five to fifteen feet from the ground, and is very neatly constructed, usually of fine moss and strips of bark. In some localities it burrows in the ground. The GOLDEN or RED MOUSE (_H. aureolus_), which resembles the preceding species in form and size, has the fur of the upper surface golden-cinnamon colour, and the lower parts yellowish-white. It inhabits the Central and Southern States of the North American Union. The RICE-FIELD MOUSE (_H. palustris_), which has been placed in a distinct genus (_Oryzomys_), is a larger species, sometimes attaining the size of a small Rat. This is found in the Southern States, chiefly along the coast, and in rice-fields, where it is exceedingly abundant and does considerable damage. It is eminently aquatic in its habits. The AMERICAN HARVEST MOUSE (_Ochetodon humilis_) closely resembles the preceding species, but differs from them in a rather remarkable character. It has the upper incisor teeth grooved, a peculiarity which occurs also in the South American Rats of the genus _Reithrodon_. The American Harvest Mouse inhabits the Southern States, and extends northwards as far as Iowa and Nebraska. The FLORIDA RAT, or Wood Rat (_Neotoma floridana_), is a widely distributed species in the United States, inhabiting especially the southern portion, but extending northwards as far as New York and Massachusetts. It measures from six to nine inches in length, with a tail from four to six inches long. In its coloration it presents a general resemblance to the common Brown Rat, but is brighter, especially on the sides; the lower surface is white. According to Audubon and Bachmann, the habits of this species vary considerably in different localities. These authors say that “in Florida they burrow under stones and the ruins of dilapidated buildings. In Georgia and South Carolina they prefer remaining in the woods. In some swampy situations, in the vicinity of sluggish streams, amid tangled vines interspersed with leaves and long moss, they gather a heap of dry sticks, which they pile up into a conical shape, and which, with grasses, mud, and dead leaves, mixed in by the wind and rain, form, as they proceed, a structure impervious to rain, and inaccessible to the Wild Cat, Raccoon, or Fox. At other times their nest, composed of somewhat lighter materials, is placed in the fork of a tree.” This species is very active and Squirrel-like in its habits. It feeds on grain, seeds, and fruits, and sometimes makes a meal of a Crayfish or a Frog. There are from three to six young in each litter, and two litters in the year. The young animals in very early days continue to adhere to the teats of their mother, even when she is walking about outside the nest, and even at a later period they will cling to her sides and back, after the manner of some Opossums. The female seems but little inconvenienced by this burden, and shows great affection for her family, defending them even at the risk of her own life. A