COMMON DOLPHIN 



and it is stated on good authority that there is Httle doubt 

 this species (Delphinus delphis) is the one known to the 

 ancients, though, as might be expected, some of its 

 likenesses, and the stories connected with it, are more 

 fanciful than real. As with its relatives, it associates in 

 shoals, and exhibits the same playful habits, seeming to 

 revel in its element, and passing much of its time in 

 company with its fellows gambolling and frolicking in 

 sheer delight. As a rule, the back is dark grey, with 



Oomrr\or\ Dolpkm 



FxgZG. 



white or whitish under-parts, and bands of grey, or 

 fulvous, on the flanks. It measures about 7^ feet in 

 length. 



A single young one is produced at a birth, and as with 

 the larger monsters belonging to the Cetacea Order, the 

 offspring is tended with great solicitude and care. 



We here take leave of our mammal studies so as to 

 devote attention to feathered bipeds in our second volume, 

 hoping that what has been written will prove entertain- 

 ing reading, and lead the young enquirer to pursue his 

 Natural History observations with increased zest and 



interest. 



125 



