THE EARLESS MARMOT. 



(Spermophilus ^ Citillus. ) 



THE genus Spermophilus, as defined by modern 

 zoologists, connect the ground squirrels (Tamias) 

 with the true marmots (Arctomys). Several species 

 of small and active rodents are included in this 

 genus, among which are the well-known prairie dog 

 of America, and the earless marmot, whose habits 

 I am about to describe, principally from a tame 

 individual in my possession. This interesting little 

 animal is a native of Northern and Central Europe, 

 living in small communities, and forming burrows 

 in dry and sandy localities, which extend for a 

 considerable distance beneath the surface of the soil, 

 It is tolerably prolific, producing five or six young 

 at a litter, and commonly breeding twice a year. 

 In form and colour it greatly resembles a diminutive 

 wild rabbit, minus the ears, and with a small shaving- 

 brush fastened to its hinder extremity, in place oi 

 the true leporine scut. The feet are furnished with 



