MAMMALIA. 317 
Order VI. Gnawing Animals (Rodentia). General 
Characteristics—The animals of this order have no canine 
teeth, but in each jaw are two powerful, chisel-like incisors 
(Fig. 343), that are renewed 
as fast as they wear away. 
The molar teeth are flat, 
and seldom exceed four in 
each.jaw. The lower jaw 
is so articulated with the 
skull that the motion is 
forward and back instead ' : ’ 
bn Be < Fic. 343.-—Skull of a gnawing animal 
of horizontal. The limbs (Rodent), showing the large chisel- 
are adapted for walking, teeth in front, and the gap between 
climbing, flying, or bur- these and the hind teeth, 
rowing. 
Hares and Rabbits (Zeforide).—The hares (Fig. 
344) and rabbits have a wide geographical range, and are 
distinguished by long ears, the presence of small teeth be- 
hind each of 
the incisors, 
powerfully. de- 
veloped. hind- 
legs, and short, 
bushy tails. 
The fore-feet 
are five-toed, 
the hinder ones 
having four. 
Many have the 
feet. lined with 
hair beneath. 
The white 
Fic. 344.—European hare (Lepus timidus). hare (Lepus 
Americanus) 
and gray sabbit are well-known species. - The former 
ranges from Virginia to Labrador. The water-rabbit of 
