texture and colour.
The Magnificent Bird of Paradise (Paradisea
Magnifica).
The Gorget Bird of Paradise (Paradisea Nigra).
This is a most splendid and beautiful bird, and
likewise extremely rare. Presented by Lady Banks.
Gold-breasted Paradise Bird (P. Aurea).
A remarkably fine specimen.
King Bird of Paradise (Paradisea Regia).
This superb bird is usually called the King of the
Birds of Paradise ; but this appellation is drawn from
fabulous accounts. Clusius was informed by the ma-
riners, from a tradition which prevailed in the East,
that each of the species of the Birds of Paradise had
54:
its leader, whose royal mandates were received with
submissive obedience by a numerous train of subjects ;
that his majesty always flew above the flock, and
issued orders for inspecting and tasting the springs,
where they might drink with safety. It inhabits the
islands of the Indian Ocean, and returns to New Gui-
nea in the rainy season ; feeds on berries, is a solitary
bird, and is highly valued on account of its rarity
and beauty of plumage.
Black-bodied Bird of Paradise.
This beautiful and uncommon bird, which does
not appear to have been seen by any English writer,
is, like the others, a native of the Molucca Islands,
but is a rarity even in that country; the plumes
being worn only by persons of the first rank ; the
whole of the head, neck, body, and tail, is a
fine black, with a velvet-like gloss, the latter
changing in some lights to a rich purple. The bill
is long, black, and somewhat hooked ; the feathers
under the lower mandible reaching a considerable
part of its length: from the back of the neck rises
a divided tuft of long, thick, close-set black feathers,
edged with resplendent emerald green; from the
sides of the body and wings rise two tufts of long
delicate silky feathers, as in the common Bird of Pa-
radise, only smaller, six on each side of which have
strong black wire-like terminations about nine inches
long, destitute of every appearance of feathers.
Blue Green Bird of Paradise (Paradisea Viridis).
Golden Bird of Paradise (Latham’s Synopsis, vol.
1, page 483).
Superb Bird of Paradise (Paradisea Superba).
Pair of Birds of Paradise, undescribed,
55
~ The Red Bird of Paradise.
This beautiful and very rare bird we are acquainted
with through the figure in the splendid publication of
Oiseaux Dores, in which it is called Le Paradis Rouge:
it seems to be nearest allied tothe greater Bird of Para-
dise, the principal ditlerence being in the colour of the
long side feathers which rise under the wings, being in
this of a fine red, and that instead of the long wire
feathers in the tail it has two curious appendages re-
sembling flat pieces of polished whalebone. This
specimen is believed to be the only one ever brought
to England.
Black Bird of Paradise (Paradisea Furcata).
‘The Grand Hoopoe (Latham’s Synopsis, vol. 2,
page 695.)
(Le Grand Promerops a paremens frises, Buffon,
vol. 4, page 472.)
This magnificent bird is thus described by Mr. La-
tham:—** This most extraordinary and beautiful
«« bird is near four feet in length from the tip of the
« bill to the end of the tail; the body is the size only
“¢ of a middling pigeon, though much elongated in
«« shape. The bill is three inches long, pretty much
« curved, and black; the head, hind part of the neck,
«« and upper part of the belly, are of a shining green ;
the rest of the plumage, on the upper parts, black,
« mixed with a gloss of changeable violet, but the
« wings, in some lights, appear blue; the fore part
“«< of the neck, and lower part of the belly, without
« gloss. The scapular feathers are of a singular con-.
** struction, the webs on one side of the shaft being ex-
«* ceedingly short, and on the other of a great length;
«« the shape of them falciform ; ‘they are of a purplish
«« black colour, with the ends for three quarters of
« an inch of a most brilliant, gilded, glossy green,
56
« though some of them in a different light reflect
«a blue gloss; beneath each wing rises a thick tuft
‘ of feathers eight inches and a half in length, and
«* of a texture resembling the herring-bone ones in
« the greater Bird of Paradise.”
A Pair of New Holland Birds of Puradise (P.
Parkinsonia) ; one presented by the Countess of Li-
verpool, the other by Dr. Smith, President of the
Linnean Society.
~
CUCKOWS (CUCULUS).
This Collection contains nearly 40 species of this
family. The habits of the common Cuckow are
well known, and may serve to give a general idea of
most of them. They are scattered over most parts
of the world, some of them are of fine plumage, as
the Cupreous, which is an inhabitant of the hottest
parts of Africa, where however it is rare: the rich
metallic glossy green with which the whole upper
parts are covered, can only be equalled by the
glowing tints of the Humming Bird.
WOODPECKER (PICUS).
The birds of this genus climb up and down trees
in'search of insects, which they transfix and draw
8Y
out from the clefts of the bark by means of the
tongue, which is bony at the end, barbed, and fur-
nished with a curious apparatus of muscles for the
purpose of throwing it forward with great force.
They build in decaying and dead trees, which they
perforate with their hard, wedge-shaped bill. Their
feet are very strong, having the toes placed two be-
fore and two behind, and in climbing are assisted by
the strong pointed feathers of their tail: some of
them are found in England. There are upwards of
forty in this Case, in which are also a few of the
next genus in the Linnzean arrangement, the Nuthatch
(Sitta), whose mode of life are much like the Wood-.
pecker, from which they differ in having the toes
placed three before and one behind.
KING-FISHER (ALCEDO).
The birds of this family vary much in size ; some
of them are very splendid in their plumage, in which
bright blue is the colour that predominates in the
whole tribe. They mostly frequent rivers, and feed on
fish, which they catch with much dexterity: they
swallow their prey whole—their wings are short, yet
they tly with great swiftness. The only one found
in this country is the common King-fisher (Alcedo
Ispida),
58
The Greeks celebrated this bird by the name of
Alcyon, or Halcyon; the epithet Alcyonian was apph-
cable by them to the four days before and after the
winter solstice, when the sun shone brilliantly, the sky
serene, and the sea smooth and tranquil. It was then
the timorous mariners of antiquity ventured to lose
sight of shore, and shape their course on the glassy
main. ‘The King-fisher is the most esteemed of Bri-
tish birds for the brilliancy of its colours. It nestles
on the banks of rivers and brooks, m holes made by
water-rats. Gessner observes, that it can never be
tamed, and that it is always wild. Its flesh has the
odour of bastard musk, and is very unpalatable food ;
its fat is reddish; its stomach roomy and flaccid, as
in birds of prey; and like them too it discharges by
the bill the undigested fragments, scales, and bones,
rolled into little balls.
In the same Case are a few of Jacamars (Galbula),
_ the plumage of some of which partakes of the metallic
lustre of the Humming Bird.
BEE-EATERS (MEROPS).
The birds of this genus are mostly natives of the
Old Continent, few being found in America; but the
discovery of New Holland has brought us acquainted
with a number of species that were unknown to us be-
fore. Their general food is said to be insects, and
Of,
that they build their nests in holes on the banks of
rivers in the same manner as the King-fisher, to which
they seem much allied.
The European Bee- Eater (Merops Apiaster), is a
native of many of the warmer parts of Europe, but
is rarely seen in the British dominions. Itis extremely
common in Greece, and the islands of the Archipe-
lago; and in Crete is most plentiful. It 1s in this
latter island that the curious mode of bird-catching,
described by Bellonius, is said to be frequently prac-
tised with success, viz. a Cicada is fastened on a bent
pin, or a fish-hook, and tied to a long line. The in-
sect, when thrown from the hand, ascends into the
air, and flies with rapidity ; the Merops, ever on the
watch, seeing the cicada, springs at it, and swallowing
the bait, is thus taken by the Cretan boys.
!
CREEPERS (CERTHIA).
These birds bear a strong resemblance to the Hum-
ming-Bird as to size and the varied tints of glossy
colouring, but the legs are always longer, and the bill
in general more bent and sharper at the point. They
are likewise dispersed over every part of the world,
while the Humming Birds are confined to America.
Their food is insects, which they find under the bark
of trees. The common Creeper (Certhia Famili-
12
60
aris) of this country, is an example (says that excel-
lent Ornithologist, Dr. Latham) of the facility with
which they run in every direction on the smoothest
tree, like a fly on a glass window.
|
HUMMING BIRDS.
(Trochilus.)
Say, who can paint
Like Nature? Can Imagination boast,
Amid her gay creation, hues like these?
THOMSON.
This Case contains nearly 100 various Humming
Birds, and is allowed to be the finest collection in Eu-
rope: such as are known have their names in the
order they stand in the system of Linneus. Of all
animated beings (says Buffon) the Fly Bird is the
most elegant in form, and superb in colours. The
precious stones, polished by art, cannot be compared
to this jewel of nature. Her miniature productions
are ever the most wonderful ; she has placed in it the
61
order of birds, at the bottom of the scale of magni-
tude ; but all the talents that are only shared amongst
the others, she has bestowed profusely on this little
favourite. The emerald, the ruby, and the topaz,
sparkle in its plumage, which is never soiled by the
dust of the ground. It is inconceivable how much
these brilliant birds add to the high finish and beauty
of the western landscape. No sooner is the sun
risen, than numerous kinds are seen fluttering
abroad: their wings are so rapid in motion, that it
is impossible to discern their colours, except by their
glittering ; they are never still, but continually visit-
ing flower after flower, and extracting the honey.
For this purpose they are furnished with a forked
tongue, which enters the cup of the flower, and
enables them to sip the nectared tribute; upon this
alone they subsist. In their flight they make a buz-
zing noise, not unlike a spinning wheel; whence
they have their name.
The nests of these birds are not less curious than
their form: they are suspended in the air at the ex-
tremity of an orange branch, a pomegranate, or a
citron tree, and sometimes even to a straw pendant
from a hut, if they find one convenient for the pur-
pose. The female is the architect, while the male
goes in quest of materials, such as fine cotton, moss,
and the fibres of vegetables. The nest is about the
size of half a walnut.. They lay two eggs at a time,
and never more, in appearance like small pease, as
white as snow, with here and there a yellow speck.
The time of incubation continues twelve days, at the
end of which the young ones appear, being then not
larger than a blue-bottle fly. « I could never per-
*« ceive (says Father Dutertre) how the mother fed
“ them, except that she presenied the tongue co-
« vered entirely with honey extracted from flowers.”
Those who haye tried to feed them with syrups could
62
not keep them alive more than a few weeks; these
aliments, though of easy digestion, are very different
from the delicate nectar collected from the fresh blos-
soms. It has been alleged by various naturalists,
that during the winter season they remain torpid,
suspended by the bill from the bark of a tree, and
awakened into life when the flowers begin to blow ;
but these fictions are rejected ; for Catesby saw them
through the year at St. Domingo and Mexico, where
nature never entirely loses her bloom. Sloane says
the same of Jamaica, only that they are more nume-
rous after the rainy season; and prior to both, Marc-
grave mentions them as being frequent the whole
year in the woods of Brazil_—The method of obtain-
ing these minute birds is to shoot them with sand, or
by means of the trunk-gun; they will allow one to
approach within five or six paces of them. It is easy
to lay hold of the little creature while it hums at the
blossom. It dies soon after it is caught, and serves —
to decorate the Indian girls, who. wear two of these
charming birds as pendants from their ears. The
Indians, indeed, are so struck and dazzled with the
brilliancy of their various hues, that they have named
them the Beams, or Locks of the Sun. Such is the
history of this little being, who flutters from flower
to flower, breathes their freshness, wantons on the
wings of the cooling zephyrs, sips the nectar of a
thousand sweets, and resides in climes where reigns
the beauty of eternal spring.
63
DUCKS (ANAS).
We are now arrived at the third Order in the Lin-
nzan Classification, called Anseres. The whole of the
birds in this order have webbed feet, and reside prin-
cipally on the water. ©
These Cases contain upwards of forty species of thie
genus Anas, or Duck, many of them of the. larger
Size. .
The Bluck Swan (Anas Atrata), of New Holland ;
the Canada Goose (A. Canadensis), and the Egyptian
Goose (A. Aigyptiana), lived some time in the
Queen’s Menagerie at Frogmore, and were graciously
presented to the Museum by her Majesty, to whose
condescension I am indebted for many of the fine
subjects of Natural History in my collection.
The Spur-winged Geese (Anas Gambensis), male
and female; and the highly curious, non-descript
species, having a very high crest-like protuberance,
the whole length of the upper mandible: they were
lately sent from the interior of Africa, on the banks of
the Gambia, by M. De Bonay, of Senegal, by whose
exertions this collection has been considerably en-
riched, by the addition of many extremely curious
and hitherto unknown Quadrupeds and Birds.
In these Cases are also the Lobated Duck of New
Holland (Anas Lobata), so called from the fleshy
appendage attached to the under mandible; and the
Gz
er
64
Chinese, or Mandarine Duck (Anas Galericulata),
perhaps the most beautiful of the whole genus, as
well as nearly every species found in this country.
MERGANSER (MERGUS).
Crested Merganser (Mergus Cucullatus), male and
female; remarkable for their large globular crest:
they are natives of North America.
The Goosander (Mergus Merganser).
Dewdiver (Mergus Castor).
The Smew, or White Nun, (Mergus Albellus).
The Minute Mergus (Mergus Minutus).
WATER FOWL (ANSERES).
Little Auk (Aica Alle). A rare British bird.
Patagonian Penguin (Aptenodytes Patachonica).
This highly curious bird seems to form the con-
necting link between the feathered and scaly race.
65
It is upwards of three feet in height; its fin-like legs
being placed at the extreme end of its body, it can
stand in no position but quite upright; in place of
wings it has two dangling flaps, which when in the
water serve as fins, but are of ne use on shore, as it is
totally incapable of flight; it seldom comes to land,
but for the purpose of depositing its eggs; it is then
so easily taken, that Capt. Cook says, a man might
kill with a stick, in afew hours, as many as would
load a large boat.
Little Penguin (Aptenodytes Minor). Inhabits New
Zealand.
Crested Penguin ( Aptenod ytes Chrysocome).
Black Davters (Anhinga Melanogaster).
These are natives of the lakes and rivers of Brazil ;
they live chiefly on fish, which they take by darting
forward the head, whilst the neck is contracted like
the body of a serpent. Mr. Abbot, the naturalist,
of Savannah in America, says that he examined a
nest that had two eggs and six young, of three differ-
ent sizes, which he believes belonged to different fe-
males. They are extremely difficult to shoot, keep-
ing the head only above water.
The Black Skimmer (Rynchops Nigra).
Is remarkable for its singular bill, the lower mandi-
ble of which projects considerably beyond the upper,
into which it fits like a razor in its handle. It in-
habits America and Asia, and is continually flying
about and skimming over water, out of which it
scoops small fish with its oddly projecting bill.
PETREL (PROCELLARIA).
These birds may with great propriety be called in-
habitants of the ocean; they are met with at the
greatest distance from land, and seem to walk, rather
than fly, on the surface of the most tempestuous
billows, never approaching the shore except in the
breeding time: the nostril is furnished with a long
tube, through which they spout a quantity of pure
oil to a considerable distance, in the face of the per-
son who disturbs them. They are said to feed on
the dead fat of the whale and other large fish.
The Stormy Petrel, or Mother Carey’s Chicken (Pro-
cellaria Pelagica) is sometimes found on our coast,
and I have known several instances where they have
been picked up dead in the inland counties: they
sometimes follow the wake of a ship, but on these oc-
casions are always unwelcome visitors to the mariner,
who considers their presence as a certain prognostic
of an approaching storm.
The Snozy Petrel (Procellaria Nivea).
Inhabits the colder parts of the South Seas.
The Grey Petrel (Procellaria Grisea), male and
female.
Pintado Petrel (Procellaria Capensis).
Shear-water Petrel (Procellaria Puflinus), a native
ef this country.
67
The Wandering Albatross, or Man-of-war Bird,
(Diomedea Exulans).
This bird is frequently mentioned by navigators, as
being met with several hundred leagues from land ;
in its figure and manner it bears a strong resemblance
to the Gulls, but is of such an extraordinary size as
to measure 13 feet from the tip of one wing to the
other.—Presented by the Marquis of Buckingham.
PELICANS (PELICANUS).
The.whole of these are extremely expert in catch-
ing fish, and are sometimes tamed for that purpose,
when their labours amply repay their keeper for the
trouble of their education.
The Great White Pelican (Pelicanus Onocrotalus),
is a native of Asia, Africa, and South America; it
is five feet long, of a white colour, slightly inclining
to rosy; it is said to build its nest in dry sandy
deserts, where it carries water in its immense pouch
for its young, from which probably arose the fabulous
account of their feeding their young with their blood,
and of their being made an emblem of parental ailec-
tion by the ancients.
The Lesser Frigate Pelican (Pelicanus Minor).
The length of this bird is about two feet eight
mches; the extent of wing more than seven feet ;
K 2
68
the colour, sooty black; the pouch or gullet, bright
scarlet. Perhaps none of the feathered tribe con-
tinue so much on the wing as this; they are met
with at sea, at an immense distance from any land,
and generally flying’ very high.
Red-fuced Shag (Pellicanus Uriel), from Kamts-
chatka.
Corvorant (Pellicanus Carbo).
Shag (Pellicanus Graculus).
Tufted Shag of the Bass Island.
Two of these birds, both females, were shot by
myself on the 9th of May, 1807, on the Bass Island,
in the Frith of Forth, where they are believed to breed
and remain the whole year; the general appearance,
both in size and colour, was nearly similar to the
common Shag, and the number of tail feathers the
same; the most striking difference arises from a sin-
gular tuft of forty-six narrow and nearly straight
feathers, two inches long, standing close together up-
right, with a slight bend forward on the front of the
forehead, in so remarkable a way as at once to dis-
tinguish it from any described species. ‘The origin
of the lower mandible, and the naked pouch under
the throat, was of a bright yellow, approaching to
orange, with small spots of black ; the irides, a beau-
tiful grass green, and it had no bare space round the
eyes; the ovaries of both specimens contained a num-
ber of small eggs, and from the account of the person
who takes the young Gannets at the Bass, and who
possesses considerable knowledge of the birds that
visit it, there can be little doubt of its being a new
species, and of its rearing its young in the inaccessible
precipices of that island; and it is somewhat sur-
prising that it should have remained so long unnoticed
Su fled ‘i ee
ra
Pub.ter WBulloek, London Museam Piccadilly, April 1i1di2.
hy
; spree ey My ‘
a
were wah
mee sal
69
in the neighbourhood of so many naturalists and or-
nithologists as Edinburgh contains: the flesh was
eaten, and found to be entirely destitute of that rancid
smell and taste that affect the generality of the cor-
morant tribe. I have observed, what appeared to me
to be the same species, on Lambay Island, on. the
east coast of Ireland.
Gannets, or Soland Geese (Pellicanus Bassanus).
This beautiful species of Pelican is diffused over
most parts of the ocean, but seldom approaches the
land except at the breeding season; it received its
trivial name from its frequenting, in immense quan-
tities, the Bass Island, in the Frith of Forth, on the
east coast of Scotland. In the spring of 1807,
I visited this celebrated rock (once the state prison of
Scotland), accompanied by Arthur Strickland, Esq.
of York, tor the purpose of procuring specimens of
the various water-fowl that annually resort to it at
that season of the year for security, during the im-
portant business of rearing their young.
We arrived under the towering and tremendous
projecting cliffs of the east end, just before sunrise,
and approached as silent as possible. At a little
distance, the precipice appeared as if composed of
chalk; but on a nearer approach, we discovered that
this effect was produced by the excrement, as well as
by the white plumage of the innumerable water-fowl
that covered the cliffs. The whole of the various
families were just awake, and preparing, by shaking
their feathers and pluming their wings, for the busy
occupation of the coming day. After attentively
observing them for some time, on a given signal we
fired our guns, and the boatmen shouted altogether,
when such a scene took place as I had never wit-
nessed; in an instant our ears were assailed and
70
deafened by the varied and continued cries of at leas?
100,000 birds—Gannets, Cormorants, Shags, Puffins,
Razor-Bills, Gulimots, and the various kinds of Gulls,
raised their discordant notes at the same moment, and
by their numbers formed a canopy over our heads
that darkened the air, while their excrement, oc-
casioned by the sudden alarm we had put them in,
fell in a thick shower on every side. After the con-
fusion had somewhat subsided, we proceeded to the
west end of the island, and ascending to the summit,
found ourselves above the cliffs, where the Gannets
were sitting, close to each other, on their eggs. We
crept cautiously down amongst them, and so attentive
were they to their occupation of sitting, that it was
with difficulty they could be forced from their eggs,
though at other times they are extremely shy.—
They lay but one egg, which is perfectly white, and
in shape and size nearly resembles that of a croco-
dile ; it is placed on the bare rock, surrounded by a
circle of wet sea-weed, which is constantly replenish-
ed by the male as it becomesdry. _I had been told,
but doubted the fact, that during the time of incu-
bation the female holds the egg in her foot: this
I found to be the case.
In a visit I made inthe August following, the
young were many of them gone; but still I had an
opportunity of examining them in their different
ages, previous to their leaving the island. When
first produced from the egg, they are black and very
ugly; in a few days they become covered by a
resplendent white down; in about a month after-
wards, their first feathers begin to appear; they are
black the first year, spotted with white the second,
and on the third attain their mature plumage. The
specimens in the regular progression, taken at that
time, are in the Museum.
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GULLS (LARUS),
AND
TERNS (STERNA).
The Birds in this Case are principally natives of
the shores of this country, breeding in the rocks on
the sea coast in considerable numbers. Like many
of the sea fowl, they do not arrive at their perfect
colour for three years, which makes it difficult to
determine their species.
The Herring Gull (Larus Fuscus), lived in Frog-
more Park nearly two years, and was presented to the
Museum by the Queen.
The Black-toed Gull (Larus Cripidatus), is a rare
British bird ; shot in Lincolnshire. Presented by Sir
Joseph Banks,
SPOONBILLS (PLATALEA).
The bill of this remarkable species is long, and
toward the extremity spread out in a spoon-like
form. ‘The White one (Platalea Leucorodea), was
72
formerly not very uncommon in this island ; but since
the introduction of fire arms, and the improvement
that has gradually taken place in the art of shooting,
they have, with other birds then found in plenty,
left this country for others more retired.
- The Roseate Spoonbill (Platalea Ajaja), is a native
of South America.
JABIRU (MYCTERIA).
American Jabiru (Mycteria Americana).
This extraordinary and majestic bird is nearly six
feet long; it inhabits the extensive marshes of South
America, feeding on fish, which it devours in large
quantities ; it builds its nest in trees which hang over
the water, and lays two eggs. Presented by Lord
Teignmouth.
Senegal Jabiru (Mycteria Senegalensis).
Measures upwards of six feet from the bill to the
toes ; it is the only one known in this country ; it
was first described, from an imperfect specimen, by
Dr. Shaw, in the 5th volume of the Linnzan Trans-
actions. {t was lately received from the river Gambia,
and presented, with several other rare and valuable
birds of Africa, by Henry Brogden, Esq.
A non-descript species of-Jabiru, the native country
unknown; it lived some time in a state of confine-
gent iu Exeter Change, and was fed with fish.
73
CRANES, No. 1.
(Ardea).
Namidian Crane, or Demoiselle (Ardea Virgo).
This beautiful bird has received the name of De-
moiselle, or Miss, on account of its elegant form, its
rich garb, and its affected airs. It was famous amongst -
the ancients, though it was little known or seen in
Greece or Italy. NS
A large species of Crane, from New Holland ;
seems nearly allied to Ardea Antigone of Linneus,
Length, five feet nine inches; breadth of the wing,
six feet three inches; general colour, bluish ash, ex-
cept the quills and chia, which are black ; top of the
head without feather, esh colour; the regions of the
eyes and back of the neck covered by a carunculated
skin of bright vermilion colour. Presented by Dr.
Munro, jun. who received it from New Holland,
where it was killed by Dr. Jamieson.
Great White Heron (Ardea Alba).
Green Heron (Ardea Virescens).
Cinereous Herons, male and female.
74
CROWNED CRANES.
Pair of Crowned African Cranes (Ardea Pavonia).
These owe their title of Royal to a sort of crown
which decorates their head. ‘They inhabit Africa, es-
pecially Gambia, the Gold Coast, and Cape Verd.
They are of a gentle and pacific disposition ; their de-
fence is their stature, and the rapidity with which
they run and fly. They are less afraid of man than
of their other enemies: we are assured, that at Cape
Verd these birds are half domesticated, and that they
come into the court-yards to eat grain with the Gui-
nea fowls. Their cry is like the peacock’s. The Portu-
guese, in the 15th century, it is supposed, were the _
first people that brought these birds into Europe, at
the time they discovered the Gold Coast.
In the bottom of this Case is the Bull Frog of
America (Rana Maxima).
BITTERNS (ARDEA).
Agami Heron (A. Agami).
Is a beautiful bird, inhabiting the swamps of Cay-
enne.
ie
The Striated Heron is likewise from Cayenne, and,
when closely examined, has much beauty of plu-
mage.
Tiger Bittern (A. Tigrina).
Remarkable for the sec of its rich co-
louring, which resembles the animal from which it is
named.
Little Bittern (A. Minuta). Shot in England,
where it has lately been several times killed.
Minute Bittern (A. Exilis),
The smallest of the genus, only eleven inches
long: from Monte Video.
White Stork (A. Ciconia).
Was formerly an inhabitant of this idand: ; is still
plentiful in Holland, where it is protected by very
severe laws.
Common Heron (A. Major).
Great Egret (A. Egretta).
Titile Egret (A. Garzetta).
This very beautiful bird was formerly very cam-
mon in England.
Blue Heron (A. Ceoerulea).
Squacco Heron (A. Comata).
Snowy Heron (A. Candidissima).
_ Malacca Heron (A. Malaccensis).
Bittern (A. Stellaris).
L?2
76
IBIS (TANTALUS).
Saéred Ibis. This remarkable Bird, which is the
first exhibited in this country, has just been received
from Africa, and lately deseribed by a French natu-
ralist as the celebrated sacred bird of the Egyptians
(the identity of which has long been disputed) ; and
there is every reason to believe it to be the species of
which the Mummies, in the bird pits at Saccarra, are
composed,
it has been examined at the house of Sir Joseph
Banks with the most perfect Mummy known, in which
the feathers are still entire, and the result left no
doubt on the minds of the Gentlemen present, of its
being the true species of Ibis, held ‘sacred and pre-
served by the antient Egyptians. See the Mumuny
near it,
The Glossy Ibis (T. Igneus).
This was lately killed in Wales. It was likewise
shot a few years since in Lancashire.
Egyptian Ibis (T. Ibis).
This large species is what most naturalists have
considered as the sacred; but on examination with
those Mummies that have come under my observa-
tion, I find it much longer, and the bill very different
from any of them.
Scarlet Ibis (Tantalus Ruber).
Inhabits the borders of the great lakes and rivers
of South America. The colour of the whole bird,
Y Oe
OSG fi LSS
My * Sd
Pub. by WRullock London Museum Pecadilly April 1.1é52. ball
.
77
except the tips of its wings, which are black, is
bright scarlet. It feeds on small insects and crabs,
and will breed in a domestic state,
Brown Ibis (‘T. Fuscus),
Black-faced Ibis (T. Melanopis).
CURLEWS (SCOLOPAX).
Common Curlews (Scolopax Arquata), with its nest
and eggs, taken on the moors between Edinburgh
and the falls of the Clyde.
The young one was kept alive for some time; its
food was small pieces of raw flesh ; the bill, at their
exclusion, is little larger than our domestic fowls,
and it is not till the bird is nearly at its growth that
it attains any considerable length,
In this Case are a number of the Scolopax genus,
some of which are rare.
Sand-pipers (Tringa). Many of these are natives
of our own shores, where they run in quest of their
food with amazing celerity, uttering at the same time
a sharp, shrill cry,—whence their name.
Amongst the most remarkable is the
Ruf (T. Pugnox). Its British name 1s taken from
the remarkable feathers that stand upon its neck and
shoulder. They are taken in large quantities in the
78
gpring, in the fens of Lincolnshire, and fattened on
bread and milk for the London markets: owing to the
strong propensity of the males to fighting, they are
obliged to be kept in the dark,
Grey Phalarope (T. Lobata).
Red Phalarope (T. Hypetborea).
Little Sand-piper (T. Pusilla). The three last are
among the most rare of the British birds.
In this Case are likewise the Avocettas (Recuvi-
rostra) and two species of Oyster Catchers (Hemato-
pus).
PLOVER (CHARADRIUS).
A number of rare, and several new species of this
genus of Birds are in this Case: those known are
labelled. .
PARRA. (JACCANA).
In this Case are several species of these birds, re-
markable for the extreme size of their feet; and the
sharp spurs with which the shoulders of some of
79
them are armed. They are natives of the warmer
parts of India, Africa, and America, and in their
manner much resemble the Rail, of which there are
several in the same Case.
BUSTARD (OTIS).
The Greut Bustard (Otis Tarda) is the largest of
our land birds, weighs 25Ib. ; is now become exceed-
ing rare, and will probably, in a few years, be lost to
eur country, owing to its size, and the avidity with
which it is sought after, as well as to the circumstance
of many of its former haunts being inclosed,
Little Bustard (Otis Tetrax).
This rare species of British bird was lately killed
in Berkshire. It is a female, the other sex being
very seldom met with in this country.
Near these are a pair of Nondescript Bustards ;
lately presented by Major Johnson, of Calcutta.
OSTRICH (STRUTHIO).
Black Ostrich (S. Camelus).
A young specimen not having attained its complete
plumage. Inthe Menagerie of Mr. Polito, at Exe-
ter Change, is now living a most superb bird of
this kind, perhaps the finest ever brought to Europe ;
it reaches 11 feet in height.
80
Cassowary (Scolopax Casuarius). —
Fine specimen of the male and female of this
highly curious bird.
— Great Emea, or New Holland Cassowary (S. Nova
Hollandia), upwards of 7 feet high.
Lesser Emea, not half the size of the above, and @
distinct species.
American, or Three-toed Ostrich (S: Rhea).
CURASSOWS (CRAX),
Crested Curassows (Crax Alector). Male and fe-
“ male.
Inhabits Surinam and other warm parts of South
“ America; its size is nearly that of a turkey ; the
male is black, but in the female the feathers of the
head and neck are black and white, and the whole of
the body is a rich mixture of fine cream-colour and
black ; the head is ornamented with an erect crest,
each feather being bent a little forward, which gives
the bird a very majestic appearance. ‘They are do-
mesticated in South America, and are said to be
excellent food.
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heck Cy Koewilt- COMA cet Z C4 VA LL4E Li
Lub.ty WBullock, London Muscum Piccadilly, April 11812.
81
PHEASANTS (PHASIANUS).
Argus Pheasant, or Luen (Phasianus Argus).
This superb and majestic bird was first described
by Edwards, in the 55th volume of the Philosophi-
cal Transactions, who says, “ It is the largest of
“« the pheasant genus yet known, being in size equal
“ toa full-grown turkey.” The wings and tail are
besprinkled with a multitude of round spots like eyes ;
whence it has received the name of Argus. ‘The fea-
thers in the middle of the tail are very long, and
project much beyond the rest, (A much longer, and
equally beautiful feather, of an unknown species of
Chinese Pheasant, five feet long, is in the same
Case.) Its head is covered with a double crest. It
has been doubted whether this bird had not originally
more than two long tail-feathers; this, however, on
examination of the rump, seems never to have been
the case. Mr. Pennant describes it as having spurs
like the common cock, but this also appears to be
an error; for this bird, although a male, and of full
growth, has not the slightest appearance of them.—
This extraordinary bird, with its wings extended,
measures eighteen feet in circumference. It is a na-
tive of the North of China.
Golden Pheasant of China (Phasianus Pictus),
Of the brilliancy with which nature so often deco-
rates the feathered tribe, the Golden Pheasant is one
of the most striking examples; a bird of which the
colours are so powerfully lucid, as to dazzle in a full
light the eyes of the spectator, and can only be ex-
ceeded by the polished lustre of the Humming-bird:
M
82
even the Peacock himself, with all his gaudy plu-
mage, falls short in the comparison. ‘This splendid
bird is now bred in this country, and will stand our
winters tolerably well.
The female was presented to the Museum by her
Majesty.
The Ringed Pheasant (P. Colchicus var.)—Pre-
sented by the Bishop of Salisbury.
A pair of Bohemian Pheasants, presented by Lady
Reade, who was the first person that succeeded in
breeding this species in England. |
Wild Cock of India, or Jungle Cock (Phasianus
varius).
This beautiful bird is supposed to be the parent, or
original stock of all the varieties of our domestic
poultry.
African Pheasant (P. Africanus).
Crested Pheasant (P. Cristatus),
A beautiful pair of Silver Pheasants (P. Nyctheme-
rus). Presented by the Bishop of Durham.
White Guinea Fowl (Numidia Meliagris, var.) Re-
ceived from Russia.
WOOD GROUSE, OR CAPERCAILE
(Tetrao Urogallus).
The male of this noble species of Game is nearly
as large as a turkey, but the female is considerably
smaller. ‘They were formerly found in Ireland and
83 ;
Scotland, but are now believed to be extinct, as f
hear of no authentic account of any having been
met with for several years.
They are now found in yarious parts of the Old
Continent, principally in the northern, in the large
pine forests ; and many of them are sent every win-
ter from Sweden to London, and used at the tables of
the great, being by many considered a luxury,
although they are said to taste strong of the pine
buds on which they feed.
BRITISH GAME.
Pair of Red Grouse (Tetrao Scoticus).
Pair of the Black Grouse (Tetrao Tetrix).
Pair of the Ptarmigan (Tetrao Lagopus).
The White Hare (Lepus Variabilis).
This species are found on the northern hills of Eu-
rope, Asia, and America, from whence in the winter
they migrate to the plains in troops, and return in
spring. The limbs and tail are shorter than the com-
mon hare: they change from a reddish grey to white
in the winter, except the tips of the ears, which are
black.
84:
PARTRIDGES, No. 3 (TETRAO).
A great variety of the birds of this genus from all
parts of the world are contained in this Case, many
of them extremely rare, and some new among them
are the Spotted Grouse (Tetra Canadensis). Male and
female. . .
Pinnated Grouse (Tetrao Cupido).
Hazel Grouse, Male and female (Tetrao Bonafia).
Red Legged Partridge (Tetrao Rufus).
Pearl Partridges, Male and female (‘Tetrao Perlatus).
Senegal Partridges (Tetrao Bicalcaratus).
Maryland Quail (Tetrao Marilandus).
Crested Quail (Tetrao Cristatus). |
And the Common Quail (Tetrao Coturnix).
The Common Partridge, and Young, beautifully
preserved, under a large glass shade.
PIGEONS (COLUMBA).
In this Case are a great variety of the Pigeons and
Doves from almost every part of the world, with
85
their names affixed to them. Among the most re-
markable, is the
Crowned Pigeon (Columba Coronata),
The gigantic size of this species, which is not far
short of a turkey, has caused some naturalists to place
it rather among the gallinaceous tribe than in the ge-
nus Celumba. Its characters are however so clearly
and decisively marked, as to declare at once its pro-
per genus. Itis undoubtedly one of the most elegant
of birds, and is a native of the Molucca Islands. Its
voice resembles that of the Wood Pigeon, but in so
loud and hoarse atone, that it is recorded of some
of Mons. Bougainville’s sailors, that they were great- .
ly alarmed on hearing it for the first time in the unfre-
quented spots of some islands on which they landed ;
supposing it to have proceeded from the savage cries
of hostile and concealed natives. This bird is fre-
quently brought to Europe alive, and is considered
as one of the greatest ornaments of the menagerie.
The above bird was presented to the Proprietor, with
other articles, by her Royal Highness the Princess
Charlotte of Wales.
The Bronzed-winged Pigeon (C. Chalcoptera).
Is a beautiful species, inhabiting New Holland; the
covert of its wings exhibiting all the prismatic co-
lours on a metallic ground.
The beautiful Whete Fan-tailed Dove was presented
by her Majesty, who received it from Walcheren.
Larks (Alauda) and Starlings (Sternus).
The birds of these families are not so numerous as
many of the smaller kinds. In this Case all that have
been collected are properly named,
86
¥ \
;
THRUSHES (TURDUS),
AND
CHATTERERS (AMPELIS).
This Case contains about 40 species of the Thrushes
and Chatterers. The first are not remarkable in ge-
neral for the splendour of plumage, though some
strong exceptions will be observed in this collection ;
but the richness of their melody makes ample amends.
One species, the Mocking Bird of America (Turdus
Poly glottus), deserves particular notice ; without any
exterior attractions, it possesses faculties which ren-
der it one of the greatest objects of curiosity and ad-
miration among the feathered tribes, It is about the
size of a Thrush. Its natural notes are musical and
solemn; but it likewise possesses the singular power
of assuming the tones of every other animal, whe-
ther quadruped or bird. It seems to divert itself with
alternately alluring or terrifying other birds, and to
sport with their hopes and their fears. Sometimes it en-
tices them with the call of their mates, and on their
approach terrifies them with the scream of the eagle,
or some other bird of prey. It frequents the habita-
tions of mankind, and is easily domesticated ; it builds
its nest in the fruit trees, near the houses of the plan-
ters ; and sitting sometimes most of the night on the
37
teps of their chimnies, assumes its own native melo-
dy, and pours forth the sweetest and most varied
strains. The savages call it Cenconélatolli, or Four
Hundred Languages. It is found in Carolina, Ja-
maica, New Spain, &c. In Jamaica, it is very com-
mon in the Savannahs, where it perches on the high-
est tree to chaunt its song.
The Glossy Thrush (T. Aineus.)
Is a magnificent species, near 18 inches long, of
the most shining and vivid colour, which changes as
seen in different lights.
The Chatterers are mostly natives of South Ame-
rica, and remarkable for the rich and varied tints of
_ their feathers.
GROSBEAK (LOXIA),
AND
BUNTINGS (EMBERIZA).
About seventy birds of the above species are col-
lected together in this Case, all properly named. The
Grosbeaks feed principally on hard seeds, which their
strong bills enable them easily to open. Many of
them are inhabitants of the cold parts of Europe and
America.
$§
The Buntings are likewise seed birds, and have a.
tooth-like process in the upper mandible, which
enables them to split their food with great facility.
In this genus are included the several species of
Whidah Birds, remarkable for their elegance and great
length of tail.
TANGER (TANAGRA),
AND
FINCHES (FRINGILLA).
About eighty of these are contained in this Case,
The Tanagers are mostly natives of South America,
and no family of birds exhibit a greater diversity of
splendid colours. ‘Ttaey, as well as the Finches, feed
on grain and seed, and are often troublesome and de-
structive to the plantations, in whose neighbourhood
they abound, Many of these are not yet described.
FLY-CATCHERS (MUSCICAPA),.
The birds of this genus are perhaps more univer~
sally dispersed over every part of the globe than any
other, ‘Their food is entirely insects, which, but for
——
7 Wrilahe " Auntovg. Pan. Spal Z Pe 7/ ce ~Dureloreg.
Pub.ty WBullock, Londen Musewn Piccadilly Apri. 2.1812.
ty
TLotu? it
89
the multitudes that are consumed by them, would
render some countries unfit for human residence :
about one hundred species are described.
WARBLERS (MOTACILLA).
This genus is more numerous than any other of
birds. Dr. Latham, in his excellent work, ** The
general Synopsis of Birds,” describes one hundred
and ninety-eight species. The major part of them
inhabit the warmer countries, where insects, their
proper food, abound. They are in general not re-
markable for gaiety of plumage, but their melody
amply compensates for their deficiency in that
respect.
The Nightingale (Motacilla Luscina), though com-
mon in this country, never visits the northern parts
of our island, and is seldom seen but in the neigh-
bourhood of London and the western counties. The
following description of the varied song of this unri-
valled bird, is taken from the ingenious author of the
Histoire des Oiseaux: —<‘ The leader of the vernal
«« chorus begins with a low and timid voice, and he
‘ prepares for the hymn to nature by essaying his
«* powers and attuning his organs; by degrees the
‘* sound opens and swells, it bursts with loud and
* vivid flashes, it flows with smooth volubility, it
** faints and murmurs, it shakes with rapid and vio-
** lent articulations; the soft breathings of love and
a
a
90
** yoy are poured from its inmost soul, and every
“‘ heart beats in unison and melts with delicious
«* Janguor. But this continued richness might satiate
“the ear; the strains are at times relieved by
«* pauses, which bestow dignity and elevation. The
« mild silence of evening heightens the general
<< effect, and not a rival interrupts the solemn scene.”
They begin to build in May.
MANAKIN, TITMICE, ann SWALLOWS.
(Pipra ). (Parus). (Hirunde).
The Manakins, at first sight, resemble the next ge-
nus, or Titmice, They are mostly natives of South
America, and are in general beautiful in their co-
lours. The most remarkable species is the Cock ef
the Rock, or Crested Manakin (Pipra Rupicola).
Though this bird is of an uniform orange colour, it
is one of the most beautiful of South America. They
are found in great numbers on the mountain Luca,
near Oyapoc, and on the mountain Courouaye, near
the river Aprouack. ‘They are esteemed for the sake
of their plumage, and are very scarce and dear ; be-
cause the savages, either from superstition or fear,
will not venture into the dark caverns where they
lodge.
91
The Titmice are a very active and fertile race, lay-
ing from eighteen to twenty eggs at one hatch. They
feed on fruit, seeds, and insects, and a few on flesh ;
most of them are fond of the brains of other birds,
which they get at by cleaving the skull of such as
they find dead. Several are natives of Britain, and
are an extremely entertaining bird in captivity, but
are dangerous to introduce into an aviary, on account
of their cruelty and boldness.
The natural history ofthe Swallow is extremely in-
teresting, and has been the cause of much contro-
versy among authors ; but we are still in much doubt
respecting their manners and habits. A few species
visit this country in the summer, and skim over moist
and wet places in search of insects, which they dex-
terously take on the wing,
GOATSUCKERS (CAPRIMULGUS).
The birds of this family (the last in the Linnean
arrangement) have their mouths of extraordmary
sie, opening far beyond the eyes, which enable
them to take large msects on the wing. They sel-
dom appear in the day time, except when disturbed,
or in dark cloudy weather. They lay two eggs,
which they deposit on the naked ground. The voice
of the European one resembles the noise made by
a large spinning wheel.
N 2
92
Among a number of these birds, is that highly
curious species the Sierra Leone Goatsucker (Capri-
mulgus Longipenis), presented by A. Haworth, Esq.
of Chelsea.
Birds in separate Cases, not numbered, but each
having a reference to the Page in this Cata-
logue, in which they are described.
Northern Divers (Colymbus Glacialis). Male and
female.
The largest of the Divers measures three feet and
a half in length. It is sometimes shot on our coast.
Horned Screamer (Palameda Cornuta).
This extraordinary bird is of the size of a large
turkey: from the front of the head rises a sharp
horn, about four inches long, and each joint of the
wings is furnished with an extremely strong spur,
triangular and very sharp; those on the shoulder
being nearly as large as a man’s finger: they inhabit
the fens of South America, and are always found in
pairs, feeding on seeds .and reptiles. The female
makes a nest on the ground, of mud, shaped like an
oven, and lays two eggs, |
93
White-bellied Boat-bill (Cancroma Cancrophaga).
The bill of this bird, in shape, resembles the bot-
tom of a boat with the keel upwards. It is a native
of South America ; perches on trees which overhang
the water, and darts down on the fish as they swim
underneath,
Barbary Pariridges, male and female (Tetrao Ru-
fus).
Beautifully preserved, and placed under a glass
shade or aa elegant bronze tripod ; presented by her
Majesty.
94
AMPHIBIOUS ANIMALS.
“ Were ev'ry falt?ring tongue of man,
«© Armicuty Faruer ! silent in thy praise,
“« Thy works themselves would raise a general voice;
“* Even in the depth of solitary woods,
*€ By human foot untrod, proclaim thy power.”
MILTONs
TORTOISE (TESTUDA).
Common Tortorse (Testudo Grzeca).
This animal is considered as the most common of
the European species, and is a native of almost all
the countries bordering on the Mediterranean Sea.
It lives to a most extraordinary age, instances being
adduced of its having considerably exceeded the
period of a century.
Geometrical Tortoise (‘Testudo Geometrica).
From its strong and well contrasted colours, and
regularity of pattern, the present species is more
readily distinguishable at first view than most others
of this perplexing tribe. The native country of this
beautiful tortoise 1s perhaps not truly known; though
the shell is more frequently seen in Europe than that
of any other kind.
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Close Tortoise (Testudo Clausa).
The Close Tortoise obtains its name from the un-
usual manner in which the under part of the shell is
applied to the upper, being continued in such a manner
round the margin, that when the animal withdraws
its head and legs, it is enabled accurately to close all
parts of the shell entirely together, so as to be in
a complete state of security ; and so strong is the de-
fence (says Shaw, in his Zoology) of this little animal,
that it is not only uninjured by having a weight of 5 or
600!bs. laid upon it, but can walk in its usual manner
beneath the load. It is a native of many parts of
North America, being chiefly found in marshy places.
It is principally sought for on account of its eggs.
It feeds on beetles, mice, and even serpents, which
it seizes by the middle, and draws into its shell, and
thus crushes them to death.
Concentric Tortoise (Testudo Concentrica).
This species is a native of North America, and is
sold in the market of Philadelphia and elsewhere, by
the name of Terrapin. it is an inhabitant of waters,
and is said to be a wholesome and even delicate food.
It is also found in Jamaica.
Snap or Snake Tortoise (Testudo Serpentina).
This species, first described by Linnzus, appears
to have been obscurely known, Itisa native of North
America, where it inhabits stagnant waters, growing
to the weight of 15 or 20tbs. and preying on fish,
ducklings, &c. Whatever it seizes in its mouth, it
holds with great force, and will suffer itself to be rais-
ed up by a stick rather than quit its hold. This ani-~
mal conceals itself in muddy waters, in such a man-
ner as to leave out only part of its back, like a stone
or other inanimate object, by which means it the
96
more easily obtains its prey. In New York, it is called
the Snapping Tortoise.
It was kept alive in the Museum upwards of eight
months, during which time it never tasted food. It
possessed a most amazing strength, carrying 200!bs.
without any apparent inconvenience. Its disposition
was exceedingly fierce.
Logger-head Turtle (Testudo Caretta).
This Turtle exceeds in size every other knowa
species. It inhabits the same seas with the Green
Turtle, but is also diffused into very remote latitudes,
being often found in the Mediterranean, and about
the coasts of Italy and Sicily. In a commercial
view, it is of little value ; the flesh being coarse and
rank, and the plates of the shell being too thin te be
of use. It is a strong, fierce, and even dangerous
animal.
Several Tortoises, unknown.
The Indian Tortoise ('Testudo Indica).
This is the largest known species of the Land
Tortoise, the shell being upwards of three feet long,
and six feet in circumference. In this specimen the
tubercles on the fore part of the shell are wholly
wanting.
The Fimbriated Tortoise (Testudo Fimbriati).
This is one of the larger species, and most extra-
ordinary in its appearance: it inhabits the rivers of
Cayenne and Guiana.
97
LIZARDS (LACERTA).
This Case contains fifty-one species of Lizards,
beautifully preserved, and displayed on an artificial
rock, so as to exhibit them in their various attitudes,
and convey an idea of their haunts and mode of
life: the greater part of them being named, we shall
only mention those whose history and habits are
known and remarkable.
Two specimens of the Flying Dragon (Draco
Volans).
This very extraordinary species of Lizard is a
native of Asia and Africa. ‘ The very name (says
«* Dr. Shaw) conveys to the mass of mankind the
se idea of some formidable monster, and recalls to the
‘* imagination the wild fictions of romance and poe-
** try; but the animal distinguished by that title in
« modern natural history, is a small, harmless Li-
« zard.” It is about ten inches long, and furnished
with large expansible wing-like membranes, which
enable it to spring to a considerable distance in quest
of its prey; it has a pouch under the throat of a
singular appearance, and is altogether different from
every other creature.
A young Crocodile (Lacerta Crocodilus).
This sometimes attains the length of 25 to 30 feet,
and is of great swiftness, voracity, and strength,
roars hideously, and deyours men, and other large
animals.
O
98
A Crocodile from the Island of St. Thomas, differ-
ing considerably from the common one.
The Gangetic Crocodile (Lacerta Gangetica).
A very young specimen; grows to the length of
30 feet.
The Alligator (Lacerta Alligator).
This animal bears so near a resemblance to the
Crocodile, that many naturalists have considered it
as a mere variety, rather than a distinct species.—
Catesby says, the largest and greatest number of
Alligators inhabit the Torrid Zone. They frequent
not only the salt rivers near the sea, but streams of
fresh water in the upper parts of the country, where
they lie lurking among the reeds to surprise cattle and
other animals. In Jamaica, and many parts of the
Continent, they are found about twenty feet in length.
They cannot be more terrible in their aspect than
they are formidable and mischievous in their nature,
sparing neither man nor beast they can surprise,
pulling them down under water to drown them, that
they may with greater facility and without struggle
or resistance devour them. As quadrupeds do not
often come in their way, they almost always subsist
on fish. This destructive monster can neither swim
nor run any way than straight forward, and is con-
sequently disabled from turning with that agility
requisite to catch his prey by pursuit ; therefore they
do it by surprise. in the water as well as by land.
The Alligator is supposed to be a long-lived animal,
and its growth is extremely slow.
Dragon Lizard (Lacerta Dracana).
Is a native of South America, and measures two
feet four inches in length; itis a harmless animal,
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and much esteemed as an article of food, though to
persons unaccustomed to see it, presents a formida-
ble appearance, .
The Iguana (Lacerta Iguana).
Though the Lizard tribe affords numerous exam-
ples of strange and peculiar forms, yet few species
are perhaps more emineat in this respect than the
Iguana, which grows to a very considerable size, and
is often seen the length of from three to five feet. It
is a native of many parts of America and the
West India Islands, inhabiting rocky and woody
places, and feeds on insects and vegetables; is
reckoned excellent food, being exceedingly nourish-
ing and delicate ; but observed to disagree with some
constitutions. The common manner of catching itis
by casting a noose over the head, and thus drawing it
from its situation; for it seldom makes an effort to
escape, but stands looking intently at its discoverer,
inflating the throat at the same time in an extraordi-
nary manner. Iguanas are sometimes salted and bar-
relled up for use in Jamaica and other West India
islands, in considerable quantities ; may easily be
tamed while young, and in that state is both an inno-
cent and beautiful creature. The larger one in this
Case lived some time in the stove of the Liverpool
Botanic Garden, but never was observed to take
food ; but was easily irritated, at which time it puffed
up the pouch under the throat in an extraordinary
manner ; and on the near approach of dogs, to which
it seemed to have an aversion, suddenly struck
them forcibly with the tail, but was never known to
bite.
Several Chamaleons (Lacerta Chamz!eon).
Few animais have been more celebrated by na-
tural historians than the Chameleon, which has been
O 2
100
sometimes said to possess the power of changing its
colour at pleasure, and of assimilating it to that of any
particular object or situation. This, however, must
be received with great limitations ; the change of co-
fours which this animal exhibits varying in degree,
according to circumstances of health, temperature of
the weather, and many other causes, and consisting
chiefly in a sort of alteration of shades, from the na-
tural greenish or bluish grey of the skin into pale
yellowish, with irregular spots or patches of dull red.
The Chamzleon is a creature of a harmless nature,
and supports itself by feeding on insects, for which
purpose the structure of the tongue is finely adapted,
consisting of a long missile body, furnished with a
dilated and somewhat tubular tip, by means of which
the animal seizes insects with great ease, darting out
its tongue in the manner of a Woodpecker, and re-
tracting it instantaneously with the prey secured on
the tip. It can also support a long abstinence, and
hence arose the idea of its being nourished by air
alone. Is found in many parts of the world, and
particularly in India and Africa, and also in Spain
and Portugal. One that was kept alive in Liverpool,
was regularly fed with sugar and bread, and appeared
to have an aflection for the person who had the care
of it. Its change of form was as remarkable as that
ef colour. ;
10]
LIZARDS (LACERTA), No. 2.
_ A very fine specimen of the American Iguana ;
presented to the Museum by Lady Cox Hippesley.
The African Iguana,
The Monitor Lizard (Lacerta Monitor).
The Monitor Lizard is one of the most beautiful of
the whole tribe, and is also one of the largest, some-
‘times measuring not less than four or five feet from
the nose to the tip of the tail. This elegant animal
is found with little variation in South America, New
‘Holland, and Africa, where it frequents woody and
watery places ; and if credit may be given to the re-
ports of some authors, is of a disposition as gentle as
its appearance is beautiful. It has gained the name
of Monitor, from its supposed attachment to the hu-
man race, and has been said that it warns mankind
of the approach of the Alligator, by a loud and shrill
whistle.
The Galliwasp (Lacerta Occidua).
_ The Galliwasp Is a native of the American Islands,
and seems to be particularly common in Jamaica,
where it is said to frequent woody and marshy dis-
tricts. The Galliwasp (according to Brown, in his
Natural History of Jamaica) is reckoned the most ve-
nomous reptile in that island, and it is said that no
creature can recover from its bite: but this he very
‘properly considers merely a popular error, This ani-
mal is not noticed by Linneus.
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102°
The Great Boa (Boa Constrictor).
By those who are unacquainted with the wonders
of nature, the descriptions given by naturalists of
some of the more striking and singular animals are
received with a degree of scepticism, or even rejected,
as exceeding the bounds of credibility. Amongst
these animals may be numbered the prodigious ser-
pents which are sometimes found in India, Africa,
and America; serpents of so great a size as to be able
to gorge even some of the largest quadrupeds, and of
so enormous a length as to measure upwards of
thirty feet. There is reason to believe, that these im-
mense serpents are become Jess common than they
were some centuries back; and that in proportion as
cultivation and population have increased, the larger
species of noxious animals have been expelled from
the haunts of mankind. They are, however, eccasi-
onally seen, and sometimes approach the plantations
nearest to their residence. It is happy for mankind
that these serpents are not poisonous; they are there=
fore to be dreaded only on account of their size and
strength, which latter is so great as to enable them to
kill cattle, deer, and other animals, by writhing them-
selves round them, so as to crush them to ceath by
mere pressure ; after which they swallow them in a
very gradual manner; and when thus gorged with
their prey, grow almost torpid with repletion: and if
discovered in this state, may without difficulty be
dispatched.—These enormous serpents are natives of
Africa, India, the Indian Islands, and Scuth America,
where they inhabit marshy and woody places, There
are several species of the Boa in this collection, one
of which is considered by naturalists, in respect to
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beauty of colour, size, or preservation, to be the
finest specimen ever brought into this country ;
measuring thirty-two feet in length, and two feet seven
inches in circumference, and is preserved in the act
of destroying a deer, which is crushed, and expiring
in the enormous folds of its merciless enemy.
[I have retained the generic name of Boa; but on
examination of all the species that I have seen, they
prove to belong to the Genus Coluber.]
SERPENTS (SERPENTES).
This Case contains thirty-seven different Serpents,
finely prepared, and exhibited in their natural posi-
tions, with the English and Linnean names attached
to them.
Serpents, No. 2.
A young specimen of the Boa Constrictor.
Striped Rattle Snake (Crotalus Durissus).
The Rattle Snake is the most poisonous of rep-
tiles that inhabit America. The most conspicuous
distinction this animal bears from all other of its spe-
cies, is the rattle, which makes so loud a noise while
104
the creature is in motion, that its approach may be
known, and danger avoided. Many naturalists are of
opinion, that this Snake acquires an additional bone
to the rattle every year; from the number of which
bones, the precise age of the Snake may be known.
Catesby, in his History of Carolina, says, ‘ the
« Rattle Snake is the most inactive and sluggish of
“‘ animals, and is never the aggressor, except upon
‘* what he preys; for unless disturbed he never bites,
“and when provoked gives warning by shaking’
“his rattles, so that a person has time to es-
‘“.cape.” It is said that this Snake has the power
of charming or fascinating small animals within
reach, which it devours. Squirrels and birds are its
principal prey, and no sooner do they spy the Snake
than they skip from bough to bough, and approach
by degrees nearer to the enemy, regardless of any
danger, until they enter the extended jaws that are
open to seal their ruin. Bartram observes, that some
Indian nations never kill the Rattle Snake, or any
other species, alleging as their motive, that it
would influence its living kindred to reyenge the inju-
ry or violence done to it when alive. The flesh of
the Rattle Snake is said to be much relished, even
by Europeans.
Spectacle Snake, or Cobra de Capello (Coluber
Naja).
The Coluber Naja; or Cobra de Capello, is a na-
tive of India, where it appears to be one of the most
common, as well as the most noxious of the serpent
tribe; very frequently proving fatal in the space of a
few minutes to those who unfortunately experience
its bite. In India it is exhibited as a shew, and is of
course more universally known in that country than
almost any other of the race of reptiles, It is carried
105
about in a covered basket, and managed by the pro-
prietors in such a manner, as to assume a dancing
motion at the sound of a musical instrument. The
Indian jugglers, who thus exhibit the animal, de-
prive it of its fangs, by which they are secured from
its bite.
106
FISHES.
See thro’ this air, this ocean, and this earth,
All matter quick, and bursting into birth ;
Above how high progressive life may go
Around how wide, how deep extend below!
Vast chain of being, which from Gop began,
Nature’s ethereal, human, angel, man,
Beast, bird, fish, insect, what no eye can see,
No glass can reach; from infinite to Thee,
From Thee to nothing !
Coryphene, or Dolphin (Coryphena Hippuris).
The Dolphin is an inhabitant of the Mediterra-
nean, Indian, and Atlantic seas, where it often ap-
pears in large shoals, and is sometimes observed to
follow ships, devouring with avidity any occasional
article of food which may happen to be thrown over-
board ; it will even swallow substances of a different
nature: and we are informed, from the authority of
Plumier, that in the stomach of one which he exa-
mined, were found four iron nails, one of which mea-
sured more than five inches. When taken out of the
water, the beautiful colours (with which the fish is
decorated when living) fade as it expires; thie lus-
tre vanishing by degrees, till at length it becomes of
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107
a dull grey colour. This gradual evanescence of
colour in the dying Coryphene is contemplated by
sailors with as much delight as the Romans are said
to have exhibited on viewing similar changes in the
expiring Mallet, when brought to their tables before
the feast began. The Coryphene is a strong and vi-
gorous fish, and swims with great rapidity. It is
perpetually engaged in the pursuit of smaller fishes,
and is considered as one of the most cruel persecutors
of the Flying Fish. The flesh is said to be excellent.
Flying Gurnard (Trigla Volitans).
This highly singular-and beautiful species is a na-
tive of the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Indian seas,
where it swims in shoals, and is often seen flying out
of the water, in the same manner as the Flying Fish
Exocetus, In its native element; the colours of
this fish are extremely brilliant. It is crimson
above} pale, or of a white colour underneath. The
pectoral fins are extremely large, transparent, of
an olive green, -richly varied with numerous bright
blue spots. The tail is pale violet, with the rays
crossed by dusky spots, and strengthened on each
side the base by two obliquely transverse bony ribs
or bars.
Small Saw Fish (Pristis Antiquorum).
The Saw Fish is a species of Shark, growing to the
length of fifteen feet or more; is an inhabitant of
the Mediterranean and Northern seas, and was
known to the ancient writers by the name of Pristis.
Striped Chetodon (Chetodon Striatus).
This fish is a native of the Indian and American
seas.
Sparrus. Unknown,
108
Porcupine Fish (Diodon Hystrix).
In point of habit or external appearance, the re-
markable genus Diodon may be said to connect in
some degree the tribe of fishes with that of the spiny
quadrupeds, such as the porcupines and hedge-hogs ;
it is also allied in a similar manner to the Echinz, or
Sea Urchins, The Diodoa Hystrix, commonly termed
the Sea Porcupine, is said to afford an amusing sight
when taken by a line and hook, baited by a species
of crab: after seizing the bait, by a sudden spring,
on finding itself hooked, it exhibits every appearance
of violent rage, inflating its body, and elevating its
spines to the highest possible degree, as if endeavour-
ing to wound in all directions; till after having tired
itself by its vain efforts, it suddenly expels the air
from its body, and becomes flaccid for some time :
but when drawn towards the shore, redoubles its
rage, and again inflates its body; in this state it is
left on the sand, it being impossible to touch it with-
out danger till it is dead. It is a native of the Indian
and American seas, and is considered as a coarse fish,
but is sometimes eaten by the inhabitants of the
West Indian Islands.
Lophius.—Unknown.
Torpedo Ray (Raja Torpedo).
The Torpedo has been celebrated both by ancients
and moderns, for its wonderful faculty of causing a
numbness or painful sensation in the limbs of those
who touch or handle it. The shock or sensation
given by this Ray is attended with all the effects of
that produced by the electrical machine, so far as
experiment has hitherto enabled us to discover. Al-
though this fish does not appear to be furnished with
any striking exterior qualities; although it has no
muscles formed for great exertions, nor any internal
109
conformation differing from the Ray kind; yet such
are the wonderful powers it possesses, that in an in-
stant it can paralyse the hand or body that touches it,
and cause for a while a total suspension of the mental
faculties. Reaumer has by several experiments at-
tempted to demonstrate, that it is not necessarily, but
by a voluntary effort, that the Torpedo benumbs the
hand that touches it. On every trial he could readily
perceive when it intended to give the stroke, and
when it was about to continue inoffensive. In pre-
paring to give the shock, it flattened its back, raised
its head and tail, and then, by a violent contraction in
the opposite direction, struck with its back against
the finger that touched it; and its body, which before
was flat, became round and lumped. It is said, that
the negroes can handle the Torpedo without being
affected ; and we are told the whole secret of securing
themselves from its bite consists in keeping respira-
tion suspended at the time. The electrical power,
however, is known to terminate with the life of the
animal, and when dead, it is handled or eaten with
perfect safety. It is an inhabitant of the Northern,
European, and the Mediterranean seas,
Sea Horse (Syngathus Hippocampus).
The Hippocampus is a fish of a highly singular
appearance. In its dry or contracted state, this ani-
mal exhibits the fancied resemblance from which it
takes its name ; but in the living fish, this appearance
is somewhat less striking, the head and tail being car-
ried nearly straight. It is a native of the Mediter-
ranean, Northern, and Atlantic seas. A finer speci-
men of this species of Pipe-fish is in another place,
under a glass; and one of a more curious form, the
Foliated Pipe-fish.
Eive-rayed Star-fish (Asterias Layigata).
110
Caroed Asterias (Asterias Toreuma).
Is a native of the Indian seas. and is found of
various sizes, from one to six inches in diameter.
Enormous Crab’s Claw, measuring in the broadest
part upwards of ten inches in circumference.
FISH.
Long-finned Chetadon (Cheetodon Teira).
This curious fish is a native of the Indian and Ara-
bian seas, and is’ said to arrive at a considerable
size,
Harlequin Angler (Lophius Histrio).
This species is a native of the Indian and Ameri-
can seas, growing to the length of ten or twelve
inches, and in manners resembles the European An-
gler. Monsieur Renard, in his History of Fishes,
affirms, that he knew an instance of an individual of
this species kept for three days out of water, and
which walked about the house in the manner of
a dog.
Young Frog-fish, or Angler (Lophius Europzus).
The Frog-fish is remarkable for its uncouth ap-
pearance. ‘The one under consideration is an inha-
bitant of the European seas, where it sometimes
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shallow parts of the sea, lying in ambush, covered
with weeds and mud, in such a manner, that the
smaller fishes, deceived by its tentacula, or long
processes on the head, by their resemblance to
worms, on attempting to seize them become a prey
to the Lophius.
Beaked Angler, or Bat-fish (Lophius Rostratus).
A native of South America; it preys upon small
fishes and worms.
Remora, or Sucking-fish (Echeneis Remora).
This fish has the power of adhering to whatever it
comes in contact with, in the same manner as a cup-
ping glass adheres to the human body. Itis by such an
apparatus that this fish sticks to the body of a shark,
drains away its moisture, and produces a gradual
decay. It is found principally in the Mediterranean
and Atlantic seas, where it grows to the length of
about eighteen inches.
The Bony-scaled Pike (Esox Osseus).
This is a fish of considerable size, and of very
remarkable appearance, being covered with strong
bony scales, disposed in long oblique rows, which
give it the appearance of being carved out of a
solid piece of ivory. It is a native of the fresh
water lakes and rivers of America, and the flesh is
said to be excellent,
Lump Sucker (Cyclopterus Lumpus).
Pavconian Sucker (Cyclopterus Pavonius).
This beautiful fish was caught in the river Mersey,
near Liverpool,
112
Armed Loriecaria (Loricaria Catafracta). °
Found in the American seas.
Yellow Loricaria (Loricaria Flava).
FISH.
Slender Fistularia, or Trumpet-fish (Fistularta Ta-
baearia).
his very remarkable fish is a native of the Ame-
rican seas, and subsists on the smaller fishes, sea
insects, and worms. ;
Oceanic Flying-fish (Exocztus Evolans),
The fishes of this genus, which are few in number,
are remarkable for the extreme length and size
of their pectoral fins, by which they are enabled to
spring from the water, and support a kind of tem-
porary flight or continued motion through the air, to
the distance of 2 or 300 feet ; when the fins become
dry, they are obliged to commit themselves to their
own element. The fish here described is an inha-
bitant of the American and Indian seas, and is occa-
sionally observed in the Mediterranean. Pennant
records an instance of its being seen about the British
coasts. The celebrated Bonnet considered this spe-
cies of fish as forming a kind of connecting link be-
tween fishes and birds, similar to that which bats may
be supposed to form between birds and quadrupeds.
113
Lasher Bullhead (Cottus Scorpius).
This fish is an inhabitant of the Mediterranean and
Northern seas; is said to be plentiful about the
coast of Greenland, where it is esteemed good food.
It is a strong fish, swimming with rapidity, and
preying on smaller fishes ; and is said to live a con-
siderable time out of the water, having a power of
closing the gill covers in such a manner as to exciude
the effect of the atmospheric air. When caught, if
held in the hand, it emits a strong and peculiar
sound by the expulsion of air through its mouth ;
during this action the mouth is opened to the utmost
width, the pectoral fins are strongly expanded, and
the whole body is agitated by a vibrating or tremu-
lous motion.
Hare-mouth Globe- Fish (Tetrodon Lagocephalus).
This genus, like the Diodon, has the power of
inflating its body at pleasure. Is an inhabitant of
the Indian and American seas, but occasionally strays
into the northern latitudes, and has been taken, ac-
cording to Pennant, about the British coasts,
near Penzance in Cornwall,
Round Diedon, Sea Hedge-hog (Diodon Orbicu-
Jaris).
Lamprey (Petromyzon Marinus).
This fish has long held its place at the tables of
the luxurious, having always formed a part of the
splendid feasts of our ancient nobility. King Henry I.
lost his life by too great an indulgence of this his fa-
vourite dish. In the early part of the year they are
et with in great numbers in the river Severn, when
they are potted in large quantities, and sent to Lon-
don.
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114
The Hammer-headed Shark (Squalus Zygena).
This is a very voracious and deformed animal, and
differs from that of any other known creature; they
sometimes attain the length of fifteen feet, and are
natives of the Mediterranean and Indian seas.
Angel Vish, or Shark (Squalus Squatina).
Jacksonian Shark (Squalus Jacksonii).
This is a new species, lately discovered in the har-
bour of Port Jackson.
Horned Trunk-Fish (Ostracion Cornutus).
Young Shark (Squalus Carcharias).
The Shark is as formidable in appearance as he
is dreadful for his courage and activity. No fish
can swim so fast, for he will outstrip the swiftest
ship. “ They are (says Mr. Pennant) the dread of
« sailors in all hot countries, where they constantly
« attend the vessels, in expectation of what may
“ drop overboard: a man that has that misfortune
perishes without redemption; they have been
“ seen to dart at him, like gudgeons at a worm.”
They are said to attack Negroes in preference to
Europeans, and to attend with assiduity the slave
ships from Africa to the West Indies, The Shark
grows to an enormous size, sometimes thirty feet in
length.
Young Sturgeon (Acipenser Sturio).
Inhabits the European, Mediterranean, Red, Black,
and Caspian seas, and annually descends the rivers
in spring. Jt is a fish of slow movement, is very
prolific. Its flesh is held in great estimation,
Frog-Fish (Lophius Europeus). ‘Taken in the
river Mersey.
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INSECTS;
(Insecta. )
vasa
Each moss,
Each shell, each crawling insect, holds a rank;
Important in the plan of Him who form’d
This scale of beings ; holds a rank, which lost
Would break the chain, and leave a gap
That Nature’s self would rue !
In this Case is a brilliant display of the Insect tribe,
consisting of a selection of about 500 of those most
remarkable for. their beauty of colours, extraordinary
form, or singularity of manner or economy. A bare
recitation of the names of this very numerous class
would add but little to the information or pleasure of
the general reader, and would increase the size and
expence of this Catalogue unnecessarily: we shall
therefore give only those best known or most remark-
able.
Hercules Beetle (Scarabeus Hercules).
The Beetle herg described is a native of the island
of Guadaloupe; on the continent of New Spain
this species is said to be often seen of very large
dimensions. The horn of this species is toothed above
on each side, and beneath it is covered with a sub-
stance resembling yellow plush ; the proboscis below
is also toothed. Between these, it is said, the insect
takes the smaller branches of trees, and by swiftly
Q2
116
flying round soon saws them off, for the purpose of
building its nest. The teeth cut away the wood, and
the piush part serves to brush away the saw-dust.
Dr. Shaw, however, in his Naturalist’s Miscellany,
says, that on a narrow inspection of. the proboscis of
this Beetle, it will appear no ways calculated for
the sawing off branches from the trees ; he reckons
therefore the whole operation as a vulgar error. It
iS a very mischievous animal, and ” exceedingly
difficult to be taken. It measures seven inches in
length.
Acton Beetle (Scarabzeus Acteon).
This is the largest of insects, except the Crabs and
Monoculi. It is a native of South America,
Stag Beetle (Lucanus Cervus).
This is found in England in decayed trees.
Patch-winged Diamond Beetle (Curculio Splen-
dens).
Diamond Beetle (Curculio Imperialis).
There are several species of these, which,
with the above, are natives of South America ; and
perhaps the whole insect race does not display more
splendour or richness ; it may be truly said, that
«© Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one
« of these.”
Cerambyx Giganteus. The body of this extraordi-
nary insect is nearly six inches long. It is a native
of Cayenne,—and very rare.
The Giant Mantis (Mantis Gigas).
Praying Mantis (Mantis Oratoria),
Most of the genus Mantis, and this species ia
117
particular, are held sacred by the natives of the
country they inhabit. From the singular mauner in
which it raises the upper part of the body and fore
legs, it is supposed to point out the way to travellers
that have lost their road. Many of the Mautis so
strongly resemble leaves, that at first sight they
can scarcely be known.
Great Locust (Gryllus Giganteus),
African Locust (Gryllus Capensis).
Elephant Locust Gryllus Elephas).
Of all insects which are capable of adding to the
calamities of mankind, by devouring the products
of the earth, Locusts seem to possess the most formi-
dable powers of destruction. Legions of these vora-
cious creatures are from time to time produced in the
various parts of Africa, and the eastern world,
where the hayock they commit is almost incredible,
changing in a few hours the most fertile plains into
an appearance of a desart; nay, even when dead,
they are tervible, since the putrefaction which arises
from their inconceiveable numbers is such, that it
has been regarded as one of the principal causes of a
pestilence. The largest species of these insects are
used as an article of food, and in many markets of
the Levant they are publicly sold. The female is
regarded as a very nutritious sustenance, and is much
sought after. :
Great Lanthorn Fly (Fulgora Lanternaria).
This highly curious insect is a native of South
America ; from the large, hollow, transparent pro-
jection in front of the head it emits a sufficient light
for persons to read by ; and travellers are said to be
directed on their journey by night, by fixing one or
two of them on a stick.
118 \
Common Cicada (Cicada Plebia).
The Cicada, so often commemorated by the an
tient poets, and so generally confounded by the ma-
jor part of translators with the Grasshopper, is a
native of the warmer parts of Europe, and is parti-
cularly plentiful in Italy and Greece. ‘The common
Cicada appears in the hottest summer months, and
continues its shrill chirping during the greatest part
of the day, sitting amongst the leaves of trees.
' Atlas Moth (Phalena Atlas).
This is by much the largest of Moths, measuring
nine inches across the wings: itis a native of the
East Indies and South America.
Great Black Wasp of Peusylvania.
This Wasp supplies itself with food by rov-
ing about the meadows, catching grasshoppers and
other insects; on these it feeds, and not on fruits, as
other Wasps do: but what is more remarkable, is
the method of making their nests, and providing
for their young. With great pains and industry they
scratch an horizontal hole near an inch diameter
and a foot long, in the steep side of a bank of loamy
earth ; then away the Wasp flies, and catches a large
grasshopper, and lodging it in the farther end of the
nest, there she lays an egg, and then goes and catches
two more, and deposits them with the other, then
plasters up the hole. The egg soon produces a mag-
got: these grasshoppers are, by marvellous instinct,
provided for its food, until it changes into its pupa
state, in which it lies for a certain period, and then
eats its way out, and flies away, seeking its mate.
What may deserve our farther attention is, the won-
derful sagacity of this creature, not only in catching
these large grasshoppers, though bigger than itself,
which are like ours, and are yery strong and nimble,
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119
but their peculiar skill is to be admired in disabling
them, either by bite or sting, so as not to kill them ;
for then they would soon putrefy, and be unfit for
nourishment. Life sufficient is left to preserve them
for the time the maggot is to feed upon them, The
sting of this wasp is painful, but does not swell like
others.
The Female, or Queen of the Termites, or White
Ant (Termes Fatale).
Mr. Smeathman, who resided many years in
Africa, has, in the 71st volume of the Philosophical
Transactions, given a beautiful and interesting ac-
count of the manners, instinct, and wonderful eco-
nomy of these extraordinary animals, which, from
their immense: number, and power of annoyance, are
the greatest pest of that country.—To detail the
whole of their habits and mode of life would require
a volume: the instinct of the Common Ant, the Bee,
or the Beaver, are trifling when compared with these,
Though little larger than the Common Ant, their
buildings, from the number, closeness, and magnitude,
often appear like the villages of the natives ; and
the depredations they commit render them truly for-
midable: nothing but metal or glass can escape the
destroying fangs of these minute invaders. The one
in this collection is a pregnant Queen, the general
mother of the whole community, and is a thousand
times heavier than the male, or King, who is conside-
rably larger than the labourer or soldier.—Mr,
Smeathman’s description of this Ant has been copied
in Dr. Winterbotham’s Account of Sierra Leone, and
the 2d volume of Wood’s Zoography, page 446..
A model of the Nest of these remarkable insects,
nine feet high, is in the Pantherion.
The Bird-catching, or Great Surinam Spider (Aya-
nea Avecularia).
120
The insect above-mentioned is the largest of all
the spiders, measuring from eight to ten inches in
the extent of its legs, which are covered with
rough hair: it is not uncommon in many parts of
South America. It resides amongst the trees, and
seizes on smali birds, particularly Humming Birds,
which it destrovs by sucking their blood, after
having first wounded them by its fangs. ‘This Spider
has eight eyes, which are disposed somewhat in the
form of an oblong square; two are perfectly round,
the others are of an oval shape.
Tarantula Spider (Aranea Tarantula), with its cu-
rious Nest.
This is the animal of which such long accounts
have been given of the wonderful and melancholy
effects arising from its bite, which is represented
to be cured only by music, which caused the
patient involuntarily to dance in the most violent
manner; but the whole accouut being clearly proved
to have existed in vulgar error, is not now worth
repeating. The nest is highly curious from its re-
markable structure ; it is cylindric, with a valve or
door, which the animal opens and shuts every time it
enters; the manner in which this is performed, as
well as the creature itself, is described by the elegant
pen of Darwin, in his Zoonomia.
African Scorpion (=corpio Afer).
There are several species of Scorpions in this col-
lection, but none of them so remarkable, either for
size or malignity of poison, as the above, which is
near nine inches long, and armed in front by strong
claws, resembling those of some species of crab ;
but its poisonous sting is situated at the end of the
tail, in which may be observed the reservoir for sup-
plying it with the fatal fluid, and the minute holes
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121
on each side of the sting, through which it is injected
into the wound.
Great Centipede (Scolopendra Morsitans).
This is likewise a native of the hottest parts of the
world, and one of the pests of society, being highly
poisonous ; but what renders it particularly dange-
rous is, its frequenting inhabited places, and biting _
persons during their sleep, to prevent which, they
are obliged to place the feet of their bedsteads im
water; it measures twelve inches in length.
122
SHELLS (CONCHOLOGY).
This department has just been added, and consists
of an extensive collection of beautiful and rare shells
from every part of the known world; they princi-
pally occupy the centre of the Great Room, and are
arranged in their respective families, according to the
Linnean classification, in Cases, and under large
Glass Shades, upon appropriate bronzed stands, and
make with the Fishes, Crabs, Asterias, Echini, Ma-
drepores, Gorgonia, Isis, Sponges, and other Marine
productions, a most interesting display of the inhabi-
tants of the waters. About one thousand four hun-
dred have their generic names attached to the Cases,
and the most remarkable have their specific also;
to enumerate which would far exceed the limits of a
work of this description. |The History of the Paper
Nautilus (Argonauta Argo) is, however, so remark-
able, that it cannot be omitted,
Pope, in his Essay on Man, alludes to it, where
he says—
“ Learn of the little Nautilus to sail:
‘< Spread the thin oar, and catch the driving gale.”
Pliny describes it thus: *‘* But amongst the princi-
pal miracles of nature is the animal called Pompilos
or Nautilus; it ascends to the surface of the sea in
a supine posture, and gradually raising itself up, _
forces, by means of its tube, all the water from the
shell, in order that it may swim the more readily;
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123
then throwing back the two foremost arms displays
between them a membrane of wonderful tenuity,
which acts as a sail, while with the remaining arms
it rows itself along, the tail in the middle acting as
an helm to direct its course; and thus pursues its
voyage like a little ship, till alarmed by any ap-
pearance of danger, when it takes in the water, and
descends.”
The small Bell Glass, No. 4, contains several ar-
ticles which were once the property of the celebrated
Sir Charles Linneeus ; a specimen of whose writing
is likewise inclosed. Presented by Dr. Smith, Pre-
sident of the Linnean Society,
Among the Turbos is the finest specimen of that
rare shell the Wentletrap (Turbo Scalaris) ever
known; it was brought from Amboyna by the late
Mr. Webber, of Blackheath, who once refused the
sum of £500, offered for it by the late Earl of Bute.
R2
124
ZOOPHYTIES,
CORALS, MADREPORES, &c.
Gradual, from these what numerous kinds descend
Evading e’en the microscopic eye!
Full Nature swarms with life; one wond’rous mass
Of animals, or atoms organized,
Waiting the vital breath, when Parent Heaven
Shall bid his spirit blow. THomson.
The various Cases contain a rich and numerous as-
sembiage of the ibabitants of the marine world,
disposed in such a manner as they may be supposed
to exist in the bottom of their native element ; they
consist of Shells, Corals, Corallines, Madrepores,
Gorgonias, Sponges, &c. &c. to describe which ac-
curately would require the pen of an Ellis or a So-
Jander, and would far exceed the limits of this little
publication. We shall merely observe, that till lately
the principal parts of the contents of these Cases were
considered as Marine Vegetables, growing from the
bottom of the ocean; but the observation of later
naturalists have decidedly proved them to be the
fabrication of different minute animals, which how-
ever insignificant they may appear to the unobserving
part of mankind, are, from their immense, their in-
125
conceivable numbers, of more consequence than gene-
rally sipposed: it is to the accumulated myriads of
them that we owe part of the island on which we live;
our hills are in many places full of them, and some
rocks are entirely of their formation, New Islands
have been formed within the memory of persons now
living; and many seas are becoming every year more
difficult to navigate, being nearly choaked up by the
habitations of animals almost too small for human
perception.
‘© The whole groupe of the Thousand Islands, and
indeed the greater part of those whose surfaces are
flat, in the neighbourhood of the Equator, owe their
origin to the labours of that order of marine worms
which Linnzeus has arranged under the name Zoo-
phyta. These little animals, in a most surprising
manner, construct their calcareous habitations under
an infinite variety of forms; yet with that order and
regularity, each after its own manner, which, to the
minute inquirer, is so discernible in every part of the
creation. But, although the eye may be convinced
of the fact, it is difficult for the human mind to
conceive the possibility of insects so small being en-
dued with power, much less of being furnished in
their own bodies with the materials for constructing
the immense fabrics, which, in almost every part of
the Eastern and Pacific oceans, lying between the
Tropics, are met with in the shape of detached rocks,
or reefs of great extent, just even with the surface ;
or islands already clothed with plants, whose bases
are fixed at the bottom of the sea, several hundred
feet deep, where light and heat, so very-essential to
animal life, if not excluded, are sparingly received
and feebly felt. Thousands of such rocks, reefs, and
islands are known to exist in the Eastern ocean,
within, and even beyond the limits of the Tropics.
, . 126
The eastern coast of New Holland is almost wholly
girt with reefs and islands of coral rock, rising per-
pendicularly from the bottom of the abyss. Captain
Kent, of the Buffalo, speaking of a coral reef of many
miles in extent, on the south-west coast of New
Caledonia, observes, that ‘it is level with the water’s
edge, and towards the sea as steep as the wall of
a house ; that he sounded frequently within twice the
ship’s length of it, with a line of one hundred and fifty
fathoms, or nine hundred feet, without being able to
reach the bottom.” How wonderful—how incon-
ceivable! that such stupendous fabrics should rise
ito existence from the silent but incessant and
almost imperceptible labours of such insignificant
worms.”
To the Museum has just been added, the fine Col-
lection of Fossil-shells, and other Antediluvian re-
mains, collected by the late Mr. Knight of Bland-
ford: they are principally of this country, and
those from Hordwell Cliff extremely perfect and
interesting.
A very large Bell Glass, containing about 120
species of Crabs and other Marine Animals, disposed
in an appropriate manner on Corals, &c.
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MINERALS.
Beautiful Group of Chrystals, of extraordinary size,
from the mines of Dauphiny : presented by Thomas
Allan, Esq. of Edinburgh.
Pipe Chalcedony, from Iceland.
A large specimen of Opal in the Matrix.
Three Opals, polished.
Native Gold on Quarts, from Transylvania.
Native Gold, from the Wicklow Mountain in Ire-
land.
Oriental Cat’s' Eye.
Aqua Marine or Beryl, polished.
Fluor Spar, from Derbyshire.
Group of Amethyst Chrystals, from Hungary.
Sulphurets of Arsenic.
Beautiful Pearl Spar, with snow-like appearance,
from Transylvania,
Pearl Spar, Chrystalized, from Hungary.
Fine specimen of Chrystalized Iron Ore, with an
iridescent surface, from the Isle of Elbe, on the coast
of Tuscany.
198
Splendid Iron Ore, from Hungary.
Bubbled Malachites, Carbonate of Copper, with
Mountain Blue, from Siberia.
Native Copper, from Cornwall.
Copper Ore, from ditto.
Model of the Pigot Diamond, valued at 35,0001.
Variety of Chrystals, from Buenos Ayres; cons
taining Silyer-like appearances, and other extraneous
matter,
129
-MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES.
Numerous, extraordinary, and stupendous remains
ef non-descript animals, found in the vicinity of the
rivers Ohio, Wabash; Illinois, Mississippi, Osage,
Missouri, &c. brought to England by a gentleman
who passed several years on a mineralogical tour in
unfrequented parts of North-America. They consist
of different parts of animals, such as heads, vertebrae,
ribs, grinders, and horns; among which, the most
worthy of remark is the foot of a clawed animal of
the fere order, or tiger species. This paw, clothed
with flesh, skin, and hair, filled with muscles, flex-
ors, and cartilages, must, when dilated on its prey,
have covered a space of ground four feet by three.
Did the animal to whom it appertained partake of
a strength of body proportionate to the size of this
foot, and at the same time add the agility and fero-
city of the tiger to his unequalled magnitude, he must
have been the terror of the forest, and of mankind.
That such an animal did exist, this specimen is a
sufficient proof; nor did it alone inhabit America, for
we have reason to believe that an animal, similar in
some respects to the above, once had possession of
our island ; for various remains of non-descript ani-
mals have been frequently dug up of late in different
counties. The thigh-bone marked <A. which is
S
130
nearly four feet in length, was found in digging the
Ellesmere Canal, in the year 1803, near the village
of Wrenbury, in Cheshire. B. is one toe of the
clawed foot. C. severai joints’ of the tail, which must
in the living animal have been as thick as an ordi-
nary oak tree. D. one of the vertebrae of the back ;
the passage for the spinal marrow is so large, that a
man’s arm may with ease pass through it. E. isa
section of a spiral tusk, thirteen feet in length. F.
a carnivorous grinder, nine pounds weight, being
one hundred and forty-four times as heavy as that of
a horse. G.a large grinder of another species of
these stupendous non-descripts, evidently an herbi-
vorous animal. On the subject however of these In-
cognita, but a few words are necessary: they have
been on the whole the surprise of the enlightened
naturalist, and the admiration of the classical scho-
lar; we therefore refer those, who wish to be more
particularly informed respecting these remains, to a
pamphlet, entitled «* Memoirs of Mammoth, and other
extraordinary and stupendous bones,” written by the
gentleman who brought them to England, and sold
them to the Proprietor of this Museum. It may be
had at the Rooms, price 1s, 6d.
A Glass Cover near the hones, contains a very
interesting article to the Naturalist, as it tends to
throw some light on an obscurity which envelopes
these objects. It isa portion of the different kinds
of hair of a species of Mammoth recently found
entire, and brought to St. Petersburg by Mr.-Mi-
chael Adams, who has published a particular account
of it, of which the following is an extract. “ In
the summer of the year 1799, during their annual
excursions, a chief of the Tongouses discovered on
the shore of the frozen sea, near the mouth of the
river Lenna, an entire Mammoth, enclosed in a roek
131
of ice, which rendered it impossible to be got at, till
about five years afterwards, when during a warm
summer, the ice became so much dissolyed, that the
huge carcass fell out, and slid down about a hundred
paces from its bed; when the Tongouses cut off the
ivory tusks (the only part considered of value by them)
and left it a prey to the white Bears, Gluttons, Wolves,
and Foxes. it was near two years afterwards, that,
by afortunate circumstance, Mr. Adams heard of it,
went immediately to the spot, and rescued the com-
pleat skeleton and part of the skin, which he trans-
ported by land to St. Petersburg, (a distance of 7500
miles) where it is now set up in the Imperial Academy.
A rude drawing, made of it whe perfect, represents
it as having an appearance something between a
Pig and an Elephant, having pointed ears, and a
long bristly mane along the whole back; it was
about 15 feet in length, and 10 high, the bones of
the head (without the tusks) weighed 460Ibs. Upon
the whole, there can be little doubt but it was the
species of Northern Elephant now extinct, the bones
of which are found beth in America and Europe ;
large quantities having been lately discovered in seve-
ral parts of England.”
Sir Joseph Banks received a piece of skin and
portions of hair, similar to what is in this collection,
as a present from Mr. Adams, which is now in the
Surgeons Hall, Lincolns-Inn- Fields,
Glass Case, containing an Egyptian Mummy.
The ancient methods observed by the Egyptians in
embalming human bodies, according to Herodotus,
were performed after this manner: “ ‘There were cer-
** tain persons appointed for the business, who had
«« three prices according to the workmanship, In
“ the most esteemed method of embalming, they ex-
52
132
« tracted the brains by the nose with a crooked
iron, and then poured in drugs; afterwards, they
opened the body, took out the bowels, washed the
inside with palm wine, and having rubbed into it
pounded perfumes, filled the cavity with myrrh,
cassia, and other spices, and then sewed it up.
After this they washed the body with nitre, and
let it lie seventy days; and having washed it
again, bound it up in folds of linen, besmearing it
over with gums, which the Egyptians used instead
“ of glue. The relations then took home the body,
and enclosing it in the wooden figure of a man,
** placed it in the catacombs. Another method of
embalming, was injecting turpentine of cedar with
a pipe into the body, without cutting it; they
then salted it for seventy days, and afterwards
drew out the pipe, which brought along with it
the intestines. The nitre dried wp the flesh, leav-
ing nothing but skin and bones. The third way
was only by cleansing the inside with salt and
water, and salting it for seventy days.’ From
what Diodorus observes, one wouid imagine that
there was a way of preserving the bodies much su-
perior to either of the former; for he says, their
eye-brows and eye-lashes, with the form and ap-
pearance of the whole body, were so well preserved,
that they might be known by their features; whence
many of the Egyptians kept the bodies of their an-
cestors in houses adorned at a great expence; and
had the pleasure to see their forefathers for many
generations back, and to observe all their features as
well as if they were living. It does not, however,
appear that any bodies were ever discovered em-
balmed in this manner.
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The Mummy in this collection was brought from
Egypt by the French, and taken from them by an
133
English privateer, and was remarkable for containing
only the head, and part of the thigh and leg bones,
which were enveloped in folds of fine linen, nearly
three inches thick. The linen in some parts was as
white and perfect as when first done, and -on the legs
there was some of the flesh still remaining, although,
from a moderate calculation, it must have been em-
balmed upwards of two thousand years.
A Mumny of the White Ibis. The White Ibis,
though now unknown to the Egyptians, was formerly
worshipped by them as a deity, in consequence of the
great service which it did them in destroying the vast
quantities of serpents and reptiles with which that
country was infested. The veneration for them
extended even after their death ; for whenever the
body of a dead Ibis could be found, it was carefully
embalmed, after the manner of the mummies. Mr.
Bruce, the Abyssinian traveller, mentions his having
opened several of them, in which the bones, and even
some feathers, were entire. Buffon says, “ he re-
** ceived several of these mummies from the bird
* pits in the plains of Saccara; that the shape
*‘ of all of them was a sort of doll, formed by the
** bandages which incased the bird, of which
*« the greater part fell into black dust when the li-
gatures were removed.” They are generally pre-
served in earthen jars, with the cover cemented
down; but sometimes, as is the case in this, put
into a kind of coffin made of sycamore, the covers
of which were decorated with hieroglyphics, which
are yet visible in the one in this Museum.
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A Mummy of the Ibis, opened to shew its con-
tents.
Hasselquist, and other naturalists and travellers
who have visited the catacombs of Egypt, say that
134
the Mummies of the [bis contain in general little but
black dust, which is believed to be the remains of the
bird: but that they were informed that sometimes,
though very rarely, the bones and feathers were
found in them: this is the case with the one in this
Museum ; the cloth in which it was wrapped, the bill,
bones, and feathers, are still entire. This very inte-
resting and curious article was added to this collection —
by the liberality of Jacob Wilkinson, Esq. of Bath,
whose brother, ©, Wilkinson, Esq. of Clapham,
brought it from Egypt. What are our boasted mo-
numents of antiquity ?. the dates of our churches and
cathedrals (though crumbled and crumbling into dust)
are but as yesterday when compared with the age of
a few perishable feathers, which had existence on the
banks of the Nile perhaps two thousand years before
the foundation stone of the first of them was laid.
What a field for reflection does the contemplation
of this article open to our view.
** Son of to-day, thy daring hopes are vain,
‘© That aught of thee my lengthened date shall gain.”
A Mummy of the Ibis, in its original envelope, as
taken from the earthen vessel; the linen cloth, for
the manufacture of which the ancient Egyptians were
celebrated, remaining entire. Presented by the
Bishop of Durham.
Mummy of the Head of some large Graniverous
animal.
Ditto of the Ichneumon.
The two last were brought from Egypt, and pre-
sented to the Museum by the Earl of Cavan.
135
Elephant’s Head and Grinders; presented by Sa-
rauel Staniforth, Esq. Liverpool.
The Head of the Gnu (Antelope Gnu), finely pre-
served.
The Skull of the Babyroussa, or Indian Hog. The
most distinguishing characteristic of this animal con-
sists in four large tusks, the two stoutest of which
proceed, like those of the wild boar, from the under
jaw, pointing upwards; the two others rise up like
-horns on the outside of the upper jaw, just above
the nose, and extend in a curve above the eyes,
almost touching the forehead, and are about seven
inches long. The use this animal makes of these
tusks is in sleeping; which they do, as is said, by
hooking them on the branches of trees, The Baby-
roussa is found in several of the islands of the East
Indies. |
The Horn of the Ibex.
Three Noses of the Saw Fish. The largest of these
is three feet seven inches long, eight inches broad at
the base, and four at the point; it is armed at the
sides with thirty-eight strong teeth, about an inch and
a half long, and two inches from each other.
The Jaws of an enormous Shark, which measure
six feet six inches in circumference.
The Fossil Tooth of a Shark, nearly four times
as large as those in the above jaws.
Head of a Crocodile, near twenty feet long.
The Cavity of a Whale’s Ear,
The Horn of the Narwhale, or Sea Unicorn, 9 feet
6 inches long, of the most beautiful Ivory, finely
wreathed,
136
The Jaws of a Porpoise.
Skull of the Walrus. ,
Glass Case, containing four different Beaks and
Heads of the Calao, or Horn-bill Bird ; remarkable
for the singular appendages on the upper mandi-
bles. No.1. Helmet Hornbill. No. 2. Pied Hornbill.
ae 3. Rhinoceros Hornbill. No. 4. Philippa Horn-
bill.
Skeletons of Birds, viz. the Creeper, Snipe, Oy-
-ster Catcher, Lark, Starling, Green Grosbeak, Field-
fare, and Moor Game.
FINIS.
Reynell, Printer, 23, Piccadilly, London.
MEMOIRS
MAMMOTH,
AND OTHER
EXTRAORDINARY AND STUPENDOUS
BONES.
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MEMOIRS
MAMMOTH,
AND VARIOUS
OTHER EXTRAORDINARY AND STUPENDOUS
BONES,
INCOGNITA, OR NON-DESCRIPT ANIMALS,
FOUND
IN THE VICINITY
OF THE
OHIO, WABASH, ILLINOIS, MISSISSIPPI, MISSOURL
OSAGE, AND RED RIVERS, &c. &c.
PUBLISHED
FOR THE INFORMATION OF THOSE LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, WHOSE
TASTE AND LOVE OF SCiENCE TEMPT THEM TO VISIT THE
LIVERPOOL MUSEUM.
BY TH. ASHE, ESO.
“ His Bones are as strong pieces of brass; his Bones are like bars of
iron,” Jos.
LIVERPOOL,
PRINTED BY G. F. HARRIS.
1806.
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INTRODUCTION.
Gentleman who. has passed several
years in North America, and whose
pursuit was the study of nature, has just
returned to this country with several
boxes containing objects of the highest
interest to the curious and intelligent
world. Conscious of the erroneous opi-
nions which had been entertained respec-
ting the stupendous Animal Remains
found in Russia, Siberia, and the western
climes, he bent his mind designedly te
that particular investigation, and made
researches for such materials as he knew
to be necessary for the foundation of ab-
stract truth, or reasonable hypothesis.
The absence of such materials led the in-
genious author of ‘* Noles on Virginia,’ to
various beautiful visions, but to no salu-
tary or solid fact. From the same cause,
the celebrated Doctor Hunter, and many
others, have wasted infinite science on
some favourite theory; and the world,
from this wide and multifarious opinion,
had to embrace, now one delusion, and
6
now another. Hence some thought the
Bones were the remains of agiant. Many
called them extraneous fossils; others re-
garded them as mineral substances; some
said the animal was carnivorous; others
as strenuously asserted it to be herbivo-
rous, graminivorous, or mixed. At length
wearied by the contest, mankind associ-
ated in one idea;—the bones were called
‘mammoth bones,” without any respect to
the difference in their character, and the
contrasted sensibilites which such differ-
ence generates and inspires. But from
the evidence of the extraordinary bones
now collected, and preserved for public in-
spection in the Liverpool Museum, it is clear-
ly demonstrated, that they are the remains
of various stupendous incognita, or non-
descript animals, of perfectly different
propensities, dispositions, and manners
of life.
Box, No. 1,
Contains the principal part of the head
of a carnivorous animal. The jaws are
entire, filled with grinders. The seat of
7
the muscles is traced along the nose, and,
from their depth, must have given vio-
lent action to the nostrils and lips. Here
is also a mawxille inferior of the same kind
of monster, but much larger, and of great
weight and beauty.
Wa... 2:
Possesses the vertebra, in high preserva-
tion. The os sacrum, and coccygis are con-
nected by the ossification of the cartilage ;
and the bed of the coccygzi muscles are
strongly visible. Through the cavity for
the passage of the spinal marrow a man’s
arm can easily pass.
No. 8,
Has the os ischium, pelvis thigh, and leg
bone. These bones are both ponderous
and perfect.
No. 4,
Contains an object of inexpressible gran-
deur and sublimity. It is the foot of a
clawed animal, possibly of the order of
fere, for the claws aresheathed and er-
8
tractile, in the manner of the cat, tiger,
and lion. Wien this paw was dilated
on its prey, filled with muscles, flexors,
and cartilage, clothed with flesh, turgid
skin, and hair, it must have covered a
space of ground four feet by three. The
animal to whom it appertained, with su-
perior agility and ferocity to the tiger,
with a body, too, of unequalled magni-
tude and strength, must have been the
terror of the forest and of man. This
monument stands alone. It has no com-
petitor. It is the first and only one of
such exorbitant magnitude ever disco-
vered, or probably that ever will be.
N05;
Contains a rib, and fragments of ribs, not
concave internally, but with the edges
standing out, to give more energy, and
to bear more resistance. From hence it
would appear that the animal was en-
dowed with the gift of contraction: his
ribs. closing, together like the sticks of a
fan, he could spring forward, or makea
mighty leap. This box contains other
9.
fragments, whose office in the frame. is
not sufficiently denoted for description.
No. 6,
Encloses four extraordinary bones. They
defy the intelligence of the writer. He
cannot discover what part they perform-
ed in the animal machine. He supposes
them femori of some incognilum of great
force, as is wonderfully expressed by the
deep insinuosities in the bones, in which
the tendon of the triceps, and other large
muscles, three inches in diameter, could
lie concealed.
MaucT.
“mbraces the teeth of various animals,
weighing from one ounce to ten pounds.
The grinding surfaces denote the pursuits
and passions of each animal. The large
grinder, with parallel lines of enamel
slightly indended, bespeaks the peaceable
herbivorous animal, of the elephantine
species. ‘The ponderous grinder, with
high double-coned processes, and inter-
locking fangs, denotes the cruel carnive-
10
rous monster, lurking in the woods. The
teeth with less indention than this, betray
a mixed animal; and those which have
still less indention, and which express a
rotatory motion, show the animal to be
graminivorous, and sometimes also mix-
ed. This box contains twenty specimens
of the above characters. Some of the
teeth are elegantly stained, by the long
and unremitting industry of nature; and
some, from lying in contact with mineral
substances, have obtained radiant and
prismatic colours.
No. 8,
Contains about twenty four specimens of
carnivorous grinders, of such variety of
size that the animal’s age can be follow-
ed from one to innumerable years. A
process, which sunk into the maxilla, is
five inches wide, and the cones on the
surface two inches deep. Some teeth ex-
hibit nothing but the cortex, from which
fire can be struck, and yet many are was-
ted by manducation. The canals, in which
nerves and blood-vessels were lodged, are
lj
perfect, and discover the great supply
which prevented the waste of attrition,
and made the teeth endure the compres-
sion of any hard body between the jaws.
This box affords a rich contemplation.
No. 9,
Possesses the remains of an animal of the
anterior world. Coming to a rock, which
the naturalist had to spring, in following
a vein of mineral, this grand object ap-
peared under the deep explosion. It is
the defence of an herbivorous incognitum, of
ponderous volume, and amazing height.
The defence in a state of perfection, must
have been five hundred weight, implying
a head of twelve hundred weight. The
present fine subject, in a state of decom-
position, weighs one hundred and fifty
pounds, is twenty-five inches in circum-
ference, and when (being in three parts}
put together, is sixteen feet long. It is
by no means in the form of that of the
elephant ; it makes a complete revolve,
and appears as if the animal could have
moved it at pleasure. The grain traverses
12
in diamonds, in the manner of the finest
ivory, and the internal substance 1s as
white as: snow. | Several thousand ages
have only led this to a gradual decom-
position. It may yet last many years ;
but must be touched with a trembling
and a pious band, by him who can ad-
mire the wonderful greatness and wisdom
displayed in the operations of nature,
and who can contemplate with rapture
an object which, it is hoped, the vulgar
will neglect, as ‘‘ a dreary void.”
No. 10,
Contains the tusks, defenses, or horns, of
various animals. One may be attributed
to the rhinoceros, another to the elephant,
but none to the hyppopotamus or river
horse. One appertained toa huge ani-
mal of the ox kind, and another tosome
mixed icognitum, of great stature. The
defense is better than six feet; not running
in asptral volute, but rising nearly perpen-
dicular, and turning off at the point. Such :
was never before found. The animal
and his attributes are unknown.
MEMOIRS
MAMMOTH,
AND OTHER
EXTRAORDINARY AND STUPENDOUS
BONES.
MEMOIR I.
] VENTURE to invite the public attention
to a subject, which has for several years
excited considerable curiosity, but no profound
or solid investigation." In accompanying me
through this arduous duty, I trust you will
not expect from me a rhetoric to admire, or an
eloquence to applaud; these are endowments
which the naturalist has neither leisure to cul-
tivate, rior to acquire: therefore I aim at no-
thing but simplicity and truth, and shall even
divest myself of such technical terms as may
perplex the reason of those who are not desi-
' :
:
rous of entering into useless refinements, or
tedious abstractions.
Long has the greater part. of mankind la-
boured under difficulties, which might have
been avoided by an acquaintance with the dis-
coveries of travellers and philosophers. During
the study of most sciences, we notice improve-
meuts unknown to the majority of the people ;
and in no one have these become more conspi-
cuous, than in the study of natural history,
and particularly that portion of it which relates
to the extinct animals of the immense and in-
teresting continent of America.
Since the wild conjectures of deluded mén
were banished from the annals of natural his-
tory, the study has become one of the most
useful and pleasing to all of a common under-
standing. The science is now characterised by
a manner, hostile only to the pride of the pe-
dantic scholar... I have the honor to open some
of the most extensive scenes: ;—let their mag-
nificence lead. the intelligent... An entrance is
desired, thatthe wonderful greatness and: wis-
dom displayed.in the operations of nature may
be contemplated with rapture, in parts ne-
3
glected by the vulgar as a “ dreary void.” For
my part, although imperious circumstances
frequently compelled me to suspend my views,
still I bring with me an undecayed sensibility
to their attractions, and a determmation to per-
form my duty with all the assiduity and zeal J
am capable of exerting, and merited by your
encouragement.
It is not a little to the honor of the present
age, that so many gentlemen of liberal fortune
and respectable families, declining the slip-
pery paths of political ambition, have dedicated
much of their time, and not a little of their
wealth, to sustain the cause of science and of
literature. This observation will undoubtedly,
from the association of ideas, recall the names
of Walpole, of Pennant, of Jefferson, and of
Banks, to your familiar recollection ;—pain-
ful recollection, which informs, that the two
first are now no more!
Of the writers of natural history I only
mention the names of those who have endea-
voured to make themselves acquainted with the
object of our immediate investigation. And
yet how imperfect was the information they
B 2
4
obtained! It could not be otherwise. Sir Jo-
seph Banks passed the greatest part of his life
im anatomizing the smallest productions of na-
ture, such as grubs and butterflies; the province
of Walpole was equally confined; Pennant
never left Great Britain; and Mr. Jefferson,
though amply qualified by an improved, philo-
sophic, and energetic mind, had not met with
sufficient evidence to establish irrefragible and
certain conclusions. Hence the variety of con-
jecture, and error of judgment, which, on this
subject, so universally abound. The ruling
passions of mankind are excited, and the future
current of their lives frequently directed, by
trivial circumstances. One of the greatest
painters of the age was attracted by an irre-
sistible impulse towards his art, by a perusal
of a treatise on it; and Mr. Jeflerson’s Notes on
Virginia, at an early period gave me a turn for
natural history, which has never abandoned
me, even to this middle period of life. His
critical and philosophic remarks on the mam-
moth, excited my enthusiasm, but did not
satisfy my judgment; and I determined to ex-
plore the country where the bones of so stu-
pendous an animal were so frequently found.
With this intent, I eained the Apelichean ; de-
5 ’
scended the Ohio; traversed the depths of the
valley and the highest summit of the mountain;
saw the Illinois, the Mississippi, and the Mis-
sourt; and at length obtained the completion
of my wish, the ardent object of my prayer,—
a collection of bones, vulgarly called mammoth
bones, but which I shall treat on under separate
heads.
Before, however, I xo into details of this
particular nature, it may be amusing to you, to
hear the conjectures of those who have passed
before me, and the authorities on which such
conjectures were grounded.
It is now ninety years ago, since the first
remains of this animal were found in America.
They were then thought to be the remains of a
Giant! The formation of the teeth, the under
jaw, the singularity and size of the bones, and
the difficulty of discovering what part they per-
formed in the animal machine, led to this egre-
gious error; which was augmented by that dis-
position to the marvellous, which emigration
encourages mankind to feel. This absurd idea
gave way to one, not more sound. ‘These re-
mains were called extraneous fossils by some, by
6
by others mineral substances. However, but few
years elapsed, before numerous attempts were
made by all nations to procure a satisfactory
collection of bones. At length Mr. Peale, of
Philadelphia imagined he had accomplished
this great object. He dug up a parcel of bones
in Ulster county, state of New York, formeda
skeleton, and dignified it with the name of
mammoth, a Russian term, from memoth, a word
derived from the Arabic mehemot, signifying
the behemot of Job. This word is applied to
any animal of extraordinary bigness: for in-
stance, fyhl isthe Arabic appellation for an ele-
phant of ordinary size; but when of uncommon
magnitude, the adjective mehemodi is always
added.
The skeleton exhibited by Mr. Peale is of
the following dimensions :—
Height over the shoulders 11 feet ; length
from the chin so the rump 15 feet; from the
end of the tusk to the end of the tail 31 feet;
width of the hips and body 5 feet 8 inches ;
Jength of the under jaw 3 ft. 1 inch; weight
of the same 634 lbs; length of the thigh bones
9 {t. 7 inches; smallest circumference of the
7
same 1 foot 6 inches; length of the bone of the
fore leg 2 ft. 9 inches; length of the tusks, de-
fenses, or horns, 10 ft. 7 inches; circumference
of one tooth’ 1 ft. 64 inches; weight of the same
4lbs.10.0z. The whole weighing about 1000 lbs.
Within the breast of this skeleton Mr. Peale,
accompanied by a dozen of his friends, partook
of a superb dinner.
The curiosity excited by this singular spec-
tacle was augmented by the following tradition,
then in circulation, and said to be delivered in
the terms of a Shawanece Indian :—
“Ten thousand moons ago,. when nought
but gloomy forests covered this land of the
sleeping sun; long before the pale men, with
thunder and fire at their command, rushed on
the wings of the wind to ruin this garden of
nature; when nought but the untamed wande-
rers of the woods, and men as unrestrained as
they, were the masters of the soil; a race of
animals were in being, huge as the frowning
precipice, cruel as the bloody panther, swift as
the descending eagle, and terrible as the angel
ef night. The pines erashed beneath their
8
feet ; and the lake shrunk when they slacked
their thirst. The forceful javelin in vain was
hurled, and the barbed arrow fell harmless from
their side. Forests were laid waste at a meal ;
the groans of expiring animals were heard,
and whole villages, inhabited by men, were de-
stroyed in a moment. ‘The cry of universal
distress extended even to the regions of peace
in the west, and the Good Spirit interposed to
save the unhappy. The forked lightning gleam-
ed all around, and loudest thunder racked the
globe. The bolts of heaven where hurled upon
the cruel destroyers alone, and the mountains
echoed with the bellowings of death. All
were killed except one male, the fiercest of the
race, and him even the fury of the skies assailed
invain. Heascended the bluest summit which
shades the source of many waters, and, roar-
ing aloud, bid defiance to every vengeance. The
red lightning scorched the lofty firs, and rived
the knotty oaks, but only glanced on the en-
raged monster. At length, maddened with dis-
dain, he leaped over the waves of the West,
and at this moment reigns the uncontrouled
monarch of the wilderness, in despite even of
Omnipotence himself.”
. 9
As the enthusiasm, awakened by the irst
discovery of these stupendous remains, began
to subside, and as the effect of this sublime tra-
dition must necessarily have yielded to reason
and abstract enquiry, it was soon ascertained,
that bones and skeletons of vast magnitude had
been frequently found in Siberia, Russia, and
Germany. Many specimens of: them are to be
seen in the Imperial Cabinet at Petersburgh ;
in the British, Doctor Hunter’s, and the late
Sir Ashton Lever's Museums, and in that of the
Royal Society. Several eminent naturalists, as
Sir Hans Sloane, Gmelin, Daubenton, Buffon,
&e. are of opinion, that these prodigious bones
and tusks are really the bones and tusks of
elephants; and many modern philosophers
have held the mammoth to be as fabulous as
the centaur. The great difference in size they
endeavour to account for, as arising in diffe-
rence in age, sex, and climate; and the cause
of their being found in those northern parts of
the world, where elephants are no longer na-
tives, nor even long exist, they presume to have
arisen from hence, that, in the great revolu-
_tions which have happened in theearth, the
elephants, to avoid destruction, have left their
native country, and dispersed themselves where
a
1@
ever they could find safety. Their lot has been
different, Some in a longer, and some in a
shorter time after their death, have been trans-
ported to great distances by some vast inunda-
tions. Those, on the contrary, which survived,
and wandered far to the north, must have fallen
victims to the.rigour of the climate.
In the year 1767, Doctor Hunter had an
opportunity of investigating more particularly
this part of natural history; and has evi-
dently endeavoured to prove, that these fossil
bones and tusks are not only larger than the
generality of elephants’, but that the tusks
are more twisted, or have more of a spiral curve
than elephants’; and that the thigh and jaw
bones differ, in several respects, from those of
the elephant: but what appeared to put the
matter beyond all dispute, was, the shape of
the grinders, which seemed to belong to ‘a carni-
vorous animal, or atleast to an animal of the mix-
ed kind. Some have supposed these bones to be-
long tothe hippopotamus, orriver horse; butthere
ave many reasons against this supposi tion, as that
animal is even much smaller than the elephant,
and has such remarkably short legs, that his
belly reaches within a few inches of the ground.
>
11
America seems to be the quarter where
the remains in question most abound. On the
Ohio, and in many parts further north, tusks,
grinders, and skeletons of unparalleled magni-
tude, are found in vast numbers, some lying
on the surface of the earth, and some a little
below it. Mr. Stanley, taken prisoner by the
Indians near the mouth of the Tenessee River,
relates that being transferred thro’ several tribes, —
he was at length carried over the mountains,
west of the Missouri, to a river which runs
westwardly ; that these bones abounded there;
and that thg natives described to him an animal,
to which they belonged, as still existing in the
northern parts of their country. Bones of the
same kind have been found in salines opened
on the North Holston, a branch of the Tenessce
about the latitude 36 north. Instances are
mentioned of like animal remains found in the
more southern climates of both hemispheres ;
but Mr. Jefferson observes, that they are either
so loosely mentioned as to leave a doubt of the
fact; so inaccurately described as not to autho-
rize the classing them with the great northern
bones; or so rare as to found a suspicion, that
they have been carried thither as curiosities from
more northern regions. ‘“ So that on the whole
a
} oo
el
(continues he) there seems to be no certain ves-
tiges of the existence of this animal farther
south than the salines last mentioned. It 1s
remarkable, (he adds,) that the tusks and skele-
tons have been ascribed to the elephant, while.
the grinders have been given to the hippopo-
tamus or river horse. And yet it will not be
said, that the hippopotamus and elephant came
always to the same spot, the former to deposit
his grinders, and the latter his tusks and skele-
ton! For what became of the parts not depo-
sited there ?
* We must agree, then, that these remains
belong to each other; that they are of one and
the same animal; that this was not a hippopo-
tamus, because the hippopotamus had no tusks
nor such a frame, and because the grinders difler
in their size as well as in the number and form
of their points.” That it was not an elephant
he thought ascertained by proofs equally deci-
sive. “I will not avail myself (he says) of the
authority of the celebrated anatomist, Mr. J.
Hunter, who from an examination of the tusks
has declared, they were essentially different
form those of the elephant; because another
anatomist, D’Aubenton, equally celebrated,
15
has declared on a like investigation that they
are precisely the same.
‘‘ Between two such authorities I will suppose
this circumstance as equivocal. But, first, the
skeleton of the mammoth bespeaks an animal
of five or six times the cubic volume of the ele-
phant. 2dly. The grinders are five times as
large, are square, and the grinding surface
studded with four or five rows of blunt points;
whereas those of the elephant are broad and
thin, and their grinding surface flat. 3dly.
I have never heard of an instance, and suppose
there has been none, of the grinder of an ele-
phant having been found in America. 4thly.
From the known temperature and constitution
of the elephant, he could never have existed
in those regions, where the remains of the
mammoth have been found. The elephant is
a native only of the torrid zone and its vicini-
ties: if, with the assistance of warm apartments °
and warm clothing, he has been preserved in
life in the temperate climates in Europe, it has
only been for a short portion of what would
have been his natural period; and no instance
of his multiplication in them have ever been
known. But no bones of the mammoth, as I
14
have before observed, have been ever found
farther south than the salines of the Holston,
and they have been found as far north as the
arctic circle. Those, therefore, who are of
opinion, that the elephant and mammoth are
the same, must believe, Ist, that the elephant
known to us can exist and multiply in the fro-
zen zone; or, 2dly, that an internal fire may
once have warmed those regions, and since
abandoned them ; of which, however, the globe
exhibits no unequivocal indications: or, 3dly, that
the obliquity of the ecliptic, when theseelephants
lived, was so great as to include within the
tropics all those regions in which the bones are
found: the tropics being, as is before observed,
the natural limits of habitation for the elephant.
But if it be admitted that this obliquity has
really decreased, and we adopt the highest rate
of decrease yet pretended, that is, of one mi-
nute in a century—to transfer the northern tro-
‘pic to the arctic circle would carry the exis-
tence of these supposed. elephants 250,000
years back ; a period far beyond the conception
of the duration of animal bones left exposed
to the open air, as these are’ in many instances.
Besides, though these regions would then be
supposed within the trupics, yet their winters
ee
would have, been too severe for the sensibility
of the elephant. They would have had, too,
but one, night and one day in the year; a cir-
cumstance to which we have no reason to. sup-
pose the nature of the elephant fitted. _How-
ever, it has been demonstrated, that if a va-
riation of the obliquity in the ecliptic takes
place at all, it is vibratory, and never exceeds
the limits of 9 degrees, which is not sufficient
to bring these bones within the tropics.
“ One of these hypotheses, or some other
equally, arbitrary and inadmissible to cautious
philosophy, must be adopted, to support the
opinion, that these are the bones of the ele-
phant. For my own part, I find it easier to
believe that an animal. may have existed, re-
sembling the elephant in its tusks and general
anatomy, while his nature was in other respects
extremely different. From the 30° of south
latitude to the 30° of north, are nearly the li-
mits which nature has fixed for the existence
and multiplication of the elephant known to us.
Proceeding thence northwardly to 364°, we
enter those assigned to the mammoth. The
farther we advance north, the more the vestiges
multiply, as far as the earth has been explored
~
16
in that direction ; and it is as probable as other-
wise, that this progression continues to the
pole itself, if land extend so far. The centre
of the frozen zone, then, may be the acme of
their vigour, as that of the torrid is to the ele-
phant. Thus nature seems to have drawn a
belt of separation between these two tremen-
dous animals, the breadth of which belt, m-
deed, is not so precisely known, though at
present we may suppose it about 6} degrees of
latitude; to have assigned to the elephant the
regions south of these confines, and those north
to the mammoth, founding the constitution of
the one in extreme heat, and that of the other
in the extreme of cold. When the Creator
has therefore separated their nature as far as
the extent of the scale of animal life allowed
to this planet would permit, it seems perverse
to declare it the same, from a partial resem-
blance of the tusks and bones. But to what-
ever animal we may ascribe these remains, it is
certain, that such an one existed in America,
and that it was the largest of all terrestrial beings
of which any traces have been known to ap-
pear.” Such are the conclusions of the inge-
nious author of “ Notes on Virginia.”
17
Since the publication of the “ Notes,” how-
ever, many add:tional facts have occurred, which
favor the assigning a wider range to this incog-
nitum; for in cutting the Santre and Cowper
River Canal in South Carolina, there was turn-
ed up a collection of bones, answering by de-
scription to those of the mammoth. Their num-
ber, variety, and arrangement were such, as en-
tirely to prelude the idea of their having been
carried thither as curiosities. The following
letter, from tie most respectable authority,
extends this range still wider :—
“© Washington, 1804.
sO STR,
“ Tt is with some interest that I have learn-
ed from the Baron Hombaldt, who has been
five years travelling through South America,
that among other curious animal remains, he
has discovered several specimens of the mam-
moth, perfectly distinguished by the great
carnivorous teeth. He found them as far as
latitude 33 south, but always on the highest
mountains; which the baron takes to be satis-
factory evidence, that this great unknown must
have been the inhabitant of a cold climate. In
North America, none of those bones have ever
C
18
been found, but in comparitively low situa-
tions ; this is to be expected ofan animal, which
in a cold climate, would inhabit the valleys,
and in a warm one would seek the cold retreats
of the mountains.
“ Yours, &c.
pp Sale
Had the opportunities of Mr. Jefferson
been greater than it appears they were, or, in
other words, had his materials been less scanty,
he would not only have given a larger circle
for the range of this animal, but he would
have discerned the remains of a Second Incogni-
tum, whose stature was not, perhaps, inferior
to that of the other. These second remains
evince a member of the herbivorous order, and,
notwithstanding the extraordinary size, I have
~ no hesitation in believing, that the animal was
of the genus of the elephant ; that he was the
mammoth of the Russians, the meliemodi of
the Arabians, and the behemoth of Job.
I conceive the word behemoth signifies the
beast, by way of eminence, or the greatest
among beasts.
19
The characters in the 40th chap. of Job,
from the 16th verse to the end, appear highly
applicable to a distinguished order of the
elephant.
‘ Behold now behemoth, which I made
with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.”
The simile, as ax ox, leads one to suppose
some analogy in form. Accordingly the Ro-
inans called it Bos Luca, the Lucanian beeve;
Lucania being that part of Italy into which
Pyrrhus, in his war with the Romans brought
them, and where the Romans first saw. this
creature.
‘Lo now, his strength is in his loins, and
his force in the navel of his belly.
‘© He moveth his tail like a cedar; the si-
news of his thighs are wrapped together.
‘¢ His bones are as strong as pieces of brass ;
his bones are like bars of iron.”
This description is too strong for any other
animal than the elephant; no other can enter
ag?
20
into competition with him for the largeness and
iron-like strength of his ribs, spine, and thigh
bones.
‘“ He is the chief of the ways of God’s
productions ; he that made him can make his
sword approach unto him.
‘Surely the mountains bring him forth
food where all the beasts of the field play.”
Three characters of the behemoth are men-
tioned here. 1. He frequents the mountains.
2. The mountains supply him with food. 37
He is a gentle and sociable animal.
The elephant will graze freely with other
animals, whether wild or tame. Among the
latter, if they are near enough to be hurt by
his sudden movement, he puts them gently by
with his proboscis.
‘He lieth under the shady trees, in the
covert of the reeds,: and fens. .
‘‘ The shady trees cover him with their
shadow; the willows of the brook compass
3
him about. ’
21
These verses describe the behemoth’s places
of shelter and repose, and, in such places, in
general, are his bones found in America at
this day. .
“ Behold he drinketh upa river, and hast-
eth not; he trusteth that he can draw up
Jordan into his mouth,”
What is here said seems to convey a sub-
lime idea of the lofty stature, great force, and
intrepidity of the behemoth.
‘““ Behold a river overfloweth, yet he mak-
eth not haste; although Jordan break out
against his mouth, he is in security.”
~ I may remark in this passage, that the com
mon height of the elephant is 10 ft. and a half.
There were some in the stables of Coarees,
King of Persia, twelve cubits high. A credi-
ble, traveller, Sir T. Roe, assures us, that in
Indostan he had seen some that were at least
¥2 ft. high, and was informed, that there were
others 14 or 15 ft. in height. The elephant,
therefore, can ford most rivers. "The Jordan
is here mentioned, not as frequented by ele-
22
phants, but only as put for any deep and. vio-
lent river: for such the Jordan is in the time
of its overflowing.
‘‘ He taketh it with his eyes; his nose pier-
eeth through snares.”
Job is here called upon, in the most humi-
liating irony, to try his courage on this large
and powerful creature, to take him by open
force, and guide him, when taken, with a cord,
as he used to manage his camels.
‘Let a man take him openly, let him drawa
cord through his nose. ”
The second sentence alludes, I imagine, to
the hair noose, or ring, which the Arabs put
through the nose of their camels; and by which
a line being fastened to it, they bring them to
their beck.
The following version of Job’s description
appears too interesting to be disregarded. I
trust you will agree with me in this opinion:—
Behold my behemoth, his bulk uprear,
Made by thy Maker, grazing like a steer.
28
What strength is seated in each brawny loin!
What muscles brace his amplitude of groin !
Huge like a cedar, see his tail arise ;
Large nerves their meshes weave about his thighs;
His ribs are channels of unyielding brass,
His chine a bar of iron’s harden’d mass:
My sovereign work; prime of the bestial kind,
In power of body, and in gifts of mind.
I, with a tusky falchion, armed his jaw,
His foe to humble and the desert awe:
In peaceful majesty of might he goes,
And on the mountain tops his forage mows;
Where beasts of ev’ry savage name resort,
And in wild gambols round his greatness sport.
In moory vales, beside the reedy pools,
Deep plunged in ooze, his glowing flanks he cools:
Or in umbrageous groves enjoys repose,
Or bower’d in willows, where the torrent flows.
Not swelling rivers can his heart dismay,
He stalks secure along the wat’ry way.
Should Jordan heap his overflowing waves
Against his mouth, the foaming flood he braves.
Go now, thy courage on this creature try,
Dare the bold duel, meet his open eye,
Sublime on thy gigantic captive ride,
And, with a sfender string, his vastness guide.
I now proceed to exhibit the parts which
more decidedly mark the remains of the behe-
moth: they consist, 1st, of grinders exclusively
worn by animals of the herbivorous or gramini-
24
vorous kind ; 2ndly, of tusks differently fashion-
ed; and 3rdly, of bones of an extraordinary
magnitude, belonging thereto.
Both the skeleton of the behemoth, and
of the stupendous carnivorous incognitum on
which I propose to treat in my next memoir,
being frequently embedded in company, they
have hitherto been confounded together by
writers, under the single appellation of mam-
moth bones: though their appearance and cha-
racter essentially differ, and distinctly point
out two animals of .the herbivorous and carni-
vorous kinds.
The teeth alone unquestionably bespeak
this. The masticating surface of the mammoth
tooth is Hat, nearly smooth, and ribbed trans-
versly, somewhat like the elephant’s grinders,
but less prominently marked. ‘There are from
15 to 20 of these transverse lines ona single
tooth of the mammoth; while, on that of the
elephant, they seldom exceed half the num-
bers ot he masticating surface of the tooth of
the carnivorous incognitum is set with four or
five high double-coned processes, or studs, |
strongly coated with enamel. But I refer this |
25
latter subject to the following memoir ; and now
beg to recall your attention to. what remains to
be said on the wonderful subject of our re-
cent speculations. That such an animal did
exist in this country and in considerable num-
bers is certain. The benevolent persuasion,
that no link in the-chain of creation will ever
be suffered to perish» has induced certain au-
thors of distinguished merit, to provide a re-
sidence for the mammoth in the remote regions
of the north. Some of the North American
Indians also believe in the now-existence of this
animal, and place him far beyond the Lakes.
But their belief rests on mere tradition: for
none of them will venture to declare they have
seen the animal themselves, or that their in-
formation concerning him is drawn from any
person who has seen him. The truth is, their
tradition does not relate to the mammoth,
though it very forcibly applies to the carnivo-
rous incognitum to which I have so often rever-
ted, and with which you will shortly become
acquainted. There is considerable evidence,
that the behemoth, or mammoth (which [ shall
in future call it, in compliance with custom)
has not been in existence in America for
several hundred years. There is no entire ske-
26
leton of so large an animal, with herbivorous
grinders, extant; nor have I met with any of its
bones ina state of preservation, but such as had
been affected by salines and salt. The tusks
and grinders alone remain: they in some de-
gree resist the corrosion of time; though I la-
ment to observe, that exposure to external air
hastens them to atoo suddén decay. The bones
of this animal have never been found on the
surface of the ground,—but sometimes 12 ft.
underneath it,—and in one instance, belowa
lime-stone rock of immense solidity, which had
grown over them, in the natural process of some
thousand years !
For want of the evidence of the real her-
bivorous grinders, and in consequence of the
mclemency of this hemisphere, Mr. Jefferson
could not admit of the existence of an animal,
of the genus and sensibility. of the elephant,
in America; nor could I, were | not firm-
ly convinced from my own careful observa-
tions, and the remarks of a celebrated author,
M. Volney, that the climate and face of na-
ture is entirely changed. For there is no
doubt, that the whole scope of country from
above arange of mountains which cros¢ the
27
Ohio somewhere below the Falls, as high up as
Pittsburgh and bordering Lake Eric, was once
overwhelmed with water, forming an immense
lake; that the summit of those hills was suffi-
ciently high to do this; and that by some great
convulsion of nature this barrier was reut to
its base, and the waters being thus let loose,
the lake above was drained, and the floods,
entering from all parts of the higher to the
lower grounds, formed the bed of the river
now called Ohio. That this immense body
of water was salt, appears evident from the im-
mense quantity of coral every where to be
found in the presumed bed of this lake; from
the remains of submarine plants, fossils, and mi-
nerals; and from the bones and petrifactions of
animals, which we know look for their appro-
priate aliment in the sea.
So great a change in the aspect of nature
considerably influenced the climate, and, in
proportion with its degeneracy, the mammoth
pined and ultimately perished.
But admitting the assertion of that distin-
guished philosopher and statesman, Mr. Jeffer-
son, that the sensibility of the elephant could
28
never have endured the inclemency of these
regions, I will presume to touch the subject
on a new ground, and allow it possible, that
in consequence of some immense revolution
in a more southern climate, the mammoth m1-
erated into this, notwithstanding its being so ini-
mical to his pursuits and affections. And where
could this great revolution have happened ?
Perhaps onthe very theatre of Mr. Jefferson's
happiest visions,—when he says, “ While ru-
minating on these subjects, I have often been
hurried away by fancy, and led to imagine,
that what is now the Bay of Mexico was once
a campaign country, and that from the point,
or cape of Florida there was a continued range
of mountains through Cuba, Hispaniola, Porto
Rico, Martinique, Guadaloupe, barbadoes,
and Trinidad, till it reached the coast of
America, and formed the shores which bound-
ed the ocean, and guarded the country behind ;
that by some convulsion, or shock of nature,
the sea had broken through these mounds,
and deluged that vast plain, till it reached the
toot of the Andes; that being there heaped up
by the trade winds, always blowing from one
quarter, it had found its way back, as it conti-
nues to do, through the gulph, between Flo-
-
29
rida and Cuba, carrying with it the loam and
sand it may have scoped from the country it
had occupied; part of which it may have de-
posited on the shores of North America, and
with part formed the banks of Newfoundland.”
But I weary your attention: honor me with
it, however, till we draw from matter so diffuse
a few dialectical and useful conclusions.
I have endeavoured to prove, first, that
bones found throughout America, and com.
monly called mammoth bones, are the remains
of more than one species of non-descript ani-
mal; 2dly, that the real mammoth is a large
order of the elephant according with the behe-
moth of Job; 3dly, that in consequence he is
herbivorous, as manifested by his tusks and
grinders;—4thly, that this climate was once
congenial to his nature, though now so adverse
to his pursuits and sensibilities;—5¢hly, that
had the climate never suited his affections, still
he might have migrated to this country, to avoid
some shock of nature in his own; and 6¢hly,
that the two last axioms lead to a conclusion,
that this superb animal exists no more. or that
he is only to be found in some of the remote
30
southern parts of the vast continent of Ame-
rica, yet unpenetrated and unseen.
It may now be asked, whether [ have in
this memoir, gratified the expectations of the
public? Whether | have shed any light on a
subject hitherto involved in gloom? And
whether I have given all the information which
your curiosity may demand, your reason sug-
gest, or your fancy require? Too well con-
vinced of the limits of the human understand-
ing, and of the bounds set to my own, I dare
not answer in the affirmative. Much may have
escaped my observation and my research: being
engaged in travel for several years, or living in
parts destitute of books and improved assocta-
tions, I was denied the assistance, drawn by
other naturalists, from such materials, and was
compelled to give you unembellished sugges-
tions of my own mind—a mind injured by amal-
gamation with inhabitants of untutored wastes,
where sensibility to grace is soon lost, where fe-
licity of style cannot be gained, and where liter-
ary pursuits become at length forgotten!
To merit indulgence, I shall exert all my
energies to give my next memoir the interest
$i
you may consider absent from this. The sub-
ject matter will be,—the great Megalonyx, the
monstrous lion of the Greeks; the cruel carni-
vorous animal of this western world, who was
‘huge as the frowning precipice; cruel as the
bloody panther, swift as the descending eagle,
and terrible as the angel of night! ”
MEMOIR J.
I FEEL considerable encouragement to
proceed in my views, both from the attention
with which you distinguished me, and from a
reasonable confidence that you are conscious of
the difficulties so arduous an undertaking must
be exposed to meet. You have the goodness
to consider, that it is not with the sciences as it
is with the arts. Aided by genius, a Titian or
an Angelo, can at one flight reach the summit
of his art; but whatever capacity you allow
to a naturalist, still, in the wastes of science,
he can only advance step by step. In his way
he has absurdities to engage, and prejudices to
conquer, which require faculties not always at
command, and at a time perhaps otherwise to
be employed. The principal obstructions
which are to be met with in this investigation
arise out of the varigty of opinions which it
has hitherto given birth to. It is necessary to
review them. _
Those stupendous remains, as I observed
Nv ks)
in my first memoir, have been attributed toa
giant; to the hippopotamus; to the elephant;
to some carnivorous animal; and,to some evil
spirit, or devil.
This perversion .must be owing to the ne-
glect of natural hictory,or to the insufficient
and mutilated evidence alone within the reach
of those whese knowledge is contained in their
closets, and who have never visited the haunts,
or become acquainted with the passions, of the
animals whose classification and properties they
affect to give. Hence a tooth sent to Paris; a
tusk to London, and some mixed fractions to
Philadelphia, decide a different character; to
which, however, indolence, and the terror at-
tending active enquiry, have assigned the ge-
neral name of mammoth.
Concerning the real origin of so terrific an
animal as the megalonyx, various discordant,
contradictory theories have been heard, equally
repugnant to common sense, and the principles
of sound philosophy. Concerning his early
existence I may plead the general tradition of
the most ancient nations, and of his present
existence I feel unwillingness to doubt. There
D
34
appears to be an order in the proceedings of.
Omnipotence, as regards creation, which we
should not break. What a beautiful gradation!
In creation there are no chasms; all the parts
of it are admirably connected, to make up one
universal whole ; there is one chain of beings,
from the lowest to the highest. The scale of
creation does not advance by leaps, but by gen-
tle steps. One rises gradually above another;
dead matter, unorganized earth, minerals, vege-
tables, insects, reptiles, birds, beasts, and man:
The truth is, as observes the philosophic au-
thor of the ‘“ Notes,” that a pigmy and a Pa-
tagonian, a mouse and a mammoth, derive
their dimensions from the same nutritive juices.
The difference of increment depends on cir-
cumstances unsearchable to beings with our
capacities. Every race of animals seems to have
received from their Maker certain laws of ex-
tension. Their elaborative organs were formed
to produce this, while proper obstacles were
opposed to its further progress. Below these
limits they cannot fall; above them they can-
not rise. What intermediate station they shall
take may depend on soil, on climate, on food,
and on a careful choice of breeders. Therefore
we are neither to be astonished at the wide and
56
material difference in animal bulk, nor to encou-
rage the theory of partial extinction: especi-
ally we may presume, that the wise Creator of
every thing would not suffer so great a link in
the chain as the megalonyx to be entirely bro-
ken off. He continues every created species,
nor can they cease while the earth remaineth,
any more than seed time and harvest, cold and
heat, summer and winter, day and night.
But to proceed in the manner of my first
memoir, I shall revert to the observations of
others, before [intrude on you those of my
own.
Stralenberg relates, that an entire skeleton
of an incognitum was found in Siberia, near
Lake Izana Osero; that it was 36 Russian ells
long; and so great was the distance between
the opposite ribs, that a man standing upright
on the concavity of a rib, as the skeleton rested
on its side, could not quite reach the opposite
one, even with the aid of a pretty long battle
axe, which he held in his hand. This account
is given as coming from the mouth of the man
himself, and who was one of thirty others all
eye-witnesses of the fact. Dr. Misserschmidt
D2
36
had seen the bones of a whole skeleton of a
monstrous size, lying in a ditch between Tom-
skoi and Kasmtsko, on the banks of the river
Tomber. Stralenberg also says, that he saw at
the city of Tumeer, a skull 23 ells in length,
but this the Russians informed him was one of
the smallest size. Muller and Isbrandes Ides
vo farther, and describe the colour, structure,
xc. of some huge incognitum. But what cre-
dit can be given to such idle stories, when Ides
himself confesses, that he knew of no person
that had ever seen a living animal of such ex-
traordinary magnitude?
The fathers cf the ancient church thought
it to be the devil, and others the elephant. The
rabbins affirm, that it is the largest four-footed
creature that God has ever created; that in the
beginning he made two, the male and the fe-
male; the female he killed and salted, to reserve
it as an entertainment for the elect, whenever
the Messiah shall come; and that the male is
still living, which, when this time comes, God .
will kill also, and give it to the Israelites, who
shall then arise from the dead. Asa proof
of these extravagancies, they often swear by
the share they expect in the “ great beast.”—
37
Such have been the efforts to deversify the same
object: one sect considered it a leviathan of
unwieldy bulk, spouting torrents of brine
through its spiracles; while another butcher,
and pack it in a tub.
It can answer no good purpose to follow
this course any farther; and yet I entreat you
to return with me to the Shawanece’s tradition,
notwithstanding my having observed that little
faith could be put in it: traditions in general
are so clouded with fable, as to obscure any
truths they may happen to contain.
However clouded the sublime tradition of
the Shawanece Indian may be with fiction, still
my experience has discovered a considerable
degree of truth to prevail init. I early disco-
vered, that the description pointed at some stu-
pendous voracious animal; cruel, fleet, and
capable of bounding suddenly on his prey.
Furnished with carnivorous teeth to consume,
and with claws to rend and destroy: im short.
a monster of the tiger line, endowed with every
bloody and malignant property, and differing
in every character but bulk from the mammoth,
whose qualities I so lately defined.
58
I also concluded, that the flat-surfaced
grinders, the defenses, or tusks, belonged to
one and the same animal, of the herbivorous
order; and that the teeth, studded with high
double-coned processes, would be found to be-
long to a carnivorous animal, armed with claws:
in fact the nature of his pursuits would require
them: of a form too unwieldly to range thro’
the woods, he would have to lie in wait, and
spring unexpectedly upon his prey. To effect
this act, claws are necessary, and I believe it is
a law of nature, that all carnivorous animals
should possess them. Whereas tusks, defenses, —
or horns, would be incompatible with the pur-
suits of sucha creature; would retard his pro-
gress through the woods, and gather too much
wind when coursing his prey in the plains.
These opinions were considerably confirm-
ed: the American philosophical society re-
ceived a collection of bones here treated of,
and among them, the os calois, or heel bones,
of a clawed animal. This testimony, so flat-
tering, so precious, and so ample to me, served
as a subject of mere contention to others: a
war ensued. Anatomists entered the lists;
philosophers multiplied ; and yet the question
39
remained undecided. The pride of man would
not allow a single bone, one small bone, to beat
down the edifice his errors had been so long
erecting! © The advocates of the hippopota-
mus ; of the elephant; of the extraneous fos-
sils; of any herbivorous animal, or of any
aquatic one, became confounded, but not con-
vinced. A species of commutation followed,
and teeth, tusks, hoofs, and claws, were pitched
together, to compose one animal. Not content
with this arrangement, I abandoncd the scene,
and visited the regions where the object of dis-
pute was said to abound; those plains he had
once devastated: those lakes in which he had
once slacked his thirst.—I soon discovered that
I had chosen the proper theatre for the decision
of the question.
Nature having blessed these transmontane
regions with a bountiful supply of salines, or
springs of salt water ; the earth there being soft
or spongy, and impregnated with mineral salts
is rendered peculiarly fit for the reception and
preservation of certain bodies, which, in other
places, would undergo a speedy decay. Hence
the profusion of large bones beyond the moun-
tains, while on the Atlantic side of them, where
40.
salines are scarce, such remains have but rarely
been found. Between the Wabash and the II-
linois, a considerable space of a plain 1s occu-
pied with bones of ali descriptions, some on
the surface, and some beneath the ground.
At a considerable distance back of St. Louis,
in Upper Louisiana, there is a large parcel or
body of both animal and human bones, mixed
altogether promiscuously, over a space of
ground of 300 yards, some lying, and others
sticking up. ‘Some of the largest order were
presented to the Baron Carondolet, while in
that country, who pronounced them to belong
to an elephant.
_ Upon either margin of the Big-Bone-Lick,
which is a shallow stream of salt water, 1n the
state of Kentucky, flowing into the Olio, there
lies a stratum, extending a considerable dis-
tance, composed entirely of the bones of the
buffalo, elk, deer, and other smaller animals,
as alluded to in the Indian tradition, where it
beautifully observes, “ the groans of expiring
animals were every where heard.” But, judge
of my surprize, when attentively examining
the bones, I discovered, that almost every one
of any length, had received a fracture, occa-
41
sioned, undoubtedly, by the teeth of some
carnivorous animal, while in the act of feeding
upon his prey. It is well known that the buf-
falo, deer, elk, and a variety of other animals,
are in the constant habit of making such places
their resort, in order to drink the salt water,
and lick the impregnated earth. Now, may
we not from these facts infer, that nature had
formed some huge voracious animal, to whom
she allotted the beasts of the forest for his food ?
How can we otherwise account for the nume-
rous fractures that every where mark these
strata of bones? May it not be inferred, too,
that as the largest and swiftest quadrupeds were
appointed for his food, he necessarily was en-
dowed with great strength and activity? That,
as the immense volume of the creature would
unfit him for coursing after his prey through
thickets and woods, nature had furnished him
with the power of taking a mighty leap? That
this power of springing to a great distance was
requisite to the more effectual concealment of
his bulky volume while lying in wait for his
prey? Is not the Author of Existence wise
and just in all his works ? . Would he confer
appetites, and withhold the powers capable of
- obtaining their gratification ?
42
With the agility and ferocity of the tiger ;
with a body of unequalled magnitude and
strength ; this monster must have been the ter-
ror of the forest, and of man! And—what
monster ? It is true, carried away by an
enthusiasm, inspired by the subject, I have not
waited to tell you, that such a one did in fact
exist. Filled with a strong conviction of his
existence, I sought for evidence; I spared no
labour ; 1 dug all around, and at length drew
from the reluctant earth the remains of a huge
carnivorous animal, furnished with high-coned
teeth, armed with claws. In fine, “ huge as
the frowning precipice, cruel as the bloody
panther, swift as the descending eagle, and ter-
rible as the angel of night,” must have bee
this tremendous animal, when clothed with
flesh and animated with principles of life!
The ruins of a portion of his head weigh
nearly 200lbs. From the enamel of the teeth,
fire can be struck! and the skull must have
been 12 inches thick, forming a forehead 4 feet
over !
The scapula, or shoulder blade, when seen
in the earth, was large as a breakfast table ; the
43
decay was too great; on moving it, it-fell to
pieces.
The vertebre which are seen, shew the spinal
marrow to have been 5 inches in diameter!
Is not this extraordinary? Not seen, would
the tale be credible ?
The huge leg and thigh bones, how mon-
strous, how massive! What muscles must
have filled the inflexions—the wide and hollow
insinuosities? And the fragments of ribs!
how admirable their construction! Bent on
the edge, they are eminently calculated for
strengthening a frame ordained to subsist by the
destruction of other animals, both active and
powerful. ©
But, above all, I beg your attention to the
claw. It is sheathed and retractile; denoting
an animal of the lion kind. Justified by prin-
ciples of anatomy I calculate, that, when ex-
tended on its prey, it must have been nearly 4
ft. long by 3 ft. wide, allowing that long and
firm membranes interposed between the bones
and toes.
44
There is a beautiful mechanism in the
whole of this. The toes were drawn together,
or bended, when the paw was bent: this was
ewing to the shortness of the tendons which
pass over the toes, and from the toes being set
in the circumference of a.circle, as our fin-
gers are. ‘Therefore, when the paw was bent,
the tendons would consequently be much
stretched; and, smce they are inserted into
the toes, must of necessity have bent them
when the foot was bent ; and when the paw or
foot was extended, the flexors would again re-
lax, and allow the toes to become expanded,—
‘to'seize its prey, rend, and annihilate it.
From this rapid review of these majestic
remains if must appear, that the creature towhom
f i y
they belonged was nearly 60 feet long, and 2
feet high?
Being armed with claws, sheathed and re-
tractile; having the powers, from the forma-
tion of his ribs, of extending and contracting
his body to a great degree, in order to make
more prodigious bounds ; and appearing to be
endowed with the passions and appetites of the
45
lion; I have ventured to distinguish him under
that genus, and have caiicd him the Megalonyx,
after the Greek, which signifies the great lion.
However presumptuous this step may ap-
pear, [ found it essential to take it; in order
to avoid the vulgar error of calling it ‘* mam-
moth,” a term already bestowed on an animal
of the elephantine species, as heretofore proved,
and of the herbivorous nature. Besides, in
a place which abounded with bones, I found it
absolutely necessary to have some system of
classification. For, in fact, 1 discovered re-
mains of no less than six species of incognita ;
three of which I have not as yet defined. But
would it be wise to blend them all together,
and, to save the labour of investigation, to
involve them all in the name of mammoth? In
my first memoir I gave my motives for affixing
this name to one particular animal, whose pro-
perties I described ;—and in this, I give the
name of megalonyx to another, whose capacities
I shall further explain. In zoology, this
name will, I imagine, class under felis, a ge-
nus of quadrupeds belonging to the order of
fere, the principal characters of which are
these,—the fore teeth are equal, the molares,
46
or grinders, have three points; the tongue 1s
furnished with rough sharp prickles, pointing
backwards; and the claws are sheathed and
retractile. This genus comprehends twenty
two species, including the megalonyx.
It is said, that in warm countries quadru-
peds are larger and stronger than in cold or
temperate climates ; that they are likewise more
fierce and hardy: all their natural qualities cor-
responding with the ardour of the climate; that
the lions nourished under the scorching sun
of Africa, or the Indies, are strong, fierce,
and terrible; and that those of Mount Atlas,
whose top is sometimes covered with snow, are
neither so strong nor so ferocious as those of
Belledulgired or Zaara, whose plains are co-
vered with burning sands. We have now, how-
ever, reason to doubt the justice of these ob-
servations, and to conceive, that other causes
concur to inspire courage and repress vigour,
than the influence of heat and cold. Do we
not know—are we not convinced—that an ani-
mal of the lion’s sensibilities, but far superior
to him in magnitude, ferocity, and strength,
was once the dread and scourge of all the
western world! And what has become of him ?
47
Satished of his once existing, this question
becomes a profitable enquiry.
All noxious quadrupeds hasten to banish-
ment, apparent extinction, or rapid decline.
The Romans brought many more lions
out of Libya, for their public shews, than are
now to be found in that country. It is like-
wise remarked, that the lions in Turkey, Persia,
and the Indies, are now much less numerous
than formerly. As this formidable and cou-
rageous animal makes a prey of most other
animals, and is himself a prey to none, this
diminution in the number of the species can
be owing to nothing but the increase in’ the
number of mankind: for it must be acknow-
ledged, that the strength of the lion is not a
match for the dexterity and address of a Negro
or a Hottentot, who will often dare to attack
him face to face, and this too with very slight
weapons. The ingenuity of mankind aug-
ments with their number; that of other ani-
mals continues always the same. All the nox-
ious animals, therefore, are reduced to a small
number, owing as well to the increase of man~
kind, as to the increase of ingenuity, which
has invented weapons that nothing can resist.
48
These reasons apply to the fall of the mega-
lonyx; with this addition, that as he was so
terrific and devastating a disturber, the human
race might have made his extirpation a com-
mon cause; or his numerous and powerful
enemies of th forests might have operated to
this effect. There is no question, but that the
mammoth was his perpetual rival, and avowed
adversary. Wherever they met, they fought;
and wherever they fought, one or both fell.
Their bones, to this day, are. found mingled
together on the same surface, or buried deep
in the same hole. I hardly know an instance
of their being found separately, and where
they are so, they have most probably been
dragged into such situations by creatures, who
dreaded to approach them while alive. But
how long the megalonyx has existed, or ceased
to exist, in America, we shall perhaps ever
remain in ignorance of. No judgment can be
formed from the quantity of vegetable soil
which has accumulated over his bones. Certain
we are, that his species existed in great abun-
dance, from the number of their remains.
- Perlips they were destroyed by some sudden
and powerful cause,—probably one of those
changes, or sudden eruptions of the sea, which
49
have left their traces in every part of the globe;
and which are in amazing abundance on the
very spot where these bones are found. ‘They
consist. of petrefactions of sea productions,
shells, corals, &e. It is probable, too, ‘that
whenever, and by whatever means, the extir-
pation of this tremendous race of animals was
effected, the same cause operated in the de-
struction of all those inhabitants, from whom
we might have received some satisfactory ac-
count of them. |
Whether the race is extinct, or whether,
as the Indians allege, it still exists beyond the
lakes, remains, then, undecided. I am reluc-
tant to think that so grand a monument of All-
creative Power would be allowed to be effec-
tually and entirely destroyed! ‘And yet a con-
clusion may be drawn in favour of its annihila-
tion. The scriptures tell us, that ‘‘in the be-
ginning, to man, was given the dominion over
the fish of the sea, over the fowls of the air,
and over every living thing that moved upon
the earth.” Could the present race of man
govern the Megalonyx, supposing he v. isted
in the abundance we are authorised to conceive
he did? Certainly not. Therefore, to fulfil an
s ;
50
ordinance in favour of mankind, the race might
have been destroyed.
Or, perhaps there has been in this tyrannic
animal’s day a race of people who had as com-
plete a dominion over that astonishing being,
as the present race have over the animals of the
present time! If so, what ideas can we have
of them? And “ how have the mighty fallen!”
Here language fails; and man, poor short-
sighted man, is lost in clouds of amazement
and uncertainty: while, like the poet, we must
Once more search, undismay’d, the dark profound,
Where Nature works in secret; view the beds
Of mineral treasure, and the eternal vault
That bounds the hoary ocean; trace the forms
Of atoms, moving with incessant change,
Their elemental round; behold the seeds
Of being and the energy of life,
Kindling the mass with ever-active flame:
Then to the secrets of the working mind
Attentive turn; from dim oblivion call
Her fleet, ideal, band; and bid them ‘ go
Break thro’ Time’s barrier, and o’ertake the hour
That saw the heav’ns created; then declare
If ought were ever found in those external scenes
To move thy wonder now!’ For what are all
The forms which brute, unconscious matter wears,
Greatness of bulk, or symmetry of parts:
§1
I did not wish to break the train of my
ewn arguments, by introducing the opinions of
those, whom I know to be adverse to mine.
A love of truth, however, and a desire to give
all the information within my means, lead me
to notice those opinions.
Bishop Maddison, a gentleman of research
and distinguished information, afhirms, that
the incognitum with the studded grinders is an
animal of the herbivorous order. Permit me
to give his own reasonings.
‘¢ Among rude nations, ignorance and cre-
dulity have eagerly embraced and perpetuated
extravagant tales, respecting the mammoth.
The Siberians assert, that it lives under ground;
and the North-west Indians have hurled against
it the thunder-bolts of the Great Spirit, so as
to make the monster spring over the Wabash,
the Illinois, and the Great Lake, where he is
now confined! In the scientific world, two
dissimilar principles, scepticism, and the bold
spirit of conjecture and system, have produced
mistakes, perhaps no less extraordinary. At
first, the remains alluded to were, by some na-
turalists, attributed to the elephant, whilst
E2 |
52
others advocated a just claim of the hippopo-
tamus tothe.same. When, in process of time,
the light, thrown on the subject by compara-
tive anatomy, determined that they must have
belonged to a non-descript animal, distinct
from either,—a doubtful point still existed,
and invited the attention of the mquisitive.—
‘¢ Was that animal carnivorous or herbivorous?”
Each side of the question long boasted illus-
trious supporters. Dr. Hunter declared the
unknown animal, carnivorous. His opinion
became mostly prevalent. By some, however,
who were unwilling entirely to abandon a fa-
vourite idea, it was contended, that he was an
animal of the mixed kind; that is, capable, like
man, like the monkey, the hog, &c. of feeding
both upon flesh and upon vegetable substances.
But most adopted Hunter's idea, without any
modification, and declared the animal positively
and exclusively carnivorous. After the deci-
sion of this point, curiosity and investigation
were excited by another topic of enquiry.
This was,.to ascertain the element on which
he lived in general. Some considered it a ¢er-
restrial animal; others, from certain indications
in its structure, pronounced it amphibious, and
consigned to it shell-fish, as its favourite food.”
53
>The fact contained in the following com-
munication strongly, we might say victoriously,
militates against the carnivorous doctrine.
And facts, says Bishop Maddison, summon the
discordant opmions of philosophers before an
unerring tribunal, from which there can be no
appeal :—
“ The question, whether the incognitum
was a carnivorous or an herbivorous animal,
has long divided naturalists: ingenuity, sup-
ported by analogy, afforded specious argu-
ments for either opinion. One fact, which the
bosom of nature had concealed, but which hu-
man industry has brought to light, has re-
moved every doubt. in digging a well, ina
place which afforded indications of marine salt,
a passage was made through the contents of
the stomach of a vast animal! ‘The novelty of
the substances, thus found, excited attention.
They were carefully examined, and seemed to
be half masticated reeds, and twigs of trees,
with grass; whilst the bones of the beast,
which were dug up at the same time, and
which lay contiguous to these substances, evin-
ced, that they had been the contents of the
animal. These contents are ina state of high
54
preservation; have been seen by hundreds;
and were found, together with the bones, rest-
ing ona limestone rock, about 5% feet below
the ground, in the county of Wythe, in Vir-
ginia, A part of the contents, with the whole
skeleton, are to be forwarded to William and
Mary College.”
There is a rational scepticism, justly recom-
mended by the great Bacon to the lovers of
knowledge. Philosophical doubt ought to be
carried into every department of science. Re-
peated experiments, accumulated facts, long
and attentive observations, can alone imprint
on our theories the sacred seal of truth, and
establish our opinions ona permanent basis.
And surely you will agree with me, that, ac-
cording to these remarks, finding a few crushed
vegetable substances blended with bones of an
animal, is not a suflicient criterion for the dis-
covery of his properties and affections. Besides,
a variety of circumstances might have concurred
to place the supposed contents of the stomach
in the situation they were found. An expiring
animal of ferocity and force might have torn
and masticated every substance within his reach;
—or the matter collected by Bishop Maddison
55
might have been the contents of the stomach of
an herbivorous animal, the carcase of which
might have lain under the body of the carni-
vorous creature with whom it fought, and with
whom it fell. For there is no doubt, but that
a fixed and perpetual enmity reigned between
the mammoth and the megalonyx. Their re-
mains evince this; they are constantly found
together; and as we are sufficiently convinced
that their pursuits and sensibilities differed,
we must ascribe this present union to their for-
mer hatred and animosity. [am asked, how
it happens, that where the bones of both ant-
mals have been embedded together, those of
the megalonyx alone principally are found,
while those of the mammoth are scarcely dis-
cernible? ‘The answer is plain. The bones of
all herbivorous animals are, from their nature,
subject to decay infinitely sooner than the bones
of carnivorous creatures, which are more dura-
ble and capable of resistance. Hence, where
the mammoth and megalonyx expire together,
the bones of the latter may be found entire,
and none of the former but its tusks ;—which
being made of ivory, bid equal defiance to the
attacks of time.
56
Therefore, on the whole, we cannot agree
to consider an animal, endowed with carnivo-
rous grinders, to be herbivorous; on the mere
ground, that mashed vegetable substances were
found in the vicinity of his bones! It would
be catching at straws, to support a theory, to
me entirely inadmissible. I could prefer
meeting the doctrine of those who suppose
the animals of a mixed nature ; though I have
no intention to abandon my own, that he is
carnivorous, and unmixed. It is true, not-
withstanding, that the lower jaw is furnished
with but four teeth, two on each side; and
being unassociated either with incisores or canine,
it might be inferred, that his nature was not
wholly carnivorous, but mixed ;—and. that a
being, whose existence would require such an
immoderate quantity of animal food, might,
under circumstances of necessity, be indued
with the faculty of subsisting on vegetable
substances. As the idea is not unreasonable,
I shall not oppose it, though Iam far from
being of the belief myself. |
I shall also be accused of placing an animal
ef such extreme volume under the genus of -
5]
the lion, whose bulk is comparatively small.
But is not the diminutive domestic cat of the
lion species? May not the lion’s race soar as
much above, as this degenerate creature sinks
beneath, him? Or why is it, that the human
mind will admit of mean and contemptible asso-
ciations, and reject those that are sublime and
grand? Are there not a mini, and a whale;
a humming bird, and a cassawary ; a mouse,
and a mammoth; a dwarf, anda giant? Yes.
On the same principle, then, we admit a cat,
and a megalonyx. It is not the size which
determines the genus, but the qualities, pur-
suits, and affections. The size varies more
considerably in the lion, than in any other
species. —M. de la Landemagon assures us,
that he has seen a tiger, in the Hast Indies, 15
feet long, including, undoubtedly, the length
of the tail, which, supposing it to be four feet,
makes the body of the tiger eleven feet in
length!
A. skeleton, preserved in the cabinet of a
French King, indicates, that the animal was
7 feet long, from the point of the muzzle to
the origin of the tail; and it must be consider-
ed, that he was caught young, and lived m
confinement all his days.
58
There is in some parts of India a popular
notion, that the rhinoceros and the tiger were
in friendship, because they are found near each
other. In America the bones of the rhino-
ceros and megalonyx are in the same vicinity:
but I do not attribute this to any former friend:
ship that existed between them. The truth is,
the rhinoceros loves to wallow in the mire, and,
on that account, frequents salines and the banks
of rivers: the megalonyx, to quench his thirst,
or find his prey, remained contiguous to the
same places.
Nor do I stand alone in the opinion, that
animals of the lion race have inhabited Ame-
rica; and though M. Buffon even denies the
panther to belong to that country, Mr. Pennant
thinks, that the same, or a variety at least, in-
habits it. The figure of the species described
by Faber, under the name of tigris Mexicana,
agrees exactly with that of the panther, as does
also the description in general. M. Conda-
mini, and Le Pere Cattano, speak of the tigers
of America as equal and even superior in size
to those of Africa, and the colour as_ bright
as gold; and Ulloa describes them as big as a
horse! Notwithstanding the venders of furs
59
cannot be depended upon, as to the countries
their goods come from, yet the general opinion
of the whole trade, that these skins were the
produce of Spanish America, is a further proof
of their being common to both continents.
From the remains, then, befgge us; from
all the foregoing remarks; and, above all, from
the conviction that the megalonyx is of the
lion kind, let us form to ourselves some idea
of his character.
His length 60 ft. his height 25; his figure
magnificent; his looks determined; his gait
stately; his voice tremendous! In a word,
his body must have been the best model of
deadly strength, joined to the greatest agility.
And, from the force expressed by the visible
seat of his muscles, his bounds must have been
prodigious, enabling him to fall upon his prey,
to seize it with his teeth; tear it with his claws,
and devour it. Accustomed to measure his
strength with that of all other animals he used
to encounter, the habit of conquering must
have rendered him haughty and intrepid!
Having, perhaps, never experienced the
60
streneth of man, or the power of his arms, in-
stead of discovering any signs of fear, he would
disdain and set an army at defiance! Wounds
might irritate, but they could not terrify him;
and after a violent and obstinate engagement, -
should he find himself weakened, he would
retreat fighting, always keeping his face to the -
enemy, looking proud, great, and ferocious.
THE END.
{In a short time will be published, by Subscription,
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TIES; &e. &c. Kc. in: the LIVERPOOL MUSEUM; illus-
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