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preference for it. In su mm er, the Ermine is of a beautiful 
brown colour above and white below, while the tail is tipped 
with black. In winter its whole coat becomes a brilliant 
white, with sometimes a slightly yellow tinge, the tip of 
the tail remaining black ; this is the season in which their 
fur is sought. This animal is not more than ten inches long, 
not including the tail. There is nothing peculiar in its habits 
which requires mentioning. 
The Ferret (Fig. 131), which some authors have regarded as a 
variety of the Polecat, has a yellowish- white coat and pink eyes. 
It was brought to us from Spain, which originally obtained it 
Vig. 131. — Ferret ( M.furo , Linn.) 
from the coast of Africa. It cannot live in a state of freedom ' 
either in France or England, on account of the rigour of our ! 
climate. A cross between the Ferret and Polecat produces a 
hardy animal, which is a great favourite with those that employ 
them. 
Man has availed himself of the natural instinct possessed by 
the Ferret to prey upon Rabbits, and trains it to assist him in 
capturing the latter animal. The mode of proceeding is much 
as follows : — When a rabbit-burrow is to be ferreted, the Ferret 
is introduced into one of the holes. It is not long before the 
Rabbits become aware of the intrusion of their deadly enemy. 
Mad with fright, they leave their haunts ; but the unfortunate 
