The Primates include the creatures which stand nearest to man in the

zoological scale, and in interest to all classes of humanity they stand

above all others. There is no intelligent person, civilized or savage,

to whom the humanlikeness of apes and monkeys does not appeal. On the

other hand, some of the baboons are in feature and temper so thoroughly

beast-like, their diabolism is almost as fascinating as the man-like

character of the great apes. The variety of forms in the Order Primates,

and the wide differences between the various groups, imperatively

demand, for the proper representation of this Order, a large collection.

The Primate House was erected in 1901, at a cost of $65,000, and opened

to the public on December 22d, of that year. It is 162 feet in length,

74 feet in width, contains 16 large interior cages, 22 small cages, and

11 exterior cages, two of which are of great size. The points of special

excellence in this building are as follows: An abundance of room for the

animals, an abundance of sunlight, perfect ventilation, an extensive

series of open-air cages, freedom of communication between outside and

inside cages, floors and walls impervious to moisture and disease germs,

and the absence of iron bars from all cages save three.

During the months of mild weather, all the inmates of the large interior

cages occupy, at will, corresponding cages in the outdoor series. It is

also intended that certain hardy species of baboons, and the red-faced

monkey of Japan, shall be provided with comfortable sleeping quarters

and live outdoors, every winter. It is believed that they can do this,

not only with comfort, but with great physical benefit.

For general convenience, and the promotion of a universal understanding

of the primates, we propose to set them forth in four groups, a

subdivision strictly according to Nature, readily comprehended, and

easily remembered They are as follows, with typical examples of each:

I. Anthropoid Apes.

Chimpanzee _Anthropopithecus calvus_ of Africa.

Orang-Utan _Simia satyrus_ “ Borneo.

Gray Gibbon _Hylobates leuciscus_ “ “

II. Old World Monkeys and Baboons.

Mona Monkey _Cercopithecus mona_ “ Africa.

White-Collared Mangabey _Cercocebus collaris_ “ “

Magot: Barbary “Ape” _Macacus inuus_ “ N. Africa.

Japanese Red-Faced Monkey _ “ fuscatus_ “ Japan.

Pig-Tailed Monkey _ “ nemestrinus_ “ E. India.

Rhesus Monkey _ “ rhesus_ “ India.

Entellus Monkey _ “ entellus_ “ “

Black “Ape” _Cynopithecus niger_ “ Celebes.

Golden Baboon _Papio babuin_ “ N. Africa.

Hamadryas _ “ hamadryas_ “ Arabia.

Mandrill _ “ mormon_ “ W. Africa.

Gelada _Theropithecus gelada_ “ Abyssinia.

III. New World Monkeys.

White-Throated Sapajou _Cebus hypoleucus_ “ S. America.

Red-Faced Spider Monkey _Ateles paniscus_ “ “ “

White-Headed Saki _Pithecia leucocephala_ “ “ “

Yarkee: Short-Tailed Monkey _Brachyurus calva_ “ “ “

Squirrel Monkey _Chrysothrix sciurea_ “ “ “

Common Marmoset _Hapale jacchus_ “ “ “

Douroucoli _Nyctipithecus trivirgatus_ “ “ “

IV. Lemurs and Lemuroids.

Ring-Tailed Lemur _Lemur catta_ “ Madagascar.

Indri _Indri brevicaudata_ “ India.

Galago _Galago galago_ “ Madagascar.

Slow Lemur _Nycticebus tardigradus_ “ Madagascar.

Aye-Aye _Cheiromys “ India.

madagascariensis_

[Illustration: CHIMPANZEE BALDY.]

Nearly all the above-named species are now living in the Primate House,

besides which there are many others. So far as the available supply of

captive primates will permit, these typical species will constantly be

kept on exhibition, together with many others equally interesting. In

this small volume it is possible to notice only the most important

forms.

The Gorilla, (_Gorilla savagei_), of equatorial West Africa, is the

largest and ugliest of the great apes, walks erect, and in form of body

and limbs, it most resembles man. Its brain, however, is less man-like

than that of the chimpanzee and orang-utan. It is very rarely seen in

captivity. The only specimen which up to 1911 had reached America alive

lived but five days after its arrival. Despite the fact that these

creatures seldom live in captivity longer than a few months, they are

always being sought by zoological gardens. The agents of the New York

Zoological Society are constantly on the watch for an opportunity to

procure and send hither a good specimen of this wonderful creature; and

whenever one arrives, all persons interested are advised to see it

_immediately_,—before it dies of sullenness, lack of exercise, and

indigestion.

The Orang-Utan is intellectually superior to the gorilla, and is

equalled only by the chimpanzee. Unfortunately, as a rule, none of the

great apes are long-lived in captivity, and in zoological gardens they

come and go. For this reason, it is seldom that an adult specimen, 4

feet in height, and weighing 150 pounds, is seen in captivity. Among

other apes, the Orang-Utan is readily recognized by its _brown skin, red

hair and small ears_.

In disposition this creature is naturally docile and affectionate. It is

fond of the society of human beings, takes to training with wonderful

readiness and success, and young specimens can easily be taught to wear

clothes, sit at table, and eat with spoon and fork. In the summer of

1911, the daily open-air exhibition of _nine_ apes dining at 4 o’clock

on an elevated platform in the large outside cage at the Primate House,

will long be remembered by the crowds of visitors who saw it. Such

exhibitions are entirely germane to the educational purposes of a

zoological garden or park, for they illustrate the mentality of animals

and their wonderful likeness to man, far more forcibly than the best

printed statements.

The north hall of the Primate House is specially intended for the

anthropoid apes, and it is not likely that any lengthy periods will

elapse during which it contains neither orang-utans nor chimpanzees.

[Illustration: ORANG-UTAN.]

The Chimpanzee, (_Anthropopithecus calvus_), of equatorial Africa from

the west coast to the central lake region, is quite as common in

captivity as the orang-utan. Both structurally and mentally this animal

is very much like the orang-utan, and for keenness of intellect and

susceptibility to training, it is second to none of the animals lower

than man. A Chimpanzee is easily recognized by its _black hair and large

ears_. There are two or three species.

The Gibbon shows off to poor advantage in a cage, but in the tree-tops

it is a wonderful creature. It is like a long-armed skeleton clothed

with skin and hair, animated by the spirit of an Ariel. In its home in

the jungles of Borneo and southeastern Asia, it dwells in hilly forests,

and never descends to the earth. When attacked, it flees down-hill, if

possible, and it seems actually to fly through the tree-tops. It boldly

flings itself forward through space, grasps with its hands the first

available branch, swings underneath, feet foremost, and after another

flight presently catches with its feet, thus actually making revolutions

as it goes. Its progress is so swift and so silent that successful

pursuit is impossible to any enemy not provided with wings.

This animal is naturally very timid, but does not hesitate to expose

itself to mortal danger when its young are in distress. In captivity

gibbons are shy and nervous, and take life very seriously.

[Illustration: HUMBOLDT WOOLLY MONKEY.]

Old-World Monkeys.

The Baboons have been specially designed by Nature for life upon the

ground, surrounded by dangerous enemies. But for their big canine teeth,

their fierce tempers and bull-dog courage, backed by a fine combination

of strength and agility, the lions, leopards, hyenas and jackals of

Africa would have exterminated them all, ages ago. They were not formed

to become hand-organ beasts of burden, nor even companions to man, but

rather to fight off their enemies, and bluff even the king of beasts

when occasion requires. In captivity, their strength and ferocity always

inspires respect, and sometimes genuine terror. At all times they

require to be treated as dangerous animals.

Of the various species of baboons on exhibition in the Primate House,

the full-grown Mandrill is the most interesting, and wonderful. It seems

like an animal not of this earth, and reminds the visitor of one of the

great beasts of the visions of St. John the Divine. The home of this

species is in West Africa, and it is found from Senegambia to the Congo.

The long shaggy hair, lion-like appearance, the peculiar color markings

of the face, and the indescribable grimaces, instantly fix the attention

of every visitor.

The Hamadryas Baboon, with long side whiskers and cape of long hair, is

one of the handsomest animals of this group. Its explosive, ear-racking

cry is almost as startling to visitors as a cannon-shot.

The Golden Baboon has the liveliest disposition and the best temper

possessed by any baboon. Young specimens are full of good-natured

mischief, and are much given to hectoring their cage-mates. The

Long-Armed Yellow Baboon is quite at home in the Primate House, and has

bred here. It is a good species to keep in captivity.

The Group of Old World Monkeys, in addition to the baboons, contains

several species worthy of special remark. There are some which have

tails so very short and insignificant that they seem to be tailless, and

several of them are called “apes.” _They are not true anthropoids_

(manlike apes), however, and it is a confusing error to designate any of

them as “apes.” The species referred to are the following:

The Black “Ape,” of Celebes, exceedingly like a true baboon.

The Magot, or Barbary “Ape,” of North Africa and Gibraltar, which is a

true macaque.

The Japanese Red-Faced Monkey, another macaque, with a brilliant red

face, and long, thick coat of hair, which enables it to live out of

doors all winter, even in this Zoological Park.

The Pig-Tailed Monkey, several species of which are found in Burma and

other portions of southeastern Asia.

All the above are on exhibition in the Primate House, and the outdoor

cages.

The Rhesus Monkey, of India, is one of the sacred species, and ages of

immunity from molestation, or even wholesome discipline, have made this

animal aggressive and domineering in temper.

The Bonneted Macaque is the best-tempered monkey of all the monkey

species found in the East Indies, and it is by far the best to keep as a

pet.

The Entellus Monkey, of India, is also a sacred species, and its natural

seriousness of manner, and dignified bearing, quite befit the direct

descendants of the original Hunuman, or monkey deity of the Hindoos, who

helped to build Adam’s Bridge.

Of the many African monkeys, some of the most showy (such as the Guerzas

and Colobos) are so difficult to procure they can not be set forth as

permanent residents in the Primate House. The following species,

however, may be classed with the reliables:

The White-Collared Mangabey and Sooty Mangabey are both so lively, so

good-natured, and so free from the fighting habit, they are prime

favorites with everybody.

The Mona Monkey is handsome and easily kept, and an excellent

representative of the great African genus _Cercopithecus_.

The Green Monkey and the Vervet are lively but quarrelsome, and at times

become dangerous. The Patas, or Red Monkey, is very sedate, and makes a

good cage-mate for the mona.

The New World Monkeys, even at their best, never make a strong showing

in a vivarium. The trouble is that many of the most interesting species

are so delicate it is impossible to keep them alive in captivity. Fame

awaits the man who can discover a bill of fare on which Howling Monkeys,

Sakis and Yarkees can live in captivity to old age, and repay their cost

and care. Their digestive organs are delicate, and are subject to

derangement from causes so slight they can not be reckoned with.

The Sapajous are the hardiest, the most intelligent and in some respects

the most interesting of the New World monkeys. They all possess the

prehensile (or grasping) tail, _which is not found on any Old World

monkey_, and the use made of it is a constant source of wonder. Monkeys

of this species are quite common in captivity, and their wrinkled brows

and serious countenances give them an appearance of being burdened with

cares,—which most captive monkeys certainly are! These are the

unfortunate creatures which so often come to grief on hand-organs.

The Black Spider Monkey and the Gray Spider Monkey represent a genus of

animals quite as attenuated in form as the gibbons. Their slender

bodies, exceedingly long and slender legs and tail,—the latter strongly

prehensile, and better than a fifth arm and hand,—give them when in the

tree-tops an appearance truly spider-like. They are agile climbers, but

not rapid runners, and having no means of defense are very timid. Their

stomachs are so simple they seem to lack some element or function that

is necessary to the life of the animal in captivity. Notwithstanding the

fact that “Jess,” of Bath, New York, in defiance of all laws and

precedents, _lived thirteen years in a cold climate_, the great majority

of spider monkeys die before they reach full maturity, and nearly always

of stomach troubles. Fortunately, however, there are exceptions to this

rule.

[Illustration: JAPANESE RED-FACED MONKEY.]

[Illustration: PIG-TAILED MACAQUE.]

The Squirrel Monkey, often called a “Marmoset,” is a pretty little

olive-yellow monkey, almost as delicate as the true Marmoset, and the

Pinche. These diminutive creatures are so delicate they require the

greatest care and tenderness, and thrive better in moderately small

cages than in large ones. True marmosets are the smallest of American

primates, being next in size to the Tarsier, of Borneo, smallest of all

quadrumanes.

The Lemurs and Lemuroids.—A lemur is a monkey-like animal belonging to

the lowest group of primates, but in some respects is so little like a

typical monkey that the relationship is not always apparent. There are

about thirty species, and all save a very few are found on the Island of

Madagascar. They are gentle-spirited, harmless and inoffensive animals,

and not being persecuted by their human neighbors, as all American wild

animals are, they are quite numerous.

Nearly all the Lemurs have long tails, long and fine hair, large eyes

and pointed muzzles. Many of them are strikingly colored in various

shades of black, white and gray. All Lemurs are supposed to be of

nocturnal habit, and in fact they really are; but the specimens in the

large jungle cage of the Primate House are quite as lively and

interesting in the daytime as most of the monkeys. So far from

manifesting a disposition to retire to dark corners, they love to lie in

the sunshine.

[Illustration: SLOW LEMUR.]

[Illustration: SIAMANG.]

The Ruffed Lemur, or Black-and-White Lemur, (_Lemur varia_), is the

handsomest member of this entire group. Its fur is very long, silky, and

alternately pure white and jet black. The Ring-Tailed Lemur has a very

long, pointed tail, ornamented with about 25 alternating rings of brown

and gray, which it carries very gracefully. This species is of a more

lively disposition than most others. The curious Indri has not up to

this time come into the collection, but it is expected in the near

future. When it arrives it can at once be recognized by the entire

absence of a tail, except a mere stump, and by its large hands and feet.

ELEPHANT HOUSE, No. 20.

Of its buildings for animals, the Elephant House is the culminating

feature of the Zoological Park, and it comes quite near to being the

last of the series. In token of these facts, it is fittingly crowned

with a dome. Through its position in the general plan it closes a wide

gap, and effectively links together the northern and southern halves of

the establishment.

The erection of this great structure began in 1907, and the building was

completed and its inmates housed in the fall of 1908. The yards

surrounding the structure were finished in 1909.

[Illustration: ELEPHANT HOUSE.]

Any building which can comfortably accommodate a representative

collection of the largest of all living land animals, must

unquestionably be large and substantial. There is no pleasure in seeing

a ponderous elephant chained to the floor of a small room, unable even

to walk to and fro, and never permitted to roam at will in the open air

and sunlight. It is no wonder that dungeon-kept elephants go mad, and do

mischief. If an elephant—or for that matter any animal—cannot be kept in

_comfortable_ captivity, then let it not be kept at all.

The Elephant House of the City of New York is a large and roomy

structure, built to render good service for two centuries. Its extreme

length over all is 170 feet, and its width is 84 feet. Its two sides are

divided into 8 huge compartments, of which 4 are for elephants, 2 for

rhinoceroses, and 2 for hippopotami. Each of these is 24×21½ feet.

The Hippopotami have within the building a tank 24×21 feet, and 8 feet

in total depth; and another will be constructed in their corral.

Each end of the building furnishes two cages of smaller dimensions, for

tapirs, and young elephants. The whole area surrounding the building,

excepting the axial walk, is devoted to open-air yards, so arranged that

each cage in the interior connects directly with a corral which affords

both sunshine and shade. Nature seems to have made this beautiful open

grove—strangely free from trees in its center—especially for the

purposes to which it now is devoted.

It is by no means the intention of the Zoological Society, that, because

an axial walk leads through the Elephant House, the building shall be

used _as a thoroughfare_ for foot traffic between the northern and

southern portions of the Park. Such use would surely defeat the main

purpose of the structure. It is intended to be entered _only by persons

who desire to see the animals, and all others must pass around it_, by

one or the other of the two very direct promenades which will be

provided. The employees of the Park are strictly forbidden to consider

the walk through the building as a convenient highway, and visitors are

requested to observe the obvious necessities of this case.

The Indian Elephant, (_Elephas indicus_), is the universal elephant of

captivity, the African species being shown only as a great rarity. For

every elephant that comes from Africa, about thirty come from India, and

of those about twenty-nine are prosy and unromantic females. In order to

secure a male Indian Elephant, it must be specially ordered.

[Illustration: INDIAN ELEPHANT.]

Our first Indian Elephant, a fine male named “Gunda,” was caught wild in

the interior of Assam, northeastern India, and he arrived at the

Zoological Park in May, 1904, as the gift of Col. Oliver H. Payne. He

was then about seven years old. He stood 6 feet 7 inches in shoulder

height, weighed 3,740 pounds, and had all the points of a “high-caste”

elephant. His tusks were then 16 inches long. He is very mischievous

about breaking anything in his quarters that is breakable, and he

manifests special dislike toward certain individuals who come near him.

Like most Indian elephants, “Gunda” is very intelligent. In two days he

was taught to receive pennies, lift the lid of his “bank,” drop the coin

within, and ring his bell.

Since his arrival here, in May, 1904, he has grown in height at the rate

of about 5 inches each year. On November 1, 1910, he stood 8 feet 9

inches in shoulder height, his weight was 8100 pounds, and his tusks

were 36 inches long.

The Sudan African Elephant, (_Elephas oxyotis_, Matschie), is the

largest of the four species of African elephants now recognized. The

other species are the South African Elephant, (_E. capensis_), the

German-East-African Elephant, (_E. knochenhaueri_), and the West African

Elephant, (_E. cyclotis_).

After some years of waiting, and many futile efforts, we have at last

come into possession of a pair of young Sudan Elephants, representing,

so we believe, the great species to which belonged Jumbo, and also the

bearer of the enormous tusks presented to the Zoological Society by Mr.

Charles T. Barney. Like all elephants newly arrived from Africa, they

are young, and small; but if they have good health they will grow very

rapidly, and about A. D. 1927 they should attain full stature,—11 feet

at the shoulders for the male, or thereabouts.

[Illustration: AFRICAN ELEPHANTS.]

The different species of elephants are most easily recognized by their

ears. Compare the enormous “sail-area” of the ears of this species with

the small, triangular ear of the Indian elephant, and the small, round

ear of the next species.

The West African Elephant, (_Elephas cyclotis_), of equatorial West

Africa, especially the Congo country, is apparently a small species, not

exceeding seven feet in height, even if that height is ever attained.

Mr. Carl Hagenbeck reports that out of nearly 300 pairs of tusks of this

species examined by him in the German ivory market, not one pair

exceeded two feet in length, and many measured only 10 inches.

On July 25, 1905, we received a male specimen representing this species,

as a gift from Mr. Barney. It is strikingly marked by its small round

ears, and the presence of 5 toes on each fore-foot and 4 on the hind

foot, the number in the East African species being 4 and 3,

respectively. At the time of its arrival, little “Congo” stood 43 inches

in shoulder height, his weight was precisely 600 pounds, and his tusks

were 4 inches long. On June 1, 1911, his shoulder height was 60 inches,

and his weight was 1650 pounds, and his tusks were 23 inches long.

[Illustration: AFRICAN TWO-HORNED RHINOCEROS.]

Regarding the life history and distribution of this odd species, much

remains to be ascertained; and precise information is greatly desired.

The African Two-Horned Rhinoceros, (_Rhinoceros bicornis_), is already

represented by a female specimen which was acquired in 1906. “Victoria”

was captured in July, 1905, in the northern point of German East Africa,

within about sixty miles of the head of Speke Gulf, which is the

southeastern arm of Lake Victoria Nyanza. The elevation is between 4,000

and 5,000 feet. She was slung under a pole, and carried, six days’

journey on men’s shoulders, to the shore of the lake.

From thence she was transported by steamer to Port Florence, at the head

of the Uganda Railway, thence by rail 500 miles to Mombasa. Ever since

her arrival in New York, “Victoria” has developed rapidly. Captivity

does not seem to fret her in the least. She is very docile, is very

friendly toward her keeper, and it is quite apparent that she enjoys

herself.

The African Two-Horned Rhinoceros once was very abundant throughout the

whole of the fertile plains region of east and south Africa, but the

onslaughts of hunters have exterminated it from probably nine-tenths of

the territory that it once occupied. To-day, the Englishmen of Africa

are earnestly endeavoring to regulate and abate the slaughter of African

big game, and beyond doubt safe, good results in that line are being

accomplished. It is to be hoped that the protection lines will now be

drawn so tightly around the game that remains that it will be

perpetuated for centuries to come.

[Illustration: INDIAN RHINOCEROS.]

The Indian Rhinoceros, (_Rhinoceros unicornis_).—A full-grown Indian

Rhinoceros is one of the most wonderful of all living animals. It seems

like a prehistoric monster, belonging to the days of the dinosaurs,

rather than a creature of to-day; and the killing of so grand a creature

solely for the sake of “sport,” and a stuffed head to hang upon a wall,

is murder, no less. It is quite time that the most wonderful works of

animated Nature should universally be recognized as safe from attack

with the rifle and knife.

So pronounced is the rarity of the great Indian Rhinoceros, it is a fact

that for nearly fifteen years no living specimens came into the

wild-animal market. At last, however, the persistence and industry of

the renowned Carl Hagenbeck was rewarded by the capture, in 1906, of

four young specimens, all of which reached Hamburg in May, 1907. One of

the best specimens of the quartette was purchased for the New York

Zoological Park, and is now living in the Park in the quarters prepared

for him at the Elephant House.

[Illustration: PYGMY HIPPOPOTAMI.]

The Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros is the largest of all living

rhinoceroses. A full-grown male is about 5 feet, 6 inches in shoulder

height, and 10 feet 6 inches long from end of nose to root of tail. The

length of the horn is not great, rarely exceeding 12 inches. The skin is

very thick, and lies upon the animal in great rigid slabs which are

divided by articulating areas of thinner skin.

The Hippopotamus, (_Hippopotamus amphibius_), is more frequently seen in

captivity than any of the large rhinoceroses, or the African elephant.

In the lakes and large rivers of central East Africa it still exists in

fair numbers, and still is killed for “sport.”

Strange as it may seem, this very inert and usually lethargic monster

can, under what it deems just provocation, become very angry, and even

dangerous. Four years ago, in one of the rivers of Uganda, a

hippopotamus not only overturned a boat, but killed one of its native

occupants by biting him.

The Hippopotamus breeds readily in captivity, even under poor

conditions, and the supply for the zoological gardens of the world is

chiefly maintained in that way. The fine male specimen exhibited in the

Zoological Park was purchased from the Central Park Menagerie, for

$3,000, and is a gift from Mr. Samuel Thorne. He was born on July 13,

1904. His weight on November 1, 1909, at five years of age, was 3,114

pounds; and he is growing rapidly.

The Pygmy Hippopotamus (_Hippopotamus liberiensis_), is a great

zoological novelty, and second in rarity only to the okapi. Thus far

only five specimens ever have been exhibited. An adult Pygmy Hippo is

only _one-fourteenth_ the size of an adult Nile Hippo. Our three

specimens, a female and two males, are exhibited in the Elephant House.

They arrived in 1912, and were captured in Liberia, West Africa. The

cost price of the trio was $15,000. They have excellent appetites, never

have been ill, and they seem to enjoy their new home. Their habits,

capture, and their home surroundings have been fully described in the

_Bulletin_ (No. 52) and the Annual Report for 1912 of the Zoological

Society.

The Pygmy Hippopotamus is far more widely distributed throughout Liberia

than might be inferred from the surprising scarcity of specimens in

museums, and the long absence of the species from zoological gardens. It

is an inhabitant of swampy forests, and while it frequents rivers it is

not confined to them, like the large hippo. It seeks shelter from

molestation in large cavities in river banks, usually under the roots of

overhanging trees. These specimens were caught by digging pits in their

runways, with sides so steep that the captives could not climb out.

After capture, each animal was placed in a huge basket crate, slung

under a pole, and carried by natives over the rough forest trails to the

nearest river transportation.

The Tapirs.—Near the end of the Order of Hoofed Animals, (_Ungulata_),

is found the Tapir Family, represented in both the old world and the

new, by about five species. These very odd creatures inhabit the densest

forests of the tropics, where vegetation grows rankly, and few other

large hoofed animals can live. They are very fond of water, and swim

well.

The South American Tapir, (_Tapirus terrestris_), takes kindly to

captivity, breeds in confinement, and always manages to look well-fed

and as sleek as a seal. Its color is a rich mahogany brown, and its

long, prehensile nose is strongly suggestive of the end of an elephant’s

trunk. The shoulder height of a full-grown animal is about 37 inches.

This species inhabits Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay

and some other regions of South America. Some of the Central American

Tapirs inhabit mountain regions, but all are exceedingly wary, and

difficult to find without dogs.

The Malay Tapir, (_Tapirus indicus_), of the Malay Peninsula and

Sumatra, may be recognized as far as it can be seen, by its colors. The

front half of the animal, and its legs, are black or dark brown, and the

rear half of the body is white. It is much larger than the preceding

species.

THE WOLF DENS, No. 22.

At the northeastern corner of the Elk Range there is a huge, bare

granite rock, two hundred feet long, shaped precisely like the hump of a

bull buffalo. The high end of the hump is toward the north, and its

crest is about fifteen feet above the ground on its eastern side. A

fringe of small trees and bushes grows along its western side. On the

east side, well sheltered by the rock itself from the cold west winds of

winter, and also shaded by several fine trees which most opportunely

grow close beside the ledge, the Wolf Dens and Fox Dens are situated.

In regard to the iron work, these dens are merely an understudy of the

Bear Dens. The dimensions of each den of the series are 16 by 48 feet,

and the height of the bars to the top of the overhang is 9 feet 6

inches. The sleeping dens are of simple construction, all save one being

of wood, trimmed with bark-covered slabs. At present the Wolf Dens are

divided into four compartments.

The Gray Wolf, (_Canis nubilis_), is known by as many names as it has

color phases. In the North, where it is white, it is called the “White

Wolf,” while in Florida it becomes the “Black Wolf.” In British Columbia

and around Great Slave Lake, both white and black wolves abound, as well

as the standard gray, but on the Barren Grounds the white phase

predominates. In Texas a “Red Wolf” is found, but apparently the red

phase is of somewhat rare occurrence, and is never found in the North.

In the West this animal has recently come into prominence in a way that

is striking terror to the hearts of ranchmen and others who have stock

to lose. While all kinds of desirable game animals are decreasing at an

alarming rate, the Gray Wolf not only holds its own, but is multiplying

rapidly. The destruction by it of calves, colts and sheep, has become so

great that nearly every western State has placed on the head of this

bold marauder a bounty varying from $2 to $10. In some States this law

has been in force for several years, but with no sensible diminution in

the number of wolves.

[Illustration: TIMBER WOLF.]

The Gray Wolves which live in touch with civilization are by no means

such bold and dangerous animals as they formerly were. In the early

days, when wolves were numerous and fire-arms few and primitive, the

Gray Wolf undoubtedly was a dangerous animal. But the breech-loading

rifle has changed all this. Excepting for his stock-killing

propensities, the Gray Wolf is now a skulking creature. In the United

States this animal possesses the courage of a coyote, but in the Barren

Grounds it is still fierce and dangerous. However much the wolf may

skulk and flee when the way is open, when brought to bay he knows how to

fight. One snap of his powerful jaws and shear-like teeth is enough to

disable almost any dog, and send it howling to the rear. It is no wonder

that western dogs of experience are shy of approaching a Gray Wolf

within snapping distance.

Excepting the localities from which it has been driven out by

civilization, the Gray Wolf ranges over the whole North American

continent from central Mexico to 83° 24′ N.

The Coyote, or Prairie Wolf, (_Canis latrans_), is a personal

acquaintance of nearly every trans-continental traveler. To those who

have camped on the “plains,” he is quite like an old friend; and the

high-pitched, staccato cry—half howl and half bark—with which he

announces the dawn, is associated with memories of vast stretches of

open country, magnificent distances, sage-brush and freedom. Because of

his fondness of barking, Thomas Say, the naturalist who first described

this species, christened it, _Canis latrans_, which means “barking

wolf.”

[Illustration: COYOTE: PRAIRIE WOLF.]

This animal averages about one-third smaller than the gray wolf, and

while the finest male specimens are, in the autumn, really handsome

animals, at other times the majority are of very ordinary appearance. At

no time, however, even in the dark, is a Coyote a courageous animal. So

far as man is concerned, a band of a thousand coyotes would be as easily

put to flight as one; but in hanging upon the ragged edges of

civilization, and living by its wits, the Coyote is audacity itself. By

inheritance, and also by personal experience, this animal knows to a rod

how far it is safe to trust a man with a gun. If the hunter has left his

gun behind him, the Coyote knows it at once, and boldly flaunts himself

within stone’s throw of his enemy.

The Coyote varies in color quite markedly, exhibiting the gray, brown

and black phases. Formerly it was supposed that one species comprehended

all, but Dr. Merriam’s series of specimens from all parts of the West

and Southwest have led him to separate these animals into eleven

species.

THE FOX DENS, No. 23.

Of the many species of foxes found in North America, three species stand

forth as the types of prominent groups, and it is very desirable that

all three should be well known.

The Red Fox, (_Vulpes fulvus_), is the representative of the group which

contains also the cross fox and black fox of the Northwest. In spite of

dogs, traps, guns, spades and poison, this cunning creature persists in

living in close touch with the poultry yards of civilized man. His

perfect familiarity with old-fashioned dangers enables him to avoid them

all, and no sooner does a new danger menace him than he promptly invents

a way to escape it. The manner in which the Red Fox lives with

civilization without being exterminated really is surprising, and speaks

volumes for the astuteness of this animal.

The geographical range of the Red Fox is very wide, From North Carolina

and Tennessee it extends northward through the whole northeastern United

States, gradually bearing westward to Montana, and northward almost to

the Arctic Ocean. It is the commonest species in Alaska, where it is

found practically everywhere.

The typical Red Fox and its two subspecies, the Cross Fox, (_Vulpes

fulvus decussatus_), and the Black Fox, (_V. f. argentatus_)—the latter

many times miscalled the “Silver Fox”—vary in all possible gradations of

color from bright red to pure black. Often it is difficult to decide

where one type leaves off and another begins. The Cross Fox stands

midway between the Red and Black, with some of the yellow color of the

former on the sides of the neck and behind the foreleg, while the

remainder of the general color is grizzled gray-brown laid across his

shoulders in a more or less distinct cross. The Black Fox varies in

color from very dark iron-gray to dark brown or black, with a slight

wash of white-tipped hairs over the head, body and tail. The tip of the

tail is always white, which is the only constant color mark about him.

The Swift, or Kit Fox, (_Vulpes velox_), is the daintiest, smallest and

liveliest of all American foxes. From his delicate little nose to the

tip of his well-trimmed tail, he is every inch a thoroughbred. His

countenance is bright and pert, and when several specimens are kept

together they are very playful. One striking feature of this little

animal is what may well be termed its trimness. When in fair condition,

its coat of thick, silvery gray fur is as smooth and even as if recently

trimmed by a barber.

[Illustration: SWIFT OR KIT FOX.]

On the western plains, where it once had for companions the buffalo and

prong-horn, the Swift is becoming rare. Its worst enemy is the deadly

strychnine bottle of the ranchman. This species does not thrive in the

Fox Dens, and it will be found in the Burrowing Animal’s Quarters, where

it seems pleased to consider itself at home.

In the Small-Mammal House is shown a new species, closely allied to the

above, from Phoenix, Arizona, recently described by Dr. C. H. Merriam as

_Vulpes macrotis_, or the Large-Eared Swift.

The Gray Fox, (_Urocyon virginianus_), is the fox of the South, even

though it does range northward well into the territory of the red fox.

This species is distinctly smaller and more lightly built than the red,

its hair is not so luxuriant, it is more shy and retiring, and its

colors change very little. When hotly pursued by dogs it often climbs

trees that are quite perpendicular, to a height of twenty feet or more.

In captivity Gray Foxes are forever trying to escape by climbing,

instead of by burrowing, as would naturally be expected. In temper, they

are treacherous to their keepers, and also to each other, and as “pets”

are anything but desirable.

[Illustration: RED FOX.]

The Tasmanian Wolf, or Thylacine, (_Thylacinus cynocephalus_), is a very

strange-looking and interesting creature, about the size of a pointer

dog. Its color is dark yellowish brown, and it has a series of broad

black stripes, or bands, running across its hind quarters and loins. The

wide gape of its mouth reminds one of an iguana or a monitor.

This animal, fully named above, is the largest of the carnivorous

marsupials of Australia, and the female possesses an abdominal pouch in

which she carries her young, like a kangaroo. It is now found only in

Tasmania, and it dwells amongst rocks, in rugged and mountainous

regions. Because of its depredations upon the sheep herds, the Thylacine

has been diligently hunted and destroyed, and now living specimens

rarely are taken.

In the zoological gardens of Europe and America, this species usually is

kept in heated buildings, but it has been ascertained by experiment that

this specimen thrives best in the open air. Living examples in captivity

are now so very rare it is a difficult matter to keep one constantly on

exhibition.

THE OTTER POOLS, No. 31.

The American Otter, (_Lutra canadensis_), is unfortunate in being the

bearer of valuable fur; and in the northern regions, where the cold

causes the development of fur that is available for the use of the

furrier, this creature is so nearly extinct that trappers no longer

pursue it. In the southern States, where its fur is short, rather coarse

and “off color,” the Otter still is found. In some portions of eastern

Florida, and along the coast of South Carolina, it is frequently taken.

In captivity, it often becomes quite tame, even affectionate, and always

is interesting. Unless closely confined, however, it is prone to wander,

and meet premature death.

In captivity the Otter usually is active and restless, and very much in

evidence. Owing to the strength of its jaws, its ability to climb under

certain conditions and its restless activity, it is difficult to confine

a full-grown Otter in anything else than a complete box of iron

cage-work.

Few persons save woodsmen and naturalists are aware of the fact that in

a wild state the Otter is a very playful animal, and is as fond of

sliding down hill, over a wet and muddy slide, with a water plunge at

the bottom, as any young person is of “shooting the chutes.” Like the

small boy with the sled and a snowy hillside, the Otter sometimes

indulges in its sliding pastime for an hour at a time, with a keen

relish for the sport that is quite evident to all who have ever watched

it.

The Otter is a carnivorous animal, and in a wild state lives upon fish,

frogs, crabs, young birds, small mammals, and, in fact, about any living

thing which it can catch.

The Coypu Rat, (_Myopotamus coypu_), of Central and South America, is

interesting because of the fact that it is the largest of all rats or

rat-like animals. In its habits it is as fond of water as the musk-rat.

It is sufficiently clothed with fur to endure outdoor life in the Park,

even in winter, and it has been acclimatized here in one of the other

pools. It breeds persistently, and thrives in captivity, provided it is

treated as it should be.

THE SMALL-MAMMAL HOUSE, No. 35.

The new Small-Mammal House, erected and occupied in 1905, is a very

different structure from the temporary building which formerly occupied

the site. The present building is a twin of the Ostrich House, and in it

much effort has been expended in devising ways and means to keep its

living inhabitants clean, odorless and in good health. Owing, however,

to the musky odors secreted by many of the civet cats and members of the

Marten Family, it is beyond human power to keep a large collection such

as this building contains without a certain amount of wild-animal odor.

Most difficult of all collections to settle satisfactorily in a modern

zoological park or garden is the great _omnium gatherum_ of small

species—and some large ones, also—which fall within the meaning of the

term “small mammals.” The number of mammalian miscellanea which can not

have buildings all their own is really very great. In addition to that

there are always with us a considerable number of young and tender

animals which require small quarters, and close attention. The visitor

will therefore always find in the Small-Mammal House a great array of

viverrine animals, of tropical squirrels and other small rodents, of

mustelines, the nasuas, the small marsupials, young leopards, the lynxes

and their relatives, baby bears, and many other species.

Attention is invited to the great variety of cages in and around this

building, of which there are five different types. The total number is

176. All those on the western side are adjustable as to their bottoms

and sides, so that it is easy to throw several cages into one, and make

cages either very long or very high. The idea of the collapsible cage,

and also the general plan of it, has been copied from the model

developed and in use in the Zoological Garden of Frankfort, Germany, by

Director A. Seitz, to whom this acknowledgment is justly due. It will be

noticed that every animal in this building enjoys the use of an outdoor

cage, which connects directly with its interior quarters.

Of such an odd mixture of animals as we are now to consider, anything

like a perfect systematic zoological arrangement is a practical

impossibility; but as far as it is possible, we will take up the animals

by groups.

On the whole, the most striking animals in the Small-Mammal House are

the small cats and lynxes. Of the spotted cats, the Serval, (_Felis

serval_), of Africa, is one of the rarest. Its long, slender legs, small

head, slender body and round spots proclaim it a near relative of the

cheetah.

The Clouded Leopard, (_Felis nebulosa_).—The dense and humid jungles of

Borneo contain a beautiful tree-climbing leopard whose markings are laid

on its sides in large, elliptical patches of pleasing pattern. This is

the Clouded Leopard, so delicate in captivity that only one out of every

four or five becomes acclimatized outside its native jungles. Our fine

adult specimen, with very long canine teeth suggestive of those of the

saber-toothed tiger, really belongs in the Lion House, but we dare not

move it, for fear the change would in some manner prove fatal to it. It

is an animal of vicious temper, and makes friends with no one. The half

light of its cage is a welcome approach to the dense shadows in which it

lives when at home.

[Illustration: OCELOT.]

The Jungle Cat, (_F. bengalensis_), is a small and inconspicuous type,

as befits an animal which lives by stealth in densely populated regions.

The Ocelot, (_Felis pardalis_), of South and Central America, is a small

spotted cat which very often is called a “young jaguar.” In size it is

the third largest _Felis_ of the American continent; but for all that,

it is so small that an adult specimen would not make more than one

square meal for a hungry jaguar. It is found from southern Texas to

southern Brazil.

The little Margay Cat, (_F. tigrina_), is our smallest and also rarest

spotted cat. It is no larger than a good-sized domestic cat, and its

tawny ground-color is marked all over with round spots. The rarest

American feline in our possession is the queer, otter-like Yaguarundi

Cat, (_F. yaguarundi_), of a uniform gray-brown color, without spots. It

is found in southern Texas and Mexico, and is so seldom seen in

captivity that comparatively few persons north of the Rio Grande are

aware of its existence. Our specimen came from Brownsville, Texas.

[Illustration: COMMON GENET.]

The Bay Lynx, Red Lynx, or Wild Cat, (_Lynx rufus_), is the smallest of

American Lynxes, and it is the one that inhabits the United States

eastward of the great plains. Until further notice, this species will be

found in the Small-Mammal House. It may have a few dark spots, or none

at all. Its color varies so greatly that it is at times impossible to

determine where this species leaves off, and the more heavily spotted

subspecies of the southwest takes its place. The latter is known as the

Spotted Lynx, (_L. r. maculatus_).

The large and important group of Viverrines, or long-faced cat-like

carnivores of the East Indies, (Family _Viverridae_), is well

represented. It is the true Civets which furnish—some of them—the

evil-smelling civet of commerce—an odor which we would gladly do

without. The Common Civet-Cat, (_Viverra zibetha_), is the best known

member of this Family, and it is easily recognized by its large size,

heavily-spotted body and ring-streaked tail. It is common throughout the

Malay Peninsula, and in many other portions of the Malay Archipelago.

The larger Malayan Civet-Cat, (_V. malaccensis_), strongly resembles its

understudy, but its black spots and blotches are larger and more

intense, and in form it is much more robust.

The large and handsome White-Whiskered Paradoxure, (_Paradoxurus

leucomystax_), has been in the Park about six years, and to-day it

coughs and snarls at the visitor just as it did in the beginning. It is

a smooth-coated creature, colored like a puma, and comes from northern

China. Other members of the Family _Viverridae_ contained in the

collection are the Malayan Paradoxure, (_P. hermaphroditus_); the Black

Paradoxure, (_P. niger_); the African Ichneumon, (_Herpestes

ichneumon_), the strange black creature from the Malay Peninsula called

the Binturong, or “Bear-Cat,” (_Arctictis binturong_), and the Suricate,

or Slender-Tailed Meerkat, (_Suricata tetradactyla_), of South Africa.

Into the Small-Mammal House have drifted and comfortably settled down

several canine species which are not so well satisfied, elsewhere. The

Black-Backed Jackal, (_Canis mesomelas_), of Africa, is one of the most

interesting, and it is also the one that thrives best in captivity. It

is very much like a dark phase of the Azara Dog, of South America, and

it is the handsomest of all the Jackals. The Cape Hunting Dog, of

eastern Africa, has for years been present in this building, and it will

be kept as continuously as circumstances will permit.

The New Mexico Desert Fox, (_Vulpes macrotis neomexicanus_), is a small

understudy of the better known Swift or Kit Fox of the northern plains,

but it has larger ears. Neither of these delicate little species seems

to thrive in our large Fox Dens, which seem to be too large for them;

but in this building they thrive and are quite content with life. The

Swift Fox is the four-footed elf of the plains, and it is unfortunate

that the poison laid for the fierce and cruel stock-killing wolves

should prove its extermination—as it surely will, ere long.

The Arctic Fox, (_Vulpes lagopus_).—This creature of the polar world is

a striking example of climatic influence on a species, and also of the

danger that lies in describing a species from a single specimen. In the

far north, the Arctic Fox is snow-white all the year round. Farther

south it is white in winter, but in summer is bluish-brown. In the

southern part of its range, the Aleutian Archipelago for example, except

for an occasional white individual, it is dark all the year round, and

is known only as the Blue Fox. At first it may seem difficult to believe

that these two widely-different extremes are only color-phases of the

same species; but it is quite true. The dark-colored animal is not even

accorded subspecific rank.

On various islands along the Alaska coast, especially in the Aleutian

Archipelago, about forty commercial companies are engaged in breeding

Blue Foxes for their fur, some of them with satisfactory success. The

foxes are fed daily, on cooked corn meal and dried fish. They come up to

be fed, and when the time comes to handle and sort them previous to

killing the annual allotment, they greatly facilitate matters by the

readiness with which they enter box traps.

The great decrease in the annual supply of good fur has caused many

persons to hope that fox-breeding may be developed into a remunerative

industry. Except in Alaska, no extensive experiments in that line have

been made. It is quite desirable that fox-breeding in the United States

should be taken up under state or national auspices, and worked out to a

successful issue. There is good reason to hope and believe that it might

be developed into an important industry.

From Argentina, South America, have come two fine specimens of the Azara

Dog, (_Canis azarae_), which, but for their half dog-like tails might

pass anywhere as rather odd-looking gray foxes. But they are a visible

reminder of the fact that the pampas of South America contain an

extensive series of foxes and wild dogs, which thus far is practically

unknown everywhere north of the Amazon.

The Dingo, or Australian Wild Dog, (_Canis dingo_), is represented by

two specimens which look like ordinary yellow dogs. By many persons it

is believed that this animal was not indigenous to Australia, and was

planted there by man, but the evidence in support of that supposition is

by no means conclusive.

The Coati-Mundi, (pronounced coy-ty mon-day), is for its size one of the

best exhibition animals that can be found outside of the Primate House.

It is closely related to our raccoon, but is far more showy and

interesting. It has a very lively and industrious disposition, is a good

climber, and from dawn until dark is almost constantly on the move.

Although it is a carnivorous animal, and provided with powerful canine

teeth, it is not naturally quarrelsome, but on the contrary is quite

gregarious in its habits. The genus _Nasua_ inhabits Mexico, Central and

South America. We have two species, the Red Coati-Mondi, (_Nasua rufa_),

and the White-Nosed, (_N. narica_).

The Raccoon Dog, of Japan, (_Nyctereutes procyonoides_), is to all

outward appearances a raccoon, but its feet are digitigrade, not

plantigrade, and it is a true dog.

The American Badger, (_Taxidea americana_), is represented by a fine,

large and very light-colored specimen that was presented by President

Roosevelt. The European Badger, (_Meles taxus_), is shown near by.

Our collection of Rodents contains the following important and

representative species of squirrels:

North American.

Gray Squirrel _Sciurus_ _carolinensis_ New York.

Black Squirrel “ “ Ohio.

Fox Squirrel “ _ludovicianus_ Kansas.

Southern Fox Squirrel “ _niger_ Louisiana.

Red Squirrel “ _hudsonius_ New York.

Eastern Chipmunk _Tamias_ _striatus_ “

Western Chipmunk “ _speciosus_ California.

Parry’s Spermophile _Citellus_ _parryi_ Alaska.

Thirteen-Lined _Spermophilus_ _tridecem-lineatus_ Iowa.

Spermophile

Foreign Species.

Malabar Hill Squirrel _Sciurus_ _malabaricus_ S. India.

Indian Hill Squirrel “ _bicolor_ N. India.

Prevost Squirrel “ _prevosti_ Malayana.

Golden-Bellied “ _aureogaster_ Mexico.

Squirrel

Columbia Fire-Backed “ _variabilis_ S. America.

Squirrel

No collection of Rodents is worthy of acceptance by the public without a

fair representation of Porcupines. The most wonderful species is the

African Porcupine, (_Hystrix cristata_), which when disturbed erects a

threatening array of enormously-long, shining black-and-white quills

that are a wonder to behold. The lofty white crest of this animal is one

of its most conspicuous features.

The Indian Crestless Hill Porcupine, (_H. longicauda_), usually present

in our collection, is merely a quiet understudy of the former. Strange

to say—and also provoking—our old friend of the North Woods, the Canada

Porcupine, (_Erethizon dorsatus_), is much more capricious and difficult

to keep for a long period than either of the fine foreign species

already mentioned. It is only the men who know all about animals who can

tell us why nothing seems to exactly satisfy them, and why they will not

breed here, live ten years and be happy. Even the best cage life does

not seem to be good enough for them; but we are still experimenting.

In order that visitors to the Park may at all times be able to see a

Beaver, (_Castor canadensis_), and not be thwarted in that desire by the

very shy habits of the animals in the Beaver Pond, we have a specimen on

exhibition in the Small-Mammal House. This individual came from the Rio

Grande, as a small kit, and has been reared in its present quarters. It

is kept constantly supplied with food--wood, chiefly of poplar and

maple, and clean water in which to bathe.

[Illustration: AFRICAN PORCUPINE.]

The Capybara, (_Hydrochaerus capybara_), is the largest of all gnawing

animals, and the most remarkable rodent in our collection. In form and

size it suggests a large, gray, coarse-haired pig. It is a water-loving

animal, of the American tropics, and lives on the grassy banks of the

delta of the Orinoco, and similar places farther south. It is one of the

best divers of all land animals, and when attacked on land always

plunges into the water and dives for about 100 feet before coming to the

surface. It is strictly a vegetable feeder, and its flesh is very

palatable food. It takes kindly to captivity, and in disposition it is

very affectionate.

The Agouti, (_Dasyprocta_), is to the jungles of South America as the

cotton-tail rabbit is to the forests of the eastern United States; but

structurally it is not closely related to the members of the Rabbit

Family. It lives wholly on the ground, in dense cover, and is very

difficult to shoot. As a rule, it is impossible for dogs to catch it

because it runs so swiftly through the dense cover that they cannot keep

it in sight. There are a number of species, varying in color from dark

brown to golden yellow.

[Illustration: TAMANDUA.]

The Toothless Mammals.—The Order _Edentata_ contains some of the most

odd and remarkable mammals that ever find their way into a zoological

park. They are the armadilloes, ant-eaters and sloths. Without

exception, they are delicate feeders, and difficult to keep for long

periods, and for this reason the number on exhibition constantly varies

between half a score and none at all! As far as it is possible, the

species named below will be kept on exhibition; but these rarities are

difficult to obtain, and the supply must be regarded as intermittent.

The Nine-Banded Armadillo, (_Tatu novemcinctum_), of southern Texas and

Arizona, and southward, is the only edentate found in the United States.

Its total length, from nose to tail-tip, is about 26 inches, and it is

about as large as an opossum. Its strangest feature is the horny shell,

with 9 jointed bands in the middle, which Nature has designed for the

animal’s protection. It lives in burrows in the earth, and in a wild

state it feeds on a mixed diet of worms, ants, snails, beetles,

grasshoppers and other insects.

The Six-Banded Armadillo, (_Dasypus sexcinctus_), of South America, has

a much stronger and more bony shell than the preceding species, but very

similar habits. The Three-Banded Armadillo, (_Tolypeutes tricinctus_),

is the most remarkable of all—and also the most difficult to obtain. It

is able to convert itself into a round ball covered at all points by

bony armor, and remarkably well protected from the teeth of predatory

animals.

[Illustration: GREAT ANT-EATER.]

The Great Ant-Eater, (_Myrmecophaga jubata_).—This is a very remarkable

animal, and usually is to be found alive in the Small-Mammal House. Its

anatomical peculiarities are apparent at a glance. Its toothless jaws

are enormously elongated, and taper to a rounded point, where the mouth

opens as a narrow slit, scarcely large enough to admit the large end of

a lead pencil. Its front claws are large and strong, for use in tearing

open ant-hills and decayed logs; and the creature walks upon them as if

club-footed. Its tail is long and thick, and bears a luxuriant brush, of

coarse, wavy hair more than a foot long. The negroes of British Guiana

gravely inform travellers that the Ant-Eater uses his bushy tail as a

broom, with which he sweeps up ants in order to devour them wholesale.

As may be inferred from the total absence of teeth, this strange

creature lives chiefly upon crawling insects. In devouring the dreadful

ants, which in a South American forest often make life a burden, it

helps to preserve the balance of Nature. In captivity the food of this

animal consists of milk, raw eggs and ground meat. In taking its food it

thrusts out from four to eight inches of round, wormlike tongue, which

contrary to many published statements, is not covered with sticky

saliva.

[Illustration: SIX-BANDED ARMADILLO.]

The Tamandua, (_Tamandua tetradactyla_), is a smaller ant-eater than the

preceding species, of tree-climbing habits, with a proportionately

shorter head, no long hair on its tail, and extremely large front claws.

It is found in Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, and in fact that greater

portion of the region of tropical forests on this continent south of

Mexico. Its tail is prehensile, or grasping, and in climbing is used

almost constantly.

The Sloths are the slowest, the most helpless and defenseless of the

edentates. They subsist chiefly upon leaves, they climb no more swiftly

than a man, and they escape their enemies through the resemblance of

their pelage to the rough bark of the tree-trunks among which they live.

They have a few teeth, but none for defense, and their claws are of use

only in climbing, except that they can pinch with them.

Two species of Sloth are occasionally seen in the Zoological Park, but

usually _in the Primate House_, where the high temperature is better

suited to their needs.

The Three-Toed Sloth, (_Bradypus tridactylus_), is the one with a brown

“saddle-mark” of short hair in the middle of its back. The remainder of

its pelage is coarse and long, and its greenish tint renders it a close

imitation of algae-covered tree-bark. The Two-Toed Sloth, (_Choloepus

hoffmani_), is much larger than the preceding, and lives longer in

captivity. Four fine adult specimens occupy a large cage at the Primate

House, where they seem to be fully acclimatized. In form and habit they

are remarkable animals, and well worthy of close attention.

[Illustration: TWO-TOED SLOTH.]

The Egg-Laying Mammals.—For several months there were exhibited here two

Echidnas—of all small mammals ever seen alive in New York the most

wonderful. The Echidna comes from Australia, the home of remarkable

types of animals, and belongs to the lowest Order of Mammals,

(_Monotremata_). Like its distant relative, the duck-billed platypus, it

reproduces by _laying eggs_! Its back is covered with short but very

thick spines, and its nose is a long, slender beak, absolutely unique.

Other examples of this species will be exhibited whenever possible.

THE PUMA AND LYNX HOUSE, No. 33A.

Near the Small-Mammal House (No. 35) will be found a log cabin with its

entire front opening into two wire-covered yards. The interior of the

building is provided with sleeping-dens in which the occupants of the

two enclosures can keep dry and warm. This installation is for lynxes,

but half of it is occupied by pumas. Already it has fully proven the

desirability of keeping lynxes and pumas constantly in the open air, and

without artificial heat. To lynxes especially there is nothing more

deadly than a well-heated room, indoors.

The Puma, (_Felis concolor_), is described in the section relating to

the Lion House, where other Pumas are exhibited (page 78).

Of the Lynxes, we have two well-defined species, and one subspecies. The

Canada Lynx, (_Lynx canadensis_), is well represented in the southern

compartment of the Puma House, where a fine adult pair has become

acclimatized. This is the _Loup Cervier_ of the French Canadians, and it

is truly the Lynx of Canada and the subarctic North. It has _no spots on

its body_, and its pelage is a cold pepper-and-salt gray color. Its feet

are large and heavily furred, and it has a long, black hair-pencil on

the tip of each ear. A large specimen stands 18 inches high, and weighs

22 pounds. The food of the American Lynxes generally consists of hares

and rabbits, ground birds of all kinds, and anything else that can be

caught and killed, except porcupine. To man they are not “dangerous

animals.”

THE BURROWING MAMMALS, AND OTHERS, No. 42.

North America is wonderfully rich in species of gnawing animals, and the

end is not yet. The investigations of our mammalogists are adding new

species with a degree of rapidity and parallelism that is fairly

bewildering.

It is the duty of the Zoological Society to do its utmost to increase as

much as possible the sum total of knowledge of our largest Order of

Mammals. Manifestly, however, it is impracticable to do more than place

before visitors a reasonable number of well-chosen types, which shall

represent as many as possible of the twelve Families, and also the

genera most worth knowing.

The most serious obstacle in the way of anyone who attempts to exhibit

collections of living rodents lies in the natural propensity of so many

species to keep out of sight during the daytime. This is particularly

true of the members of the Mouse, Pocket Gopher, and Pouched Rat

Families, comprising about three hundred species in all. With very few

exceptions, the whole matter of the exhibition of collections of living

rodents is something new, and every step is an experiment. In the belief

that even the most shy burrowing animals will appreciate abundant room,

perfectly natural surroundings, plenty of food, and immunity from

annoyance, and eventually fall into the habit of spending many of the

daylight hours above ground, as do prairie-dogs, the Society has

constructed a series of fifteen small yards, each 10×20 feet, bounded by

walls going down to bedrock, and enclosed above by a box-like

arrangement of very light wire-netting 5 feet high. The ground is

chiefly undisturbed soil of a firm and gravelly nature, thoroughly

drained, and all earth filling has been tightly rammed into place to

prevent caving in the burrows. Above ground, each yard contains

weathered rocks, stumps, and hollow logs in abundance.

In these fifteen yards, each of which will hold specimens of at least

two or three species, will be placed strongly marked types of those

families whose representatives are most numerous in North America, and

also the least known, only a few of which may be mentioned here.

The Sewellel Family, (_Aplodontidae_), contains five or six species and

is of unusual scientific interest. The Sewellel, Mountain Beaver, Farmer

or “Showt’l” (_Aplodontia rufus_ and _major_), is an animal of the size

and general appearance of a large, short-tailed muskrat. It inhabits a

few localities in remote regions in the mountain-valleys of northern

California, Oregon, Washington, and southern British Columbia. It feeds

like a beaver, climbs bushes four feet high, burrows in _wet_ ground,

and fights like a little fiend when brought to bay. Notwithstanding the

size of this animal, it is very seldom seen, and is but little known.

The Squirrel Family, (_Sciuridae_), is large (one hundred and forty-one

species), very interesting, and entitled to much consideration. In the

present enclosure will be shown in summer many species of interesting

ground squirrels, chipmunks, and marmots. In winter all the squirrels,

save one or two hardy native species, will be found in the Small-Mammal

House, near by.

The Rabbit Family, (_Leporidae_), is one of the most difficult to

install and exhibit. Its members are large and showy, but for several

reasons it is very difficult to keep them on exhibition in captivity. In

time, however, all four of the great groups—Rabbit, Varying Hare, Jack

Hare, and also the Pikas, forming the allied Family _Ochotonidae_—will

be represented by specimens.

Just what can be accomplished satisfactorily with the most interesting

members of the Jumping Mouse, Pouched Rat, and Pocket Gopher Families,

remains to be determined by trial. If they can be induced to show

themselves to visitors, during daylight hours, they will be kept for

exhibition; otherwise not. At present, some examples of these species

can be seen in the Reptile House.

In Winter.—In the temperate zone, when “winter comes to rule the varied

year,” all the burrowing animals must retire to their burrows, live upon

their buried stores of winter food, and hibernate until spring. The

tropical species do not know how to hibernate, and therefore they must

be taken indoors, or they perish.

In order that our native species of rodents may be seen all winter, and

that the tropical species may be kept alive, nearly all the animals that

in summer live in the Burrowing Mammal Quarters are removed in autumn to

the well-warmed Small-Mammal House. It also happens that in summer a few

of the small carnivores, and all armadilloes, are kept in these

Quarters.

In addition to the rodents which it is practicable to exhibit in these

enclosures, the summer season will find some of them occupied by certain

especially interesting species which need the soil of Mother Earth as

well as sunlight and air. Here will be found the Armadilloes, the

Nasuas, the Raccoon Dogs, the Swift Foxes and a few others, which in

winter belong in the Small-Mammal House.

THE PRAIRIE-DOG VILLAGE, No. 41.

The Western Prairie-“Dog,” or Prairie Marmot, (_Cynomys

ludovicianus_).—Occupying a conspicuous hill-top near the Small-Deer

House, and overlooking the Wild-Fowl Pond, is a circular enclosure, 80

feet in diameter, surrounded by an iron fence with an overhang, with

walls going down to bedrock. This contains about fifty fat and jolly

little Prairie Marmots, one-half of which are the gift of a Montana

ranchman, Mr. Howard Eaton. The soil of the enclosure has never been

disturbed, and there is no danger that the little creatures ever will be

smothered in their burrows, as frequently happens in earth that has once

been dug up and filled in again.

Owing to its optimistic and even joyous disposition, the Prairie-“Dog”

has many friends, and “happy as a Prairie-'Dog’” would be a far better

comparison than “happy as a king.” His cousin, the woodchuck, has the

air of being perpetually “in the dumps,” but the Prairie-“Dog”—never.

His so-called bark is really a laugh, and his absurd little tail was

given to him solely as a means of visible expression of good nature. But

he has his enemies and detractors. The coyote loves his plump and

toothsome body; the “granger” hates him for the multitude of his holes,

and puts spoonfuls of poisoned wheat into his burrow.

THE BEAR DENS, No. 37.

The bears of the world form a very interesting group; and when its

representatives are properly installed—in large, open yards, with

abundant sunlight, fresh air and room for exercise—they develop finely,

live happily, and furnish endless entertainment. Under proper

conditions, bears are cheerful animals, full of the playful spirit that

robs captivity of its chief terror. To confine large bears singly, in

small cages, or in wet-floored, high-walled dungeons, or in the

unspeakable “pits” of mediaeval type, is a sin against Nature. It is to

be noted, however, that small and timid bears, like _Ursus japonicus_,

are better off in small cages than in the very large ones; and it is for

this reason that eight small dens have been provided, opposite the

original series.

The Zoological Society has put forth considerable effort in constructing

a series of nine large Bear Dens which provide ideal conditions for

their inmates. Bears do not need _buildings_! Their habits call for

large, open yards, properly situated, with snug and dry sleeping-dens

attached, to which they can retire whenever they wish. To them, masonry

walls are worse than useless, for they cut off sunlight and promote

dampness; but rocks and trees upon which to climb are very beneficial.

In warm weather, all bears are fond of bathing, and a bathing pool in

each cage is very necessary.

_It is cruelty to animals_ for visitors to throw peanuts, or food of any

kind, into our bear dens; and it is _strictly forbidden_. All persons

who do not wish to be reprimanded in public, or arrested, are advised to

refrain from it. Teasing with food always irritates bears, sets them to

fighting, spoils their dispositions and _renders them dangerous to the

keepers who have to go in with them_! _All visitors who are law-abiding,

and friendly to the Zoological Society, are requested to assist the

keepers and policemen in preventing lawless persons from throwing food

into the bear dens._ A stern reprimand often prevents serious trouble.

[Illustration: POLAR BEARS.

Showing a portion of their den and pool cut from the solid rock.]

The bears of North America form four well-defined groups, as follows:

The Polar Bear.

The Grizzly Bear.

The Alaskan Brown Bears.

The Black Bears, and their allies.

Up to this date (April 1, 1913), 24 species and subspecies have been

described, and it is reasonably certain that much more work remains to

be done on the members of this group of animals before the status of

each valid and invalid species will be rendered thoroughly clear.

The most noteworthy species are as follows:

THE MOST IMPORTANT SPECIES OF NORTH AMERICAN BEARS.

_Ursus maritimus_, (Desm.), Polar Bear. Arctic

regions generally.

The Brown Bears. _Ursus middendorffi_, (Merriam), Kadiak Bear.

Kadiak Is., Alaska.

_Ursus dalli_, (Merr.), Yakutat Bear. Yakutat Bay,

Alaska.

_Ursus eulophus_, (Merr.), Admiralty Bear.

Admiralty Is., Alaska.

_Ursus gyas_, (Merr.), Peninsula Bear. Portage

Bay, Alaska Peninsula.

The Grizzly Bears. _Ursus Horribilis_, (Ord.), Grizzly Bear:

Silver-Tip. Wyoming and Utah to Alaska.

_Ursas horribilis horriaeus_, (Baird), Mexican

Grizzly. Southwestern New Mexico.

_Ursus richardsoni_, (Swainson), Barren-Ground

Grizzly. Great Slave Lake region, and

Barren-Grounds.

The Black Bears. _Ursus americanus_, (Pallas), Black Bear. Eastern

North America.

_Ursus luteolus_, (Griffith), Louisiana Bear.

Louisiana and Texas.

_Ursus floridanus_, (Merr.), Everglade Bear.

Florida.

_Ursus emmonsi_, (Dall), Glacier Bear. St. Elias

Alps, Yakutat Bay.

_Ursus kermodei_, (Hornaday), Inland White Bear.

Northwestern British Columbia.

The Polar Bear, (_Ursus maritimus_).—In nearly every collection of

living bears the individuals of this species are the most showy and

attractive. Their white coats quickly catch the eye of the visitor, and

whether young or old, they are generally the most active and playful of

all captive bears. In cold weather, when other bears lie in the sun, or,

if permitted, curl up in the straw of their sleeping dens, the Polar

Bear will disport himself in the freezing cold water of his swimming

pool, and joyously play with a cake of ice until the sight of it makes

one shiver.

The Polar Bear Den is situated at the north end of Rocking-Stone Hill,

about two hundred feet from the north end of the main series of Bear

Dens. It is reached by descending the steps leading toward the Beaver

Pond, and turning to the right. From the Rocking-Stone Restaurant, the

Polar Bears are quickly reached by descending the hill toward the north.

Although the Polar Bear inhabits practically the whole of the Arctic

Ocean and its numerous islands, it is by no means the most northerly

warm-blooded mammal. Nansen found fox tracks at 85° N., but the most

northerly bear observed was on the 84th parallel. The favorite home of

this animal is the edge of the great polar ice cap, where Neptune and

the “Frost King” wage continuous warfare. He seldom ventures more than a

day’s journey inland, on any shore. In winter, as the edge of the

ice-pack moves southward, and in summer when it retreats northward, he

follows it in order to keep in touch with the ringed seals and walrus

that also go with it.

[Illustration: POLAR BEAR “SILVER KING.”]

The power of the Polar Bear to resist ice-cold water—nay, even to enjoy

it—may fairly be regarded as one of the wonders of Nature. On the coast

of Alaska this strange creature will plunge into the Arctic Ocean and

swim miles from shore, through tossing fields of broken ice, and

wherever the mother leads, her cubs follow.

In the Autumn of 1910, the sealing steamer “_Boethic_” arrived at New

York bringing two adult Polar Bears that were captured in the summer of

that year by Mr. Paul J. Rainey. Both animals were presented to the

Zoological Society, and the largest one called “Silver King” occupies

the cage that was specially built for the polar bears, and the female is

exhibited in very comfortable quarters, built for her near that

installation. Owing to their savage temper neither of these bears ever

can be kept with other bears, nor can any keeper ever enter the cage of

either. “Silver King” weighs 880 pounds and is probably the largest

Polar Bear ever captured alive and unhurt. While the female is not as

large as “Silver King,” she is in every way as perfect a specimen.

The Yakutat Bear, (_Ursus dalli_).—In 1899, we received from Hudson

Lake, Copper River District, Alaska, two young Alaskan Brown Bears which

for some time we believed would prove to represent the species found on

Kadiak Island. In this belief they were for a time labeled as Kadiak

Bears, (_U. middendorffi_), and so entered provisionally in previous

editions of the Guide Book. The maturity of the animals has proven that

this supposition was erroneous. The extremely short and thick muzzle of

the adult male proves conclusively that they are not identical with the

long-skulled species of Kadiak. This interesting pair, absolutely

identical in color with _middendorffi_, are now identified, pending

further revisions of our _Urisdae_, as _Ursus dalli_.

[Illustration: SYRIAN BEAR.]

This species, and the two following, well represent the group of big

Alaskan Brown Bears, which are quite distinct from the grizzlies and

blacks. They are characterized by their great size, high shoulders,

massive heads, shaggy brown pelage, and large claws. They live chiefly

upon salmon, which they catch from the small streams, but they also

devour great quantities of _grass_.

The Peninsula Bear, (_Ursus gyas_), of Moeller Bay, well down the

Alaskan Peninsula, may at once be recognized by its light

brownish-yellow color, and its great size for a bear born in 1904. Its

claws are of enormous thickness.

This animal is now beyond doubt one of the two largest bears in

captivity, his only rival being in the Zoological Park at Washington.

The Admiralty Bear, (_Ursus eulophus_), represents a large species

originally discovered on Admiralty Island, southern Alaska. Its dark

brown color is very much like that of the Yakutat and Kadiak bears.

The Grizzly Bear, or “Silver-Tip Grizzly,” (_Ursus horribilis_).—The

rapid disappearance of this species from the United States renders all

living examples of it specially interesting.

Of all bears, the Silver-Tip Grizzly is the most savage and dangerous.

He is easily angered, and when wounded or harried not only becomes

furiously vindictive, but he also possesses a degree of courage which

renders him a dangerous antagonist. As a general thing, a Grizzly Bear,

like a lion or tiger, will run as soon as he discovers the presence of

his only enemy—man; but if he is wounded or cornered—or _thinks_ he is

cornered—he assumes the aggressive, without an instant’s delay.

Unfortunately, the largest Silver-Tip Grizzlies ever killed have been

too far from scales to make it possible to weigh them.

The most interesting specimen of the Rocky Mountain Silver-Tip now on

exhibition is a dark-colored and very handsome specimen, named

“Engineer,” obtained in Meeker, Colorado, by Professor Henry F. Osborn,

and presented to the Society by the Engineers’ Club of New York City.

The color of this individual is darker than the most common type of the

Silver-Tip, which is sometimes almost as gray as a badger.

A very beautiful male Silver-Tip, from Wyoming, is much lighter in color

than the Colorado specimen. Its face and head are so light-colored it

would be called by Rocky Mountain hunters a “Bald-Faced” Grizzly. A

third specimen was obtained for the Society at White Horse, Yukon

Territory, in 1905, and its development will be watched with much

interest. Throughout the Rocky Mountain region the “Silver-Tip” and the

“Grizzly” are identical; but the color of the species varies

considerably.

In a wild state Grizzly Bears live on berries and fruits of all kinds

available, succulent roots, grubs, carrion if it comes handy, and live

game if it can be killed. In the cattle-growing states bordering the

Rocky Mountains, owing to their cattle-killing propensities, a bounty of

from twelve to fifteen dollars per head is paid for their destruction.

The Black Bear, (_Ursus americanus_).—Until quite recently all black

bears in North America were referred to a single species, with the type

of which most persons are familiar. Even during the last twenty years

living representatives of the Black Bear group have been found in nearly

every state and territory of the United States, and also in northern

Mexico, Labrador, Province of Quebec, Alberta, Assiniboia, British

Columbia, Alaska, and the Mackenzie River basin. Our collection contains

Black Bears representing several widely separated localities.

The Spectacled Bear, (_Ursus ornatus_).—After ten years of constant

effort the Zoological Park finally acquired late in 1910, a fine male

specimen of the very rare and little known Spectacled Bear of the Andes

of Ecuador and Peru. This zoological prize was procured for us in Quito,

by Mr. Edgar Beecher Bronson (Author of “In Closed Territory,”) and by

him presented to the Society. “Frederico” is distinguished by a glossy

jet-black coat, very small ears, long feet and a large imperfect circle

of white around each eye, with white bands down the cheeks and throat.

In size it matches a small American black bear. As soon as the new bear

dens are finished, this animal will be removed from the Small-Mammal

House to one of them. If this species was ever before exhibited in North

America, we have never heard of it.

The Andean Black Bear, (_Ursus ornatus thomasi_), from Southern

Columbia, South America, is a subspecies of the spectacled bear, with no

“spectacles” around its eyes, and no white markings save under its chin

and throat. This specimen is smaller than the one from Quito.

Practically nothing is known of the habits of these two species.

The Brown Bear of Europe, (_Ursus arctos_), is represented by two

specimens from Central Russia which bear a general resemblance to Rocky

Mountain grizzlies. This is so striking that were they not labeled very

few persons would suspect their European birth. They have the high

shoulders and grizzly brown coat of the silver-tip, and in the Rocky

Mountains would be considered good examples of _Ursus horribilis_.

This pair has bred four times and reared some very fine cubs.

The Syrian Bear, (_Ursus syriacus_), is well represented by a fine

specimen from Trebizond, Asia Minor. This bear is of a pale yellow

color, with very high shoulders, narrow head and smooth pelage. The

Syrian bear represents “the bears of the Bible,” which appeared in

punishment of the children who were disrespectful to the prophet Elisha.

Bears of this species are often trained to dance, and perform various

tricks at command, and usually lead very miserable lives at the hands of

gypsies and other bear specialists of nomadic habits.

[Illustration: SPECTACLED BEAR.]

The Hairy-Eared Bear, (_Ursus piscator_), a species very rarely seen in

captivity, is represented by two fine specimens from the Altai

Mountains, Central Asia. This animal is sometimes called, on account of

its peculiar light brown color, the Isabella Bear. Its more correct name

has been bestowed on account of its large and very hairy ears. It

inhabits northeastern Asia, as far southwestward as the Altai Mountains.

The fine pair exhibited were presented to the Society by Mr. Carl

Hagenbeck.

The Himalayan Black Bear, (_Ursus torquatus_), is the handsomest of the

four living species of black bears, and can easily be identified

anywhere by three distinct characters, neither of which is possessed by

any other black bear. They are, a _pure white chin_, _long side-whiskers

on the jaws and sides of the neck_ and _very large ears_. Up to this

date the geographic range of this very interesting animal has been

recorded as extending from eastern Persia through Beluchistan,

Afghanistan, Assam, and South China to Formosa; but the three specimens

exhibited were taken in northern Japan, where the existence of this

species seems to be established beyond question.

[Illustration: EUROPEAN BROWN BEAR.

Two cubs are nursing.]

The Japanese Black Bear, (_Ursus japonicus_), from northern Japan, is

one of the smallest of living bears, being only slightly larger than the

Malay sun bear. In general appearance it suggests a small edition of the

American black bear. The first specimen exhibited at the Zoological Park

was very good-natured, but all these received since are nervous and

irritable, and also very timid.

The Sloth Bear, (_Ursus labiatus_), often called the Long-Lipped Bear,

can be recognized as far as it can be seen by its shaggy mop of

enormously long, black hair, its white muzzle, and its very long, white

claws. It is a creature of many peculiarities. It inhabits India

generally in forest regions. This is Kipling’s “Baloo.”

LIST OF BEARS IN THE ZOOLOGICAL PARK.

April 1, 1913.

2 Polar Bears _Ursus maritimus_ from Ellesmere Land.

2 Yakutat Bears _Ursus dalli_ “ Alaska.

1 Peninsula Bear _Ursus gyas_ “ Alaska Peninsula.

1 Admiralty Bear _Ursus eulophus_ “ Adm. Is., Alaska.

3 Kadiak Bears _Ursus middendorffi_ “ Kadiak Island.

1 Kobuk Brown Bear Undetermined “ Kobuk River, AL

1 Grizzly Bear _Ursus horribilis_ “ Colorado.

1 “ “ “ “ “ Yukon Terr.

1 “ “ “ “ “ Wyoming.

1 Spectacled Bear _Ursus ornatus_ “ Equador.

1 Andean Black Bear _Ursus ornatus “ Columbia, S. A.

thomasi_

1 Black Bear _Ursus americanus_ “ Pennsylvania.

1 “ “ “ “ “ Virginia.

3 “ “ “ “ “ Alaska.

1 “ “ “ “ “ West Ontario.

1 “ “ “ “ “ Mexico.

1 Cinnamon Bear “ “ “ Colorado.

1 “ “ “ “ “ Wyoming.

1 Syrian Bear _Ursus syriacus_ “ Asiatic Turkey.

3 Brown Bears _Ursus arctos_ “ Central Russia.

2 Hairy-Eared Bears _Ursus piscator_ “ N. W. Mongolia.

1 Himalayan Black _Ursus torquatus_ “ Japan.

Bear

1 Japanese Bear _Ursus japonicus_ “ Japan.

1 Sloth Bear _Ursus labiatus_ “ India.

2 Yezo Bears _Ursus ferox_ “ Yezo, Japan.

1 Malay Sun Bear _Ursus malayanus_ “ Borneo.

36 specimens, representing 18 species.

The Malay Sun Bear, (_Ursus malayanus_), is the smallest bear in the

world, also the ugliest and the most ill-tempered. When fully enraged,

it sometimes barks like a dog. Its hair is very short and close, and its

head and feet seem to be too large for its body. This species inhabits

Borneo, Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula and Farther India. Two specimens

will be found _in the Small-Mammal House_.

THE RACCOON TREE.

The Raccoon Tree.—A permanent installation for Raccoons has been

established near the southern end of the Bear Dens, where its inmates

will be near their plantigrade relatives. At the foot of the steps

leading down from the Rocking Stone, a cedar-tree, forty feet in height,

has been enclosed by an elliptical iron fence provided with a

sheet-metal overhang which is not negotiable by any _Procyon_. Inside

the fence is a dry yard, a pool of water for all purposes, and the trunk

of the tree is surrounded by a rustic shelter house, divided into ten

warm and dry compartments. Underneath the house is a clean and smooth

wooden floor, on which the food is served.

The smooth, horizontal limbs of a cedar-tree are grateful and comforting

to a dozing Raccoon, and the tree is not so high that the animals can

climb beyond the visual power of the visitor.

THE BEAVER POND, No. 29.

Hidden away in the deep valley between high hills of virgin forest lies

the Beaver Pond. The spot is so secluded, so silent and primeval, that

it seems like the heart of the Adirondack wilderness. Lying fairly in

the lap of the granite hills is a three-acre oval of level swamp, which

recently was full of woodland rubbish and choked by rank weeds. The

seclusion of the spot, the splendid forest, the food-wood and the

possibilities of the dam, all naturally suggested the beaver.

In order that the building of a dam by the beavers would not raise the

water level so high as to flood the roots of a number of fine forest

trees and destroy them, two feet of soil was taken out of the swamp, and

at the same time a broad outlet was excavated. A fence of small iron

bars, with an overhang, was designed to encircle an area of about three

acres. Within the enclosure thus made, stand several large forest

trees—chiefly oak, sweet gum, and maple—which have been protected by

guards of wire and corrugated iron. The small maples, however, have been

given over to the beavers, to cut down and use as food-wood and also in

their dam-building operations.

The Beaver Colony in our pond is in good working order, and its display

of work makes a highly satisfactory exhibit. The dam, about 40 feet long

and 4 feet high, was built of poles and sticks which were cut, peeled,

floated down and placed by the beavers, and pointed up with mud. There

is a house 10 feet in diameter and 4 feet high, similarly constructed.

Within the enclosure about twenty saplings and trees have been cut down

by the beavers and used up for food and building materials.

For this colony the Society is indebted to Mr. Hugh J. Chisholm, who

procured for it two specimens from Canada and three from Maine.

The American Beaver, (_Castor canadensis_), is a remarkable animal. In

original thought it is equalled by few animals, and in industry by none.

With the possible exception of the porcupine, it is the largest gnawing

animal in North America, once was widely distributed, and its beautiful

fur has been in demand ever since the days of the colonists.

Unfortunately, the Beaver’s intelligence was directed chiefly to the

building of dams, canals, and houses, and procuring an abundant supply

of food-wood, rather than in providing itself with means of escape from

its arch enemy—the man with a steel trap. Because of the constant demand

for its fur, this animal has been so nearly exterminated throughout the

United States that practically none remains save where they are rigidly

protected. At present the largest colonies known are those in the

Yellowstone Park, although in Canada and the Northwest many still

remain.

The most wonderful thing about the Beaver is the manner in which he

builds dams, to make ponds deep enough for his timber-floating

operations, and to afford him a submarine passage to his house. Give him

a valley and a stream of water, and he will gladly make a pond out of

whatever raw materials are at hand. He uses the four-foot sticks from

which he has eaten the bark for food, and with these, and an abundance

of mud, he will raise a good strong dam to a height of four feet, and a

width on the ground of ten feet or more. The mud used is dug out of the

bottom and sides of his pond, and carried, while swimming, between his

paws, with his front feet holding it against his breast. The sticks used

in the dam are thrust endwise into the mud on top of the dam, and the

mud used is patted down with his fore feet. The tail is not used as a

trowel, but in swimming it is the Beaver’s propeller.

In captivity the Beaver is not wholly a satisfactory animal. Like some

human craftsmen, he positively declines to work under observation, and

performs nearly all his tasks at night. He thinks nothing of gnawing

down a tree a foot in diameter, and cutting its limbs into pieces which

he can handle while swimming. If he can secure enough food-wood of kinds

of his liking, he eats little else. Besides building dams to create

ponds in which he can take refuge when hard pressed, he constructs

canals, and houses for winter use. He also digs burrows into high banks;

but his entrances to his various homes always are under water.

THE ECONOMIC RODENT-REPTILE COLLECTION.

As an answer to a frequent question—“Of what use are reptiles?”—a new

collection has been installed in the Reptile House. It is supplied with

descriptive labels, and serves several purposes. In the first place

there is presented an elaborate series of the small gnawing animals, or

rodents, a number of the species of which are highly injurious to the

interests of agriculturists; secondly, the exhibition contains a large

series of those species of snakes that prey upon the destructive

rodents,—thus presenting for observation the serpents of marked economic

value. Finally, the entire series stands as a clear demonstration of the

perfect logic of Nature in which the production of all animal life is

carefully balanced; for a part of the exhibition is composed of

representative species of mammals that, in turn, prey upon the serpents,

thus keeping even the destroyers of the smaller injurious creatures

within bounds!

[Illustration: BRAZILIAN TREE PORCUPINE.]

During the past two years the collection of rodents has been steadily

growing in importance. The following is a list of the species on

exhibition at the close of the year 1912:

RODENTS IN THE ZOOLOGICAL PARK.

HARES AND RABBITS (_Leporidae_)

Mexican Swamp Rabbit _Lepus palustris_.

Cotton-Tail Rabbit _Lepus palustris mallurus_.

Domestic Rabbits, various breeds (Nursery stock.)

SQUIRRELS AND MARMOTS (_Sciuridae_)

Thirteen-Lined Spermophile _Spermophilus 13-lineatus_.

Desert Spermophile _Spermophilus leucurus_.

Richardson Spermophile _Spermophilus richardsoni_.

Woodchuck _Arctomys monax_.

Prairie Dog _Cynomys ludovicianus_.

European Squirrel _Sciurus vulgaris_.

Mexican Squirrel _Sciurus aureogaster_.

Central American Squirrel _Sciurus variabilis_.

Cuban Squirrel _Sciurus chrysurus_.

Variable Squirrel _Sciurus griseo-flavus_.

Gray Squirrel _Sciurus carolinensis_.

Black Squirrel _Sciurus carolinensis niger_.

Fox Squirrel _Sciurus ludovicianus_.

White-Headed Squirrel _Sciurus macrouroides_.

Malabar Squirrel _Sciurus malabaricus_.

Chipmunk _Tamicis striatus_.

African Ground Squirrel _Xerus capensis_.

Flying Squirrel _Sciuropterus volans_.

BEAVERS (_Castoridae_)

American Beaver _Castor canadensis_.

KANGAROO RATS (_Heteromyidae_)

Kangaroo Rat _Dipodomys merriami_.

POCKET GOPHERS (_Geomyidae_)

Harsh-Coated Pocket Gopher _Geomys hispidus_.

DORMICE (_Gliridae_)

Squirrel-Tailed Dormouse _Myoxus glis_.

Lesser Dormouse _Myoxus dryas_.

English Dormouse _Muscardinus avellanarius_.

MICE AND RATS (_Muridae_)

Domestic Mouse—Unusual Color Phases _Mus musculus_.

Japanese Waltzing Mouse _Mus musculus_.

Black Rat _Mus rattus_.

Black-and-White Rat _Mus norwegicus_.

Gray-and-White Rat _Mus norwegicus_.

Porcupine Mouse _Acomys cahirinus_.

Egyptian Gerbille _Gerbillus pyramidum_.

Muskrat _Fiber zibethicus_.

Cotton Rat _Sigmodon hispidus_.

JERBOAS (_Dipodidae_)

Greater Jerboa _Dipus aegyptius_.

COYPU AND SPINY RATS (_Octodontidae_)

Coypu Rat _Myocastor coypu_.

Hutia: Cuban Tree Rat _Capromys pilorides_.

Short-Tailed Hutia _Capromys browni_.

PORCUPINES (_Hystricidae_)

Canada Porcupine _Erethizon dorsatus_.

Brazilian Porcupine _Sphingurus prehensilis_.

African Porcupine _Hystrix cristata_.

VISCACHAS AND CHINCHILLAS (_Chinchillidae_)

Viscacha _Lagostoma trichodactylus_.

AGOUTIS (_Dasyproctidae_)

Golden Agouti _Dasyprocta agouti_.

Gray Agouti _Dasyprocta prymnolopha_.

CAVIES (_Caviidae_)

Domestic Cavy _Cavia porcellus_.

Capybara _Hydrochaerus capybara_.

Patagonian Cavy _Dolichotis patagonica_.

[Illustration: MUTE AND TRUMPETER SWANS.]