Page:Babyhood of Wild Beasts.djvu/252

204 while she picks her food. Life isn't all sunshine—there are troublesome mosquitoes and gnats; and the moose doesn't like that any better than we do. By Fall he gets sleek and round, his antlers have budded, and he is very proud.

Young moose have been taken by hunters and trappers and tamed. They make delightful pets and are as docile as a calf.

A baby moose is an inquisitive little creature. The ways of the world interest him and he is curious to find the ins and outs of life.

The universe is such a wonderful place to live in! The green woods a perfect fairy's bower, and cool water such a wonderful drink when one is hot and thirsty. The water lilies so sweet to taste and the fresh green leaves so satisfying. Then, when the twilight creeps over the bright green world, it is such fun to follow Mother Moose to a sheltered spot, cuddle close to her warm flank, and watch the stars like daisy blossoms peep out one by one, until the dark blue sky is studded like a fairy's crown. With the starshine comes a long, wonderful sleep.

From the thicket pipes the black bird, telling