Page:British Reptiles, Amphibians, and Fresh-water Fishes.djvu/119

LOACH AND PIKE under the eye .When held erect, the spine on either side of the head is used for the purpose of defence. It has a more arched back than its cousin, and is also distinguished by the more prominent dark patches underneath the lateral line. It is not nearly as common as the last species under review, but it is probable that further observation will reveal its presence where previously unrecorded.

Pike.—Esox lucius (Fig. 56). This voracious species is in no way particular as to its haunt, and provided there

is a good food-supply, makes itself equally well at home anywhere. It is found in lakes, lochs, ponds, pools, rivers, streams, and even dykes and ditches. It is a solitary fish, although many may be found inhabiting the same sheet of water. It has a most voracious appetite, and will eat almost anything that comes its way. I have even seen it seize and swallow a large cork float when the patient angler was hoping it would rather take his bait. If other fish are scarce, the Pike will not hesitate to prey upon its own kith and kin, and if these are not forthcoming, frogs, toads, water-voles, and water-fowl are greedily sought after. As showing its cannibalistic 101