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THE WORLD OF ANIMAL LIFE 



If we examine it with a powerful magnifying glass we see that 

 on each of the rings or "segments" of which its body is made up 

 there are eight short, stiff bristles, four being placed in a row upon 



the lower surface, and two at either side, all having their points 

 directed backwards. These bristles are sufficiently long and stiff 

 to be felt by the fingers if we pass it between them from the head 

 towards the tail. 



It is by means of these bristles that the 

 earthworm travels, for it can use them just as a 

 snake uses the broad, sharp-edged scales upon 

 the lower surface of its body, for the purpose of 

 propelling itself along. 



Earthworms are not very fond of travelling, 

 however, and seldom leave their burrows alto- 

 gether. If we go out with a lantern on a dark 

 night we shall see numbers of them lying quietly 

 upon the ground, or moving their pointed heads to and fro in search 

 of leaves. If we touch them, however, or if they even feel the 

 vibration caused by our footsteps, they will vanish as if by magic. 

 Each had the end of its tail in its burrow, so that it could draw 

 itself quickly back at the first intimation of danger. 



In passing through the soil, earthworms are greatly assisted by 

 the slime which is continually issuing from minute pores in the 

 skin, and keeps the entire body constantly moist. This slime 

 prevents the earth from adhering to them as they force their way 



Section of Body of Earth- 

 worm, showing Bristles 



