104 
NATURAL HISTORY. 
THE MUSK RAT. 
283. This animal is exceedingly abundant in this 
country. It is about as large as a rabbit, and has a 
thick, short head ; its hair is soft and glossy, beneath 
which there is a thick, fine down, very useful in the 
manufacture of hats. 
284. Its manners somewhat resemble those of the 
beaver. It is fond of the water, and swims well. At 
the approach of winter, several of them unite and 
build little huts, about two feet in diameter, com- 
posed of rushes cemented with clay. 
285. From these there are several passages, in 
different directions, by which they go out in quest 
of food. They are caught in summer by setting 
traps along the edges of the streams which they fre- 
quent. 
THE MOLE. 
✓ 
286 This little animal is admirably formed for 
Where is the Musk Rat found in great abundance ? Describe 
its appearance, and its manner of living. 
