304 THE COtPTJS. 



the larynx, precludes the utterance of definite tones, or any 

 modulation of voice, a shrill cry being the utmost that might 

 be expected. 



Much yet remains for investigation connected with the 

 habits of this remarkable animal in its native regions. Multi- 

 tudes are annually destroyed, thousands of skins are annu- 

 ally imported into Europe, but no accounts connected with 

 the details of the history of the Coipus have, as far as we 

 know, been transmitted with them. 



In captivity the Coipus is gentle and inoffensive. The 

 individual which came under our notice, says a writer, allowed 

 itself to be handled and played with, and was evidently 

 pleased with any marks of attention from those from whom 

 it received its food, and with whom it was familiar. At the 

 same time it exhibited but little intelligence : its movements 

 were sluggish ; there was nothing lively in its appearance or 

 actions. It reminded one of a huge overgrown water-rat, 

 divested of the alacrity which that animal displays on the 

 banks of our ponds and rivers. Its time seemed divided be- 

 tween sleep or repose, and feeding ; and twilight or night 

 appeared the season of its natural activity. We must not 

 however judge of an animal altogether by its manners in 

 captivity. Free, and in its native regions, it is perhaps alert 

 and watchful, quick to perceive and prompt to escape the 

 approach of its natural enemies ; while in the exercise of 

 its instincts it fulfils its appointed part in the great plan of 

 creation. 



