CLASS MAMMALIA.
47
Mammals, which might otherwise become too numerous. Its
food is not confined to these, for I have found Beetles, Lizards,
Slow-worms, and other small fry in the stomachs of those
examined. It is rare for the Weasel to interfere much with
game.
In some parts of England, the Weasel, when small, is
called a " mouse-hunter," and right well it deserves this name.
When chasing a mouse, it keeps to the scent as well as the
best foxhound, and seems regardless of onlookers. I have
said " keeps to the scent " ; but it would be more accurate to
say that it never passes over the scent, even when in full gallop.
Its method appears from observation to be that of making
casts diagonally across the track of its prey. This plan of
hunting, I have an idea, is not confined to the Weasel.
Although albino specimens of this species are rare,
Mr. Miller Christy has, on the authority of Mr. J. Pettitt,
taxidermist, of Colchester, recorded (Zool., 1895, p. 19), one
killed near that place about December 20th, 1892. It was
pure white, had pink eyes, and its flesh was of an unusually
pale colour.
Mustela erminea, Linn. Stoat.
This rapacious, active, and destructive member of a
specially blood-thirsty family, is very common throughout
Essex. Persecution, from every quarter, seems to have little
influence in diminishing its numbers.
Its food and habits are similar to those of the Weasel,
but I fear I cannot defend it from the charge of being very
destructive to game. Although mice and small creatures
contribute to its sustenance, its favourite prey consists of the
larger mammals. Hares, Rabbits, and Rats are chased by it
from scent, as most persons who live in the country can testify
from observation. The two former, after being pursued for
some distance, > appear to resign themselves to their fate,