Page:The Zoologist, 4th series, vol 2 (1898).djvu/335

Rh rear her progeny. I have signally failed in tempting a mother even to notice her offspring.

(Talpa europæa). C.—Undoubtedly on the increase on the marsh-lands, and indeed elsewhere, now that Weasels are being so ruthlessly exterminated. On dry uplands have observed it tunnelling near the surface in strawberry-beds, eagerly pursuing the Strawberry Beetle (Harpalus ruficornis), which in the daytime remains quiescent about a couple of inches below the surface. I have observed examples swimming in the Bure. Cream-coloured Moles are not rare. "A large rusty-white variety was common at Oby" (vide Trans. Norf. and Nor. Nat. Soc. 1870–71, p. 74). Mr. Last Farman records a Mole with two snouts found at Haddiscoe. He has also found maize in Mole-heaps far from habitations; also "pints of worms tied in knots" therein.

(Sorex vulgaris). C.—More often found dead than seen alive. In a barrow-load of Owl-pellets I examined at Tunstall, in August, 1896, I found as many skeletons of Shrews as Field Mice (Mus sylvaticus). Local, "Ranny"; "Shrewmouse."

(Crossopus fodiens). F.C.—"Marsh ditchbanks; rather rare" (Pagets). More numerous than is generally supposed. Its timidity of disposition and retiring habits make it exceedingly difficult of observation; and even when unaware of one's presence its movements are not easily distinguished, as it worms itself amongst the luxuriant herbage at the ditch-sides. Mostly its tiny bullet-like "plump" into the water is the only indication of its proximity. The variety known as the "Oared Shrew" I have not met with here.

(Vulpes vulgaris). A.—"Now (1834) very seldom seen" (Pagets). Undoubtedly the indigenous local race is extinct. Its occurrence as a straggler is of very rare occurrence. One seen at Haddiscoe, about twelve years ago, crossing the river (L. Farman).

(Mustela martes). E.—The Pagets, referring to the Marten as Viverra foina, speak of it as "formerly at Herringfleet and Toft; now extremely rare." Has probably been extinct in this neighbourhood for half a century.

(M. vulgaris). C.—Notwithstanding incessant persecution is still fairly common. It is no unusual thing to see strings of carcases hanging to warren-fences and gamekeepers'