296 INTRODUCTION TO ZOOLOGY. 



different aspects, we cannot conclude better than by exhibiting 

 his behaviour when in love ! The words are those of Professor 

 Edward Forbes: 



" Among Lycian reptiles the Tortoise is the most conspi- 

 cuous and abundant. The number of these animals straying 

 about the plains, and browsing on the fresh herbage in spring, 

 astonishes the traveller. In April they commence love-making. 

 Before we were aware of the cause, we were often surprised, 

 when wandering among ruins and waste places, at hearing a 

 noise as if some invisible geologist was busily occupied close 

 by, trimming his specimens. A search in the direction of the 

 noise discovered the hammer in the shape of a gentleman 

 tortoise, who, not being gifted with vocal powers, endeavoured 

 to express the warmth of his affection to his lady-love by 

 rattling his shell against her side.""" 



* Travels in Lycia, by Lieut. Spratt, R.N. and Professor Edward 

 Forbes, vol. ii. p. 67. The species Avere Testudo Grccca and marginata. 



