194 '^"^ Ottawa Naturalist. [Deceml-er 



At night he sleeps with the body hidden under the plants, 

 leaves, etc., of aquarium, the nostrils and part of head only being 

 visible ; but in day time he prefers to bask in sunlight on a small 

 raised landing. At this time a small common turtle, probably for 

 warmth, generally slept perched on his back. 



Efforts in taming have not been very successful. One attempt 

 to bite was made. 



Although considerable attention is required in changing water 

 frequently in warm weather, and watchfulness in keeping the 

 aquarium at all times covered to prevent escape, still the pleasure 

 derived from observing his habits, more than compensates for the 

 trouble taken. 



A Japanese turtle and a Chinese turtle were companions to 

 the alligator. The Japanese was a fine specimen, kindly donated 

 by one of the curators of the New York Aquarium. 



They would have hibernated, if given opportunity. Most of 

 their time was spent hidden under the leaves, weeds, etc., of the 

 aquarium. When called they only extended their necks, occasion- 

 ally taking a little meat, but on bright days, they came out to 

 enjoy the heat of the sun. When spring came they were lively and 

 became quite tame, taking flies from the hand as long as one had 

 the patience to catch them, but tearing off and rejecting the wings. 

 They were called Jap and John, the former being the livelier and 

 responding to a whistle or to his name when called. 



Everything of a carnivorous character seemed to suit their 

 palates ; their food while in mouth was torn into pieces by the 

 claws. It was great amusement feeding them worms ; each 

 taking hold of an end, a tug-of-war would follow, lasting till the 

 worm was torn asunder. The best sport was when a turtle tried 

 to take a worm from the alligator ; if the worm were strong 

 enough to stand the strain the former would be towed round and 

 round the aquarium and handled very roughly. 



Some Salamanders [Spelerpes bilineatus) were placed in the 

 aquarium, as com.panions, but inside of an hour the turtle had 

 bitten a large piece out of the tail of one : they had to be at once 

 removed. Fish were placed with them as companions, but the 

 turtles gave them no peace. Turtles are very courageous and 



