280 ZOOLOGY. 



esteemed in modern Rome, and are frequently sent as presents by 

 the Colonna princes (see Brotier, the last edition of Pliny, tome 

 ii. p. 458, apud Burbon. 1779)." R. K.] 



The jerboas (Fig. 245) are small rodents, remarkable for 

 the development of their hinder limbs, and this enables them 

 to leap with great agility. 



The squirrel (Fig. 118) is also a rodent, and is known by 

 the length of the tail, furnished with hairs like a large quill 

 or feather. They live amongst trees, on fruits and nuts, and 

 are remarkable for their agility. There are many species 

 in the Old and New Worlds. In France the common squirrel 

 abounds, and retains throughout the year the colour by 

 which it is known ; but in the North it becomes, during 

 winter, of a fine ashy-blue colour, and the fur is much sought 

 after. In this state the fur is called petit gris. 



Fig. 245 .The Jerboa. '* 



The beaver is distinguished from all other rodents by its 

 large tail, flattened horizontally ; it is of an oval form, and 

 covered with scales. The beaver is of a good size, aquatic in 

 its habits ; their feet and tail aid them in swimming, and 

 with their powerful cutting teeth they easily cut down all 

 sorts of trees. They live on bark and other hard vegetable 

 substances. 



The Canadian beaver is, of all quadrupeds, that which 

 exhibits most industry in the construction of its dwelling, 



