132 
THE HIVING WORLD. 
A general characteristic of reptiles is found in that they are cold-blooded, 
because of a sluggish circulation, and their usual mode ol locomotion is by crawl¬ 
ing. Other singularities are noticeable in their great vitality, torpidity after 
eating, lethargy during cold periods, slow digestion, and muscular energy 
less highly developed than in the mammals. Most reptiles are oviparous, laying 
eggs which, however, are never incubated; but some are viviparous, like the 
rattlesnake, bringing forth their young so well developed that tney are at once 
able to care for themselves. Many reptiles are also provided with shell or 
scales, so strong as to compose a veritable cuirass, impenetrable by common 
ride ball when fired at ordinary range. Others again have minute scales 
MONSTERS OF THE ANTEDILUVIAN SEA. 
so closely laid as to serve to facilitate the creature’s motion through grass or 
water. But of the many varieties found in all countries, there are none that 
present a pleasing appearance, though some are clothed in a robe reflecting 
iridescent colors, and others are mottled with stripes and spots of splendid hues. 
These, however, do not serve to lessen the natural dread in which they are 
held, which is felt for the harmless as well as for the venomous. But though 
we shrink from close familiarity with these repulsive animals, there is a curi¬ 
osity, which some call morbid, which draws us almost irresistibly to gaze upon 
such creatures whenever opportunity presents, a desire that extends even to 
interest in illustrations of all reptiles, however abhorrent may be their appear¬ 
ance or the loathsomeness they excite. Indeed, paradoxical as it may appear, 
the excessively homely creatures attract us quite as much as do the beautiful^ 
though we may not know why this is so. 
