76 



ANIMALS OP NORTH AMERICA. 



all parts of the Continent, though never so greatly multiplied 

 as some of the preceding species. It usually inhabits the 

 hollows in trees, is seldom seen except in the twilight, and in 

 its sailing movement is aided 4>y the broadly expanded tail, 

 which doubtless acts also partially as a rudder. It seems to 

 ascend some high tree, throw itself off, alighting on another 

 near the ground, ascend that again in turn, and proceed in like 

 manner to another, thus progressing a considerable distance 

 without touching the ground. It is gentle in its disposition, 



easily domesticated, fond of warmth. At twilight it arouses 

 itself, and affords much entertainment by sailing about the 

 room, always commencing its flight by climbing a table, chair, 

 or on to a shelf from whence it may start its voyage. When it 

 sleeps, it rolls itself up, and wraps its large flat tail over its 



