21 



The ERMINE WEASEL (Pittorius crminea) is the most 

 interesting form. Its pure white coat, with a single, black 

 bar at the tail tip, renders it an attractive creature. The 

 American, the European, and the Asiatic forms are now 

 acknowledged to be identical. Ten species, some of them 

 perhaps mere varieties, are recognized in North America. 



The Mink (Pu tonus vism) inhabits North America at 

 large, it is considerably stouter than the weasels proper, 

 and has a dark, richly colored fur. It is perhaps the most 

 familiar species known in the northern States. It lives 

 exclusively along water-courses. 



The Black-footed Ferret (Putorius nigripcs). Au- 

 dubon described this animal, and for a long time no other 

 specimen was found. It is now by no means rare. A good 

 example is in this collection. 



The Wolverine or Glutton {Gulo luscus) is found in 

 the colder regions of both continents. It is one of the 

 largest of the fur animals. It occasionally reaches the 

 northern portions of the State of New York, and Prof. 

 Emmons, a few years since, stated that it yet exists in the 

 Hoosac Mountains in Massachusetts. Its general appear- 

 ance is much that of a small bear. 



Gilt) UP 18.— Family Procyonidce includes the small 

 group of bear-like creatures represented by the Racoons, 

 COATIMCNDIS, and like forms. 



The Racoon (Procyon lotor) is one of the most common 

 of American mammals, and has an extended range over 

 this continent. Its food consists of shell-fish, birds-eggs, 

 &c, but it is said to prefer vegetable food. Its habits 

 are mostly nocturnal. Two other species of racoons are 

 recognized. The common racoon hibernates like the 

 bears. This group is interesting as being exclusively 

 American. Four genera and eight species are enumerated 

 by Wallace. 



COATIMUNDI {Nasua narica). Of this genus five species 

 are noticed. The specific name refers to the nose, which is 

 upturned, and suggests as a common name the term 



