THE MOUSE TRIBE. 
i 37 
It is interesting; to note that remains of both the Norwegian and 
Fossil Lemmings. 0 . , . 
the banded lemming have been found in the Pleistocene deposits of 
Britain, apparently indicating the prevalence of different climatic conditions to those 
of the present age. 
The Musquash. 
Genus Fiber. 
The musquash, or musk-rat {Fiber zibethicus), is a North American species, 
considerably exceeding in size all other members of the vole subfamily. 
Although resembling a vole in its general external appearance, as well as in the 
structure of its molar teeth and skull, the musquash differs by its compressed and 
the musquash (J nat. size). 
proportionately longer tail, of which the length is nearly equal to that of the body, 
exclusive of the head. In addition to its compressed form, the tail is also char¬ 
acterised by being nearly naked, and covered with scales. The feet, which are 
partially webbed, differ from those of the voles in having their soles entirely 
naked. 
The musquash is a massively-built animal, with the head and body attaining 
a length of about a foot, and the tail about 10 inches. The head is unusually wide 
and not separated from the body by any distinctly constricted neck ; while the eyes 
are relatively small, and the ears scarcely project above the fur. With the exception 
of the small area immediately surrounding the nostrils, the muzzle is completely 
covered with hair. The limbs are short, with the first toe rudimentary in the front 
pair, although well developed in the hinder. The compressed form of the tail is 
increased by the presence of a line of hairs on both its upper and lower surfaces. 
The fur, of which the general colour is blackish brown, passing into grey on the 
muzzle and under-parts, has the soft and velvety texture of that of the beaver. It 
