THE AMPHIBIOUS CARN1VORA. 



51 



this is not the case, and the very singular structure 

 exhibited beneath presents itself. 



Here, it will be perceived, the membrane extends 

 far beyond tBe nails ; and not as a continuous web, 

 but like so many streamers, or broad leathern straps, 

 which hang down in the water. We have not seen 

 any attempt to assign a use to these curious ap- 

 pendages, which, in the language of the Seal-fishers, 

 have given to the extremities the name of flippers. 



With these several modifications we need scarcely 

 remark that the amphibia are admirably adapted 

 for swimming. Accordingly ,^Zorgdrager says, even 

 of the clumsy-looking Walrus or Sea-horse, " That 

 in descending the depths of the ocean, and swimming 



