304 HISTORY OF QUADRUPEDS. 



ments of this kind, where Nature is thwarted in her 

 process, or restrained in any of her operations, are 

 not always to be depended upon. That the Fox 

 and the Dog will breed together, is a fact too well 

 known in several parts of the North of England, to 

 admit of the smallest doubt. It is a common practice 

 in many places to tie up a bitch that is in season, 

 where she may be visited by a Fox, and be im- 

 pregnated by him. The fruits of the connection are 

 sufficiently obvious : most, if not all the puppies, 

 have a strong resemblance to the Fox : the sharp 

 nose, prick ears, long body, and short legs of the 

 Fox, evidently point out their origin. These Dogs 

 are highly esteemed by farmers and graziers, as 

 the most useful kind for driving cattle; they bite 

 keenly, are extremely active and playful, and are 

 very expert at destroying Weasels, Rats, and other 

 vermin . 



The Fox sleeps much during the day; but the 

 night is its season of activity, and the time when it 

 roams about in search of prey. It will eat flesh of 

 any kind, but prefers that of Hares, Rabbits, poul- 

 try, and all kinds of birds. Those that reside near 

 the sea-coast will, for want of other food, eat crabs, 

 shrimps, mussels, and other shell-fish. 



In France and Italy, the Fox does great damage 

 among the vineyards, by feeding on the grapes, of 

 which it is extremely fond. It boldly attacks the 

 wild bees, and frequently robs them of their stores; 

 but not with impunity: the whole swarm flies out, 

 and fastens upon the invader; but he retires only for 

 a few minutes, and rids himself of the bees by roll- 

 ing upon the ground; by which means he crushes 

 such as stick to him, and then returns to his charge, 

 and devours both wax and honey. 



