ZOOLOGY. 149 



the poisonous fangs and appendages ; they are extensiTely 

 dispersed ; frequenting lonely places, and feeding on Frogs, 

 Lizards, small Birds, and Quadrupeds. ' Tlieir flesh is ac- 

 counted very nutritious, but previous to its use the head 

 should be taken off, or the fangs extracted. In case of a 

 bite from one of this tribe, the immediate application of 

 Olive oil to the part, and a sufficient quantity taken inter- 

 nally, to prove emetic, will often effect a cure in a few 

 hours. One species is a native of this country, and is the 

 only venomous reptile common to Great Britain. 



4. Hydras. Water-Snake. Body thickened in the middle, 



and gradually tapering towards the extremities; tail 

 flattened. 



The whole of this genus inhabit water ; through which, 

 they dart at their prey with the rapidity of an arrow ; they 

 feed on small reptiles, insects and worms ; and but very 

 rarely are found on laud. 



5. Langaza. Scuta on the abdomen ; tail marked at lis 



commencement, with circular divisions or rings, and 

 terminated with small scales. 



This curious genus of which only one species is known, 

 has the upper jaw protruded in the form of a snout : its bite 

 is considered as particularly venomous. 



6. Achrocordus. Wahted-Snake. Body covered with 



tubercles. 



h 3 



