246 



BRANCH YERTEBRATA. 



Its sharp, powerful claws, often five inches long, move 

 independently of one another, and, when the animal 

 strikes with its paws, cut like so many chisels. Its 

 strength enables it to drag off a bison ; and when acting 

 on the defense is considered the most formidable animal 

 of the New World. 



FIG. 429. 



Ur'sus marifl'mus. White Bear. 



The Polar J^ear is the largest member of its family. 

 It feeds on seals, fish, and walruses, which it pursues in 

 the water, swimming and diving with great skill. To 



