on the chance of finding a shell deserted by its

original inhabitant, accommodated to their size.

Of these, the Cancer Bernardus, or Hermit

Crab, is a striking example.

There is another peculiarity for which this race of animals is remarkable. The loss of a limb, which to most other creatures is an irre parable misfortune, is to them a matter of small moment; since a short time is sufficient to perfect the growth of another, in the place of that which accident lias torn off. But it is observed, that these new limbs are smaller than the old ones.

When they are rendered defenceless by the loss of their shell, they are exposed to the

attacks of many enemies; particularly the different kinds of marine polypus, which prey

upon them. These creatures seem aware of their danger at this period, by placing a hardshelled crab as sentinel, to warn them of any cause for alarm. The hard-shelled crab is generally a timid animal, and, if he has no other means of escape, pretends death, and contrives to sink beneath the sand, leaving his eyes alone exposed: but on these occasi€ms lie he acquires courage, and defends his charge bravely.

The instincts of the Land-Crab are very cu
rious. At a certain season, they assemble in
vast