244 GNAWING ANIMALS 



be quite lifeless. It is found throughout the northern United 

 States and Canada, in wooded regions, from New York to 

 California, and as far north as Lake Nushagak, Alaska. 



JUMPING MOUSE. 



Opinions Regarding Rats and Rat-like Animals 



The largest rat-like animal in America is the COY'PU RAT, 1 

 of Central and South America, which stands 9 inches high 

 at the shoulders, attains a length of 19 inches head and 

 body, tail, 13 inches, and weighs 8 pounds. It is a water- 

 loving animal, almost as much so as the muskrat, and its 

 thick brown fur is valuable. Under proper conditions it is 

 easily kept in captivity. 



The smallest rodent in America is the LEAST POCKET 



1 My-o-cas'tor coy 'pus. 



