386 



HUNTING ADVENTURES. 



THE JUMPING MOUSE. 



tables. Unlike its congeners, it does not confine itself to th 

 wood, but is frequently found in open fields, or where there is a 

 eligfc copse or under-brush. It does not burrow like its closely 

 allied species the European Rabbit, but makes its form, which is 

 a slight depression in the ground, sheltered by some low shrub. 

 It frequently resorts to a stone wall, or a heap of stones, or a hol- 

 low tree, and sometimes to the burrow of some other animal. Its 

 habits are nocturnal ; and they may often be seen in the morning, 

 or early part of the afternoon, although in retired situations they 

 have been seen at all times of the day. Its flesh, though black 

 and dry, is well flavored, although in this respect it varies 

 with the quality of its previous, food. It breeds in New 

 York State, three times in the season, producing from four to 

 six at a birth. It is the smallest of the species found m this 



