RIVER BULLHEAD 



can, and does, move quickly when occasion demands. 

 It is a voracious feeder, and not only takes insects, 

 shrimps, and worms, but will viciously attack and devour 

 other fish at least its own size. The spines help it to 

 impale, or stab, its victims. Spawning takes place in 

 early Spring, when a depression made in the bed of the 

 water serves as a nest. This the male jealously guards, 

 and woe betide any invaders who approach too near the 

 chosen territory. It has great tenacity, and will exist 

 for some time out of its natural element. It should 



TvCvcr E)u.ll-.hea.cl 



Fug 63 



also be mentioned that this species has the power of 

 rapidly changing its colour if and when necessity arises. 

 This happens, not only by reason of the change of 

 environment, but also as a result of excitement on the 

 part of the irate owner. The general colour is brownish, 

 or yellowish- olive, on the upper parts, with black, or 

 dark brown markings, some of which, by fusing to- 

 gether, form transverse bars. The underneath colour is 

 yellowish-white, and most of the fins bear upon them 



dark spotted bars. The average length is 3 to 4 inches. 



Ill 



