MAMMALIA. 347 
mon skunk is almost entirely nocturnal, feeding upon mice, 
insects, and various kinds of food. They hibernate in 
midwinter. 
Otters.—The otter (Zura) (Fig. 371) has representa- 
tives in nearly every part of the globe. The North Amer- 
ican species is generally found upon the banks of streams, 
in which its burrow or nest is built. The sea-otter (Axhy- 
dra) (Fig. 369) is twice as large as the above, attaining a 
oss 
= igre 
Fic. 369.—Sea-otter (Exhydra marina), showing the front paws and the 
hind webbed feet. 
‘Fe hee m 
weight of eighty pounds, and is found on the Pacific coast 
of America and Asia, Its habits are almost identical with 
those of the seal. In warm weather they proceed up the 
rivers, returning to the sea in winter, passing nearly their 
entire time in the water, eating and even rearing and 
nursing their young in the kelp-beds. The front feet are 
short with small claws, the hind ones being perfect swim- 
ming-flippers with long toes and stout claws. Their teeth 
are rounded and adapted for crushing crustaceans, mol- 
lusks, or fish.* Their fur is an extremely rich brown. 
* The sea-otters-are remarkable for their playfulness. When ap- 
proached, they place one paw over the eyes, as if shielding them from 
