300 THE VIVARIUM. 
nor will there be any struggle; but the second to reach the 
coveted spot will calmly settle down upon the back of his more 
fortunate rival. If there be no suitable resting-places on branches 
of trees or leaves of plants, the Tree-Frogs will not seldom affix 
themselves to the corners of their case, and be constantly dirty- 
ing its glass sides by climbing about them; and then neither the 
Batrachians nor their abode will look comfortable or attractive. 
A well-built and tastefully arranged Vivarium, wisely stocked 
with different kinds of Batrachia, is a very interesting possession, 
and is not out of place in either. the conservatory, drawing- 
room, dining-room, or study. The animals differ much from each 
other in colour, habits, and shape, and altogether harmonise well 
with the plants and surroundings. To the observant owner there 
is always something new to learn concerning his charges, which 
give very little trouble, and if well managed are, as a rule, very 
hardy, and cause no untidiness in the room in which they are 
placed. 
In the winter time, if the Vivarium be put just out of the reach 
of frost, its occupants will bury themselves under the mould, moss, 
and cork, and spend the cold months safely in a state of hiberna- 
tion. Should there, however, be a desire to keep the Batrachians 
active and in feeding condition throughout the winter, the 
Vivarium must be supplied with artificial heat. The heat, under 
these circumstances, owing to the thick covering of mould at the 
bottom of the case and the requirements of the Batrachians, must 
be supplied from the top of the Vivarium, which may be done ac- 
cording to the directions already given. Of course, if the Vivarium 
should stand in a well-warmed conservatory or some such build- 
ing, no additional heat need be provided. 
As already said, Batrachians are easily supplied with food, 
which may consist of the following creatures, which should be 
placed alive in the Vivarium ; garden-worms, cockroaches, flies, 
earwigs, slugs, mealworms, and any kind of insect. The worms 
may be emptied upon some spot in the Vivarium, kept clear of 
moss or cork for such a purpose. The Batrachians will readily 
see the Annelids before they can crawl away, and many of the 
frogs and toads will generally take up their abode near such a 
good hunting ground. The cockroaches, if turned out of the 
