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VERTEBRATA, 



THE FLYING LEMUR, OR KABUNG. 



one of these animals, observes : " To give its most striking characteristics in a few words, it ia a 

 lemur, with the limbs connected by a bat-like membrane, or, in other words, surrounded by a 

 thin skin which the} support, as the framework of an umbrella supports its covering. By this 

 singular structure the animal is supported in the air; yet without the power, like the bats, of sus- 

 taining a continued flight." Like the flying-squirrels, it can sail a great distance from one tree to 

 another, spreading out its membrane to serve as a parachute, but not as wings. It manifests greal 

 skill and energy in dropping from the upper limbs of the trees upon its prey below. It makes 

 great havoc among the colibris, and other small birds, which throng the forests. Like the bats, 

 it is nocturnal and insectivorous. The mammae are pectoral. This animal sleeps suspended by 

 the hind-legs, with its head downward. 



Three species have been recorded, but recent investigations reduce them to one, Galeopitheeui 

 volans, called Kabung by the natives. The body is about twelve inches long. The female pro- 

 duces one young one at a time. This she places in a soft nest for four or five days; then it clings 

 to her breast, and accompanies her in all her wanderings, till it is able to take care of itself. 



