Grotesque, and unlike what we fancy a reality,--such as those creatures
which the wild imagination of the painters of bygone days delighted in
producing,--is the curious matamata (Chelys matamata), found along the
banks of the Amazon, as well as in Guiana. It is covered with armour on
the back, neck, and head. On its head it wears what looks like a
curiously-shaped helmet, with a long tube in front, which serves as a
snout; while its feet are webbed, and armed with sharp claws at the end
of its thick, powerful legs. From the chin hang down two fringe-like
membranes, and the throat and neck are similarly ornamented. It is
often three feet long; and, from its formidable appearance, it might
easily make a stranger eager to get out of its way. This helmet
consists of two membraneous prolongations of the skin, which project on
either side from its broad and flattened head. A long, flexible, double
tube forms its snout. The shield on the back is marked with three
distinct ridges, or keels, along it, and is broader before than behind.
It has a stumpy, pointed tail.
This curious monster, concealing itself among the reeds on the bank,
lies in wait for its prey, darting forward its long neck, and seizing
with its sharp beak any passing fish, reptile, or water-fowl; or, should
they not come near enough, it swims at a great rate after its prey.