THE CHELYS MATAMATA. 539 



well as in Guiana. It is covered with armour on the back, neck, 

 and head. On its head it wears what looks like a curiously 

 shaped helmet, with a long tube in front, which serves as a snout; 

 while its feet are webbed, and armed with sharp claws at the 

 end of its thick, powerful legs. From the chin hang down 

 two fringe-like membranes, and the throat and neck are simi- 

 larly ornamented. It is often three feet long ; and, from its 

 formidable appearance, it might easily make a stranger eager 

 to get out of its way. This helmet consists of two membrane- 

 ous prolongations of the skin, which project on either side 

 from its broad and flattened head. A long, flexible, double 

 tube forms its snout. The shield on the back is marked with 

 three distinct ridges, or keels, along it, and is broader before 

 than behind. It has a stumpy, pointed tail. 



This curious monster, concealing itself among the reeds on 

 the bank, lies in wait for its prey, darting forward its long 

 neck, and seizing with its sharp beak any passing fish, reptile, 

 or water-fowl ; or, should they not come near enough, it swims 

 at a great rate after its prey. 



