DE. J. MTJIIIE ON THE FOBM AND STEUCTTIRE OP THE MAjSTATBB. 193 



the Manatee would survive the voyage. It had a supply of fresh goat's milk every day, and 

 occasionally a banana. On the 9th a chilling north-east wind set ia, and the Manatee 

 took suddenly ill, and died the next day, just within two days' sail of Southampton. 



Thus, unfortunately, was the second attempt to fetch a live Manatus to England 

 frustrated. 



Before concluding, I shall for a moment glance at the practical points which the 

 reverses above met with teach. 



1st. It seems a necessity that such an animal as the tropical Manatee should be 

 conveyed to our climate only during very fine summer weather. A month later or a 

 more favourable season might have saved the young male. 



2nd. It is very essential that in the event of injuries or rough treatment being 

 inflicted during capture, some time should elapse before shipment, so that recovery take 

 place prior to transport. Had the dermal wounds of the above female healed before 

 removal, it would have augured better for its safe carriage. 



3rd. The size of the animal being roughly known, it behoves that a well-constructed 

 receptacle be prepared beforehand, either in England or some large town where proper 

 material and workmanship are obtainable. This should be strong, but also as Hght as 

 possible, and with rings or clasps so fixed that the tank could be hoisted or shifted 

 about easily. 



4th. Neither too great depth nor length are desirable, as the swaying motion of a 

 vessel so jolts the water and animal about, that injury to the latter is sure to be 

 sustained. 



5th. As Mr. Greey, late purser of the S.S. ' Tasmanian,' justly observed, the body in 

 part and the tail might with benefit be encased in blankets to prevent cutaneous 

 excoriations. And if the creature were partially slung hammock-fashion ia the tank, 

 there would be less danger of knocks and abrasions. 



6th. It is important that the tank be placed in that part of the vessel least subject 

 to oscillation, and lengthwise fore and aft. 



7 th. A covered tank is preferable to an open one — as curious visitors are sure to 

 poke the animal about, in the event of those in charge being absent. 



Sth. Fresh and sufficient supply of wholesome food should be provided; and due 

 cleanliuess attended to, without disturbing the creature too frequently. 



Finally, it is to be remembered that, although unsuccessful in the two above attempts 

 to transport a Manatee to the Society's Gardens, the efforts have not been entu-ely 

 fruitless. So much experience has now been gained how to manage the difficulties 

 that the whole matter depends on another determined attempt. 



I trust, therefore, such an interesting form as Manatus, and one which at no far 

 distant period will be reckoned among mammals of the past, may yet ere too late 

 become a denizen of the Society's Gardens. 



.. 2f2 



