CLASS-BOOK OF ZOOLOGY. 99 



being, sheds tears, but after a few moments, devours him. 

 Hence the term, " Crocodile tears," to designate the grief 

 of a hypocrite, who pretends to feelings he does not pos- 

 sess. 



§ 413. The Crocodiles of America, of which there are 

 several distinct species, are called Alligators in the South- 

 ern States, and Cayman in the Antilles and South 

 America. Those of Asia are known under the name of 

 Gavials. 



§ 414. The Guana (Iguana tuberculata) is nearly five 

 feet long ; above, yellowish-green and marble-colored. It 

 is an inhabitant of the West India islands and South 

 America, and is found upon trees, feeding on fruit, leaves, 

 and insects. 



§ 415. It is a mild, harmless lizard, and is easily tamed. 

 Its flesh, which is eaten, tastes like that of the Green 

 Turtle ; but it is considered very unwholesome. 



§ 416. The Cliameleon, (Lacerta Chamaeleon,) the most 

 singular of the Lizards, is one foot long, looks like a 

 skeleton, is covered with a skin, has a ring-tail, large eyes, 

 and a very long tongue. It is found in the northern parts 

 of xAfrica and the southwest of Asia. 



§ 417. The Chameleon changes its color about every 

 ten minutes. This may perhaps be effected by the ex- 

 pansion of its lungs, or by its blood, which, when excited, 

 enters the skin ; or it may be provided with a certain col- 

 oring matter, which it can move at pleasure in its skin. 



§ 418. The Chameleon is a symbol, by which is repre- 

 sented the low complaisance of flatterers and courtiers ; 

 and a man who changes his principles and opinions ac- 

 cording to his convenience or interest, is called a cha- 

 meleon. 



§ 419. The Brown Swift, (Tropidolepis undulata,) thus 

 called on account of its rapid motions, is a small lizard, 

 about seven inches long, of a brownish color, with undu- 

 lating bands and green beneath ; and is found principally 

 upon pine-trees, from Florida to New York. It is harm- 

 ess, and feeds on insects. 



