CLASS MAMMALIA. 47 



Mammals, which might otherwise become too numerous. Its 

 food is not confined to these, for I have found Beetles, Lizards, 

 Slow-worms, and other small fry in the stomachs of those 

 examined. It is rare for the Weasel to interfere much with 

 game. 



In some parts of England, the Weasel, when small, is 

 called a " mouse-hunter," and right well it deserves this name. 

 When chasing a mouse, it keeps to the scent as well as the 

 best foxhound, and seems regardless of onlookers. I have 

 said " keeps to the scent " ; but it would be more accurate to 

 say that it never passes over the scent, even when in full gallop. 

 Its method appears from observation to be that of making 

 casts diagonally across the track of its prey. This plan of 

 hunting, I have an idea, is not confined to the Weasel. 



Although albino specimens of this species are rare, 

 Mr. Miller Christy has, on the authority of Mr. J. Pettitt, 

 taxidermist, of Colchester, recorded (Zool., 1895, p. 19), one 

 killed near that place about December 2Oth, 1892. It was 

 pure white, had pink eyes, and its flesh was of an unusually 

 pale colour. 



Mustela erminea, Linn. STOAT. 



This rapacious, active, and destructive member of a 

 specially blood-thirsty family, is very common throughout 

 Essex. Persecution, from every quarter, seems to have little 

 influence in diminishing its numbers. 



Its food and habits are similar to those of the Weasel, 

 but I fear I cannot defend it from the charge of being very 

 destructive to game. Although mice and small creatures 

 contribute to its sustenance, its favourite prey consists of the 

 larger mammals. Hares, Rabbits, and Rats are chased by it 

 from scent, as most persons who live in the country can testify 

 from observation. The two former, after being pursued for 

 some distance, appear to resign themselves to their fate, 



