THE MOUSE TRIBE. 



J 37 



Fossil Lemmings. 



It is interesting to note that remains of both the Norwegian and 

 'the banded lemming have been found in the Pleistocene deposits of 

 Britain, apparently indicating the prevalence of different climatic conditions to those 

 of the present age. 



The Musquash. 



Genus Filit r. 



The musquash, or musk-rat (Fiber zibethicus), is a North American species, 

 considerably exceeding in size all other members of the vole, subfamily. 

 Although resembling a vole in its general external appearance, as well as in the 

 structure of its molar teeth and skull, the musquash differs by its compressed and 



THE MUSQ1 ASH | \ n;tt. size). 



proportionately longer tail, of which the length is nearly equal to that of the body, 

 exclusive of the head. In addition to its compressed form, the tail is also char- 

 acterised by being nearly naked, and covered with scales. The feet, which are 

 partially webbed, differ from those of the voles in having their soles entirely 

 naked. 



The musquash is a massively-built animal, with the head and body attaining 

 a length of about a foot, and the tail about 10 inches. The head is unusually wide 

 and not separated from the body by any distinctly constricted neck : while the eyes 

 are relatively small, and the ears scarcely project above the fur. With the exception 

 of the small area immediately surrounding the nostrils, the muzzle is completely 

 covered with hair. The limbs are short, with the first toe rudimentary in the front 

 pair, although well developed in the hinder. The compressed form of the tail is 

 increased by the presence of a line of hairs on both its upper and lower surfaces. 

 The fur, of which the general colour is blackish brown, passing into grey on the 

 muzzle anil under-parts, has the soft and velvety texture of that of the beaver. It 



