ZOOLOGY, 



149 



the poisonous fangs and appendages ; they are extensively 

 dispersed ; frequenting lonely places, and feeding on Frogs, 

 Lizards, sraali Birds, and Quadrupeds. Their flesh is ac- 

 counted very nutritious, but previous to its use the head 

 should be taken oft, or the fangs extracted. In case of a 

 bite from one of this tribe, the smniediate application of 

 Olive oil to the parr, and a sufficient quantity taken inter- 

 nally, to prove emetic, will often effect a cure in a few 

 hours. One species is a native of this country, and is the 

 only venomous reptile common to Great Britain. 



4. Ilt/dras, Water-Snake. JBof/j/ thickened in the middle, 



and gradoaily tapering towards the extremities ; tai^ 

 flattened. 



The whole of this genus inhabit water ; through which, 

 they dart at their prey with the rapidity of an arrow ; they 

 feed on small reptiles, insects and worms ; and but very 

 rarely are found on land. 



5. Langaza, Scuta on the abdomen ; tail marked at its 



commencement, with circular divisions or riiiF^y and 

 terminated with small scales. 



This curious genus of which only one species is known, 

 has the upper jaw protruded in the form of a snout : its bite 

 is considered as particularly venomous. 



6. Achrocordiis, Warted-Snake. Bodi/ covered with 



iabercle», 



h 3 



