THE tINE MARflN. 167 



Escapes by running, with the utmost agility, even 

 Up the smoothest and most perpendicular trees. 



During the day, the Pine Martin., like most of 

 the other animals of its tribe, remains concealed, 

 and in a state of sound repose, in its nest. From 

 this it issues at the commencement of twilight, in 

 search of food, ^and devours great numbers of 

 Squirrels, Hares, Mice, and other quadrupeds. It 

 also destroys prodigious quantities of birds, and 

 particularly the various species of wood game 

 with which the northern countries abound. Its 

 courage is such that it will often attack animals 

 that are much larger and more strong than itself. 

 When pressed by hunger* it will sometimes seize 

 hold of a Sheep or Lamb ; and, like the Martin, 

 will even combat the fury of the Wild Cat. The 

 track which both species of Martins leave in the 

 snow, has the appearance of having been made by 

 some large animal. This arises from their pro- 

 gressive motion being made by a succession of 

 leaps, and each of the two feet, both before and 

 behind, striking the ground at the same time. 



This species, as well as the last, has a kind of 

 musky odour, which' to some persons is rather 

 agreeable than otherwise. It is likewise easily 

 rendered docile. We are informed by Gesner, that 

 he had a Pine Martin which was extremely playful 

 and entertaining. It used even to go to the houses 

 of the neighbourhood; and always returned home 

 when it wanted food. It was particularly fond of 



M 4 a Dog 



