tire length of eighteen or twenty inches and is a conspicuous adorn- 

 ment as he whisks in and out among bushes and trees. 



As nests, these squirrels occupy hollow holes in trees, or build 

 among the branches a framework of twigs, either dry or green ones 

 gnawed off by their sharp teeth. The nest is covered and lined 

 with leaves and moss and makes a soft resting-place for their young, 

 usually from four to five in number, which are born each spring. 

 They, like others of their kind, depend largely upon the summer's 

 toil to furnish the winter's provisions and may hibernate for a short 

 time, although they are often out every day, especially if enticed by 

 the hope of securing food from some regular source. 



I have seen few prettier proofs of animal confidence in man's 

 protection than when, at the busiest hours of the day, in the very 

 heart of the crowded city, these sprightly little fellows frisk undis- 

 turbed about you, as you walk through Boston Common, or in 

 fact any large park, they will peer inquisitively at you from behind 



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