408 



ANT-EATERS. 



that is, it stands lower on the hind-legs than in front. 

 Though its mouth appears so incapable of enabling it to 

 defend itself, it can do so effectually with the two long, sharp 

 claws of its fore-feet. With these claws it opens the ant-hills, 

 on whose inhabitants it subsists. Its hind-feet have five 

 toes, but they are furnished with short, weak claws, similar to 

 those of ordinary quadrupeds. 



^^^5o<^ "-^^\?^-^'TZ: *^r " _ - i'v - : -'. 

 ^^fe^rr^r' "==^-7, ~~ rs/ -^ - 



THE GREAT ANT-EATER. 



Its favourite resort is the low swampy marshes of the 

 rivers and stagnant pools ; but it also ranges widely in search 

 of its prey. It lives in solitude ; its habits are slothful ; it 

 sleeps during the greater part of the day. Its long claws, 

 when not employed, are folded upon a thick rough pad, which 

 renders the exertion of walking less difficult. As, however, 

 it is compelled to step upon the outer edge of its fore-feet, it 

 progresses in an awkward and painful manner, and it cannot 



