550 



ORDER VII. INSECT-EATERS 

 INSECTIVORA.* 



When we reflect upon the infinite numbers of 

 insects, and their wide dispersion, the abundance of 

 food they afford, and the necessity of everywhere 

 keeping in check their prolific legions, it is by no 

 means surprising that, even among^the higher quad- 

 rupeds, creatures are found specially constructed to 

 wage war with the insect races. 



The Shrew, the Hedgehog, and the Mole, are familiar 

 British representatives of the families that constitute this 

 order. They are all small plantigrade animals with short 

 limbs. Their muzzle is more or less lengthened, and the 

 molar teeth are furnished with small conical points, a 

 structure that always indicates an insect diet. 



The Shrews (Sorex) have their feet formed for walking or swim- 

 ming, and are clothed with fur of delicate softness. They have a 



FIG. 475. SHRK/VV. 

 Insectum, an insect . voro, / devour -Insect-devourer. 



