70 
ANIMALS OF NORTH AMERICA. 
On the approach of cold weather, it closes the passage 
between itself and the surface of the ground, spending the 
winter in a torpid state. It is a cleanly animal, easily capable of 
domestication. When its retreat is cut off, it fights hard, its 
bite with its long and projecting incisors being very severe ; 
the dog that attacks it, showing by its bloody nose and hang- 
ing tail, that he has been severely punished or fairly worsted 
in the battle. 
The Genus Spermophilus is distinguished from the Arcto- 
myx, especially in having cheek pouches, and being much 
more active and lively. Of these the Quebec Marmot, 
L. Tredecim-lineatus , and Franklin’s Marmot, S. Frcmh- 
lini , are both found in the Hudson Bay territory ; but 
little is known respecting them. Parry’s Marmot, S. 
Parryi , is peculiar to the Arctic regions : Hood’s Marmot, 
S. Hoodii , is said to have on its back as many stripes as are 
displayed on the star spangled banner; and finally, so far 
as known, the Prairie Hog, Spermophilus Ludovicianus , 
associated among travellers with the burrowing owl and the 
rattlesnake. For a full account of this animal we are indebted 
to Captain Marcy, who says : — 
“ These gregarious and interesting little animals, called 
6 prairie-dogs,’ or more properly the 4 prairie marmots,’ 
are found assembled in communities or villages throughout 
most of our extreme western prairies, from the Missouri 
River to the Rio Grande, and have often been described by 
travellers ; but as there are some facts connected with them, 
which I have never seen mentioned, I will add a few remarks 
to what has already been said. 
“ These animals, in selecting a site or position for their 
towns or warrens, generally choose a very elevated and level 
spot upon the open prairie, which has induced me to suppose 
that they do not require water — that element without which 
most other animals soon perish. I have often seen their 
towns upon the table lands of Hew Mexico, at a distance of 
