1260 



THE RODENTS 



hind-quarters to survey the scene and detect the danger. If the enemy approach 

 too close, the loud whistling scream is uttered, and the animal dives headlong into 

 its burrow, to reappear after a time and see if the coast is clear. Both in the Alps 

 and Himalayas marmot warrens are situated in exposed situations, generally where 

 there is a considerable open space, and which in winter are deeply buried in snow. 

 In the case of the Alpine species, the winter quarters are made in large burrows, each 

 with a single entrance, and terminating in an extensive chamber lined with grass; 

 such chambers, according to Professor Blasius, frequently containing as many as 



THE ALPINE MARMOT. 

 (One-fifth natural size.) 



from ten to fifteen occupants during the winter, all lying closely packed together. 

 From two to four young appears to be the usual number in a litter of the Himalayan 

 species. 



The flesh of marmots is said to be of good flavor, and is largely consumed by 

 the inhabitants of the Siberian steppes, who as soon as the bobac reappears in 

 spring, after its winter sleep ; organize a regular system of hunting. In shooting 

 marmots it is essential that they should be killed at the first shot, as the sportsman 

 is only able to come within range when they are sitting at the mouths of their bur- 

 rows, and if only wounded, no matter how severely, they are well-nigh sure to have 



