ANIMAL PETS, IN AND OUT OF DOORS 65 



vegetarian, but will also eat, in a wild state, insects and carrion. 

 It comes from its burrow in the sandy soil at nightfall, and is very 

 rarely seen, being of an extremely shy disposition. Beyond this, 

 its colour harmonizes with its surroundings in a remarkable way. 

 When first disturbed it moves slowly, but as it quickens the pace 

 it proceeds to leap in a wonderful manner, the tail being carried 

 straight out behind. Its movements become very rapid at last, so 

 much so, indeed, that they have been confused with the flight of 

 a bird. 



Easily tamed, a beautifully groomed and engaging little creature, 

 it seems strange the Egyptian Jerboa is not a more general favourite, 

 while those who have kept it are lavish in their praise. 



