78 
NATURAL HISTORY. 
upon birds, and hides among the foliage to take them 
by surprise ; it also frequently hangs by its tail to 
watch its prey. Also, by means of its tail, it slings 
from tree to tree to hunt insects, and to escape from 
its pursuers. 
THE HARE. 
204. The Hare is one of the most persecuted 
and the most timorous of animals. All its muscles 
are formed for swiftness, and all its senses seem only 
given to direct its flight. It has very large, promi- 
nent eyeS|^}aced backwards in its head, so that it 
can almost; see behind as it runs : being continually 
upon the watch, it does not close them even in sleep. 
Its ears can be moved in every direction, so that the 
smallest sounds are readily received. 
205. Among its enemies are dogs, cats, weasels, 
birds of prey, and, last and worst, mankind ; so that, 
although its natural life does not exceed eight years, 
it seldom lives out half that scanty period. It uses 
a variety of afts to evade the dogs, but, as it leaves 
a strong scent, it is usually overtaken. 
206. The Hare is a herbivorous animal, living 
upon tender grass, roots, leaves, fruits, and corn. 
In what respects does the Hare seem formed for flight ? Men- 
tion some of the enemies of the Hare. What does the Hare feed 
upon ? 
