313 



THE MAMMALS OF AKHAN. 



130. The Mammals of Arran are few in number. As far 

 as I can learn, only fourteen species are found in the island, 

 and of these, two (the seal and porpoise) are natives of the 

 sea, while four (the rat, mouse, hare, and rabbit) have been 

 introduced by man ; thus leaving only eight species of native 

 quadrupeds. The mole and hedgehog are absent, as are all 

 the carnivora, save the otter; even the weasel, which is 

 found in the neighbouring island of Bute, is a stranger to 

 Arran. The wild cat is mentioned as a native of this island 

 by Pennant in his Tour in Scotland, but it is now un- 

 known, and it seems probable that he was misinformed, and 

 that the animals alluded to were merely house cats run wild. 

 The true wild cat does not appear to be found in any of the 

 Scotch islands. 



One interesting animal must be mentioned, although it 

 has, of course, no claim to be regarded as a member of our 

 fauna. This is the Virginian Deer (Cervus Virginianus, 

 GMEL.) of America, which was introduced into Arran about 

 the year 1832. They soon became very plentiful, but of 

 late years they have been considerably reduced in numbers. 

 They seem to thrive well, but their antlers are not so large 

 as American specimens. 



In drawing up the following list, I have to acknowledge 

 the kind help of Mr. Halliday, the Duke of Hamilton's 

 head-keeper in Arran, from whom I have received much 

 information. 



1. Common Bat ( Vesperugo pipistreUus, SCHREB.) Com- 

 mon. 



