A REMARKABLE MAMMAL 187 



the friend mentioned above that an aye-aye occurs in the 

 south of the island, which, if its habitat is isolated from 

 that of the typical form, may turn out to be a new local 

 race, or possibly even a distinct species. 



Although the aye-aye is certainly far from being a common 

 animal, yet it is probably less rare than is often supposed. 

 Its supposed great rarity appears to be largely due to the 

 dread in which it is held by the natives, who can seldom 

 be induced to capture a specimen. It is believed to be 

 endowed with the power of causing the death of those who 

 attempt its capture, and it is consequently only some of the 

 bolder natives who will venture on this undertaking, and 

 then only after providing themselves with a charm to 

 counteract the effects of the creature's supposed super- 

 natural power. Occasionally, according to Mr. Baron's 

 notes, it is taken in traps set for lemurs ; but it is 

 then, unless the owner is possessed of the aforesaid charm, 

 invariably set at liberty, after being anointed with fat in 

 order to propitiate its goodwill and forgiveness. Only 

 very occasionally is a specimen offered for sale in the 

 market at Tamatave, when a good price — presumably from 

 Europeans — is always obtained. 



