Page:Natural History, Reptiles.djvu/143

Rh are scale-shaped in front, and slender or bristle-shaped behind; the teeth are conical or rounded; the palate is not furnished with teeth, but is furrowed lengthwise; the muzzle is somewhat obtuse; there are four feet, each terminating in five unequal toes, which are compressed, not toothed at their edges,

and furnished with claws; the palms and soles of the feet are set with tubercles; the tail is conical, or slightly compressed, and sharp-pointed; the scales are marked with numerous striæ, or delicate lines.

One of the largest species of the Family is the Gaily-wasp of Jamaica (Celestus occiduus, ), which grows to about two feet in length, and nine inches in circumference. Its head is large, and somewhat triangular, being pointed at the muzzle and swollen at the occiput; the legs and feet are very small, but perfectly formed. Its hue is pale yellow, irregularly spotted and dashed with brown, but the head is black.

The Gaily-wasp inhabits marshy lowlands in the island above named, where it forms burrows in the soft earth by means of its short paws. These excavations resemble those of the Land-crab (Gecarcinus ruricola), but are deeper and more tortuous. The animal is nocturnal, rarely coming forth till after the heat of the day has begun to abate. It is not very timid, but will sit in the mouth of its hole, and retracting the skin of its lips, show its teeth at an intruder like a dog. Great dread is entertained of the bite of this reptile, which is held to be venomous.