GENERAL CHARACTERS OF REPTILES. 



529 



468. "We are also acquainted with Reptiles possessing wings. 

 The Dragons (Fig. 306), animals nearly allied to Lizards, are of 



FIG. 306. DRACO VOLANS. 



this number. They are distinguished from all other animals of 

 the same class, by the existence of a broad fold of skin, situated 

 along each flank, and much resembling the wings of Bats > but 

 this, instead of being sustained and put in motion by the anterior 

 members, is altogether independent of them, and is supported by 

 the six first false ribs, extended horizontally in a straight line. 

 The animal makes use of them as a parachute to sustain itself in 

 the air, whilst it leaps from branch to branch ; but it cannot 

 move them with sufficient force to fly like a Bat or Bird. These 



FIG. 307 PTKRODACTYLITS. 



singular Reptiles, which inhabit India, realise therefore, up to a 



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