CLASS MAMMALIA. 



FIG. 3a3. 



The Porcupine of Europe and Africa has its back, 

 sides, and short tail covered with spines varying from 

 three to fifteen or more inches 

 in length. All the American 

 species have much shorter 

 spines ; in most not over five 

 inches for the longest, and usu- 

 ally intermingled with abun- 

 dant hair, longer, and thus con- 

 cealing the spines. * The spines 

 are barbed with numerous re- 

 versed hooks or prickles, which are easily detached, and, 

 once imbedded in the flesh, work deeper and deeper.* 



Jumping Mice are remarkable for their long tails and 

 cheek-pouches. They leap away from their enemies in 



FIG. 334. 



JJy<s ti'li' ci is t tu. 

 Porcupine, Europe. d 



Za'pus hud son' I us. Jumping Mouse. (.; 



a zigzag course. 

 America. 



There is but a single species in North 



* None of the species can throw their quills, though all can erect them by 

 means of powerful subcutaneous muscles. When attacked, the Porcupine, like 

 the Hedgehog, rolls itself partially into a ball, and brandishing its tail, stands 

 ready for the onslaught. The assailant, with nose, lips, jaws, and tongue filled 

 with the treacherous barbs, soon retreats with a howl of pain. 



