MARMOT TRIBE, &C. 
n 
MARMOT TRIBE. 
The marmots have two wedge-shaped front 
teeth in each jaw ; and five grinders on each side 
In the upper, and four in the lower. They have 
also collar bones in the skeleton. 
This tribe, of which only eight species are yet 
known, does not differ in many particulars from 
that of the rats. The animals have thick cylindri- 
cal bodies^ and large roundish heads. The fore 
feet have four claws, and a very small thumb ; and 
the hind feet five claws. They reside in subterra- 
neous holes, and pass the winter in sleep. 
£ . > 
Alpine marmot. ■ \ 
i 
The Alpine marmot frequents the highest sum- 
mits of the Alps and Pyrenean mountains, and is 
also'Tound in some parts of Asia. It is about six- 
teen inches in length, has a short tail, and bears 
some resemblance both to the rat and the bear. 
The colour is brownish above, and bright tawny 
on the under parts. The head is rather large, and 
flattish ; the ears short, and hid in the fur ; and 
the tail thick and bushy. 
The Alpine marmot, when taken young, is tamed 
more easily than any other wild animal, and almost 
as perfectly as any of those that are domestic. It 
is readily taught to dance, to wield a cudgel, and 
to obey the voice of its master. Like the cat, it 
has an antipathy to the dog ; and when it becomes 
familiar to the family, and is sure of being sup- 
ported by its master, it attacks and bites even the 
largest mastiff. From its squat, muscular make, 
it has great strength, joined to great agility. It 
