the evening, its favourite perch was on the instep
of the uppermost leg of his master, as he sat cross-legged before the fire. Having obtained leave, he
used to take his seat, wrap his boa-like tail round
his shoulders and back, and enjoy his nap.” [1]
Genus Galeopithecus. (Pall.)
The Quadrumanous Order is connected with the following by this very singular genus, which inhabits the most eastern islands of the Indian Archipelago. It consists of two species, Lemur- ine animals, of the size of a cat, which are fur- nished with a membrane expanded between the fore and hind limbs on each side, and continued between the latter, so as to include the tail. The fingers are included in the membrane, but are not greatly lengthened, as in the Bats.
Though not capable of sustained flight, the Galeopithecus is enabled by this parachute to take long sweeping leaps from tree to tree, and thus to traverse the forests in search of food, which is believed to consist of fruits and insects. Its activity is nocturnal: during the day it hangs by the hinder claws from a branch, in the manner of a bat. It diffuses a rank, disagreeable odour; yet the flesh is eaten.
The dentition of these animals differs from that of the Lemurs only in wanting the upper canines.
- ↑ Penny Cyclopædia; Art. Lemuridæ.
