Page:General Zoology vol. 1 pt. 2.djvu/290

454 continue in their winter retreats, either in dens beneath the snow under ground, or in the hollows of old trees, for the space of five or six weeks without food.

Var. ?

YELLOW BEAR.

Among Mr. Catton's figures of quadrupeds a representation is given of a Yellow Bear, from the living animal then kept in the Tower. The following is the description accompanying the plate referred to: "The Yellow Bear, from Carolina (as the American Bears in general are), is rather smaller than the European Bears; it has also a more pleasant and agreeable countenance, is perfectly tame and sociable; the colour a lively bright orange, of a reddish cast. The hair thick, long, and silky. Its other properties are the same as of the species in general."

Mr. Pennant, in his Arctic Zoology, has compiled, from good authorities, a very curious and pleasing account of the ceremonials used among the North American Indians at the time of their periodical hunting of the Bear.

"The chase of these animals (says he) is a matter of the first importance, and never undertaken without abundance of ceremony. A principal warrior first gives a general invitation to all the hunters. This is followed by a most serious fast