QUADRUPEDS. 
. Ill 
305. This animal is found by the sides of lakes 
and rivers. It displays great sagacity in the forma- 
tion of its retreat. It makes the entrance under 
water, burrows upwards, provides several cells to re- 
tire to in case of floods, and opens on the surface a 
small orifice for the admission of air, which orifice it 
contrives so as to be concealed by a thick bush. 
THE BEAVER. 
306. This animal is found in the northern parts 
of Europe, Asia, and North America. It has a broad, 
flat tail, covered with scales, which serves it the 
purpose of a rudder in the water. It has membranes 
between the toes on the hind feet, but none on the 
fore feet. It is about two feet long, and one foot high. 
Its colour is of a light brown, and its fur is very fine. 
307. Few animals show a greater degree of sa- 
gacity than this. The Beavers assemble in compa- 
nies of two hundred or more, and form a habitation 
by the side of some lake or river. They build a sort 
of mud cottages, for their winter residence, of sticks, 
Where is it found ? How does it contrive its retreat ? 
Where is the Beaver found ? Describe the Beaver. What is 
said of its sagacity ? 
