THE PORCUPINE. 161 



districts where the soil is loose and friable, it forms 

 burrows for itself, generally among the roots of some 

 old tree. In these the young are produced, of which 

 the number varies from two to four. In general ap- 

 pearance the porcupine is a liver-brown, the prickles or 

 spines being inclined to white. The quills are used by 

 the squaws as a means of ornamentation; for which 

 purpose they are dyed of glaring colours, and make an 

 effective embroidery for leggings or hunting - shirts. 

 Some of their birch -bark utensils are also embellished 

 with them. 



"The crested porcupine (Hystrix cristatus) is not 

 found in America, being a native of the southern parts 

 of Europe and of Africa. It has also been observed in 

 many parts of Asia notably in India, Persia, Nepaul, 

 and round the shores of the Caspian Sea. The spines 

 of this animal are very sharp and strong, and consist of 

 two different kinds. One is long and thin, and forms 

 what may be called the outer layer. The other kind 

 is shorter and stronger, and forms the true defensive 

 armour of the creature. In length these measure from 

 four to ten inches, and are coated with a fine and hard 

 enamel. 



"When irritated the porcupine erects his bristly 

 armature, and then woe betide any animal which has 

 the temerity to attack him ! The tail of this species is 

 covered with hollow quills, which make a rattling noise 

 as long as the animal is in motion. 



" During the day the porcupine remains in its bur- 



