162 The Mammalia of Essex; a Contribution towards a
it is usually believed to be, although I cannot call the
Barbastelle a common bat. The ears of the preceding
species were remarkable for their size : these for the manner
in which they are united across the forehead of the animal;
and this is a character which assists us to recognise it, espe-
cially if we bear in mind that this bat's fur is darker than
that of any other British species. It is very solitary in its
habits, and haunts trees principally. I have never seen it
except away from the town, and I find it useless to search
for where I have seen it flying the previous night.
Cheiroptera. Rhinolophidae.
Rhinolophus ferrum-equinum. Greater Horse-shoe Bat.
—This bat is stated—in both editions of 'Bell's Quadrupeds,'
and also in 'Cassell's Natural History'—to occur at Colchester.
I believe that some mistake was made by Yarrell with regard
to the locality of his specimen; the animal is so distinct in
flight, and so unmistakable in the hand, that I do not think
I am in error in affirming that neither of the horse-shoe bats
occurs in this district. They are plentiful in the western
counties, and I know many places in which I have seen both
species in abundance.
Insectivora. Erinaceidae.
Erinaceus Europaeus. Hedgehog.— This well-known
animal is common everywhere, in spite of the constant
persecution of game preservers. There can be no doubt it
occasionally helps itself to an egg, or a young partridge or
pheasant; but its depredations in this respect are quite com-
pensated for by the good it does in destroying grubs, slugs,
and insects. Taken altogether it may be considered as a very
harmless and useful little creature. I know no animal that
so soon becomes tame and familiar when in confinement.
Insectivora. Talpidae.
Talpa Eueopaea. Common Mole.—This useful animal is
very common in all parts of the county, although in every
district it is subjected to great persecution, as the farmers