396 THE RACOON. 



they have contrived various methods of destroy- 

 ing them, yet still they propagate in such num- 

 bers that neither traps nor fire-arms can set them 

 free ; so that a swarm of these famished creatures 

 are found to do more injury in a single night, 

 than the labours of a month can repair. 



But though, when wild, they are thus trouble- 

 some, in a state of tameness no animal is more 

 harmless or amusing ; they are capable of being 

 instructed in various little amusing tricks. The 

 racoon is playful and cleanly, and is very easily 

 supported ; it eats of every thing that is given it, 

 and if left to itself, no cat can be a better pro- 

 vider : it examines every corner, eats of all flesh, 

 either boiled or raw, eggs, fruits, or corn ; insects 

 themselves cannot escape it ; and if left at liberty 

 in a garden, it will feed upon snails, worms, and 

 beetles: but it has a particular fondness for 

 sweets of every kind, and to be possessed of these 

 in its wild state, it incurs every danger. Though 

 it will eat its provisions dry, it will for choice 

 dip them in water if it happens to be in the way. 

 It has one peculiarity which few other animals 

 have been found to possess, it drinks as well by 

 lapping like the dog, as by sucking like the horse. 



