THE RACOON. 



67 



trappers, which do not live in houses, and construct no 

 dam, but inhabit subterranean tunnels like those of the 

 common water-rat. These are always males — gay young 

 bachelors, who disregard the dignities of a respectable and 

 laborious career. 



Something must be said about a well-known American 

 carnivore, the Racoon, which may also be classed among 

 fur-bearing animals. 



The racoon is related to the Bear family, and both in 

 appearance and habits has a decidedly ursine character. 

 But it is much more lively, spirited, and active ; to say 

 nothing of its gentler disposition. The appetite of the 

 racoon is omnivorous, and it seems able and willing to 

 digest anything, — bats, birds, mice, oysters, crabs, shrimps, 

 nuts, seeds, berries, and fruits. It is a nocturnal animal, 

 and passes the day, sound asleep, with its head between 



