66 EPPING FOREST
Short-tailed Field Mouse. A larger mouse than the last
named, though he resembles him in habit, and is equally
destructive; especially to peas, beans, and crocus roots.
The Hedgehog passes most of his time in hiding", lying up in
some dry ditch or hole. He never leaves his retreat by
day, and, being then generally covered by the leaves and
grass which adhere to his spines, he is seldom seen unless
a dog discovers him by scent. The late wanderer in the
Forest may, however, catch a glimpse of him in the
twilight, quartering the ground like a well-trained setter,
and seeking his food by the help of his nose. During
winter he hybernates in a torpid state.
Water Shrew. " This elegant little animal is aquatic in its
habits, frequenting clear fresh-water ditches and brooks.
It swims and dives with great address. I have seen one
swim across a pond in the Forest."—J. L. E.
Common Shrew. Is very gregarious. '' I have seen at least
a dozen, on a fine summer evening, gambolling together
among the dead leaves when all is still. At the least
movement they hide themselves in their burrows."—
J. L. E.
REPTILES
The Common Snake and the Viper are found in the driest
parts of the Forest. The former has yellow markings
and a scaly appearance, and grows sometimes to three
feet in length. The viper is of a dull brown throughout.
The Slow Worm, which is quite harmless, is not uncom-
mon. It is of a bronzy colour, and about twelve jnches
long.
It is much to be hoped that these reptiles will not be
exterminated. The first and last are perfectly harmless.
The viper, though its bite would be inconvenient, and
possibly dangerous, will not use its fangs unless attacked.