54 
MAMMALIA. 
One March, many years ago, when sliding down hill on the 
crust (the snow then being over three feet in depth) Dr. C. L. 
Bagg and I observed at different times several dark objects which 
at a distance looked like little balls of fur. On coming nearer we 
discovered that these apparently round objects were Star-nosed 
Moles, trying to bore through the icy crust. They had evidently 
been moving about on the surface till alarmed by our approach, 
when, having wandered away from the holes through which they 
came up, they at once set to work to perforate the crust, but, owing 
to its unusual hardness, did not succeed in time to make good their 
escape. We captured two or three and brought them home. 
The reason that they are not more often seen here in winter is 
easily explained. They do not at any time travel much upon the 
surface, and even when thus engaged their sense of hearing is so 
acute that they detect the approach of an enemy while yet at a 
distance, and disappear at once into the snow. All winter long 
one sees upon the snow many small footprints, that are designated, 
collectively, as mice, mole, and shrew tracks. I can distinguish, 
with considerable confidence, those of Hcspcromys, Blarina, and 
Sore. x, but who will venture to affirm that he can name the species 
that makes each of the others ? 
The tail of this species becomes enormously enlarged during the 
rutting season, which circumstance led Dr. Harlan to describe a 
specimen taken during this period as a distinct species, which he 
named Condylura macroura.* I have taken specimens as late as 
the middle of November whose tails measured 12mm. (.47 in.) in 
diameter. When in this swollen condition there is a marked con- 
striction at the base, which causes the tail to appear as if strangu- 
lated. Two or more litters are produced each season. 
The scent glands of this animal secrete a thick creamy material 
of a greenish yellow color that has a powerful and very disagree- 
* Fauna Americana, 1825, p. 39. 
