HeptUes of Ceylon. 309 
The swalloM'^s found here are of the same species as ours. 
They never quit the island. 
Two species of the peacock are produced in Ceylon: the one, 
which is kept in a tame state, is of the same kind with those 
known in Europe : the other, which roams at large in its native 
woods, is of a much larger size, and is truly a magnificent bird. 
It is found all over India, which is its native climate; and adds 
greatly by its splendid plumage to tlie beauty of the forests. 
The jungle-fowl resembles our common fowl in size, but pre- 
sents a much more beautiful plumage, and is distinguished by 
its double spurs. 
The reptiles and insects of Ceylon are exceedingly numer- 
ous, and there are several species very little known. Serpents 
particularly abound, and are a great annoyance to the inha- 
bitants. 
The covra capello or hooded snake is found here from six 
to fifteen feet long. Its bite is mortal ; the natives find the 
herb pointed out by the ichneumon a remedy, if timely ap- 
plied. When enraged and preparing to attack, it raises its 
head and body to the height of three or four feet in a spiral 
manner, while at the same time the remaining part of the 
body is coiled up to accelerate and give force to the spring. 
At this instant it distends Itooi its head a membrane in the 
form of a hood, from which it receives its name. This mem- 
brane lies along the forehead and the sides of the neck, and 
is almost imperceptible till the animal gets into a state of 
irritation, and is about to attack his foe. When the hood is 
erected, it completely alters the appearance of the head, and 
discloses a curious white streak, wdiich runs along the forehead 
in the shape of a pair of spectacles and sometimes of a horse- 
shoe. The extension of this membrane seems intended by Pro- 
