68 PHILOSOPHY OF ZOOLOGY. 



vasated blood was observed in the brain and the lungs. It 

 appears probable, that, during torpidity, the constitution 

 experiences a change something similar to ordinary sleep, 

 by which its exhausted energies are recruited, and it be- 

 comes better able to resist the effects of those ordinary 

 agents with Avhich it has to contend. 



There are some circumstances in the history of these 

 animals, which seem to indicate that they possess the- 

 power of becoming torpid at pleasure, even in the ab- 

 sence of those disposing circ vim stances which we have enu- 

 merated. Spallanzani has seen bats in a torpid state 

 even during summer, and supposes, that as these animals 

 appear to possess some voluntary power over respiration, 

 this torpidity may be some instinctive propensity to pre- 

 serve life. Mangili, in spring, when the Cricehis glls was 

 awake, and when the temperature of the air was between 

 66° and 68°, placed it in a vase along with nuts and other 

 food. The animal attempted to escape, and refused to eat. 

 It then became torpid. In this state the number of its re- 

 spirations diminished. Instead of rolling itself up as usual, 

 before becoming torpid, it lay all the while upon its back, 

 and remained in that state until the 17th of July. 



Before concluding our account of torpid quadrupeds, it 

 may be proper to add a few observations on their i-evi- 

 viscence. When the hamster passes from his torpid state, 

 he exhibits several curious appearances. He first loses the 

 rigidity of his members, and then makes profound respira- 

 tions, but at long intervals. His legs begin to move ; he 

 opens his mouth, and utters rattling and disagreeable 

 sounds. After continuing this operation for some time, he 

 opens his eyes, and endeavours to raise himself on his legs. 

 All these movements are still unsteady and reeling, like 

 those of a man in a state of intoxication ; but he j-epeats 

 his efforts till he acquires the use of his limbs. He remains 



