320 MONOTREMATA. 



distance, and then rose again to the surface. It 

 appeared, however, to prefer keeping close to the 

 hank, occasionally thrusting its heak into the mud, 

 from whence it evidently procured food, as on raising 

 the head, after withdrawing the beak, the mandibles 

 were seen in lateral motion, as is usual when the 

 animal masticates. The motions of the mandibles 

 were similar to those of a duck under the same cir- 

 cumstances. After feeding, it would lie sometimes 

 on the grassy bank; and at others partly in and 

 partly out of the water, combing and cleaning its 

 coat with the claws of the hind-feet. This process 

 occupied a considerable time, and greatly improved 

 its sleek and glossy appearance. After its second 

 excursion it was replaced in the box, which was not 

 opened again until the following morning, when it 

 was found to have made its escape. 



Mr. G. Bennett proceeds to describe in detail their 

 habits in a state of captivity. Their various attitudes, 

 ^ when in a state of repose, are curious, and are illus- 

 trated by the exhibition of sketches made from the 

 life. The most favourite posture of the young 

 animals appears to be lying rolled up like a ball ; 

 this is effected by the fore paws being placed under 

 the beak, with the head and mandibles bent down 

 towards the tail, the hind paws crossed over the 

 mandibles and the tail turned up ; thus complet- 

 ing the rotundity of the figure. The young were 

 allowed to run about the room ; but the old one was 

 so restless, and damaged the walls of the room so 

 much by her attempts at burrowing, that it was found 



