70 ANIMALS OP NORTH AMERICA. 



On the approach of cold weather, it closes the passage 

 between itself and the surface of the ground, spending the 

 winter in a torpid state. It is a cleanly animal, easily capable of 

 domestication. When its retreat is cut off, it fights harcj, its 

 bite with its long and projecting incisors being very severe ; 

 the dog that attacks it, showing by its bloody nose and hang- 

 ing tail, that he has been severely punished or fairly worsted 

 in the battle. 



The Genus Spermophilus is distinguished from the Arcto- 

 myx, especially in having cheek pouches, and being much 

 more active and lively. Of these the Quebec Marmot, 

 L. Fredecim-lineatus, and Franklin's Marmot, *S'. Frank- 

 lini, are both found in the Hudson Bay territory ; but 

 little is known respecting them. Parry's Marmot, S. 

 Parryi, is peculiar to the Arctic regions : Hood's Marmot, 

 S. Hoodii, is said to have on its back as many stripes as are 

 displayed on the star spangled banner ; and finally, so far 

 as known, the Prairie Dog, Spermophilus Jjudoviciamis, 

 associated among travellers with the burrowing owl and the 

 rattlesnake. For a full account of this animal we are indebted 

 to Captain Marcy, who says : 



" These gregarious and interesting little animals, called 

 ' prairie-dogs,' or more properly the ' prairie marmots,' 

 are found assembled in communities or villages throughout 

 most of our extreme western prairies, from the Missouri 

 River to the Rio Grande, and have often been described by 

 travellers ; but as there are some facts connected with them, 

 which I have never seen mentioned, I will add a few remarks 

 to what has already been said. 



" These animals, in selecting a site or position for their 

 towns 'or warrens, generally choose a very elevated and level 

 spot upon the open prairie, which has induced me to suppose 

 that they do not require water that element without which 

 most other animals soon perish. I have often seen their 

 towns upon the table lands of New Mexico, at a distance of 



