180 PRAIRIE AND FOREST. 



amphibious, sleeping in forms on the edge of the morass 

 during the heat of the day, and feeding before sunrise 

 and after sunset on the different descriptions of water 

 plants. Whether this hare was able to dive or not I 

 did not ascertain, but that he is a most expert swimmer 

 there can be no doubt. His size is the same as that 

 of our common wild rabbit, but from his build being 

 thicker, he may possibly be heavier. His legs are 

 short, feet large, ears small, and head very full and 



MUSQUASH OR AMERICAN MUSK-RATS. 



round; colour dark-greyish brown, with scarcely any 

 white upon the scut, and the fur exceedingly soft and 

 fine. I frequently tested his qualities on the table, 

 and can speak in the highest approval of the 

 delicacy and delicious flavour of his flesh, which is 

 much lighter in shade than that of any other of the 

 same family with which I am acquainted. The skin, 

 remarkable for its thinness, is easily removed from the 

 carcase; but great care must be taken to prevent it 



