320 THE UNIVERSE. 



such an extent as one might be tempted to think. Trans- 

 ported to a strange cUmate, they mostly die ; the cold 

 freezes some, the heat suffocates others. It is not un- 

 common to see in European ports some serpent or spider 

 from tropical countries, which our ships have disembarked 

 along with their cargoes of dyewoods. But stupified by 

 the want of sunshine these exiles soon die, regretting their 

 happier country. 



CHAPTEE I. 



MIGRATIONS OF MAMMALS. 



Generally speaking, heavy and bulky mammals are not 

 prone to quit their haunts; travelling is a difficulty to them, 

 and being sufficiently powerful not to fear any enemy, they 

 rest peacefully quartered in spots where suitable food is 

 found. This is the case with the great aquatic herbivorous 

 animals, which require two essential conditions in one and 

 the same place — food and water. Where these exist they 

 found a colony. 



Such are the Hippopotami which are found living in 

 numerous and peaceful families in the rivers of Central 

 Africa. There, giving themselves up to all the happiness 

 of a tranquil life, some bathe or play amid the tall herb- 

 age; whilst the mothers tenderly carry their little ones 

 on their backs at the surface of the water. 



The numerous tribe of kangaroos are equally attached 

 to their native soil. Their disproportionately long hind- 



