THE SPIDER MONKEY. 



31 



rectly opposed to their natural mode of existence, they become alike 

 awkward, and alike afford subjects of mirth. 



The mode by which Spider Monkeys walk on level ground is rather 

 singular and difficult to describe, being different from that which is 

 employed by the large apes. They do not set the sole of either paw, 

 or hand, flat upon the ground, but, turning the hinder feet inward, 



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Group of Spider Monkeys. 



they walk upon their outer sides. The reverse process takes place 

 with the fore-paws, which are twisted outward, so that the weight of 

 the animal is thrown upon their inner edges. 



It will easily be seen how very awkward an animal must be which 

 is forced to employ so complicated a means for the purpose of locomo- 



