BEAVER RAT, OR HYDROMYS.—Ayjdiomys chrysogaster. 
THE shy and retiring Hypromys, or BEAVER RAt, is not a very rare animal in its 
native country, but as, in addition to its natural timidity, it is nocturnal in its habits, it 
is but seldom seen by casual observers. It is a native of Van Diemen’s Land, and is 
found inhabiting the banks of both salt and fresh water. It is an admirable swimmer 
and diver, reminding the spectator of the water vole of Europe. Like that animal, it has 
a habit of sitting upright, supported by its hind paws and tail, while it employs the fore- 
feet for the conveyance of food to its mouth. 
The colour of the Beaver Rat’s fur is as follows. The neck and upper parts of the 
body are of a dark rich brown, which is washed with a light golden hue along the sides of 
the face, shoulders, and the flanks, as far as the hind limbs. The under surface of the 
body is golden yellow, and has earned for the animal the name of “chrysogaster,” which 
signifies “goiden-bellied.” The basal half of the tail is black, and the remaining moiety 
is white. In the engraving, the contrast of the colours is not sufficiently marked. 
The total length of the Beaver Rat is about two feet, the tail being the same length as the 
body. The hinder feet are webbed. 
GROUND PIG.—Aulacédus Swinderianus. 
The GRrounD Pic is one of the links between the beavers and the porcupines, and has 
a considerable affinity with the latter animals. 
It is found in many parts of Southern Africa, as well as on the coast of Guinea, 
where it is not at all uncommon. The hair of this animal is rather peculiar, and 
