76 
ANIMALS OF NORTH AMERICA. 
all parts of the Continent, though never so greatly multiplied 
as some of the preceding species. It usually inhabits the 
hollows in trees, is seldom seen except in the twilight, and in 
its sailing movement is aided by the broadly expanded tail, 
which doubtless acts also partially as a rudder. It seems to 
ascend some high tree, throw itself off, alighting on another 
near the ground, ascend that again in turn, and proceed in like 
manner to another, thus progressing a considerable distanee 
without touching the ground. It is gentle in its disposition, 
easily domesticated, fond of warmth. At twilight it arouses 
itself, and affords much entertainment by sailing about the 
room, always commencing its flight by climbing a table, chair, 
or on to a shelf from whence it may start its voyage. When it 
sleeps, it rolls itself up, and wraps its large flat tail over its 
