a wise precaution against a too rapid increase of his kind. In addi- 

 tion to that well-trained one, the domestic cat, the list includes hawks 

 and crows to pounce on him from above, owls to spy him out in the 

 darkness, foxes always on the alert for him in their pursuit for 

 larger game, and weasels able to slide into his smallest and safest 

 retreat. His short legs and chubby body render escape by flight 

 almost impossible and struggle as he may, the chances are usually 

 against him. If living near the shore he may succeed better as he is 

 able both to swim and to dive and never hesitates to take to the 

 water. As a rule, though, these harmful and interesting little ani- 

 mals can hope to preserve themselves and their offspring only by 

 being as inconspicuous as possible and thus avoiding notice very 

 likely to prove unfavorable. 



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