20 BATRACHIANS. 



green colour which is so pleasant to the eye, and which mingles 

 so harmoniously with the carpeting of our fields. 



The body of the Edible Frog, Rana esculenta (Fig. 4), some- 

 times attains from six to eight inches in length, from the ex- 

 tremity of the muzzle to the end of the hind feet. The muzzle 

 terminates in a point ; the eyes are large, brilliant, and sur- 

 rounded with a circle of gold colour. The mouth is large ; 

 the body, which is contracted behind, presents a tubercular and 

 rugged back. It is of a more or less decided green colour 

 on the upper, and whitish on the under parts. These two colours, 



Fig. 4. The Edible Frog (Rana esculenta). 



which harmonize well, are relieved by three yellow lines, which 

 extend the whole length of the back, and by scattered black 

 marbling. It is, therefore, much to be regretted that prejudice 

 should cause some at least of us to turn away from this pretty 

 little hopping animal, when met with in the country ; with its 

 slight dimensions, quick movements, and graceful attitudes. For 



