2406 



TORTOISES, TURTLES, AND PLESIOSAURS 



the largest representatives of the family. The species inhabiting colder regions 

 hibernate during the inclement season by burrowing in the ground, whereas those 

 found in more genial climates are active throughout the year. All the species ap- 

 pear to be diurnal in their habits, and although they are all fond of water, the com- 

 mon European species always withdraws into its shell at the slightest shower. 

 These reptiles will live to an enormous age, which, in some instances at least, may 

 be reckoned by centuries. According to the classification adopted by Mr. Bou- 

 lenger, the species of this extensive genus may be arranged under seven groups, of 

 which we proceed to notice representative species. 



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Florida 



Tortoise 



BRAZILIAN TORTOISE. 



(One-fourth natural size.) 



The land tortoises of North America include three species, of which 

 one of the best known is the Florida tortoise (Testudo polyphemus}, 

 inhabiting the Southeastern United States. All these species may be 

 easily recognized by the anterior extremity of the palate of the skull having a 

 median longitudinal ridge, instead of the deep pit characterizing all other members 

 of the genus. In the Florida tortoise, as well as in the allied Agassiz's tortoise 

 (T. agassizi), the length of the shell is more than twice its height, while the beak 

 is not hooked, and the fore-limb is broadest at its extremity. On the other hand, 



