2 a te pa

he Sage ent oh te 1a We deg pee dr ab

rea 1c #9 00 hp hiay te oes “+ bah ot de oy Me tvs te ne today Seas be te

‘. het eis oo masa tape an Oy aah Sathatoba ey FuRe m WOE inka na he ons white hoger

bend saw beats wo a ain os 8 be 2 Sins ette tebe brbcac bade: Mis Sashienahetizasect

sss bata ress pohatet ot Sa sae Ve be hs 0 Tale a es age arse

jela oe be ale 'atyetetyramr aaa harp homes Magy tigi aceey pumren

a Soa ye tobrie (at: Bona re tage te ger oe vole sla Fares pm py

Loe ated peng?

erortrtans

SP Mdha Ia te Saye:

eechan SheeiSe se

te be tte Settee he es

haauteren ai

Bovertesten

gitvesteb inset

eabete eho ntpaew ie va enclose’ apebdesetesiseteeat ste

Heelies Neral Scag yar tetventets sefenesa te +)

nieliceseretabcaneret sreepas

Tht manent Wigelitaeseactoe sey

a nate to nabe tenets malegs beominat epebe ater ast beneageerete hak igee

Sen Tae peta Te agregadas nega eabe

cpt spliensuy ehatipperent

Sents :

eons nie wen hee aghyiebed i a tit abe eme

anny’ ohelcve felt ate Nalnandad sane she ahab ia miesomrseeiermeaten seberatey uke sanacee

Pre gerightmetiearsrsensteti ctrl ecelctr ts sf

iets

seaetety

rae | viata #4 |

Dice

1s fede bs Sedens beeteaget

pis Stealers

ae Rete

Sencaltake lances sipatges toh

rier rebecca eegtaeetes

te hiesat aadai att

See na to tetee

Mali 10s Mies 38 pes soa pei as adnece mets tohe

odes a lang be ety to oe cetiver

Vets ps hea fe

hehe

Ned eee, bay

a adtjets il etobeacaae)

sh nw to eee she

Prpsrar

Dns ge te og athe

JTS were

Bete

wate ata

rehearing he

Ditch ereveleventale

ertheless

Vasko’

hot ee \aahener tin ta gayle we es

Seibert

She tietet tle t yeah

he eg be de tate inden ibetabetore oe la

fetaneigatase

pteteenky take tin

tte 417 <

Lees Sebi

teeta neu

fon

Bpreris)

fale

eae

srenes

eaeane

Penen

retebubgorieessiend

ma enabectent ties

Siyiet

i sel eee ae

Solent Beta

se +

t : ‘ las hes ieee tare

bb tpuctpvad tevsvi aredpnateryentone sate etetaset

oe aes

a SladraaaWe de. bs s278 feinhodera te ste hahenetene

aaa) aieeateaned slecacapenetl eeederan tet

tia =o B 1R8) ed Acve a a a gendeaiege ry

poeoxns Mb tone -

tol be A tee ba

a ake

ari hed oee eh,

y. pie ‘sooytedeoesertte se tche Ag ae ee

Sieh iietetetas ep ewhnge

Ears

Soe

+) ogee oe ea la

sen ca a ee

per tries

Ane pwetcotiere:

ieesteneote Siete

mas falsene os

wae Peat ee

psa is tacton sehatacersee te

siete iter ety

alee Soretatosaaiottasetaleretie et

pautew taesetetetaatLesaee

obs wanlodani fetet plecasete ts 4 ne

bericsreieiretias

io ten ete

a SeipeeelierenectateEn

salah betrots

5! laereo te saan toes

‘Vieaew becedetiepe ig

br tcesiarstuoaney 1%

latapbiotate ea

elie ae We te tae ta foo

Tasgeresttas alias ett eea ila ey

pop br ¥o7

retina Fs

ibe

etoet 1x 14k dots

i ih Fo! 4s segaas Looe age te ep

SN siatsheaateate

Ala

sen bad deresere Seedy, | ryoedes

ee lgtrernitet ens ts

rerantee-st se)

iateaueebedsiti cee

eee ee tae

ppreetrsses

a ae aie

Pept hep

einen

rans

Mehaiets uetone eed ot

4 hess 'siareds

te reno Savers}

Shaping

ereteney

does a peas Fs

id Sing noah od

Te ig Oe I at

talela hele

Laelia!

reeen

eit

ahenaiee 41

ena

y reael sere 8 oe

ear nd ys Basta!

ete tctoted

Veta ne

es ie,

Bini drs pest af

lin}! Bpid pants saweatecen

it Ae ane)

rt sige

ENG hoes reatraete

iatieele Whe bee

nt |p dation Hel Rib

Sletten

side 4 yededngees ag be,

"Tie cmqebstae Mreibe te.

Lae Te pabe Masel aaddeey = M4 veence

Le nea oes

sae beat bopt

Rasen fencyg ected

Nansen tlaeesseheae het

bape tite batptw ael-nleveey)

SOAS ectnitegland oe [toes

v Sad

Ame)

she pee eto

Spite aT Rh eee

: art rasrseaa tien b

shore be atenetien em deadbeat

eee pede Spine

pees Fy sterese)

Sect ctit stpiate

neti sxe

itll mist

setts)

Prayer

saestdshwenitetem edt

t mates

waaertat

rar

swerasane ges ©

4a eas Bo vaciw is oo0 ebsuead is

A be ht be Heddon eg ob #9 be &

Oeieretros rit

feves's teh ele ot soe ye he veers pe eae ek

foc detente pee rf hide eee be ar

J ee Se pois lege ee

pee de ig te

peeeeaiel

witht eqtversa hrs: feos save age

0s job aunne

rreieeey

rece

pete ea

Vor

one

Ltvldtivaptesrcopedenenceene!

bs sata hoped

eee

Sremeees

Nites Hot

rie say bevtge ahd eyed ca oes belehe re

er er ertate hho srrripeeeesaeremee cers

ee ipapabdetbdbbeteheen thecehos

lepeabahestuptitetotes

Sere rereiee es

rive Paleletrie)

Ee t

easels ne ieesessasebereertasebets teremnnas press eguee ie nares bept

Seapets Soaoney se jolie eye eae et inte beer ep ipehet ta

sheintaastimesirrbn ue cisplitgnectors seat rey

mebeae peated Ciorirmonetinsctys

oe)

Reirigh brights

Madonsatinenitauren a itee

are

a oan tiuee tutu 4 ce fen sete

eam en a ah ah ee +

Ter hacienda hit dee

Meeeny

Aemelast

Leal “se! ii

Aeraih Ree ne bbe ihe

Fs ecate

ete

ranetstpapcaeiee,

Ure pps

‘. “eto

Rake a

heir oe tee leh

Fa e-gea te

tere wieey

are 2 vies ¢ lala pew a's a"

sSticheje mts ete senda usas be tate

ae se otea en anal wy

‘

we Was bore

SBitee v tae naa te tesetetis

reste ty

taeses

Bo Tela wa tana ve

“ee!

Coane 29d Ja dey: ae, iy

x Re

~ oe 08 ieee eee Whe fee wer eee eee See

nag Narsie yn mocthgtanetcate Mintendtenttece tic cn te

ee TNT eee OW” beet el GUM ORee Ee

aise iia yao hilt chagh tac ah

ian

seat herve!

Meehictitanitenn tty

Se iestietehs Ll, 9 aie ts to opie ote 9.40 08.

por tra ave wataane

ot Swe ple ethers ty iad? —

teshiew tu s'o te tohomeraltalotocheest

ven manet inte

LP eae D EES.

ear lneserteeerte ie

Stel nee Stesatsatent

see ey bp gh

Mind ded Pakelone by

tits

Est

peat» bal ja aie

Saat ne . dpe Re

yey fu Whats we oe 0 way

seteereeveginges re

1” %

pst)

Poets

N54 Go eg ote 4 1g bbahed

eiyseibe 5

1 ™

Siw oe tied

Fs eee

gtod a ed eel 4 dd an

Mains ‘

ins

Mayet ti

eas etre

) ne

petra sgaeid in

says si bees

s Wonka ows actu ob

#0 14a shane cage

eiaraipenstustes as

ee by a one

eee fees

eyteces alee dae

2 jas Whe ras oto ed

we eae

Srtiecae

bis ele brer cu ht “a

hate oe ort

ony oer Wii ae

+ ne tee

evade

prety

Sage 4a) we erates

oe eee Biry

Miperaat tact pes ity

asst scape ie

Mie

Wa ape “

ti eal e+

srt

[acketetons

Sh here v0

Syne ot he nae

as edate a

ives yes og

Ierereiehe

hae

Soletetaeted

inne =

jodi tg cicocanes tone

energies

stietes

ine es 14008 #beks ee.

Made racede de abe te teyera

Ctr reiceeseretrceninegnae

AP aes rage lain ies aici peeert

+ rape laeanne ee pays we

SP gece ete seer

Err

ete matenneens

seeee ie 4foue ia

LS olatidedaleteled hesket

#96 ee

PAD eqns

Pevedane eaters a,

Joona coy oy

crertterts

ee See

eed

eeases etsdseeseeraeactoonteegetisien

weet ata euteareces te

boaok

tire:

ioha Sass

eel os

Peeraernets

lente

saree

rately

one

PPro

TAR oy

mee

NANN

, Le ‘ Ot

od ¢ ¥, (a 9

> ’ wf’at Se de $$ Go

Fi hee ‘a dae OO wei < ;

TGS el CREE Cid cae Oh EES S

e 4 : sts, oo eeus = x ~~ 3 \ 2

Cue Gs ne Cd x aa Ea

CEs LS oe

+, otc Ce

iy = 4 if & @&Oa 4

“maT a C Cai. ¢

masa ia & C

CG <°

iL.) Len

i . ;

(COLE E & ¢ a

Ey & 4 (CE MM ey @ ee

¢ b. aac CC 4 .¢

GAG @ % i (G@ ree €

aC <Ckee cae aK

, mk © IC EGE CC Gki

—_ ¢ CC HCGRET (EC € ae

4 Ss Cn

yj Y “ie

me ld

DARPA,

ar aw

(( & € AC < <& ta om

«CCC MECE G

‘ (a t a (a 2€ (qs iS Th, (

{ ae CA +> « Can q

Ce _« Ce (Oa

ere ra GO ( |

| << (GQ@G, ©

a QQ &

ain

ee ae «as

€ >

~Y 2

= »

aaa eA Annie

4 ww

== > a 4

i wVay

es : ad

4 Vee

i DACRE Wd ed

| ~~ Ww ow — od ~~

~~ tm? ee WS ed SCSON L 4

ty AG, WS srry: Ie aco

wt SA es Oh AO Secs ~~ ‘yg Na!

—e ~ Z A en J Nee ™ et a Se re beh] 7 ww) IS ne Bs wi

TIA ewe it BDI St SN wT — | letgr Baad tae ual Ww ~ ~

~ wos . uw y qe) > FE ~ wo = —/ ~~~ hd

ws YU oe LS Se ae ~ vw ONG ~ ns owt ~—na —— i~ <2 v= lL AS \— a :

Stwvlw Le SASSI he Ney se SeNe pod \) | A DOA ASS ~ Sv

fees = ¥ =) Ne Se “we \w ~S ws wiht ral Nt Naw ee u Suey

Mryesiseggessss wed RYeCR SSS DOSING On . wt we eee

. Ld A} SS . Jy ee a5 es _o 6 ee & ~ we a wy \ aan wt Wowk

iy — fad a ~ | yd) SYUVUL ~ a ee O- UN we vw tw? Ley y ~

w i a tf! wv Ke. x i Oe oe BS S ae | nat tad we SSCS nr Na is h

wyreveeqeeecesucce NII edhe “ AS = we eer te ‘yy ; Pitas OSM AGL Se

ad = ts et = we So — A iv LAs XL vo — Ne

Woe 7S Seer ST adelhd || bitter SSSI ATT TA PRA IAT

eS Ue C : ewe: eh Aa 24 Se FG tl ete DI I SL UUCVESEUENY "Yr

ae AINE VES LS Sm MASAI ed Sseetiu PATI IPAISSAS S Pte

ws esl vy ¥ RII GAIAG @PEee <vwhy “7 Ate

wer PEVESSE es SESTCRSEEYS ET eee i Se A

P w CMa ia OR ININA Sti SS et < SRAGARG wre hs, ch

~ a bee tat Nw

PA PI A i 1 we a eed wus SALES: ~

1) "| Ne IMRALSIAR J ~~ wo Let w WN

ae Sd ~ VOCs GEG S oe Tyee mverS ahr ir

A yo] OPT Ste td se Ts~L - Sa

www bing An NZS S= we SPNINA_|

eS wise FASS SLISS SORA eee

wpe TIS it) view ve -

WAAAAL- AN Le hdd te 1s dw Vow

wv eg "naw v os © AGS oo % A ed

eS SS bt AK “ a A~ § 4 RF) OG, w - Sve ws Aw

Pc eee AAG ee Were rs: o IC DAG AO na

wot, MSCS bet vue wl peer Se Bis Sate yew eke

A > idl . us

¢ © I~ NING © i) NE. Sei. = & Boge VE PAs AA.

sof es ~> ye a “yy wt z ie ly-< =l}s fat De at ne een we SS i es

SOUT SSSR x PAGOPG IAG RRR AIA LIR wwe lkidde cH ee

toe 4 we w a - N

Rot ie lS Te: a ss mg FRA A Te sd oclcak ball poe ~ — sv

oo wer we be wweuewe rue inden & A i = : gee

4 ie SE Se Sel — SELL X A i Ve AAO oS, ~~ ba eid

yve De si fi rs rue ~~ ‘wee SS Aw ~NN S a

F MOTT : — © ew) (ee S = weer ~ Vu" <A 4 a dh SoXK lat ti Wee

-w S y ~ tess

VECe cere dh} ae Sr Sy vel Vow Sys yh, tr whe v wv veh fied

Z 4 R ne ty ‘ + YV- = ~ ; 5

See eee pafiaadeg GET Acree) YU ve YS ce Je

Aa - were ' = = ~~ as yi , al

SSow Vw wy wre "L LOS WS EUES Lh = iS wen wet

~~ SSO S Di dunce LO NY : w "ww wl iw Swe, Zo

2 F 4 ‘ _— ¢

FAL DITO SAAS Bimme So. we fA yey wy,

oS a] he, KA wi Ned ~~ } pth Aint ws * A No ing ng ~ ; 5 A Ne kes é -

we TERESI || Ly Mh LIN g seats Lv Svivwv sew ve

na ~) | ns ww ~ + “ew ee ee tae eae SIA S L PSCC Tsyl

PARAL _ wyh~ Lerwrese v¥Su. ve ‘ ft FOO in cates Ap tay I DAA GN

~ i) “ a — “= A » stipe ADA uty, ~w. 4 _ Pad Y ae A Eegsy* BAP TOLAS

AIA AA LL PE TTT AS aS UY Se vu hs es Sw 2 =

UU, UNuuvuey PRIASFAAK pg NO | ey SR were sets

A ~ Cw. 2 ] ww wey a oO” ig ~V~. Met wun Te Pw

" AGP, L, A, hy ~ sma RAL \ ~ pind si ~st eS CCM E | Try ---> \S\ Sel re

wit ig ove Secepbireey pf CROSS ty AST jb Drubed = “=~ =S— t= Te Ne ene NN

PAD AISI ASIA FT TTL LAK RADAARA i OO

Won Y 4 S we ey Pe rw Sus ws GS i SF

LTS ORGS wa ~ Pet th ds debi etme

at et tee 2 ~ a} ah. - ee

p 7 Str Se AN ~~,

wy y Bod A Tae | SS

| are ~~

oa ee

No, XXII.—March.] [Price 12s.

ILLUSTRATIONS

ZOOLOGY OF SOUTH AFRICA;

CONSISTING CHIEFLY OF

FIGURES AND DESCRIPTIONS OF THE OBJECTS OF NATURAL HISTORY

COLLECTED DURING

AN EXPEDITION INTO THE INTERIOR OF SOUTH AFRICA,

IN THE YEARS 1834, 1835, anD 1836 ;

FITTED OUT BY

“ THE CAPE OF GOOD HOPE ASSOCIATION FOR EXPLORING CENTRAL AFRICA :”

TOGETHER WITH

Be A SUMMARY OF AFRICAN ZOOLOGY,

AND AN INQUIRY INTO THE GEOGRAPHICAL RANGES OF SPECIES

IN THAT QUARTER OF THE GLOBE.

ate

BY ANDREW SMITH, M.D.,

SURGEON TO THE FORCES, AND DIRECTOR OF THE EXPEDITION.

Published unver the Authority of the Lords Commissioners of Mev Mlajesty’s Treasury.

. LONDON: 275837

Hy ; SMITH, ELDER AND CO. CORNHILL. SS taranns ww

MDCCCXLYV.

STEWART AND MURRAY, OLD BAILFY.

TATUS

STERNOTHE RUS SLNT

STERNOTHERUS SINUATUS.—Smiru.

Reptit1A.—Puarte I. (Mate.)

S. capite pallidé stramineo-brunneo marmorato; capitis lateribus viridi-flavis ; collo livido-brunneo

pedibus stramineis maculis brunneis variegatis ; testa supra viridi-brunnea, subtus aurantia, rubri-

brunneo marginata ; unguibus rubri-brunneis; mandibula superiori apice emarginato ; inferiori

apice acuminato, sursum producta.

Cotour.—Head above pale straw-yellow, finely marbled with brown lines ;

sides of head and lower jaw, greenish-yellow ; neck livid brown; legs inter-

mediate between wine and straw-yellow; nails reddish brown, occasionally

inclined to yellow. Shell above dark greenish brown, the colour deepest

towards the margin ; the vertebral and the upper extremities of the costal plates

tinted with livid grey ; sternum, pale orange, variegated towards its edges

with deep reddish brown, the latter colour most abundant upon the gular, the

intergular, the anal, and the lateral parts of the abdominal plates; outer

sides of upper and under jaws dark brown, with fine reddish brown vertical

lines. Eyes straw-yellow.

Form, &c.—Shell oblong, convex, and rather high; margin ovate, and

broadest behind, where it is more or less sinuated. The second and third

vertebral plates nearly horizontal and six-sided, the anterior edge of each

narrower than the posterior ; the fourth somewhat six-sided, the anterior edge

broader than the posterior ; the first somewhat four-sided, the anterior edge

much broader than the posterior, and each of its angles sometimes produced so

as to form on each side a triangular projection between the first costal and the

anterior marginal plates ; near the centre of the anterior edge of this plate is

another triangular projection which enters between the two foremost marginal

plates ; the posterior dorsal plate somewhat of the same form as the anterior

one, only narrower; the third and fourth plates with a central elevation towards

their hinder margins. Costal plates higher than broad, four-sided, the first of

these where it is in contact with the marginal plates very wide, which gives it a

somewhat triangular appearance. Marginal plates twenty-four: the first, se-

cond, third, fourth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth, four-sided, the fifth, sixth,

seventh, and eighth, more or less five-sided, and on the anterior side of each at

the very margin of the shell is a small triangular process, which is received into

a corresponding cavity in the hinder edge of the scale immediately in front of

it; margin between the fore and hinder legs obtuse, elsewhere thin and sharp.

Sternum semicircular in front, deeply emarginate behind ; a transverse joint

between pectoral and abdominal plates ; gular plates small and triangular ;

STERNOTHERUS SINUATUS.

intergular plate five-sided; brachial plates rhomboidal; pectoral plates

at their commissure with each other narrow, the posterior edges straight, the

anterior oblique, owing to which circumstance the outer sides are much wider

than the inner; anal plates triangular. Head broad and depressed ; nose

short and rounded; the fronto-nasal plates forming a portion of the hinder

edges of the orbits ; the frontal plate very large and inclined to six-sided ; the

parietal plates oblong, and broadest in front ; the post-orbital plate small and

oval. The apex of upper mandible emarginate with an obtuse tooth-like process

on each side of the emargination ; the tip of the lower mandible produced and

directed upwards; under the chin two minute barbels. Neck and legs

sparingly covered by small scales ; the hinder edge of each fore leg towards the

toes with a broad fringe of thin delicate plates ; the toes short and armed with

strong claws nearly straight and slightly concave below. The posterior edges

of the hinder feet also with a continuous fringe of thin scales, the outermost

toe rudimentary, the second and innermost nearly of equal length, and shorter

than the third and fourth. Tail rather long, pointed and somewhat cylindrical.

DIMENSIONS.

Inches. Lines. Inches. Lines.

Length from nose to hinder margin of Breadth of shell across femoral plates... 9 3

clas) | eas an agoeocseacanoaniaaicre 19 0 Theno thio fatal tccececreseeectereceerasesce 2 eo)

of head and neck ............... 56 of sternum from anterior to

OlssbellR ter sass. eas nscnices tes TAS hindered gee sana ssecnctssea de 14S

eishbiotishel lfea.-aqsaeelec ees ceceetee 5 68

The colours in the female are nearly similar to those of the male. In both

sexes the head, neck, and anterior extremities, when retracted, are completely

protected by the anterior portion of the sternum, which by means of the joint

in front of the abdominal plates is closely applied to the anterior margin of the

upper shell. The principal differences between this species and Sternotherus

ater and SS. castaneus will be found in the general form of the shell, the shape

of the plates, and the structure of the tip of the upper mandible.

The first specimens of this tortoise were discovered in rivers to the north of 25° south lati-

tude, and in situations only where the water was very deep. They were usually observed dur-

ing the heat of the day lying upon rocks which projected above the surface of the water, and

were so vigilant that it was almost impossible to approach them within a moderate distance,

before they vanished. Many of them were struck by musket balls, yet no wounds which were

thus inflicted ever appeared to impede their movements. At last, by means of hooks baited

with flesh we succeeded in obtaining a few specimens, though against such means they were

also guarded ; for even where individuals existed in abundance, perhaps not one could be se-

cured by four or five fishermen, after spending many hours in the pursuit. Between 24° and

25° they occurred in greatest abundance, probably from the circumstance that between those

parallels the pools were deepest ; to the north of the former parallel they appeared to be scarce,

owing no doubt to the channels of the streams being there loaded with gravel and sand.

Ue aa a | 7 est . yo ;

fie aes 2, 4 Aw ; :

aa by “a PA 4 7

: ve . i 1 w el. ee ite

cage a Se retk ehomateg eo sten yg) halts |

ds = Lx ree) yo ie ie - r. ae 6

Peon: ‘yen Spin fe te i to iba: Beith! en eraag itis

7?) Sat) Ei t9% xi’ ‘Wier “ “es aie *: me eu aan Tarn ntiin a f iF . ae '

Bit: Sys Bice any yotieg rise syed alpen th gully abn, oo v gorep iilee 9 * Sint

Ly Hovansen De Silja Bboy h ! adeieeni: aves Sally fae Me ropit is: pes

rif hide tes fei? na bates ca Ns eee, iat Tos OPO HON. btirbijuins Fests, oak:

at tsi ivan chy Big iG Podge ayy Me AY aban

Furie: ee ah ie ye ay Sats ants teat af? eSAahe Bite AAs hae pitalie fa Me ee

besditen ie dibni abate Wie Ys. tb hea fal yids Seti Veh oe peg ae wh { ay se a

rab xfs S5bthas-is aries OE ad Tay baLiacinsafsin Jaw ae fies! eee

+ ee

ho es werent Savoy yeh) fa 27 Oar “wnt me 2 aie i “pela be : = ae bf

bacolyet mo aie to GEO rel gh nals se SEn Mike 4 ye i ae Salyabiage vir A ars,

‘ nf eee 18 eh s =

a i sie hive’ RB esay jlo Pe iate ty Cask de Grrl highs dnl wens! see i); A

- soten tani: 1c girubics | Orth ye eliiteiths haan y iat avetty aa 26 ne, ; , . Pe

> =! - >) a “

Ry seed LEMS SIAG) A UM! tal! i ines hiatil Gah Ws

"eles i Peerage iis ee wf [Gat ROL ad

een eritegs asic Wek bars ot hme ORY ae.

i ieee

B tT

» Dir : ah {

roa Mie a Cee | Res sal ‘

= i: ai Cort E: i i” er ie

mete, oir ears sie! a

ie CE Fy sahil hry, } tie : ish s

aNaca Ly c hi f *, “ oh / J ; re i beg uot

‘to aes i 15 Tali piers a resis Me NSIS Ost Daan ye: Ft

rum rei t er 1 Gta mt 405 0 be

taki Wry. e Wid Mione Stead

Te "

Sie

pois

>»

eke

pan

—_

okvus

ie Gia i Lei knad iad ikon nt SSSA cy barat, fe bat h égyyt mn

= Sia dual & nehat gel ares Htiial Betas ocltish dailies P Alirits eh sl

Scar sais: ghee aio Teesacyy, nhk anes ot thy eens 0k va:

ta : “iadlabthveisren tts itt Fee Att hess nde OH Seah ADEN Ce

VS o ppialibalt 33. inf, nape ae chee ae ~ Areata in Abe ee ar

pier avin ry yee “ips a neta ys SAL dawg) ihe te vf Soe ih

i xs LQ iadited pile i tas a Reni Aly ied: yc Re Rs Rag gael Le

mee dan asian: ih nite erat ul iw: ress ie pre =) pt oa‘ ta Bd ig 7 ti icin, ©

ve, sre th aye' ti ner ea at ibid! } sligina fee ie. Picth «« v.53 “ Cie ry fr: bain, Aurdy . H Cae

EP Lud alae ae tihaot Pha valdal bf Aaa jr sca 18.6! ee LY gy ys inven ‘,

Spee PALL a Pep ¢ Ldale ait, es pes 5 ee unis ail otis i) %

Ba Fesies be ai hid Sante cle) oe: es AN ta

a 1b A « en we 4 é vs) ihe Ah aeicde & tay alan’ 24 is os” wi ebay

Be Vso oF ale ark 244) il wa Hatin, Bel hie hie sapiens Sify beware) ah

pee if tail ih tes sonrkd'h wh Wildes bal? ‘eee oh vin ion pat vi

io ie cide ancaalaaaae ea daeieis a ih \ rt Hah | ‘Seale ong

° 7 im @ ue

‘ wd id ' ae hae

a , ie

—= {fe “et

‘ — ee at .

, on Sey on

Ue 222.5 YT PYLE Y NUE

CZ oy" 1d. viprdey )

ST AU ao Oe

SANVAUVA

VARANUS ALBOGULARIS.—Davp.

Reptitia.—Puate II. (Mate.)

V. capite quadrangulari, versus apicem attenuato; naribus obliquis angustis prope oculos positis ; collo

corporeque obesis; pedibus validis; cauda versus basin subcylindricé dein compressd, supra

carinata ; capite colloque, subochreis brunneo-maculatis ; fascia brunned ab oculo ad dorsum ; corpore

supra brunneo, fasciis, maculis lineisque subochreis variegatis, subtus subochreo, guttis brunneis

sparso ; cauda fasciis brunneis subochreisque alternantibus fasciata.

Varanus Giri Smith, South African Quarterly Journal, 1831.

CoLour.—Head and neck intermediate between gamboge and ochre-yellow,

the former and the sides and back of the neck finely freckled by small black

spots; from the outer corner of each eye, a brown stripe extends along the

neck, and terminates on the back immediately behind the base of the fore

leg, where it is much broader than at its commencement ; this stripe is

generally darkest at its edge and lightest along its centre: between the ter-

minations of these stripes there are in most specimens two large brown blotches

separated from each other by a yellowish line. Back brown, crossed by three

or four ochry yellow bands, which are, either in the form of continuous stripes

or interrupted blotches, and is besides variegated by smaller spots, or waved

narrow Stripes of the same colour; the larger bands and blotches sprinkled with

small brown spots. The sides ochry yellow with small brown spots and

vertical stripes, the latter continued from the brown of the back; belly the

same colour as the sides, with a sprinkling of small brown spots. Tail

beneath ochry yellow ; above and on the sides marked by alternate brown and

yellow bands, the former spotted with yellow, the latter with brown. The

outer surface of anterior extremities ochry yellow, spotted with brown; the

posterior extremities dark brown, spotted with ochry yellow; toes, the latter

colour, with some indistinct brownish bars; nails dark horn-coloured.

Form, &c.—Head rather small ; neck and body robust and rather flatten-

ed; limbs thick and strong. The head is quadrangular, rather short, broad

behind, and tapered towards the nose; nostrils oblique, linear, and situated

near to the eyes; teeth somewhat cylindrical and strong, obtuse in some

specimens, pointed in others; external ear, transverse and narrow ; tail some-

what cylindrical towards the base, the remainder compressed above and sur-

mounted by a distinct serrated carina with a slight channel along its upper

surface ; towards the tip of the tail this carina almost disappears. Upper

surface of the head covered by flat somewhat circular scales, rather small,

particularly over the eyes; lips and temples covered with small scales, on the

VARANUS ALBOGULARIS.

former oval, on the latter circular. On the nape and upper part of the neck the

scales of a larger size than on any other part of the animal, and are besides

more raised, with the granulations surrounding the discs very distinct.

On the back and sides, the scales are disposed in waved transverse bands,

and only differ from those of the neck in being of smaller size and less

convex ; on the tail they are arranged in regular rings; towards its base

oval, and more or less completely margined by granulations ; towards the tip

oblong, subcarinated and almost without any edging. On the chin, throat,

and sides of the neck, the scales are small and oval; on the breast somewhat

circular, on the belly oval, in transverse rows, and only margined behind

by granulations; on the outer and anterior sides of the limbs towards the

body, they are oblong; towards the toes somewhat circular; all surrounded

by granulations ; on the inner sides again they are smaller and nearly circular.

The inner toe of hinder foot very short and robust; the outer one much

removed from the rest ; on the fore foot the inner toe is shorter than any of

the others, but longer than the corresponding one of the hinder foot.

DIMENSIONS.

Feet. Inches. Inches, Lines.

Length from the nose to the tip of Distance between the fore and the

thetaily.casesseowwcencc eects 2a Se hindersleos arr sceeeeesk ete O- 4

Ofsthestialleeeeesssetet rlsmaieas 1G Length of the fore legs to the apex of

from nose to base of fore the nail of the longest toe... 4 9

NCGS inasianeSottets/<boaelst ache 0 54 of the hinder leg to ditto...... S93

The female, as regards external appearances, differs but little from the male.

Though no specimens of this species were obtained south of Latakoo, yet there is reason to

believe it occasionally occurs within the limits of the Cape Colony; it is, in all proba-

bility, the animal which is called the Das adder by the colonists, and which is so much

dreaded under an idea of its being extremely venomous. It is usually discovered in rocky pre-

cipices, or on low stony hills, and when surprised seeks concealment in the chinks of the former,

or in the nregular cavities of the latter; and when any inequalities exist upon the surface of

the rocks or stones, it clasps them so firmly with its toes, that it becomes a task of no small

difficulty to dislodge it, even though it can be easily reached. Under such circumstances, the

strength of no one man is able to withdraw a full-grown individual; and I have seen two per-

sons required to pull a specimen out of a position it had attained, even with the assistance of a

rope fixed in front of its hinder legs. The moment it was dislodged it flew with fury at its

enemies, who by flight only saved themselves from being bitten. After it was killed, it was

discovered that the points of all the nails had been broken previously, or at the moment it lost

its hold. It feeds upon frogs, crabs, and small quadrupeds ; and from its partiality to the two

former, it is often found among rocks near to springs or running streams, which fact having

been observed by the natives, has led them to regard it as sacred, and not to be injured with-

out a danger of drought.

* Specimens are occasionally obtamed, which measure between four and five feet.

+ ae

he ts cu

q ‘

pias as A “-

¢ 4 ree Ce CAE MEPS

she hie

‘Tweed 4

, r

- :

;

” 17

at saat tah

aw di Tike

, eet

ree ite ath?

{

tere

7? ‘Se “ t

a} ’

1 ¥ L

ar i * fn,

02> +l%< 3 ee tld

pans aid hes & Btrud

a ab) } y ¢i Lah

y ' :

(as, 2h /

1 Wi \

TLar Vit 4 a -

, ai th % j es

: ‘ Je

, \

na P

Sei ral

e #s

_ ‘ Ave é

«4 e 7

4 ,

rif %.

¢ au

rl '

’

: Py

‘ 9

: i

\a i

¥ -

7 ay ve y

if;

\ Heat

i 7

/ Od

vi ,

tig! ots yr

a ~~ A she gary ie

an peosatr tt, af *

as a ve

OP a fendi e P.

Pag = 7 7 a

. a ry,

STQIMIA SO IVHaaona

VIT de yy)

PO aaa

Ac ers

SL 5p aye. ee ——

LET lo Sf

BUCEPHALUS VIRIDIS.—Smiru.

Repritia.—Prare III.—(Mate.)

B. pallidé viridis; oculis brunneis; scutis abdominalibus 181; scutis subcaudalibus serie duplici collocatis

circiter 101.

Cotour.—Light grass-green, the abdominal plates with a slightly livid

tint; eyes dark brown.

Form, &c.—Head moderately elongated, distinctly quadrangular and

broader than the neck ; nose slightly rounded ; nostrils small, nearly circu-

lar, and directed outwards and backwards; eyes large, and situated rather

nearer to the tip of the nose than the angle of the mouth; gape wide ; upper

lip with seven plates on each side, lower with ten. Nasal plate triangular,

apex directed backwards; anterior frontal plates two, somewhat triangular ;

posterior frontal plates large quadrangular, the outer posterior angle rounded ;

vertical plate triangular, the apex behind, rounded ; occipital plates large,

irregular and narrow behind; palpebral plates somewhat six-sided, the

two middle sides longest. Gular plates large, two in each row. The posterior

or mobile and grooved teeth of maxilla, eight on each side, from two to three

lines in length, and slightly curved ; four of each group placed for immediate

use, the rest recumbent between those and the inner portion of the spongy

sheath which envelopes the whole; the fixed or anterior teeth of maxilla

small and slightly curved, their points directed backwards; those of the pa-

latal arches and lower jaw somewhat similar. Body gradually increasing in

size till near the middle, from thence it tapers to the point of the tail, which is

armed with a horny aculeus; the figure of body and tail subcylindrical,

slightly flattened below. Skin as far as the tail loose, and only slightly

connected with the subjacent parts by a delicate cellular membrane ; towards

the head superabundant, and forming on each side of the neck a longitudi-

nal fold, which disappears when the gullet is distended. On the tail the

skin is firmly connected to the parts beneath. Scales immediately behind

occipital plates short, broad, and imbricate ; from those to the base of the

tail they are disposed in slightly waved transverse bands, each of which

bands includes scales of several different forms ; the one immediately on the

centre of the back is narrow towards the base, broad and semilunar at the

BUCEPHALUS VIRIDIS.

extremity, with a faint carina along its centre, the lateral ones oblong, each

with an obtuse angular or semilunar point, and a carina extending from the

base, and terminating on the upper edge of the scale before reaching its

apex ; the two scales of each row nearest to the abdominal plates broad and

subtriangular, the points rounded, and the longitudinal carina with which

each is marked terminates on its lower edge behind its point. The scales

on the tail are short, broad, distinctly imbricate, and somewhat five-sided,

characters which they retain to its extremity ; abdominal plates, 181; sub-

caudal scales, 101 in each row.

Unless when the skin is distended, the scales of the transverse rows overlap

each other so much, that only the inner edge of each is left uncovered ; at such

times the scales appear linear.

DIMENSIONS.

Feet. Inches.

Length from the tip of the nose to the extremity of the tail... 4 9

Teen pthonithetail accede dessins decease ones sen ee ors 1 2

Circumference of the thickest part of the body .................. 0 3

The only specimen of this species which we obtained was found near to Old Latakoo, and at

the time of its discovery was in a half torpid state, and coiled up among some dry grass which

was interweaved with the slender branches of a small shrub. According to the natives, it

ascends trees to rob the nests of birds, and its occurrence is by no means rare in that country

during thesummer season. Althougha celebrated Herpetologist has expressed his belief* that

snakes with the general characters of the species just described, ought to be retained in his

genus Dendrophis, yet it appears to me that their position in it would be equally inappropriate,

as it would be in the restricted genus Coluber. Besides the species now described, there are at

least four others inhabiting South Africa; and though they have been regarded by the author

just alluded to as only varieties of one species, nevertheless, I am more convinced at present

than when I submitted descriptions of them to the public,+ that each ought to be regarded as

distinct from the others. Supposing Bucephalus typicus, Bellii, gutturalis and Jardinii, to

be only varieties of one species, how are we to explain the circumstances of their being a!l

found in a similar climate and in similar descriptions of country, yet, nevertheless, in very

different localities, and each propagating individuals like itself, which as far as we know never

vary. In proportion as our knowledge of the more intricate details in the scheme of nature

becomes extended, it will probably be discovered that each genus is regulated to a certain

extent upon a plan peculiar to itself, and that in some genera the distribution of colours, not

less than the peculiar tints, will furnish excellent specific distinctions. As regards Bucephalus,

I feel disposed to consider it one of such genera.

* Physionomie des Serpens par H. Schlegel, page 238. Hague, 1837.

+ Zoological Journal, Vol. iv. page 441, May 1829.

? ¥

j YP f

’ fi

é * z

. } Mag i

’

+ wt

7 ’

4 ‘

M4 .

i) EL! |

”

$ )

“ ‘

, ¢

~ if

“ae -*

CH 2FPTd © vrptdey )

“WIVNMONIT VNG@IHO &

want

7 "eS Ww Oe aie | Tf.

i Oe Ry)” WN, gh) oe a

; i at : fy

"| i aye ‘

‘

+ i

a i

i ; ; ‘ i! iy

1% : i) PR ae Dy iss

th gir gue iil

at 7S

‘ 7

‘

v ‘

‘

, a

i ] . %

iy | a

: 4 i ies

eye ty . a

ECHIDNA INORNATA.—Smriru.

Reptitia.—Puate LY.

E. supra flayo-brunnea, subtus brunneo-flava, brunneo marmorata; cauda supra fusco-variegata; capite

distincto oblongo cordiformi; scutis abdominalibus 140; scutis subcaudalibus serie duplici col-

locatis circiter 24.

Lonerrupo 134 une.

Cotour.—Back and sides dark yellowish brown; belly brownish yellow,

sparingly sprinkled with brownish dots; tail above indistinctly marked with

dull brown spots or bars,

Form, &c.—Head oblong, heart-shaped, and rounded at the nose, above

flat, with a slight hollow between the eyes, depending upon the superciliary

arches being considerably elevated; temples convex and bulging; nostrils

close to the extremity of the head, their openings directed forewards and out-

wards; eyes lateral, and approaching the nostrils; neck considerably nar-

rower than the hindhead; the body increases in size till within about four

inches of the anus, where its thickness is greatest, from thence it tapers

gradually to the latter. The tail is very short and slender, and terminates in

a fine point. The scales on the nose and sides of the head in front of the eyes

rounded, slightly convex, and smooth ; on the top of the head, and on the space

under the eyes and temples, they are rather oblong and slightly carinated ;

the eyes surrounded by a complete ring of small plane scales. On the neck,

body, and tail, the scales are oval and slightly convex, each with a strong

carina along its centre, and are disposed in oblique rows across the back ; on

the tail and hinder part of the body, the points of the scales reach,

or even overlap the base of those directly behind them, whereby the carine

are contiguous and form a series of delicate uninterrupted longitudinal ridges.

On the remainder of the body they are more apart, and the continuous ridges

do not exist.

DIMENSIONS. Inches.

Length from the tip of the nose to the extremity of the tail...... 131

eneth Of the) tarlk vraacet oomosasciceceeene aceatiscnnceceetcser: eteresentes 14

Circumference of the thickest part of the body.. .. .............05 22

ECHIDNA INORNATA.

This snake was killed in the Sneeubergen, or Snow-mountains, which are

situated immediately behind the village of Graaff Reynet, and was presented

to the expedition party by J. Lieb, Esq., the government surveyor of the

district.

Little is known of the habits of this Snake, save that, like the other species of the genus, it

is indolent, and heedless of the approach of man. ;

In addition to the species here figured, we shall, during the progress of these illustrations,

have occasion to furnish representations of two others—the one Vipera ocellata, Smith,* (not

Latreille), the other yet undescribed. The former has a projecting cylindrical scale, from a line

to a line and a half in length upon each eye-brow, and is readily to be distinguished from

Vipera cornuta, Daud, by having the under surface of the tail, whatever may be the age of the

specimen, covered with scales nearly similar in form to those on the remaining portion, and

faintly carinated. The latter, Vipera atropoides, exhibits a manifest resemblance to Vipera

atropos, Daud, having, like it, two rows of black spots along the middle of the back, and

some irregularly coloured variegations on the sides. It differs, however, in many material

points, more particularly as regards the form and proportions of the head, and the arrangement

of the scales, especially around and near the eyes.

Taking these into consideration, we will in future have to record six species of the genus

Vipera as inhabitants of South Africa, viz., Vipera arietans, Merr.; V. atropos, Latr.;

V. cornuta, Daud; V. inornata, Smith; V. ocellata, Smith; V. atropoides, Smith: or if we

adopt the subdivisions proposed by Merrem and Wagler, which, in the present state of the

science, may probably be employed with advantage, these species will stand :—Echidna

arietans,—E. atropos,—E. inornata,— EE. atropoides,—Cerastes cornutus, and C. ocellatus.

The vipers, and one or two species of Elaps, are the only snakes of South Africa which

permit themselves generally to be closely approached without evincing any apparent con-

cern; the others either manifest a disposition to act on the offensive, or to fly; even an

unusual noise, without its cause being visible, is sufficient to ensure the retreat of the innocuous

ones. The different species of Waia and the Elaps lubricus, Merr., but particularly the

former, are always ready for the fight, and when their haunts are invaded, they often advance

upon the intruder with the head and anterior part of the body almost perpendicular, the neck

expanded, and an expression sufficiently indicative of the malignant purpose they have in view.

To witness such a proceeding, once fell to my own lot. Walking in the vicinity of Graham’s

Town, I happened to excite the attention of a Naia Haemachates, which immediately raised its

head, and warned me of my danger by the strength of its expiration; it then commenced an

advance, and had I not retired, I should, in all probability, have suffered, provided I had not

been fortunate enough to disable it, which possibly would not have happened, consider-

ing that the species, in commonwith others of the genus, is extremely active. Even though

I retired, I was not satisfied the danger was past, as the flight of this snake’s enemy does

not always put a stop to its advance, when once commenced. An officer of the Cape corps,

upon whose accuracy the most implicit reliance was to be placed, informed me that he once

was chased twice round his waggon by an individual of the same species, and the pursuit might

have been prolonged had not a Hottentot disabled the enraged reptile by a blow from a

long stick.

* Magazine of Natural History, New Series, No. 14, page 92.

a? a , ,

hs 1 ;

Lowe aye 2 : =

eye «2 gu

3 ae) a net wat) e=™

as) ee

ti Ree +

i i) ait =. Sir | a 7

ee oe

was of’ Tink k

( PeveTg— ern dey )

NOGMOOA

Hd WD

LYCODON CAPENSIS.—Smirz.

Reprintian—Prate V. (FEMALE.)

L. supra nitidé nigro-viridis, purpureo tinctus ; capite lineis albis reticulato, corporis squamis ad apices

albis : infra viridi-flavus; scutis abdominalibus 178 ; squamis subcaudalibus 37.

Loneritupo corporis 12 unc. ; caudex 2 unc.

Lycopon Capensts, South African Quarterly Journal, No. 5, page 18, June 1831.

Lycopon Horstoxu, Schlegel, Physiognomie des Serpens, 1837.

Cortour.—The upper surface of the head, the back and the upper parts of

the sides glossy blackish green, faintly flushed with purple, and delicately

variegated with white; the latter colour is in the form of slender delicate lines

upon the head, which are so interwoven as to exhibit a fine reticulated

appearance ; on the other parts it occurs in the shape of minute specks, one

close to the point of each scale. The upper lip, the lower parts of the sides,

and the under surface of the body and tail, greenish or wine yellow, the latter

with a longitudinal, zig-zag, dark stripe along its centre. Eyes livid green.

The above were the colours of the individual represented in the plate, but

such are not the colours most commonly exhibited by specimens of this spe-

cies. All the individuals which I have seen, excepting the one described, have

had the upper parts of a shining greenish brown colour, the head without varia-

tions, and the scales along the middle of the back less distinctly marked with

white specks than those of the sides ; the subcaudal stripe was also wanting.

Form, &c.—Head rather short, somewhat ovate and much depressed, its

sides slightly convex, more particularly towards the hindhead, which is not

distinct from the neck ; pupils vertical and of an oval form ; eyes small, with

two scales at the posterior angle, and one at the anterior; vertical plate large

and triangular, occipital plates long and also somewhat triangular. Body

subcylindrical, and slightly thicker at the middle than at the neck; from the

former it tapers gradually to the tip of the tail, which is pointed. The scales

are short, somewhat quadrangular, obtuse at the points, and disposed in

transverse rows, each row, according as it may be traced, will appear either

oblique, or bent and forming two sides of a triangle, the apex of which

will be situated on the middle of the back. One or two of the maxillary

LYCODON CAPENSIS.

teeth of each row, near its anterior termination, considerably larger than the

rest, and a similar character is distinctly exhibited at the corresponding

point of each row of the lower jaw.

DIMENSIONS.

Length from the nose to the tail. : & : , . 12 inches.

of the tail F : : : . 2 inches.

Circumference of the thickest part of the body . : ( anchs

From the facts mentioned when describing the colours of the specimen here figured, it must

doubtless be considered as a variety of the species, since the specimens which exhibit the other

colours also mentioned are the most common. It is the only example of the description I have

yet seen, and was found among some decayed wood, near toa small stream immediately beyond

Kurichane, in about 25° south latitude. When, by the removal 'of some of the rotten masses,

the reptile was exposed, it moved slowly among the remaining ones, in search of a place of con-

cealment, and when it was interrupted in its advance it simply coiled itself up without mani-

festing any disposition to resist the opposition offered. A similar course I had previously ob-

served others of the same species pursue, when attempts were made to secure them, and neither

did the one here described nor the others ever move with any considerable rapidity, nor appear

much in fear of their assailants. All the specimens which I have seen of this species were

obtained in damp situations, and never remote from localities where they could readily and

without much exertion conceal themselves if necessary, and in the latter respect they resemble

most of the innocuous snakes of South Africa, which are not endowed with the powers of

effecting rapid movements.

One may generally form a pretty accurate idea of what will be the speed of a snake, though

observed at rest, by mere attention to the character of the locality in which it is discovered.

If the locality abounds with opportunities for ready concealment, it may be inferred that its

motions will be slow, but if few of these opportunities appear, the chances are, that its motions

will be the opposite, and that it is of a species which trusts for its safety, principally, to its

powers of flight.

At nul Whe ual ne ery

; rn iy aPC i

Te eH 9

int tai)?

t t tha

ie ween Bees

sive Fy Ws eh * ; 4 i 7 pri i yn iv m “i : ne

nue seek Al

a i

a mi , t Ag ms)

7, 1 1 pele by Pi

by si he ie i

a4 Ai “ie 0 Ha

Ri kl,

ce wih i sak Aphis wh f as at Ta Higa

waa oe Ty BAe

Wei daly. aan wy Hie wi dea ich FEL |

i the Bi ‘Sy }

he a ae

Reve Ine as eB en

”

rye 1h i ;

ah au Ns

mes “a Li

ISTUDO SEMISBERRATA

Tas

Reptilia —PlateS

Tl ve ~

uP.

1 a0 eé

f 4

, Vs

; 7 ;

: A ‘

y LAN fi oh Wis hs,

ied te “i net aa sat

TESTUDO SEMISERRATA.—Smiru.

REPTILIA.—PLaTE VY.

T. supra brunneo-nigra; scutarum areolis et radiis ab illis divergentibus, subochreis; infra flava radiis

brunneo-nigris variegatis. Scuto nuchale triangulare; pedibus anterioribus paulum supra ungues

antice squamis magnis tuberculosis obtectis ; mandibula superiore uncinata.

Lonarrupo teste 5 unc.

Cotour.—Shell above deep reddish or brownish black, with numerous

ochrey or brownish yellow variegations, which are partly in the form of

irregular blotches and partly of radii, the breadth of which is greatest at the

margins of the plates. On the dorsal and costal plates, the areol are princi-

pally of a yellowish tinge, and from each ten or more yellow radii diverge and

terminate by joining others of a similar description which intersect the sur-

rounding plates. In the last-named plates one radiation generally proceeds

from the anterior and another from the posterior edge of each, while three or four

extend from the lateral sides, and those from the parts first mentioned, together

with one from each of the lateral angles, generally divide into two limbs before

they reach the margins of the plates, and by this arrangement several oblong

black spots appear inclosed within these radii. The marginal plates are gene-

rally marked with three radii, the hindermost in many instances bifid prior to

its joining the costal plates. Nuchal plate broadly edged and tipt with yellow.

Beneath, the shell is yellow variegated with brownish black radii, each of which

proceeds from the areola, when they exist, and increase in width as they

approach the circumference of the plates ; their direction is either straight or

oblique, and from the manner in which they join each other, the under-surface

of the shell appears varied with waved, angular or arched black stripes. Upper

and under mandibles greenish yellow. Eyes dusky black. The scales of the

head are a pale straw yellow, those of the neck greenish brown; the legs

pale yellowish brown, with the large tubercular scales of the fore-legs and

the discs of the small flat scales of all the legs dull yellow; claws yellowish.

Tail dull greenish brown.

Form, &c.—Shell oblong ovate and above moderately convex ; its lateral

outline as formed by the marginal plates is rather strongly serrated in front

and behind, on the sides but slightly ; its dorsal outline strongly arched

towards the nuchal and caudal plates, slightly along the middle of the back.

The surface of the shell above the lateral margins uneven, but none of the

plates palpably projecting, as is the case in Testudo geometrica, T. tentoria,

&e.; areolz smooth and slightly depressed, the other parts of the plates rough

TESTUDO SEMISERRATA.

and irregular from their being strongly cut by numerous polygonal grooves.

Nuchal plate triangular; the first and fourth dorsal plates pentagonal, the

second, third and fifth hexagonal, but the form of the last is very different

from the other two; the caudal plate pentagonal, its apex slightly incurved ;

the first costal plate rather irregular in shape and generally octagonal, some

ot the sides very short and indistinct, second and third plates hexagonal, the

fourth pentagonal. The anterior and posterior marginal plates somewhat

triangular, the intermediate ones subquadrangular ; those of the first descrip-

tion, particularly the four last of each side, with prolonged points, each of

which are inclined obliquely backwards. The sternum is slightly convex, and

its anterior and posterior extremities bifurcate ; the gular plates are some-

what diamond-shaped ; the humeral ones large and quadrangular; the

pectoral ones narrow where they are in contact with each other, and from

thence gradually increase in breadth to their outer margins which are two-

sided ; the abdominal plates are large and square ;_ the femoral ones broader

at their outer than their inner edges, and the caudal ones are quadrangular,

the outer and hinder angle being slightly prolonged and rounded at the tip.

Upper surface of head closely covered with small flat and irregular-shaped

scales, those immediately over eyes smallest ; upper mandible cut by several

vertical furrows and strongly hooked at the point, its cutting edge waved and

finely dentated ; lower mandible pointed, the point ascending. Neck closely

coated with minute granular scales ; fore-legs covered with subovate scales,

among which, above the claws, are interspersed a few large tubercular ones,

the form of one of which, the largest, is nearly that of a shell of the genus

Crepidula; hind-legs coated with small delicate scales, and, internally, each has

at its base a strong conical tubercle ; claws of fore-feet rather short and nearly

straight, those of the hinder feet much longer and slightly curved. Tail short

and conical, with a small, prominent, conical tubercle on each side of its base.

The length of the largest shell we obtained was nearly five inches, and as

specimens of the same size, as well as of others much smaller, occurred in

great abundance, we had reason to consider the largest as examples of full-

grown individuals.

The districts between Latakoo and the Tropic of Capricorn abound in individuals of this

species.

The shape of the nuchal plate and the form of the tubercular scales upon the fore-legs, are

characters by which Testudo semiserrata is readily to be distinguished from 7’. geometrica, to

which it closely approximates. For the appearances of these parts in both species, see Plate,

a a Testudo semiserrata ; b & Testudo geometrica,

eres a OT ore

po eae 3 a 4 uf

se Seine

RM sat eyetass aa

“had! t

Hees nyaNie.

m1 a eRe tain’

ier f js bene ft ae .

: aad Rls ee

} PL ighete +s ;

ace: fat % page Rad q apa (ephtt oe: pyleinnr’

Baits vissbi: air hates Athi # bs orpy™

5 A sens mete bs +3 ;

a a5 HS

tare ls vn oi ok ee arey x

(,erverg eTnde T)

CHESIB aL IO howe witabeal al IE

Rae lee

ae Di

Pie NOY ire ? Pry

a hod . om O25 '

2 Pea See ofS a aia | as <a <— *

a ae _ ste

Ps aa ee ee -_ —_ 7 2 @ =

=— oe! a | ey

mane FF :- ee 7 -_

i a a) a aay

ata et 68 8 > . y

o -

mee € 9 | «<2 ww Sua

ia a Tae 7 7 al

; : . . -

lar fee ry ee +” - 2 7

SEW: tay se - ae my ©

‘ee vd > " g

pp! a Te = 7%

ee tae obj i a -

i eae a kite ee et Bobs. ow pica! a Rey

- ry ied =| 4 ’ 4 Py =) |? ioe ia oe

Rika 4 - i] Prt

3 ite’ See yr mm sd

id ay pers, bis ad ae we

i ic se 7 ie ware

— ny * Fe - €

oe Vet _- aa CF —

: :

ey"s —— rer) ~~ S , Pe

14 g tated > @ oh +0 —s ape ~% : ‘at

Go oe, =a, et i a

a wee vi = =" ‘y >

= 7 a a

hes 2 F =

a = = 7 = *

F > < Ss *~ _ 2

- = > ey Py ad

f =

a 7 agi eis pipe

a i

} : : -

sc ee 1 ~ “ae 7}

ie >» ree if @) ha are a

K ’

‘

a ,

—

™

> P =

‘ ‘ ae

Toya

ie ‘ i

i Hi

F i es

fy i j

“ a

; m zr

: Py

can A

ri ie 4 ‘

ial

: cag! % faa L.

{ ' =, : c i Gel ; ‘ *

i \ Ld

‘ any" ‘ : f° : igen. = 2

Pe f : iey ; A

at j ie oo

Y Aa vieico

; }

VIPERA (CERASTES) CAUDALIS.—Smiru.

Reptitia.—Puate VII.

V. supra flavo-rubra, sien, aurantio-brunneis yariegatis ; subtus roseus ; capite cordiforme, maculis

duabus sagittiformibus notato, cujus una inter oculos, altera super occiput; supercilio singulo squama

aculeata armato; squamis subcaudalibus caudz aliis squamis subsimilibus.

Loneirupo, corpris cum capite, 12} unc; caudw, 15 une.

Vipera ocellata, Smith. Magazine of Natural History, new series, vol. ii. Feb. 1838, p. 92.*

Cotour.—Above yellowish red, spotted and variegated with other colours ;

beneath pale rose-red with a pearly lustre. The principal spots are disposed

in three irregular rows along the back; those of the centre row oblong, and

somewhat quadrangular; those of the other two more or less circular: They

are of an orange-brown colour, and some of them are partially, others com-

pletely edged with straw-yellow; those of the middle row are in the first con-

dition, being only margined anteriorly and posteriorly ; those of the others

mostly in the state last described, and the majority of them have besides

a lilac coloured point toward their centre. The sides of the body are

faintly freckled with small nebule, or irregular spots of the same colour as

those of the back, only of a much paler tint, without variegations, and rarely

placed alike in any two specimens. The upper and lateral parts of the head

are variegated with similar colours, only disposed, after a different fashion,

viz. in the form of angular or arrow-shaped markings on the top of the

head, and on the sides in vertical bars. The former are generally two in

number, one between the eyes, and the other on the occiput, and both are

commonly margined anteriorly with cream-yellow. The vertical bars usually

amount to four on each side, three of them cut the upper-lip, and the fourth

generally terminates immediately behind the angle of the mouth. Besides

the arrow-sharped marks with which the top of the head is variegated, there

are usually two, or even more, circular spots intermediate between the mark-

ings particularised, and these are also frequently edged with cream-yellow.

Eyes reddish orange.

In some specimens the ground colour of the upper parts is much darker

than that above described, differing but little from the tint of the spots which,

in such cases, are but indistinctly seen. In others again, the prevailing

* As it does not appear probable that the genus Vipera will ultimately be divisible into subgenera, I

haye thought it advisable to substitute for oce//ata,—a term which under such circumstances would cause

some confusion,—that of caudalis.

VIPERA (CERASTES) CAUDALIS.

colour is quite different, being a steel or ashy grey, with the spots much

darker, and tinted with the same hue. The character of the markings upon

the head is also subject to great variation, and even sometimes it is entirely

different.

Form, &c.—Head distinct from the neck ; body thick in proportion to its

length; tail short, tapered, and pointed. The angles of the jaws are very

divergent, giving a great width to the hind head; the anterior portion of the

head is much narrower, the nose rounded, and the nostrils situated near its

apex, each in the centre of a thick and projecting scale. Eye-brows arched,

and each near its middle armed with a slender, pointed, and slightly recurved

spine, of about a line or a line and a quarter in length. The scales of the

anterior parts of the head, particularly around the eyes, are very small, and

those between and immediately behind the nostrils are imperfectly carinated.

On the hind-head they are of the same oval form as on the body, and dis-

tinctly carinated. On the back and sides they are arranged in longitudinal

rows, and from the points of the scales of each row over-lapping the base of

the ones immediately behind them, the caring form continuous ridges, generally

about twenty-seven in number. The row on each side next to the abdominal

plates consists of larger scales of a different shape and without carine. The

scales of the tail resemble those of the body, and the two rows coating its

under surface, which, in the majority of snakes, are different to those above,

are in this species nearly alike, the only difference being, the carine are not

so developed. Abdominal plates 149, subcaudal scales 27 pair; length of

adult specimens about 14 inches, of which the tail generally forms nearly the

ninth part.

Dry sandy districts constitute the favourite habitats of this viper, which manifests all that

indolence of character so remarkable among the various species of the genus, and on account of

which they are more dreaded by the native of South Africa, than even snakes possessed of more

virulent poison, but disposed to action on the approach of danger. Accordmg to good testi-

mony, this species will continue for days together in one position, and as it never seeks to

avoid danger, however imminent, its presence is rarely discovered unless when trampled upon,

and the offending parts wounded by its fangs. Though generally inactive, it is by no means

so when injured ; its movements are then performed with activity ; and when once it seizes the

obnoxious object, it retains its hold with great determination, and some considerable exertion

is often required to detach it. The same may be said of most of the vipers, in which respect

they differ materially from aia. The various species of the latter, immediately after they

inflict a wound, detach themselves, and fly to a place of concealment ; while the vipers, even

when detached by force, continue upon the spot where they fall, or remove but slowly from it.

Te Bu . :

hve ere Wit on OUP Fail ert Label tachi 7, : }

» eftihyin Inte y by r i reo! a) . F AG }

ph ate AE deri sy j f,

; “Waltis!= reid) ‘“oTiyas Oivihtniel ‘ ; ‘

. é 4 |

‘ ; ‘ #741 %

. .

hiberieW our By ’ re

a -

Pe Gi j

‘

Me ie

‘ ‘

An A a

Pic 4 4

Cree +

‘

’

A r

rf 4 ih a! 2

mt “ is e 4 gat ' - *

fh yhlee Shem acl fie § ‘

car Gren “ t ng : - a ite iy se =n

: ute) is at

— 7

° 4

}

aia Cc a0 3

ih: br <s

: .

« PY oh)

* i

Ps -

A. a

> i

» ; F

Gy } : i F

: <€ ' fi

STA

we dy! 2

ave ewe

ned te4

a ‘, paar lute

Aity Qe

it t) ? wtak

iF: it

tle ‘ i shdye tt

: i 4 mae A Cmte’

ane ar i tials ity Ye au lee ayy! eee! i Ww ee

: . ¢ het t

Aria ne? yPw 4 re 6 Rt. Hyper wraliy Cppetic; ‘ ‘oes nett gaia d .

ns reed tls ae aye ey (daa i Hid Ze any acti aay hey a3

cae i ae tai

Sy Pg ahead:

ee fe

, er Wits’

ts “arnt aA irig't

A mee

ge a

a? Baayen el

he oe my

ON lanes

; i) Srey o |

a ae a lua

“ih yokes

S “Thine

art ae bY

= - > ;

a OF

ws Pay : 7 i

ii lawieeay a) 1@ BRS Wi aselpowg ophld

wigs il} itt aed, Gel Re ahs ioc aes Eode ae

ok 4A CR GLI es stp 4eleA viwy te ae Vafbir SH ib iss winies ia

Teorey sey Fae hes seh sity Tak, Bi pS SS} He pag ee

é Abie AN" repiccine, (aly eis utiq. Sele Ya 5 th sl a8 eine: of

‘707 “in & s Set Pipe a ind ih + PA, © (Gat +

whee!

a SAO ORR A aes et OAs ae ag

‘ ; ; to Way, is Brett orraae

t A Set ; bel) Fey yet ae des sal ys ae

vier ain ‘Vitel eng Wri < ES

2) cla Wd treed 7 Roti ae baa

gh a0 ee yan

a eg y Tul Vyat ry (tea BA oe ay

Wis wit “noes att diate i 3 Ae ie edb

Jer,

Win eee ae

ret PS bs ky Bylenet alt MPH RS Abinto tel tether fits © rae vet: ie

vail df aed peed ying apA pie thet ve R rue } ba te an ni iy

Ni derss o lbee nae oa athe rata im he ats one ne)

Pee jamie dy, VWpbad! ote a ey eee ee ane ry

Waren Bird nh TS Meat ae tel a8 vee at) Bee ys

jas bie se llicpaias Ptr ae 4. sree re is

Ae opr oes fwd ae ui er xian Mpeit

van : TT ied Dae igth¢a :

wh ay wer tay’ Ff, iy: ui Hig ‘ail

a a eee Teen, Mo De i ta

- Oo ‘ ik

ye, eee

’ ri

sag on ve

aL =o 9 eee

TESTUDO VERROXIL.—Smiru.

Reprivia.—Puate VIII.—Mate.

T. testa supra nigro-brunnea, maculis, radiisque pallidé ochreo-flavis variegatis ; infra flava, fascia longitu-

dinali brunnea inter scutas gulares et anum ; capite supra subflavo; pedibus anterioribus anticé

squamis imbricatis magnis tectis ; scutis marginalibus angulum scutis costalibus formantibus.

Lonairupo teste 3 unc. 8 lin.

Corour.—The upper surface of the shell liver-brown, variegated with rays

and blotches of a colour intermediate between straw and ochre-yellow; the

under surface yellow, with a broad irregular liver-brown band, extending

from the gular plates to the anus. The yellow blotches, which are nine in

number, one towards the centre of each of the dorsal and costal plates,

are very irregular in form, and include not only the whole of the areola,

but also some portion of each plate in front of it. The rays, all of which pro-

ceed from the aveole, and extend partly towards the outer, partly towards the

inner sides of the plates, are four or five upon each plate, four at least generally

reach to the edges of the plates near their angles; the fifth, where it exists,

is commonly shorter, and situated between the two external rays of each

costal plate. Each marginal plate has two yellow rays, which diverge from

the areola, and approach or actually reach the point of junction with the

costal plates, diverging as they proceed; the areola and outer edge of each of

the plates are also yellow; the areola and lateral edges of the caudal plate are

yellow, and from the former, two yellow rays proceed, one to each of its

anterior angles. The brown band, which extends along the under surface, is

very irregular or deeply broken on the edges, and in several places variegated

or clouded by shades of a lighter and brighter tint. Towards the anterior edge

of several of the marginal plates beneath, there is a small brown mark, more

or less pointed posteriorly, and a few others of a similar form proceed in-

wardly from the outer margins of the pectoral and costal plates. The top of

the head, and the upper and lower mandibles dusky yellow; the neck greenish-

yellow, freckled with brown. The large scales covering the fore-legs anteriorly

livid-yellow, the smaller ones partly brownish-black, partly greenish-yellow ;

hinder legs and tail greenish-yellow; claws a dark horn colour.

Form, &c.—Shell, viewed from above, five-sided, anteriorly truncated,

TESTUDO VERROXII.

posteriorly pointed ; upper aspect convex, under slightly arched towards the

sides, flat in the middle; upper surface somewhat irregular, owing to the

slight gibbosity of each plate; areole nearly flat; surface of plates marked

with polygonal grooves ; marginal plates more inclined to a horizontal direc-

tion than the costal ones, by which inclination an obtuse angle is formed by

the two, and an appearance produced as if the first-named formed a sort of

edging or cornice to the latter. First dorsal plate five-sided, anteriorly

pointed ; second, indistinctly seven-sided ; third, fourth, and fifth, six-sided,

the length of the sides in each plate different ; first costal plate six-sided, the

remainder irregularly five-sided; second marginal plate somewhat trian-

gular, the remainder more or less quadrangular; nuchal plate short, rather

broad, anteriorly emarginate, superiorly grooved along the centre, the sides,

transversely ribbed. Shell below bifid anteriorly and posteriorly ; gular

plates sub-triangular; humeral, abdominal, and anal ones nearly square;

pectoral and femoral ones quadrangular, the outer sides much wider than

the inner ones. Upper mandible slightly hooked at the point, and its cutting

edges finely dentated; lower with the point curved upwards. Head and

neck covered with small scales; fore-legs anteriorly coated with large flat

imbricate pear-shaped scales, elsewhere by irregularly shaped smaller ones ;

hinder legs and tail covered with small scales, and at the base of the latter,

near the outer and hinder angle of each anal plate, there are two pointed

horny tubercles, one behind the other. Claws short, straight, pointed, and

slightly depressed.

DIMENSIONS.

Inches. Lines. Inches, Lines.

Length of the shell above ............ 3 8 Breadth of the shell across the abdominal

belo wslecsetee sti 8 4 plates! “kate sacl actos senna 3 0

Hei htoiuhershellt cess reser es Eer ee 2 4

Nothing is known of the female.

The position of the marginal in relation to the costal plates furnish us with a character by

which this species is at once to be distinguished from Testudo geometrica and T. semiserrata.

From Testudo tentoria, Bell, which has also the marginal plates disposed at an angle with the

costal ones, it is to be distinguished by the greater flatness of its dorsal and costal plates, the

greater size and different characters of its nuchal plate, by the figure of the shell, which in

T. tentoria is oval, by the thinness of the large scales of the fore-legs, and other less conspicu-

ous peculiarities.

Inhabits the districts of South Africa, near the sources of the Garriep or Orange River.

ve wl yr r y great aif * P

Ride mwAen oa ith ey)

| mld! rl 7 ed :

rif wy } a

mt i batt ’

st , ’ } ‘

meaere silos if ]

brad er? Psi ae i ‘fi ' P i -

B Brin. fo | ie td yea alsa). fi

Heat Wy ak VE tp! 1 Friate. beter Fal

ay (alo ery

ona | it piece rltsiolincns i

My Bi Pcs 7 thes ¥ 4 Wiad T

; fils, ci Oa ire j THT 5 ; if Weve)

ry i s * e

wos mie hie 7 aa 125 UIT nL ‘

» 7 W) tercae ttn’ bv oft 4 H

7 . ag : phn

fined cai § f

. iz ‘oe ne 2

. ei f

A : a” Ft

pei aa peers yr uy

wl =~ if iy

std

Faye de RR th

Tee 8

ay PLY .]

aaah mh [ iv Arid very

in ,

phe - dani ee iy 4, ae

. ot Huby adit w

Om) wea ue ' Y

Mt yD aehae Cu .

prAT, Psu yibs| 4 i

pede Baer life :

Bia pie eat wens ek MLD

7 7p

= Ss ¢

4 sah re

Bertie. .

re i s

we45 aol - .

¢: ww,

‘ \ :

- +> z

, —

E AP 2»

— *\ ‘%

nee

a 4 ’

| “Sa

- col ; i»

B Lone °

* . _ : 7) =)

*_ * Sy =

“ie aod

‘ a» Po =

4 a a ° ¥ “ ;

4 am 9 tel) : 4 a

= 4 4

4 be *) - -

oe a Pr’ tee

Sete | > ! ; ae OF ym te ‘

ot. A a

Ary ye wire ' » o earn ~ 7

we ely < =F .

inghy tA aera! 82 oR aitin Syre

seul , Ff Be

ws 6.) " ye - =| ie 4

Aeh mith Wa 4H. be 1 4 (. Way i

“ 7 <_ ; | Hf

iy rei)! os v pital me ll 7 a

i ' J 7 ,

i bie ; Wi ibs 2

vei

. ‘ —

— ‘ a

~ ‘ibe tg. apnt .

= oh mi Ai

1 - - LA !

= J J

a° y ‘

vi ia

. 4

‘ . ] *)

vi . ~ ; -

+ i

‘ $ is _

x . = ,

, s

5 a) _ 7

= se Wr, a. -

> e ’ De

- 7) a = y

Oe | nee Le te

4% as

a Z

‘

i " \y ’

‘

’

ie ta) hy eae

7 |

‘hy =

]

j Lon re

' +e ‘ hounds +

| Li

®?

‘ { 1 ‘

4 grag

A Bal by)

¥ af

; F es } | @

‘ee eae r ; tate

153 he, DL eee 0

4 48 wt Pe ble iy

tbe ¢ : PAP ters ei 7

; a)

ae “hack 8 EAA pee

: i Ray a Ms F a Haale “i

Ceres

diy ih abet Dae nella yf

Aim 3 (8. i | cong yi

: i | aici Mobs ;

ebay aa ;

PYTHON NATALENSIS.—Smiru.

Repritia.—Puate IX.

P. capite superné macula olivaceo-brunnea sagittiformi notato ; capitis lateribus subflavis, lined longitudi-

nali olivacea maculaque coloris ejusdem infra oculos variatis ; dorso, lateribusque olivaceo-brunneis,

maculis, striis, fasciis-que pallidé flavo-brunneis variegatis ; et caude lateribus fascia longitudinali

nudata eodem coloris; infra purpureo-album; labii superioris scutis quatuor, duabus utrinque

proximis scuto nasali, emarginatis foraminibus formantibus, corporis squamis parvis et in lineis

obliquis collocatis.

Loneirupbo corporis cum capite 10 ped. 1] une. ; caude 16 unc.*

Pytuon Nartatensis, Smith.—South African Quarterly Journal, new series, p. 64. Oct. 1833.

Cotour, &c. Though the colours of this snake are distinctly marked, yet

the mode in which they are distributed, will require to be apprehended more

from the coloured figure, than the letter-press description. The principal

tints with which it is marked, are three—dark olive brown, dull yellowish

brown, and purplish white,—the two first colours are confined to the upper

and lateral parts ; the last to the lower portions of the sides and belly. The

dull yellowish brown, is perhaps the predominating colour on the first third of

the reptile ; and the olive brown by much the most abundant on the other

two-thirds. On the top of the head, reaching from the nose to the occiput, is

an arrow-shaped spot of the latter colour; and from that spot, posteriorly, a

band of the same hue extends along the back, gradually widening as it pro-

ceeds, and having its edges on each side waved, or irregularly scolloped. On

this band, reaching the commencement of the second third of the body, its

width increases greatly ; and in this enlarged form, it extends to the tip of

the tail; its edges throughout much waved. The yellowish brown occurs in

the form of irregular bars, or of waved blotches, or stripes on the first thirds

of the back, and on the last two-thirds, in the shape of stripes or blotches in

the olive-brown, excepting towards and on the tail, where it assumes the form

of a waved, longitudinal band on each side. The sides of the head are yel-

lowish-brown ; and each side is marked with a longitudinal olive-brown

* Specimens of a much greater size are occasionally obtained.

PYTHON NATALENSIS.

stripe, and a large similar-coloured blotch, the first commencing at the

nostril, and ending above the angle of the mouth ; the latter situated imme-

diately below the eye. The lower parts of the sides are also marked with

irregular olive-brown spots. Lips yellowish white; eyes dark brownish red ;

spurs near anus, livid white. The olive-brown and yellowish-brown mark-

ings are, when imbedded in each other, generally surrounded by a margin of a

different tint to the general colour of the spots ; where they are olive-brown,

the edging is generally darker; and when yellowish-brown, generally lighter.

The whole surface of the snake has a strong metallic gloss in certain lights.

Form, &c. Body fusiform. Head depressed, and scarcely distinct from the

neck ; much broader behind, than before the eyes; gape large; two labial

plates of the upper jaw on each side of nasal plate emarginated anteriorly, so

that the lip in front appears perforated by four irregular holes ; pupils cir-

cular ; teeth long, pointed, slightly curved, and gently reclined ; the anterior-

most ones of each row longest; intermaxillary ones short, slender, and

pointed ; anal spurs about two lines in length, slightly curved, and pointed.

The muzzle superiorly, the lips, the belly, and the under surface of the tail

are covered with large plates ; the other parts of head and body with scales.

On the top of the head they vary in size, several of them immediately over, as

well as before and behind the eyes, being much larger than the others around

them: on the body they are small, ovate, and slightly imbricate, those

of the three lowermost rows, on each side of abdominal plates, very large.

Abdominal plates narrow transversely, their breadth little exceeding the

scales immediately on each side of them; their form, however, is different—

the plates posteriorly are square, the scales semicircular. The subcaudal scales

are in two rows, and larger than those with which the sides of the tail are co-

vered ; shape the same. Abdominal plates 269 ; subcaudal scales 77. Length

of body and head 10 feet 11 inches ; of tail 16 inches. The large plates, men-

tioned as covering the muzzle superiorly are seven in number ; a triangular

one immediately behind nasal plate, the apex of which, posteriorly, is re-

ceived between the two plates next in succession, and which are also some-

what three-sided, their base in contact with the middle pair, the shapes of

which are quadrangular ; the last pair semicircular behind, and terminate ;

about a quarter of an inch in front of a line drawn so as to connect the eyes.

This snake, or at least one resembling it in size, was formerly an inhabitant of the districts

now within the Cape Colony, and the traditions of the older Hottentots abound with instances

of its miraculous powers. At present it is not to be found within hundreds of miles of the

boundaries of the Colony, and few specimens have been obtained nearer than Port Natal. It

occasionally attains a very large size, and, according to the natives, individuals have been seen

PYTHON NATALENSIS.

whose circumference was equal to that of the body of a stout man: we have ourselves seen a

skin which measured twenty-five feet, though a portion of the tail part was deficient. It feeds

upon quadrupeds, and for some days after swallowing food, it remains in a torpid state, and

may then be easily destroyed. The South Africans, however, seldom avail themselves of these

opportunities of mdding themselves of a reptile they view with horror, as they believe that it

has a certain influence over their destinies ; and affirm, that no person has ever been known to

maltreat it without, sooner or later, paying for his audacity.

Owing to the difficulty of discriminating between certain species of Python, we are not prepared

to maintain this reptile to be distinct from the Indian species (Python bivittatus, Schlegel).

The characters which have been assumed as indicative of specific differences, do not appear to

us to have been of sufficient value; the modifications to which they are liable in different

specimens, of whose specific identity no doubt can exist, show some other characters must be

discovered before certainty can be attained. The Indian species is doubtless an inhabitant of

Africa, and there are several specimens of it, both from India and Western Africa, in the

museum at Fort Pitt, Chatham, which are precisely similar. Between these, however, and the

species we have just described, there are several well-marked differences. The scales of

Python Natalensis are proportionally smaller than in the individuals above mentioned; their

form is also different. The labial fosse are more numerous in young specimens, from Western

Africa and India, than in those of a similar age from South Africa; in the latter they are two

upon each side, in the others, four or five; the plates on the head, also, are differently shaped

and differently disposed. The pattern of the markings, when viewed in detail, is also distinctly

different, though there is a sort of general resemblance. Persons who have opportunities of

examining species of Python would do well to ascertain if the labial fosse vary in number in

different individuals of the same species and of the same size, also whether their number

diminishes as age advances.

ie 176 Om Ona ee

) en es boa ag

DD " a oF | lan ao ee noo

yy. . un ¢ ¢4 ot)

wn >. er Bc vie

aay at %

¢ | .

7 ; : 7 - ep eae

ee a Mele’ lay a ite een

. 4 chiA in OMAP Rohe he em,

“ ha ‘AW ei jane ra { ‘aie tas hie Anat te i Weil pay jy she ane .

Le Le mt Why a hai hiatal ly Phin ole haat , Pat wane THT if

‘Nah uit Tiga h a: vm By nina Wahu la Wl oat

whet Te Bai faaiitieth vik: ey ti aie iit iY HEHE re well, Son 31

il i +h ul) we 4 th ae at mata ‘bide | ih} Ay aed gift if; ee WEN

he wilh cue bis we OS

ea EL, Ae ny ie pra Ae

‘ vce i] Wi it A Sani aha att ase Hh aaa a ete om u Toe

. gp Maine AR, TAP ion Pa hele ue Gini AWE nf nd i iif if ae

Pet te ee Aet pil Math at ISR ANNONA Sh hE pli VIN

HL Gn ie Dies st cnn Nn wie cae AS (300 ib rat wih an

a afnigihe cy Ce a Pay A wait RM A chee heme 8

Dot aU? Wate a Bybaaly Ci ee ae HW cht Gh ep eralanisar ington fy ane 7

ay We yh ut hy Heart y His, ‘bg ke ior i tint hs ie Ne roi Aqe RR atid ADE, Ay g ies

veh) ny aa th Prk ; alia, vty ha | LOELE ) Ta sh, it py AY lage t a

Al wnat eh ae ma i, pov”) ye, Vy Veoe), te Dern au sah iy ia he sees cs te

’ Wat 0) He ne Ey f ae

Uitaly rhs if isi ag MOE es ye aye iv nt iyi i ty) RA ] ly mir ial rikt i ary toe

i eS) At hull (ie ee Nay a, gH WE jit Nae UL TSN Wy) ine ne manila Lay List

pewip wi partis bk ie Wit it Ae Min: a aii) AN iy “in Nath! aly ith itt aie mali ft Hy DEN PE

iy, ee SALLE Pitti at Pe Daye wee ie, rr fli hii ‘oY Pid

nt aa a Ming Wy HAMA OHEY wPaug tnt enh ay

maT mM * ‘tual AEA IAC®

ca ia

‘sd

ue UO ik i y Va) p ree

iy, tis is mt nin ae

gn i {gids K , any

Sania nk EGE waa trtifa bead Ve sndioniate Md 'S

caus: slat Me Hale ale Selsin Sil 10 Haye: ea biewla®

: uta ae m” ba ne i ti es

Nal sagen anne ae ie ee? ite

mn CG.) ea ae ee) at ie ni shied wh air .

‘wh oe

ane he ‘ef re fxg} v Ne Syn ; af é hs ; ae

TA od te ! & S wane) =

al ; F . q ; =

Eee «oR ave Ps a : ait F .

cin 4

= ¥ by

sa Kae

es Bie t -

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS.—Smiru.*

ReEptTiItiA.—PuaTeE X.

B. supra viridi-brunneus aut viridi-niger, squamis prope scuta abdominalia flavo-maculatis; infra flavus,

teeniolis viridi-nigris transversis variegatus ; labiis mandibuleeque partibus inferioribus pallidé flavis.

ScuTa ABDOMINALIA, 189 ; squamee sub-caudales, 106—106.

Loneirupo corporis cum capite, 3 ped. 54 unc.; caudex, 14 unc.

BuceruArus Jarpint, Smith, Zoological Journal, vol. iv. p. 442.

Dispnotwes Lananpit, Duvernoy, Ann. de Sci. Nat. tom. 26. p. 150.

Denproruis Cotusrina, Schlegel, Physion. des Serpens, p. 288, 1837.

Cotour.—The upper and lateral parts of the head above the upper lip,

and the upper parts of the body and tail vary from dark greenish brown to

greenish black ;{ the lower parts of the sides in general more or less varie-

gated with yellow or greenish yellow spots, one spot towards the centre of

each scale, with the carina crossing it longitudinally. The upper and lower

lips, and the under surface of the lower jaw, particularly towards the angle of

the mouth, lemon-yellow with an orange or buff tint. The belly and under

surface of the tail yellow with narrow transverse dark coloured bars, the

former is the predominant colour in the majority of specimens met with, and is

of a tint intermediate between lemon and orange-yellow ; in many examples

the two colours are nearly in equal proportions, the one being profusely

mottled with spots of the other. In the specimens in which the narrow bars

are distinct, each plate, and also each subcaudal scale, have one bar near to

their hinder edge, and the bars vary in colour from brownish black to greenish

black ; the margins of the plates and the scales are semi-transparent, and of

a dull amber tint. Towards the tip of the tail the subcaudal scales are gene-

* Having satisfied myself that the four snakes I described many years ago in the Zoological Journal

as so many distinct species are in reality only varieties of one species, I have here rejected all the specific

names by which I proposed on that occasion to designate them, and adopted a new one with a view to

lessen as much as possible the chance of confusion.

+ In some specimens, we find the colour distinctly greenish brown, in others, greenish black or brownish

black, and in many it is intermediate between these colours.

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS.

rally without the yellow variegations, and are everywhere of the same tint as

the edges of those which are situated nearer to the base of the tail. Eyes,

shining brown. In some specimens of this variety very faint remains of

yellow markings are occasionally to be seen upon the scales of the back and

sides, clearly indicating that had they been secured in an early stage of their

existence, they would have required to have been classed with the variety

next to be described.

Form, &c.—Head distinct from the neck; body moderately slender and

fusiform, the thickest part rather nearer to the head than the tip of the tail ;

form subcylindrical, the belly flattened and very broad ; tail long, tapered, and

pointed, its figure somewhat cylindrical, the under surface slightly flattened.

The head is short, rather clumsy, and distinctly quadrangular, its breadth

and height nearly equal; the upper surface is slightly convex, the sides

almost perpendicular, with a slight longitudinal concavity in front of the eyes ;

the nose is obtuse, almost truncated ; the lips are coated, each with a row of

large quadrangular scales. The mouth is armed with six rows of teeth, and

the two or three last teeth of each maxillary row are much larger than any of

the others, and grooved throughout their whole length. They point almost

directly backwards, and are either firmly fixed upon the maxillary bones or

slightly moveable, and are in a great measure concealed by the pulpy sheath,

with which they are encircled. Within this sheath there are also a number of

recumbent fangs, evidently destined to supply such of the fixed ones as

may from time to time disappear. All the rest of the teeth are small, cylin-

drical, recurved, and pointed. The salivary* and lachrymal glands are

moderately large. The eyes are very large, the cornee slightly con-

vex, and the pupils circular. The nostrils are situated towards the middle

of the nasal plates, nearly circular, and opening outwards and backwards.

The plates covering the upper surface of the head are ten in number; the

rostral one is rather small, subtriangular, or indistinctly five-sided, its apex

lies between the anterior frontal plates, and its base forms the margin of the

upper lip, and is indented with a deep crescent-shaped emargination ; the

anterior frontal plates are four-sided, the hinder and outer sides longest ; the

posterior frontal plates considerably larger than the anterior ones and of an

irregular quadrangular shape, the irregularity depends principally upon the

elongation of the anterior and outer angle of each scale which extends down-

* M. Duvernoy is of opinion (Annal. de Scienc. Nat. tom. 26. p. 149.) that the anterior portion only of

the glandular structure which is found under the integuments of the upper lip is for the secretion of saliva :

the posterior portion, he thinks, is distinct from the anterior, and is adapted for the secretion of poison.

We have tried, but in vain, to discover grounds for entertaining a like opinion.

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS.

wards on the side of the head to join the loral scale between the anti-ocular and

rostral scales, the hinder sides of the posterior frontal plates are slightly arched

or indistinctly two-sided ; the vertical plate is indistinctly six-sided, the two

hinder sides extend backwards and inwards, and terminate in an obtuse

angular point which lies in contact with the line where the two occipital plates

join, the lateral sides of the plate are longest ; the palpebral plates are rather

narrow and lengthened, the lateral sides of each are nearly parallel, the

anterior extremity somewhat rounded, and the hinder one, which is the

broadest, indistinctly two-sided, the innermost of the two sides being considera-

bly longer than the outermost; occipital plates large, irregularly five-sided,

and considerably wider at the base than the apex, the last, though nearly

square, is nevertheless slightly two-sided. Rostral scale small, oblong, and

quadrangular ; loral scale also small and quadrangular ; anterior ocular scale

quadrangular, concave, and broadest posteriorly, its upper and hinder angle

extending in the form of an angular elongation between the posterior frontal

and palpebral plates, in which situation it forms a portion of the covering of

the upper surface of the head. Post-ocular scales three, forming a semicircle

round the outer canthus of the eye; temporal scales four or five in number,

smooth, unequal, in regard of size, and somewhat six-sided. The scales on

the back and sides of the neck, close to the occipital plates, small and smooth,

some of them quadrangular, others more or less diamond-shaped, all rather

irregularly disposed ; the scales behind these are carinated and disposed in

arched transverse rows, the convexity of each row towards the head. The

form, &c., of the scales vary at different parts of the rows; the one

which, from its situation, may be called the dorsal scale is narrow towards

the base, and broad and semicircular at the point, this scale has a distinct

carina extending along its centre. The scales on each side of the dorsal

one are somewhat ovate, their points either angular, subtruncate, or obtuse,

the upper edge of each of these scales is nearly a straight line, the lower,

very convex, and much arched ; the carina close to the superior edge, and

generally terminating on the upper margin at some distance behind the points

of the scales; the two scales nearest to the abdominal plates on each side

are larger than the others, very wide at the base, and rounded at the point,

their figure is somewhat triangular; the carina in these is nearly central.

The hinder margin of each row of scales overlaps more or less of the base of

the row immediately behind it, and the outer edge of each of the scales

which compose the rows is more or less covered by the inner edge of the scale

immediately external to it, and in this way there is a double kind of

imbrication. As far as the base of the tail the above are the characters and

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS.

mode of arrangement of the scales. On the tail, however, different characters

exist, the scales covering it, instead of being carinated, are quite smooth like

those on the temples and nape, and are more or less six-sided, one side being

always formed by the base, and another by the apex, the last is generally

very short, and scarcely to be appreciated in many of the scales, more

particularly in those towards the tip of the tail. The point of the tail, in

many specimens is formed of a scaly pointed tubercle, in others it is covered

with a number of small imbricate scales. The abdominal plates are slightly

arched, the convexity backward, their extremities arched or slightly semi-

circular ; the subcaudal scales are disposed in two rows, and each scale is

distinctly six-sided till near the point of the tail, where they become more or

less distinctly four-sided: in the six-sided scales the sides forming the

extremities are much shorter than the two middle ones. The skin of the

neck, and of rather more than the first half of the body, is more than sufficient

to enclose the parts contained within it, and is very loosely attached to the

parts it encloses; in consequence there is a superabundant portion, which

portion is usually disposed in two longitudinal folds, one at each side of the

abdominal plates ; these folds are always in existence, except when the gullet

and stomach are fully distended with food. On the sides and back of the

head, and also on the hinder portion of the body and tail, more especially on

the latter, the skin is not more than sufficiently extensive to cover the parts

it encloses, and in these situations it is firmly and closely united to the

subjacent parts. The usual length of an adult specimen of this variety is from

4; to 5 feet, of which the tail generally forms between a fourth and a fifth

part: individuals are occasionally found, however, exceeding 6 feet. The

following are the measurements of the specimen figured, and of two others

now before us; also the number of abdominal plates and subcaudal scales

existing upon each :—

SEX OF LENGTH FROM NOSE LENGTH OF SUBCAUDAL SUBCAUDAL

SPECIMEN. TO BASE OF TAIL. TAIL. PLATES. SCALES.

Ft. In. Ft. In. No. No.

Male 3 11 it) 188 65-65

Male 3 53 Pe 189 106-106

Female 38 9 ihe a 184 94-94

The Female is never so freely variegated with yellow on the sides as the

male, and many specimens are met with in which merely the centre of each of

the scales adjoining the abdominal plates is faintly tinted with greenish

yellow. The yellow of the abdominal plates is also of a duller tint in the

female, and often with a strong tinge of green,

PPAR pone ee ares ita 7 ay 4 F 7] y % he Ae

a ie awe KL rer one ba ~ ce ad ry bv i

‘nage Ae » 7 4 tape Mab? Ae) oe - ;

. 7 ay bd ‘4 i] 4 1

~ . z x

x" ny Par ee

; : ! — ’

- . x y Wh

’ eT Ki LAND

: i tai, oa * = t

are ‘ rie a Ne Ne az us 43 Hf ‘ . 4: fester,

het wrisih” vy TAP uit i thr iey ff ae Agy un Bay ‘ee A Fe wis ALS on) bee

ial PRE leh Pz toiga legit Mh nae tae OE lt eta tow /] gen AS

a 0 ! fe) Gina all Oa Ny ay ; mie. Sa :

; i. Menta We lM. as 4 rst Tora ity if ah’ AS a a oa x bs all ‘ he, * ay 5a!

i * “™ re ad git Pea eee ee bE TAN teal GaSe) MBA EEN CeO ee Ra ,

. eo) Oe ". tie, al we ius he = ‘

ROMS: aay wires We: ova) bs ‘ Aw) phyi! fay , ; il at A reve i i roy i .

4 Sra Lee Re en Al SR ea I

a 7: ‘. 1 j : A LAF rs ‘ ie) ag 17 ows bd ud {

alti (Lite: cout ene ai oy Bie

Leer et ee eC

‘ >

v ps

a 1 iM

’ . ‘ ut.¢ 4 im?

at Lota y 7) pillow Neen 7 $

Pia ‘i rm tis J i

ah alld dimes Uisehgs 19a F : f.. 7

ms ah RTT J mn

af ayn " Aaah) Wty VERE ah) _— ja

Hy a et muy ve ne eit 4, yihnat Hi we 7 ran at |

Me ie ;

; hk Mae ued } + ; : mY.

: ae a 1 5) ahh any! ‘al aL re 4

ha ‘ , ,

hy , > ae :

“

as : -

4 4 27

’ . ‘

4 : '

bel ie a.)

4! iy a 7

tee a Y aya ls A

A diweten ay earl on wend fEow wget F

Pa; Vac F pe ial ety weeletele contac Ira optagh,

ot) yeni Uh aeuites dare ine held Gal ara iy Sahiee ae

Pan tiol big pads ig Cae ale. OAT 9e Pe at ss hagas

a, whe yt - ree ot the ‘A myth badd: she alge

% ~ 2

’ .

oh by ? ad &

g '

4 ’ .

eee : '

3 7 ]

=) \

”

: ®

" |

art +

4 z ot Are

: my j A vi: mn

al nl [ ‘. ae 0 — 7 as

22 -

: o

4 4

Var A

Sua

CAPE N

(Reptilia Plate ll)

HALU

SIUC ie

alee 7? fone See —

18 +E ees ; aire oe O iva

; THeiinp et repsss ee or YO) Pe tw a! sudo es “Miglie peer

B a BY ci "sethie sir tae co ee Lips 46) Te AL i 4 6 ee

ee Lit aaa Xs ney So oe Owe ck eA BHA finetee

aia, se ‘ re eT? wi « glca 4, te ek

ee me, a feu <2 \ ae a Lan wilt art oat te |

aw reeniyay Os Se ' r al La ele ‘pS ) Loe

“a . , er

iw Soyita ee idef the Baits ie bE Ste

7%,

‘pon

eri

bad

po aise Die oe orf 1 a ‘

ec) ‘

ao a7 ? 7

7 fh vz a? s v4

i len aa?

oie: ra Sh; a Pat *( SUT! i fhe ‘

=e > sini ern ut) ‘Y Re aS a“ s hty

be H -

hes ,

‘Ve ee ak coin - + We ate

. . i 4 =

_ AY ce TAs

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS.

Variety A.—Plate XI.

Bucernatus Bex, Smith, Zoological Journal, vol. iv. p. 442.

Cotour.—The upper parts of the head greenish black, variegated with

yellow spots and waved angular lines,* the lateral parts yellow or greenish

yellow. The back, the sides of the body, and the upper and lateral parts of

the tail blackish green, or greenish black, the two first crossed with narrow

irregular greenish yellow lines, one line to each row of scales; and formed

of a series of small oval spots, one of which exists near the centre of each

scale. On the tail, instead of transverse lines, there are a series of irregularly

disposed yellow spots, one toward the centre of each scale, generally larger

than those which exist upon the scales of the body. The abdominal plates

are of a greenish yellow colour, and each is marked near to its hinder

edge by a narrow transverse greenish black line, immediately before which,

in many individuals, there is a whitish one with a mother-of-pearl tint.

Subcaudal scales greenish yellow, narrowly edged with greenish black. Eyes

silvery grey, grass-green, or clear brown. The depth of the ground-colour

varies considerably in different specimens of this variety, as does also the

tint of the light markings; in some, the former colour approaches to olive-

green, or even grass-green.

Form, &c.—The figure of the head and body, and the appearances of the

scales and character of the skin the same as particularized in the description

of Plate X. The following are the measurements, &c. of four specimens of

this variety :—

SEX OF LENGTH FROM NOSE LENGTH OF ABDOMINAL SUBCAUDAL

SPECIMEN. TO BASE OF TAIL. TAIL. PLATES. SCALES.

Re. In: Ft. In. No. No.

Male 3 53 1 23 187 117-117

Male 3 2 1 23 191 117-117

Male 3.3 i) a} 177 125-125

Female 2 4 i 0) 184 125-125

The Female is coloured nearly as the male.

* In many specimens of this variety the upper surface of the head is yellow, or greenish yellow,

mottled with greenish black spots or lines.

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS.

Variety B.—Puate XII.

Bucernatus Tyrrcus, Smith, Zoological Journal, vol. iv. p. 441.

Cotour.—The head, the back, the sides of the body, and the upper parts of

the tail, a clear reddish or yellowish-brown, the depth of the tint different in

different individuals, but always lightest at and towards the extremities of

the abdominal plates. The under surface of the head, the belly, and the

under parts of the tail, either a pale wood-brown, or a wine-yellow, and more

or less variegated with small spots of yellowish brown. Eyes in some silvery

grey, in others light grass-green.

Form, &c.—The general figure of this variety as well as the shape of its head,

and the characters and distribution of its scales and plates, the same as in the

varieties already described. The following are the measurements, &c., of two

specimens :—

SEX OF LENGTH FROM NOSE LENGTH OF ABDOMINAL SUBCAUDAL

SPECIMEN. TO BASE OF TAIL. TAIL. PLATES. SCALES.

Ft. In: Ft. In. No. No.

Male 8 7S iL B 190 116-116

Male 3 By 1 22 178 101-101

The Female of the same colour and figure as the male.

Younec.—Puarte XIII.

Buceruatus Gurrurauis, Smith, Zoological Journal, vol. iv. p. 442.

Cotour.—The upper and lateral parts of the head, above the upper lip,

clear yellowish brown, inclined to honey-yellow ; the upper and lower lips

cream-yellow. The back and upper part of the sides greenish black,

variegated with narrow transverse bars, consisting in part of small greenish

white spots, and in part of narrow longitudinal lines ; the spots are situated

towards the outer edges of the scales near their points, and never exceed one

on a scale; the lines are in the course of the carina, and rarely extend

beyond its base. The lower portions of the sides of the body, and the under

surfaces of the body and tail, cream-yellow, freely freckled, or marked with

livid yellowish brown and the throat besides is variegated with one or more

transverse blotches or bars of a reddish orange colour. In many speci-

mens the hinder edge of each abdominal plate is marked with a narrow

Ce a Ce ae,

y " i od ‘¢ - » ,

ee ; if - > of s ‘ 7 md > pi

i. ibe ; ;

Os i) e -

AY ,

; ; "le ,

rah

e ett ii Eres A

: : co)

. + de was ae Zee ce aah WEE h Ls a ros :

ae 4 wh Lae _ via, i eitiemd ik

3 iteh pelwivs wiiheawe nee mini ey’

A hale Mie eee PRE BS Petr ik, hese

i ;

e. ' bel a eae icv i "eked et oR: ous eA ee:

a SS eat? a makes we of teats: ty wes us

ey Nae ers ark pee RO dated mm Stes bd arene ey

‘. wy nae. Wert ee Fe

ok we TAS) eee Cyathea Prk ee acl me ; et '

a bee i hans yay mule re sce jaye age Lae

Be teu deer Po tet, OTN % one a sameness 3

eer | es

Pa - i ts =

i Oe ae me ies

. | el ¥ . ea"

> he js “oe ; ; Lh

x ale ts “ Jai

1“

iy, 7 » ya)

Mi : a: a

Tit, * 4

; OA

= i ae

a ls ‘ ¢ *; ” A pen ata! . Pd AT

v Py

vy ' 7 4

: , ns i ee & ~

; . ’ Se . :

an a; mae Less r -

> x ie ve Pe Pee le Pee See ok att mtr ti

| : if ies, Als. ae iatyiey: yee ; ewes

a a hen ik an t Choshin a st A ail as. pe ‘

: ee eS “ne Saat Pea A oben en f

eh ie ‘alae i Ja ahs

Lae re Gwe al Chiat ple Fue .

aa a Y- Ato” et tae 4 ‘os its HUT

iu ey

i)? it ‘5

F ‘ *y >

- Cle ad

Bay wh

aint ine a BPS

we 7

| uy

Mage 9

mid

(Reptilia Plate 12)

ray °

} in : NAL, Can yee

Aug i, t : Oe ae | ae. pa! IN ih ie q ea Nah

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS. (Young)

(Reptilia Plate 13)-«

wees cine om Aarne 70 ippnreriein th |

eats iw pir aa ns ue sthobis’ ied hitriie ent os

eee Ea) Sa ie

an yer i By, - we , Mtn ie |e en

its abo % oe a hgh ie Grr nt Waa RY Us }

ALY LT all Phy , ae i ees ye ; ;

ie : _ wy TERE FB MA SSA Oo the

; iN Ae a a "he ah

Pea a eon Ny,

‘>. Stale NA ® Poe , ae

Je aL) V) are hel i ot

hy : 7 4 # . 2

et: - ee am Pie.

ey 4 5 y NAG yee ‘

oo i , Re ie

SA Ot). tat), if

: ry cae by i S| Y

* ¢ i 9 ; .

oe, 5 af

: nha) ‘

5 oe we ae Pied

Pip) een hile ah UR Melia’

ee: ine ined od

ae Ve Pern mh BART, BY Oe ANN ay et builee "" ith wily. hy? oe seni apa la

tis Rian Ay eae iw) A RE ke (A dered A MGM afd lt TARE Hn Kegan Wa),

ann + ih Vedi ue: i Atany et iy hth) BAe ae) pear Re beach Aveaphe beeen A ening 5

une a Hn j “7 " teed o wi roe ine ae 4 « sahiasenes ty’ 1h uP PMLit at i at et ¥é is ev bpirg te om MEY ed pind tenho)

ae ae ri Vie de heh me dts fe Oa as A eA Kt ih at He RAH cs £ aed

ay paar oy al Hoplite FT Rid edd ot od Cota Akh A fail eat) oe eres ed Gai it La By biviss Sala ag

aa | » 5 «i tefl ty ¢ tieP rie wGliwr ‘ ae Say eis ae iNy we 2, Ac et (tn De Supe hols Ny, aloe td

.** : ‘ é . Lay

heey Fadl VERA Wines hk ks at isha ila Swe ti ted ices tin etlte! Re spies os

: re oe Abatys 4 ;

i. as ; fie wi Aci’, ie Pee bath Pa min * Trade rai ? Audi aa Seth rey: aia a By sbaae: -

ors Ober Wi ae Paap gat hilar wh Meepecneat ot Bi pi.ythatt rt F eld Shae 7 Se

; eo ee Ahh pre ah. ore Dane: anders Bee a> TE is dant

; nD | Mes bo WP 0 yh me, ae Wariel Pier ieee hy Hel) BT nstoemse.)

‘elevy A leit (oo HA a: sey ink ya Fan

; i 10) Fa. gin mage eh aad Vaty./ wrigth wait atte

*, y Seti ne et hae Aig Dien He 5 Neti pont RUS: gate bin si

% %, ; wu isaitie 3 rhe eas dey cal hy sv “tes (oe fs a

: ea ag ee eb Wade ae tee! did. Gri Trost A shad Rak ih Ayganhbi 1K, Tracie Prior sr We

pee: et Mines, ea edie 48 eBid at t inditona ise shying Sandhve i

+ ah » Oi Vibra: gat aruda Agastat ys Tae Laine gaia pails ‘wail

| : Wy vonigin iM; t wid wt iting, ‘

vdB, fiter th ha | aba Be id J dependence nuh eu

¢ ’ ; is te mo teem Ryde! mai dour jai bat Ag ‘qth ia 7

: digit dag Pete ABN Na 2 sake Met etigs Ot, lyin ; nollie lied tht

J ; iti heen hegre Naiokin abi e ae, Ve andi bate Heat

i ‘ He ren ee ee at a ae | ot Boles Ta

2a ty mpc i i a hig Lys 1 ob aalfat ei oe wa 4 np

bi i Wr Rn i

Lh, y

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS.

dark coloured bar. The upper and lateral parts of the tail olive-brown, with

a purplish tint. In some individuals the last half, or even the last two-thirds

of the body, is also of the last mentioned colour, and the parts of the back

only towards the head are of the greenish black hue.

Form.—The figure and arrangement of the scales are the same as in adult

specimens. The head is broader in proportion to the neck than in a full-

grown specimen, and the eye is very large. The following are the measure-

ments, &c., of three young specimens :—

SEX OF LENGTH FROM NOSE LENGTH OF ABDOMINAL SUBCAUDAL

SPECIMEN. TO BASE OF TAIL. TAIL. PLATES. SCALES.

Ft. In. Ft. In. No. No.

Male 0 104 0 3? 180 103-103

Male 1 43 0 6 188 112-112

Female 1 8 0 91 175 91-91

The colours of the Female scarcely differ from those of the male.

It is only within the last few months, during which I have been from time to time occupied

in attentively examining all the specimens I collected in South Africa, of what is commonly

called the Boom-slange, that I have been able to satisfy myself of the accuracy of M.

Schlegel’s conclusion, namely, that the four reptiles I had described as so many species, were

only varieties of one species. At the time I penned the descriptions which were published

in the Zoological Journal of London, in 1829, I had seen but comparatively few individuals

of each sort, and not an instance of one partly coloured after one fashion, and partly after

another. I have now, however, examined several individuals so circumstanced ; and from having

found the anterior parts coloured, as in the variety A, and the hinder parts as in the

variety B, or vice versa, I am consequently compelled to consider this snake as one which

varies extremely in regard of its colouring; and, therefore, to cancel the remark I have

made in reference to the group, in my observations upon Bucephalus viridis (Reptilia,

Plate III.), which, it may be remarked, will require now to be viewed simply as a variety

of B. Capensis. The figures now published will give an accurate idea of four of the most

distinct varieties, and the only ones which we have met with, which do not exhibit more or less

of the colouring of two, or even of three, of the different varieties.

The same reasons which induced us in 1829 to consider the Boom-slange as a fitting

type for a distinct group, still incline us to hold it as such; and we must see better

grounds than those advanced by M. Schlegel, before we consider it can be classed with

propriety in Dendrophis. The peculiar form and arrangement of the scales of this snake

afford characters by which it is to be readily distinguished from the species of that genus ;

and the singular character of the rudimentary fangs which exist at the hinder extremity of

the maxillary rows of teeth, also concur to justify its removal. As this snake, in our opinion,

is not provided with a poisonous fluid to instil into wounds which these fangs may inflict, they

must consequently be intended for a purpose different to those which exist in poisonous

reptiles. heir use seems to be to offer obstacles to the retrogression of living animals, such as

BUCEPHALUS CAPENSIS.

birds, &c., while they are only partially within the mouth; and from the circumstance of

these fangs being directed backward, and not admitting of being raised, so as to form an angle

with the edge of the jaw, they are well fitted to act as powerful holders, when once they

penetrate the skin and soft parts of the prey which their possessors may be in the act of swal-

lowing. Without such fangs escapes would be common; with such they are rare.

The natives of South Africa regard the Boom-slange as poisonous ; but in their opinion we

cannot concur, as we have not been able to discover the existence of any glands manifestly

organized for the secretion of poison. The fangs are enclosed in a soft pulpy sheath, the

inner surface of which is commonly coated with a thin glairy secretion. This secretion

possibly may have something acrid and irritating in its qualities, which may, when it enters

a wound, occasion pain and even swelling, but nothing of greater importance. The Boom-

slange is generally found upon trees, to which it resorts for the purpose of catching birds, upon

which it delights to feed. The presence of a specimen ina tree is generally soon discovered

by the birds of the neighbourhood, who collect around it, and fly to and fro, uttering the most

piercing cries, until some one, more terror-struck than the rest, actually scans its lips, and

almost without resistance becomes a meal for its enemy. During sucha proceeding the snake is

generally observed with its head raised about ten or twelve inches above the branch round which

its body and tail are entwined, with its mouth open, and its neck inflated, as if anxiously

endeavouring to increase the terror which it would almost appear it was aware would sooner

or later bring within its grasp some one of the feathered group. Whatever may be said in

ridicule of fascination, it is nevertheless true that birds, and even quadrupeds, are, under certain

circumstances, unable to retire from the presence of certain of their enemies ; and, what is even

more extraordinary, unable to resist the propensity to advance from a situation of actual

safety into one of the most imminent danger. This I have often seen exemplified in the case

of birds and snakes; and I have heard of instances equally curious, in which Antelopes and

other quadrupeds, have been so bewildered by the sudden appearance of Crocodiles, and by

the grimaces and contortions they practised, as to be unable to fly or even move from the spot,

towards which they were approaching to seize them.

‘4 ' ie hs Bled

re?

= 7

> =

—

(rl Cel. we PEL dey)

SM INE 2) HE SESe 0) We On)

me Th PA) Rt yap) oy we pote wat eau ght AA UPS fete a NE idete

iB { SL ae FA ates RAO cnn ok ht yes 7 wh MAN Wee @

"Pi in) wi Ajay) oti hy? prast t wid ix : :

aT {} iia iy a ‘aa. a. Price Aye 9 vip sn ‘

ay AC? ty ye Vb i is ' ; a " rN f ani

4 AEs eh wp (hte bind Beat nete cals

’ '

ia AL Lake be Lea pyar) f ub bit ee AP a td)

a oat Mee i al ti me

re ‘ ‘yl i : 5 i : 7 é lj) ie ht Ki A Get, ways

ety me) yy! i rhe, Aint yf i italy “

: (qt em awit a ty pi) ey Wh dia

ei He,t Piaeal he Pek te re

Pee Bt as

ewe ie ia a wie

+ be air etl. vii BAD Mt ie

f | POTS: sui ar awh q

COLUBER CANUS.—Avct.

Reptitia.—Puates XIV. XV. XVI. and XVII.

ApuLT.—PLAtTeE XIV.

C. supra livide nigro-brunneus, subtus pallide nigro-purpureus; apicibus squamarum versus scutas abdomi-

nales nigro-brunneis ; scutarum abdominalium marginibus posterioribus pallidioribus; oculis brunneis,

Lonaitupo aputti, 5 ped. 10 une. ad 7 ped.

AMMOBATES AFRICANUS EX GuiNEA, Sela, Thes. tom. ii. p. 82, fig. 2.

CoLuBer AmMosaTEs Ex GurnEa, Shaw, General Zoology, vol. iii. part ii. p. 481.

CotuBer Canus, Merr. Beitr. vol. iii. p. 15, pl. i.

Schlegel, Essai sur la Physionomie des Serpens, p. 155, pl. 6, fig. 7 & 8.

Cotour.—Above deep livid blackish brown; below pale livid blackish purple,

with two or more of the rows of scales on each side of abdominal plates

of the latter tint, except theirtips, which are of the colour of the back ;

the hinder edge ofeach abdominal plate, and of each subcaudal scale is lighter

than the parts in front of it, semi-pellucid, and has a pearly lustre. Eyes dark

liver-brown. These are the markings and colours most frequently observed

in adult specimens, but many individuals occur in which the colour of the

upper parts is of a lighter shade than the one described, and others in which

itis much darker, being actually a livid black, with a shining gloss. The

gloss is observed to prevail in a greater or less degree in every specimen.

Variety A.—Puate XV.

Cotour.—The head, back, and sides greenish brown, variegated with

blackish brown spots, disposed in three or four longitudinal rows, one along

each side, the other two, whether connected or separate nearly in the course

of the centre of the back. When they are united so as to appear one

irregular row, the points of junction are the inner (mesial) and anterior angle

of a spot of one side, and the inner (mesial) and posterior angle of one of the

other side, hence exhibiting a tessellated appearance or a likeness, in arrange-

ment, to two rows of dark squares on a chess-board: the spots are either of

a uniform colour throughout, or they are varied with small marks or serrated

lines of a white or yellowish white colour. The lower parts of the sides and

the under parts intermediate between a straw and wine-yellow ; the abdo-

minal plates, particularly those at a distance from the head, blotched, or

COLUBER CANUS.

extensively marked with a livid hair-brown colour; the hinder edges of the ab-

dominal plates semi-pellucid and shining ; the tips of the scales covering the

lower parts of the sides, are similar in colour to the back. Sides of the head

the same colour as the upper surface, the tint lighter, and each is marked

with two somewhat vertical stripes, one directly under the eye, the other

between the hinder canthus of the eye and the angle of the mouth. Eyes

light reddish brown.

Variety B.—Puate XVI.

CoLour.—The back and upper portions of the sides reddish orange ; the

tint deeper at some parts than at others. The parts so coloured are crossed

with irregular broad bars of a pale brownish red colour, and these bars are

narrowly edged here and there with dark blackish brown ; the latter colour,

wherever it exists, is confined to the base of the scale, immediately external

to the transverse bars. The lower parts of the sides light reddish orange,

shaded with brownish purple red, and vertically crossed by the prolongations

of the brownish red bars already noticed, which as they descend become

lighter, and are marked towards their terminations, which are near the abdo-

minal plates, with an irregularly shaped spot of a lemon-yellow colour, and

not unfrequently with a second of blackish brown, immediately or at some

little distance below the light mark. The lower portions of the sides and belly

intermediate between sienna and lemon-yellow, and the latter is variegated by

many of the abdominal plates being coloured transversely with livid hair-brown.

Sides of head similar in colour to the belly, and each is marked with two

vertical stripes, disposed as described in Variety A; eyes light reddish

brown.

Youne.—Piate XVII.

Cotuser Canus, Lin. Mus. Ad. Fr. i. p. 31. t. ii. fig. 1. —Shaw’s General Zoology, vol. iii.

part ii. p. 499.

Coruser Mareariraceus, Merr. Beitr. ii. p. 42. pl. 9.—Daud. Rept. vi. p. 419.

CoLour.—Above pale yellowish brown, variegated with quadrangular spots,

and irregularly waved and serrated longitudinal bands of a deep orange-

coloured brown; most of the spots are darkest at the margin, which is

umber-brown, and exterior to this colour there is generally a narrow edging

of pearly white. Head above light yellowish brown, variegated particularly

along the centre with deep orange-coloured brown. The sides of the head,

the lower portions of the sides of the body, and all the under parts pearly

white ; the sides are marked with reddish orange, or orange-brown spots in

a :

¢ my i

‘ #

oh “~y oo’ i

Poe) bys Ne

rhe : = il

Dai - yu-g 5

maa: 2 3

he AP oy ; + as — .

ws - ; z .

ae ts a a : 4

=... ) gt« ores | ~

at tea? ; behe Sey) :

‘ hh

F? 1 .

' ; .

ae hot i,

CT ;

v oo

‘ i + ;

Ty)

fei ré)

} i . : ro . .

* “2 wal ri } 7]

= ;

= ; ,

¥ I

7 -"t: be

Pa = eteed ae TE ad

Ms «

“ ®

ru : dd 6

inoll |

’ @

(/Teyag— eq. dexy |

10 A) CONVO Wath tood

a ee LR

iu sg hath AMA ae oom

Mes ‘hewavtnd ould Po datriol! aeranvandidded zhong abehy pik tinted: enero’ to anal

" Whe ie ai evn riod RUTARO! To \erhily IL Tee wophiGertee orl} 18 “vod TR

Me hak wine alice sunt a2, oase(e36. mir log 9A, prBit Tae EE ye

j a ode adit beoqpile Koqeottons, hint ysbiq ined) 6 put Migs SED A a NRILE

CO Ee polianaiiee asthe, teahber Qatari on, july leh proves gaat” rr

oe ity han wipe ‘ni-talogon thay p rub aion baw cmVliam hoe OURS

Pi)! Als gphrmiaahaup. bail cerabesidd Taopsbou Ute giie paloabletbai “heagoatht

ae shied had (wirisd Ghobeien wanda Sill ae ObtOF ae ybiohoteog. Mtnene hai:

Oh cae \naTWiog iyavana ove ‘buted: besd: Wy UbRe 73 bette, sari ge

velit) joni Woden myntd conle sb itary hii Ash eye td short al obis od

BO Meek, Moat ody meet. aa'yes welt buillod vd ined psieeiin’y Ald oi Oily, Wo eolyeen ald Bia

POEL) i oi ap APahabo seseucryy rss. ade Mengtcapors 1 TYAS peat boislt. on] sumer at ebinelhyicrg, eae

mt 1. ane Te dokuay tad? out; uct hie bean ots urnnted, yori ion

er)! hy ia oath sang iongeteoin al oily tad ody ein owed ame

Meh Ii he tan liga te Wi rwjens adt ci corks slngtiel Ldsted old: at HOt FTE MTON AE ME

aan Sige, mre wk akaniserat endyis nhinbss aes wivnlncising’ feu au}: to! aadog oi 7 entity

m ma | ibe of) Ms Saneby eqs ody Boitseon wate oT bobanor bremn setnll ib

Fs achat ns MOONEE HAAN P0908 Bat Hajsatiot Heal hice W noitony @ lalded erates wince

ey Dyas ‘a Maen & Haan &: loidek 1.81% odin aN net wit oer by i xen ,

Tae Le ee ne lana ob MALOOF NER

v aye ioe: oi bodsorr gil Hogg “ky Piles ole th, maltiog a sopranos oid ‘

idl No aqaila nth; bbinwge batswch a Riis

eters mca Vnsaey, iba dail r.3n. Skies nisilanas age ebb Aalogas

0 Maal sd ena beer reloguniyy sedwoinne nate

P itor Sirs we yt) > Mi

5k eral tate yaa rnd Lexdginae och tree 9 Ml iy

ote hina aeit eeerol Bi: decnarall dxpront 96 Holy ine ake cores

We eh out 10 9He daily ralnansiion ows gibigsios aotelepi rt 150

Bh iia Guo at hokaiog: wonitad, saubiw * thos aihiredar: 296 NARPPAT:

eon Ph Yo aula® ore sdb aed oda add ter dette: ar’ 0} vowngh Be

, ; met ats Aishiie-g ip elas talivnorl ae valine NOT aR Yo. ae oD

: ‘ : Bite ie pie Pate orct Uintpan tind eld it aes

aries ie lant sada 8) dal ie KB ais _dlteotia peevith’ ,

ethos uenes PRED He AGATE ABE aoeely isidevolsiti |

. yk ayers Dace BRL OF OD rel akan Lobinselaa : ad,, SO iF Re ie ee

Ary , ; wie te wird ah), Obit iPerapiny int, 4 rey Ls) (id dite peg ih | ;

: Hubbel vie oy Of aye 2b damtloee ateba ie te iain potion a . *

A joy waves cab) ovo weve oeeveapennte sb yndw Licciutas o he fe no

eats

ay ae

sf ; ie Nis

COLUBER CANUS.

the form of a cross, and the under parts with transverse blotches of the latter

colour, either at the extremities of the plates, or towards their centres, or at

both. In some specimens the spots are disposed in four regular rows; in

others they are in two rows, one on each side, and each spot shaped like a

sand glass, being narrow in the middle, and widest at the extremities.

Form, &c.—Figure subfusiform, and somewhat quadrangular in young and

middle-aged individuals; subcylindrical in adults; head quadrangular,

rather small, posteriorly as wide as the neck, anteriorly narrow, and termi-

nating in an obtuse point; side of head behind eye convex; portion

of the side in front of eye flat and perpendicular. Gape rather large,

and the angles of the mouth considerably behind the eyes. From the head

the body gradually increases in thickness till it reaches its extreme, which is

generally about midway between the nose and anus ; from that point it gra-

dually decreases towards the tail, which is in most specimens thicker and

shorter, in proportion to the total length, than in the majority of reptiles of

this genus. The point of the tail, particularly in adult specimens, is com-

monly blunt and rounded. The plates covering the upper surface of the head,

including the labial, a portion of which is so reflected as to cover the anterior

extremity of nose, are ten in number, viz. 1 labial, 2 nasal, 2 frontal, 2

supra-ocular, 1 vertical, and 2 occipital plates; the labial at its base,

which constitutes a portion of the edge of upper lip is notched, the notch

being a curve, the convexity of which is directed upwards; the shape of this

plate is triangular, its apex reaching the point at which the nasal plates come

in contact anteriorly ; the vertical plate somewhat triangular, and more or less

distinctly six-sided ; its apex lying between the occipital plates ; labial plates

of upper lip six or seven, those towards angles of mouth largest, of lower lip

eleven or twelve, exclusive of the central one, covering the apex of the lower

jaw ; postocular plates generally two, anti-ocular plates one or two. Eyes

small and deeply set ; nostrils small, widest behind, pointed in front, and

situated much nearer to the point of the nose than the eye. Scales of the

body rhomboidal and disposed in rows, which run obliquely across the body

from the abdominal plates on one side to those of the other, each row

generally consisting of twenty-seven scales; subcaudal scales six-sided, the

two central sides longest ; the tip of the tail usually covered with a hard

elastic, and somewhat horny sheath, the apex of which is either blunt or

aculeated. The abdominal plates vary in number in different specimens,

ranging from 172 to 209; the subcaudal scales from 60 to 84, and there is

no reason for supposing that the number is in proportion to the size of the

specimen. The usual length of an adult specimen is from five to six feet, but

individuals are frequently obtained which measure even more than seven feet.

COLUBER CANUS.

Scarcely are any two specimens of this snake marked and coloured alike: hence, as regards it,

neither the form of the spots nor the tints of the colours are of any real value as diagnostic

characters. Though such is the case, it must, nevertheless, be admitted, that there exists in

specimens certain general resemblances which enable the eye that has become familiar with

the appearance of one or two specimens to recognize without much difficulty, all the other

modifications which present themselves. The colours most commonly noticed in adults are those

represented in Plate XLV.; but many individuals are obtained in which the colours are lighter,

and others in which they are much darker. The variety figured in Plate XV. is less common,

and although some diversity occurs in the arrangement of the spots in different specimens, yet

there is never that discrepancy which is calculated to raise a doubt as to the identity of any

two real examples of the variety. Comparatively rare as this variety is, the one represented in

Plate XVI. is still less frequently procured, and specimens so coloured are very seldom

obtained ; that is, the ferruginous tinge is rarely seen of such a depth, though specimens in

which it exists of a lighter hue are not very uncommon. The young, as figured in Plate

XVII., exhibits the appearances most characteristic of that age ; and although many examples

are procured in which the configuration of the spots and the fashion of the bands are more or

less varied, yet there is that in all of them which clearly indicates their species. The colours

of the young are also variously modified, but not to such a degree as those of adults or half-

grown specimens.

Each of the kinds represented are considered by the European settlers and the aboriginal

inhabitants of Southern Africa as distinct species, and that figured in Plate XIV. is known

throughout the colony by the appellation of Zwarte Slang, or black snake. Adults and

middle-aged individuals are generally found upon dry plains, especially those of which the soil

is loose and sandy, and whose surface bears a moderate sprinkling, at least, of dwarf shrubs.

The young, again, are commonly discovered upon stony hillocks or rising ground in the neigh-

bourhood of plains. Full and half-grown specimens conceal themselves up in holes or sub-

terranean burrows, except when hunger or a desire to bask in the sun urges them to appear

above ground; and if they are discovered whilst so engaged, they generally fly to the nearest

hiding places. Though such is their general habit, it often occurs that they act other-

wise, and await the approach of man without any appearance of fear. On such occasions they

manifest considerable boldness, and if pressed or closely assailed they prepare for battle,

by raising the head and eight or ten inches of the body almost perpendicular, at the same time

alternately darting the tongue out of the mouth, and retracting it with great velocity. When

in the first instance they fly, it sometimes happens, if they be pursued, that they suddenly turn

upon their pursuers, and evince a disposition to act on the defensive. The strength of a full-

grown specimen is very great, and I have myself, more than once, had my hand benumbed by

permitting one to wind its body spirally round my arm while holding its head in my hand.

The moment it is satisfied that its body is properly coiled, it throws the muscles into a state of

violent contraction, which produce a degree of pressure that immediately becomes almost

unsupportable. The consequence of such pressure is soon evident; the parts below those,

round which the body is turned, become benumbed and powerless ; the fingers lose their ability

to detain the head, and the moment the latter gets free, the body is instantly uncoiled by the

will of the reptile, which then falls to the ground.

des hinhenaige) . i

eee 7" a &

(GT Mg way )

GI Sai We i Ie NT

oh ee

Uy v

‘ nt

‘

‘ 2

———— -

—

; , i =

\ C pride & yd Gd oe © J

f ) Patt)

: vets? te

-v

—

ai (ab

a : T

*h wm ie we

a f D i 4 L ore

Me -_ 'P oS Sa

caves ie

aN OA al

ri yal

y a

’

, : oe

marae

“24

(Young)

lal Ay a) Nave

NAIA

(Reptiha — Plate, 21)

Oe tes SALA Ne

Ss ©

}

¢ i

@ e

= -

_ .

‘

ee;

> cae: 2 if

ny _ o

NAIA HAJ E.— Merrem.

Reprtintia.— Puates XVIII., XIX., XX., anp XXI.

N. flava ant purpureo-brunnea; partibus inferioribus pallidioribus seepe maculis transyersis rubro-brunneo-

notatis ; figura subcylindracea, versus caudam fortiter attenuata.

Loneituno inter 5 et 6 pedes.

Ecuipna ruava, Merr. Tentam. System. Amph. p. 154.

Nata nicra, Smith. Magazine of Natural History, vol. ii. 1838.

GEEL CopELL, Brurn copetL, and SpuuGH-siane of the Cape colonists.

Cotour.—The majority of the specimens of this species, which are found

in South Africa, are either entirely yellow or purplish brown, though a

considerable number occur, also, in which both these colours exist more or

less distinctly in the same individual. The depth of the general colour

varies considerably in different specimens, particularly in those exhibiting

the yellow colour, being observed of every shade between straw-yellow and

clear reddish yellow. In specimens which are partly of a yellow and partly

of a purplish brown colour ; the latter tint is generally found upon the head,

neck, and upper parts of the tail. In all the three kinds, the upper parts

are always of a deeper tint than the lower parts, and in the majority of speci-

mens the belly is mottled, from being more or less crossed by irregular

blotches, or incomplete bars of a reddish brown colour. The abdominal

plates, and the subcaudal scales have a slight pearly lustre, and in some

they approach almost to a pearly white.

Form, &c.—Figure nearly cylindrical, with the belly a little flattened ; the

greatest thickness of the body is rather nearer to the head than the tip of the

tail, and from the thickest part it tapers towards both extremities, the

decrease in thickness occurring more rapidly, and toa much greater degree,

towards the latter than the former; so that the tail towards the tip is scarcely

so thick as a common writing quill. The head is considerably wider than the

neck, the greater width arising principally from the lateral bulge which exists

on each side of the hindhead, and which gives to this snake its peculiarly

hideous and savage appearance. The width of the head is much greater than

its depth; its upper surface is flat, and the occipital scales appear very large

NAIA HAJE.

as compared with the other plates; they are irregularly five-sided, two sides

referable to the external margin of each, one to the point, one to the base,

and the fifth extends the whole length of the inner side. The sides of the

head before the eyes are nearly perpendicular, behind the eyes prominent

and convex : the nose is rather blunt, and the nasal plate, which is large, has

towards the margin of the lip a deep semicircular concavity, the convexity of

which is directed upwards ; anteocular scales one, postocular scales generally

three; the last but one of the labial scales of the upper lip very large, and in

adult specimens generally reaches as high as the postocular scales, and

covers a portion of the sides of the head, the remaining parts of the sides are

covered by a few large irregular scales, excepting in young specimens, in

which these scales are out of proportion small, as compared with what they

are inadults. The scales of the hindhead and the commencement of the neck

irregular as regards size, each with four distinct sides, and two other more or

less developed, according as the base and apex of each scale are more or less

pointed. The scales on the other parts of the neck and body are lengthened,

rather narrow, and of a more or less ovate form, and are disposed in lines,

which may either be traced as running obliquely across from one side of the

abdomen to the other, or as forming angles on the middle of the back, with

the point of each angle considerably behind the extremities of these lines,

which will be understood best by reference to the appearances exhibited in

the plates. Approaching the tail the scales change their character, though

they retain the same mode of arrangement; instead of being ovate they

assume a somewhat quadrangular form, diminish in length and increase

in width, and the sides constituting the base and apex are oblique. On

the tail, again, they exhibit a different figure, one more approaching

to that of the scales of the hindhead being more or less six-sided, the two

sides constituting the base and apex being more or less developed: the point

of the tail is either blunt or accuminated, and in either case is covered with a

corneous sheath. The skin of the neck is loose, and too capacious for the

parts it has to cover: hence, when not excited, the exuberant portion is

disposed in two folds, one along each side, close to the abdominal plates.

The skin of the body is moderately loose, but not too large for the parts

beneath it, and that of the tail is intimately united to the internal parts, and

not to be raised in the least, except the connecting membrane be destroyed.

The abdominal plates are moderately wide, and the posterior edge of each is

longer than the anterior, and terminates in an angle between two of the

scales of the inferior lateral row: the subcaudal scales six-sided, the angle

formed by the union of the two external sides received between two of the

NAIA HAJE.

lateral scales, and the internal angle between two of the subcaudal scales

of the other side. The number of abdominal plates varies from 200 to 227,

and the number of subcaudal scales from 53 to 67. The eyes are rather

large, and though not sunk in the orbit, appear rather deep from the sides

of the upper lip, and the supraorbital scales being very protuberant.

Variety A. (Puate XVIII.)

Ground colour either a pure or a reddish yellow, the depth of the tint

different in different individuals, but always lightest on the under parts.

The variegations, which consist of narrow longitudinal spots, or streaks, are

of an umber-brown or reddish brown colour, and vary in respect of number

in every individual specimen; in some examples they are numerous, and on

some places confluent; in others they are few, and hardly to be perceived,

those snakes being just in the stage which precedes their becoming what

would be regarded as specimens of yellow Copells, already described.

The abdominal plates, and in some individuals the subcaudal scales also, are

more or less mottled with umber-brown, or reddish brown variegations, which

always extend transversely, instead of longitudinally, and sometimes pass

from one extremity of the plate to the other. Eyes chesnut brown.

Variety B. (Puate XIX.)

Ground colour a rich umber-brown, more or less freely mottled with stripes,

spots, or blotches of gamboge-yellow and bright chesnut-brown. The

abdominal plates are generally a dull brownish purple-red, and towards the

head, generally tinted here and there with yellowish brown, and spotted with

yellowish white. The tail, both above and below, generally livid blackish

brown. Eyes deep chesnut brown.

Variety C. (Piate XX.)

Colour an uniform livid blackish brown, the livid tinge strongest on the

under parts, forming almost a sort of purplish slate-colour, which is

very dark and shining towards the head. The abdominal plates posteriorly

have each a light semipellucid margin, and the base of each plate, which is

covered by the plate in front of it, and also the portions of the scales of the

back and sides, which are generally covered by the adjoining scales, are of a

bright chesnut colour, best seen in dried skins. Eyes bright chesnut-brown.

NAIA HAJE.

Youne. (Piate XXI.)

Colour intermediate between straw-yellow and pale cream-yellow, the only

variegations being two brownish-red collars upon the throat, the extremities

of each of which are visible upon the sides of the neck above ; and those of the

last collar are generally connected by a narrow angular bar, of the same colour

as the collar itself, as is shown in Figure A. Eyes light chesnut-brown.

If this reptile be specifically different from the aia Haje of Northern Africa, I have not,

after closely comparing them, been able to discover the differences which, in my opinion, could

justify me in regarding them as distinct. I have not been able to perceive greater discrepan-

cies between some of the Cape individuals and those collected in Egypt, than I have been able

to find between some of what may be regarded the more typical examples of Southern Africa

and others of the same country, which may be viewed as presenting aberrant or less common

characters. The young of the Cape reptile exactly corresponds with the young of Naia Hae,

as figured by M. Geoffroy.*

The appearances of the more common sorts of this snake being easily to be imagined, I have

not thought it necessary to figure them ; but those of the varieties, being more intermixed and

complicated, I have represented the three principal ones, believing that all others which occur

in South Africa, will be but modifications of one or other of them. Of the varieties figured, the

one of Plate X VIII. is the most common, next toit that of Plate XIX., and the one most rarely

met is shown in Plate XX. The latter is known throughout the Cape colony by the name of

Spuugh-slang (spitting snake), and is so called from the power it is supposed to possess of

ejecting its poison to a distance. All the Cobra de copellos of Southern Africa distil poison

from the points of their fangs when they are much irritated, and are able to eject a portion of it

beyond the mouth by a forcible expiration ; but that any greater power than that is possessed

by the Spuugh-slang, I am not disposed to believe ; nevertheless the contrary is strongly main-

tained both by the European and native inhabitants. Both of these affirm that the snake in

question is able to cast its poison to a distance of several feet, especially if the wind be blowing

so as to favour its object ; and that it often projects it into the eyes of unwelcome intruders,

and thereby occasions a degree of inflammation, which not uncommonly terminates in loss of

sight.

In the Cape Colony the varieties of the Cobra de Capello are all regarded as highly danger-

ous; and many severe, if not fatal consequences, are the results of their bite. They are all

savage and bold, and when assailed, they generally resist rather than fly, and they not unfre-

quently even act on the offensive. They climb trees with great facility, and often take to the

water out of choice. In the liquid element their progress is rather slow, and during their resi-

dence in it the head and a portion of the neck is always kept raised a little above the surface.

Whenever they are excited or irritated they, like the common species of India, inflate the loose

skin of the neck, and extend it laterally, so as to exhibit an appearance as if the neck was

edged on each side with a thin semi-circular appendage. They feed upon small quadrupeds,

birds, and eggs, and in search of the latter, they ascend trees to rob nests.

* Descrip. de /Egypte Atlas, Rept. plate 7. fig. 3.

) é‘

iuer Ps » 6 : : - f

tien ay des a i. DA :

: : ) é r 4

Se UI Ble ao r

7 rae a)

bt z ;

i ®

4 7 i.

’ 7

- 7

* _

7 a

‘

“s '

> :

‘a .

' .

= J cr s

* ‘

‘

; <

7 a 7 ;

J pnt, of Por

“a : - ' Ms —

iy) — y : 7 ‘

7 a ' 7

7 a

ie 4 abel

7 i, tian » oe a

AAO ep ee yy ee +

‘

4 ,” P

~ 5 ;

: P ay hag —F ; i ) { T ij i

2 BINS Milas bend), ihe pall ie

a a aay’ . ' ve |

| aes jachey aoe ‘. ¥ een 7 ak eee Ae ‘

Me PUL Ls Wea hector i. } » mi.

» - . 1

on wink ALi ue ise 2 ; : wie

ei. 7 . - _* i v : 3 i ‘

aig Rivas sare <1 Sy ane} de Biis Che with Mee

7 f . - re fa ; say

7 a At Hee yi hes fhe Hig ment Al a

} :

a =] Laeteiag vie i 2 j 1 oe Boe Nil eae LD ound arto =? 3

a laud i. , : ide ‘ ew. 7

= yy 7 4 i °. ; a ly ne ‘ Ba) Se vy J iT oa) TL lat :

~ty *) swe Peqit ‘ er

a¢

Hie? Coe,

we ; baal = ;

Migeeiel aye hat rnd Diente ; ik ime wer oat win

Ve 7 wil " qate eli pais wh Ligh: . ifn ' area ' 7 ad " i 3

: :

Pio, 4F At ‘ r Ceaeit ( ] Tis } ; i

ee '

v " .

‘ pea

: iad fy , i

4 gellit\s pias

F484 GP UOm

he el walk.

New. he Cova A

“We fo vellhe

imine

LYCODON GEOMETRICUS.—Scutecet.

Reptitia.—Puatre XXII. Aputr anp Younc.

L. supra subcastaneus ; infra pallide flavus, latere duabus lineis longitudinalibus anticé notato ; capite

supra linea flava marginata, et linea coloris similis inter oculum et oris angulum ; capite depresso ;

corpore subcylindraceo ; squamis anticé hexagonis elongatis, posticé brevibus subhexagonis.

Loneitupo a naso ad anum 26 unc. ; caude 6 une. 6 lin.

Lycopon Gromertricus, Physionomie des Serpens, par Schlegel, page 111.

Cotour.—Back and upper portion of sides intermediate between yellowish

brown and umber-brown, the colour of the sides being separated from that of

the back by a narrow cream-yellow band, which commences near the hind

head and is lost before it reaches the tail. Below the brown of the side,

which exhibits the appearance of a longitudinal stripe, there is a second

cream-coloured band about the width of the first, but neither so distinctly

defined nor so lengthened, rarely reaching to the middle of the body. Behind,

where this second line does not exist, the lower edge of the brown gradually

fades into a light-brownish purple-red. Lower portion of sides and under

parts straw-yellow. Besides the yellow bands already mentioned there is

one of a brighter tint edging the lateral and anterior parts of the upper sur-

face of the head, and another extending between the outer corner of the eye

and the angle of the mouth; there are also some more or less vertical

lines of the same colour on the upper lip.

Youne.

The ground colour sienna-yellow glossed with purplish red, and the back

and the sides towards the head are freely variegated with several rows of spots

of a brownish red colour. Line edging the upper surface of the head, and

one between the eye and the angle of the mouth bright yellow, the former is

connected with its fellow of the opposite side by a narrow transverse yellow

line ; upper and under lips pale yellow vertically barred with brown. Under

parts pale straw-yellow.

LYCODON GEOMETRICUS.

Form, &c.—Head depressed, subtriangular. Body subcylindrical, and

tapered from the middle toward each extremity ; the decrease in thickness

towards the head is but trifling, while in the opposite direction it is very con-

siderable. The head is slightly broader than the body, and the neck is more

flattened than the portions behind it. The tail is pointed, its under surface

flat, and its upper semi-cylindrical. The scales towards the head are long,

narrow, and six-sided ; about the middle they are much broader and shorter,

but still somewhat six-sided, which is also the figure of those of the tail and

body near toit. The anterior teeth of the maxillary row and also those of the

lower jaw considerably longer than the hinder ones. Greatest thickness of

the largest specimen I have seen about that of a man’s thumb. Abdominal

plates, 208. Subcaudal scales, 71 in each row.

DIMENSIONS.

In. Lines

Length from the front of the nose to the anus 26 0

of the tail Sea Glen! chu Md 6 6

Circumference at thickest part . . . . . 2 8

This snake, which is rarely seen in South Africa, resorts to dry and arid situations ; its move-

ments are moderately quick, and its food, at least a part of it, consists of lizards.

A an

a me

sy aD i wh it ati nN ¥2 ¢ nm wie

pees ois tein as

“-*

ap. eis be Me G

Ares

(¢g27ve1g ern dey)

Sei enol oN INN OMaNO! OV al

LYCODON GUTTATUS.—Smiru.

Rerritia.—Puate XXIII.

L. supra obscure flavo-brunneus carneo-tinctus, dorso lateribusque effuse guttis brunneis variegatis; infra

ochraceus ; capite supra lineis brunneis variegato, duabus transversis, reliquis longitudinalibus ;

maculis duabus oblongis pone nucham ; squamis subquadrangularibus in lineis obliquis ordinatis.

Lonaitupo e naso ad anum 13 unc.; cand 3 une. 6 lin.

Cotour.—Above dull yellowish brown with a pink gloss, the upper parts

profusely variegated with several rows of dark spots, the two rows of spots

along the centre of the back almost circular and largest, the spots of the other

rows smaller and irregular in shape ; each of the spots, particularly of those of

the two middle rows, consist of two colours, viz. an external ring of an umber-

brown hue, and a centre of light reddish brown. Top of the head pale

yellowish brown, variously variegated,—across the hindhead there extends a

narrow reddish brown line, and another of the same tint is observed between

the eyes, the latter has its extremities directed backwards and extended

upon the hindhead ; between these lines two or three longitudinal lines of small

dots, and in front of the one which runs between the eyes there are two narrow

longitudinal brown lines extending to the tip of the nose. The extremity of

the transverse line, which crosses the hindhead, is joined to another line of

the same colour which proceeds from the outer edge of the eye, and from the

point of union a single line is prolonged for a short distance along the side of

the neck. Between the hindhead and the commencement of the circular

spots of the back there are two narrow oblong blotches, the colours the

same and similarly arranged as those of the spots of the back. The colour

of the under parts pale ochrey yellow. Eyes dark brown.

Form, &c.—Figure lengthened and slender ; the greatest thickness of body

about midway between the nose and the anus, from thence it tapers con-

siderably towards both extremities. Head slightly depressed; the sides of

hindhead slightly bulging, giving to the latter a superiority of width over the

LYCODON GUTTATUS.

commencement of the neck. Tail slender, and tapered to a sharp point.

The front teeth of the maxillary row and of the lower jaw rather longer than

the rest. Scales small, somewhat diamond-shaped, and disposed in oblique

rows between the centre of the back and the abdominal plates; on and ap-

proaching the tail, they are much broader than they are towards the head,

and not so regularly shaped. Behind the eye two scales, in front one, and

anterior to the latter a very small frenal. Abdominal plates, 196. Subcaudal

scales, 72 in each row.

DIMENSIONS.

Inches. Lines.

Length from the point of the nose to the anus 13 0

Tenpthiof the tar) yey. easel on eielcsen- teem seelel = 3 6

Circumference at the thickest point ....... 1 6

This snake, so far as I know, has not been found within the limits of the colony of

the Cape of Good Hope, and the only specimens I acquired were obtained during the

movements of the expedition party beyond Kurrichane, and were all found in rudely con-

structed stone-walls. It was of a mild disposition, and scarcely attempted to escape when

the fabric was demolished in which it was concealed.

(Vo?

d Pipydexy,

SHLOCIdATOMOIN SNTAaCMOS

SALOCIGATOUOIW SATAG

TOD 1

(92 earTg— erndeg)

oa)

qd 9PN V SALOGdId ATOM IN

VIACUOOD

CORDYLUS MICROLEPIDOTUS.A Male. B. Female C Young

{Repuha Plate.26)

poe "in

eye

gets hone

r re oe <

‘ben @. me! Phy

re rar. ad

marist 4 ‘Vi a)

As taediien May me + sha i edvems Rgylatite

pacha & pin wb ia w hehe pibdnetind 0 v.

Ty ie. wa Bitavt Ne wise oaue re Of, thy la we ep!

os diva, ieerOw, 2 thin i so Site nr RG, oes. \*

} ie wills hit } ATG fies Ai

“Yacagen rit

font a Miles be hi ristad iecyze

Haw, aiid varbitially he vet .

ie Sin , ur ii yité : f \" Shi) i! i i)

ebay 5 the si'liee wh Beerp-spy taro «

« -

hear. 2 ib moire Gal’ fe eye a 1 : td

N 7. 4 “t my i "

ve => kos jhe tafe yrs ee TIS ayy a

bee : ed

scm et,

brvaee.

Pw ile ie

joe 347

( 4 ¥ rerr eye <i <3

‘:

LAE ee

CORDYLUS MICROLEPIDOTUS.

ReptitiA.—Puates XXIV. XXV. anv XXVI.

C. dorso maculis flavis in ordinibus transyersis ornato ; caudé superne flavo-variegata ; cervice, dorso,

lateribusque squamis parvis plus minusve carinatis et in seriebus transversis, ordinatis; cauda superne

squamis carinatis spinosis armata ; poris femoralibus verrucosis in ordinibus duabus aut tribus dis-

positis.

CorDULUS MICROLEPIDOTUS, Cuy. Reg. Animal. 2d Edit. vol. ii. f. 33.

CoRDYLUS MONTANUS,—MELANOTUS,—ALGOENSIS, — et SUBVIRIDIS, Smith, Mag. Nat. Hist.

vol. li. page 32.

(Var. Fig: A. Plate XXIV.)

CoLtour.—The upper and lateral parts of the head clear brownish red, the

former marked with a longitudinal narrow line of a pale reddish orange colour

over each eye; the sides of the head in front of the eyes and the lips pale brown-

ish yellow. The upper surface of the back and the tail livid brownish red,

the former variegated with short transverse stripes or spots of an ochre-yellow

colour, so disposed as to form several broken bands ;—between the hinder legs

and on the neck immediately behind the head the bands are sometimes continu-

ous; the sides of the upper surface of the tail are sparingly mottled with

short, narrow, yellow streaks, and a band of the same colour is often observed

extending from the side of the neck and arching over the base of each fore-

leg. The sides of the body intermediate between gall-stone and ochre-

yellow, and vertically barred by several triangular prolongations of the dark

colour of the back, which in some specimens reach to the margin of the abdo-

men; the sides and under-surface of the tail gamboge-yellow,— the former

marked with many narrow vertical liver-brown bars. Belly and under surface

of extremities intermediate between gamboge and sienna-yellow ; upper sur-

face of extremities pale gamboge-yellow irregularly barred with reddish-

brown. The sides of the neck with two distinct and more or less vertical

spots of a darker colour than the back, and the space between the rami of the

lower jaw is a livid blue. Eyes chesnut brown.

(Var.—Fig. B. Plate XXIV.)

Coxrour.—The upper surface of the head and the temples chesnut-brown ;

the back orange-coloured brown variegated with transverse bars of quadran-

CORDYLUS MICROLEPIDOTUS.

gular light yellow spots, those near the centre of the back smallest ; sides

superiorly the same colour as the back, inferiorly deep reddish orange and

partially barred by prolongations of the dark colour of the higher parts of the

sides; the sides of neck marked with three distinct dark liver-brown spots,

one directly behind the meatus externus. The space between rami of lower

jaw livid blue; the belly and under surface of extremities sienna-yellow

clouded with deep reddish-orange ; under-surface of tail dull reddish-orange ;

upper surface of extremities light orange-brown. Eyes chesnut-brown.

(Var. Plate XXV.)

Cotour.—(Male. Fig. A.)—The upper surface of the head light brownish-

orange shaded with umber-brown, the back dull yellowish brown finely varie-

gated with many longitudinal rows of small liver-brown spots; the sides of

the body intermediate between orpiment-orange and tile-red, and variegated

here and there with short liver-brown streaks; the sides of the head before

the eyes the same colour as the upper surface of the head ; sides of lower jaw

pale reddish orange shaded with umber-brown ; temples deep reddish orange,

and the sides of the neck with two or more deep liver-brown blotches. Tail

dull yellowish brown irregularly mottled with umber-brown ; space between

rami of lower jaw livid blue; belly and under-surface of tail ochrey yellow

tinted with green; legs and toes pale reddish orange, the fere legs spotted

sparingly with light-brown, the hinder ones spotted or barred with umber-

brown. Eyes deep reddish brown.

Female, (fig. B.)\—The upper surface of head and the temples a yellowish

hair-brown with the edges and centre of the scales lightest ; back liver-browu

freely variegated with short longitudinal stripes of a colour intermediate

between oil-green and ochre-yellow ; the sides of the lips and the body the

same colour as the spots of the back, and the sides of the latter is variegated

with several rows of dark umber-brown dots and some light umber-brown

blotches. The extremities externally coloured like the sides and freely mot-

tled with umber-brown spots most numerous towards the toes. ‘Tail liver-

brown mottled with dull yellowish green; space between rami of lower jaw

livid blue; belly and under surface of tail ochrey yellow with a greenish

tinge. Eyes dull reddish brown.

(Var.—Plate XXVL.)

Cotour.—( Male. Fig. A.)—The middle and hinder parts of the head

superiorly, and the back a yellowish hair-brown, freckled with liver-brown,

CORDYLUS MICROLEPIDOTUS.

the centre of each scale being of the latter colour ; the upper surface of the

head anteriorly oil-green. The sides of the lips and body a light yellowish

emerald-green, and the latter is partially barred with a number of narrow pro-

longations of the dark colour of the back; the sides of the neck with two

dark liver-brown spots, the anterior one waved, the hinder one vertical. Tail

pale liver-brown, irregularly spotted with sulphur-yellow ; belly livid greenish

yellow; legs and toes oil-green barred with liver-brown. Eyes deep reddish

brown.

Female and young.—(Figs. B. and C.)—The upper surface of head and back

pale umber-brown, the sides of the former finely edged with pale oil-green, and

the discs of plates finely dotted with the same colour; the back variegated with

a number of small irregular pale oil-green spots. Sides intermediate between

oil-green and ochre yellow, and marked with several longitudinal lines of

small liver-brown spots ; sides of head yellowish hair-brown. ‘Tail oil-green

mottled with somewhat square umber-brown spots ; extremities the same

colour as the sides and speckled with umber-brown spots. Belly straw yel-

low with a greenish tinge. Eyes deep reddish brown.

Form, &c.—Head rather depressed and subtriangular, its upper surface

posteriorly level, and anteriorly sloped towards the nose ; its sides in front of

the eyes nearly perpendicular, behind them convex and bulged, particularly

posterior to the angles of the mouth; the hinder edge of the temples armed

with two or three compressed tubercular looking scales, which project out-

wards and backward, and conceal more or less the external openings of the

ears. The forms of the plates and scales of the head vary a little in the

different varieties, and even in individuals of the same variety, as will be

seen on referring to Plate XXX.* The plates of the temples differ con-

siderably in size and configuration, being in some like scales, in others like

lengthened plates, and such variations are even exhibited by specimens

of the same variety. The neck and body like the head is somewhat de-

pressed, and the latter bulges considerably on each side. The skin of the

neck, particularly the portions which cover its side is loose, and more or less

folded or deeply wrinkled, and between these wrinkles are situated the very

* Fig. 1, the upper surface of the head of specimen, figured Plate XXIV. 1 ;—1 a, the side of the head

of ditto. Fig. 2, the upper surface of the head of specimen figured Plate XXIV. 2 ;—2 a, the side of the

head of ditto ;—2 b, femoral pores of ditto. Fig. 3, the upper surface of the head of specimen figured

Plate XXV. A ;—3a, the side of head of ditto ;—3b, the femoral pores of ditto. Fig. 4, the upper surface

of the head of specimen figured Plate XX VI. A ;—4 a, the side of head of ditto;—4 b, the femoral pores

of ditto.

CORDYLUS MICROLEPIDOTUS.

dark blotches described in treating of the colouring of this lizard; other

folds, though not so distinctly marked, are observed to traverse the upper

surface of the neck, and, like those of the sides, evidently result from the

skin on these situations being more extensive than the parts it is destined to

cover, in order to permit the head to move freely. The skin of the back of

the neck, and of the back and sides of the body, is covered with two descrip-

tions of scales, the one description considerably larger than the other, more

or less orbicular, and disposed in rows, which can be traced either longitudi-

nally or transversely, and each of these scales is more or less carinated, par-

ticularly towards its posterior edge, the carine, however, are less acute in

adult specimens than in young ones, and less on the sides than the back,

probably from the effects of friction. The second description of scales occur

in the interstices between the ones just described, and are very small. some-

what circular, and without keels, and the sides of the neck are entirely

coated with scales of this description. The superior and hinder surfaces of

the leg are covered with somewhat diamond-shaped scales, all of which

are strongly keeled, and the keel of each posteriorly forms a sharp elevated

spine; the scales coating the under and anterior surfaces of the fore-legs

smaller than those on their upper part, and with less distinct keels. Those

of the anterior and inferior surfaces of the hinder leg, large, flat, somewhat

quadrangular, and without keels. Feet rather slender, and covered with

keeled scales. Toes long, delicate, and free. Claws short, curved, pointed,

and laterally compressed. Chin and anterior part of throat covered with

small, somewhat quadrangular scales; posterior part of throat and space

between fore-leg coated with large, imbricate, irregular scales, not in distinct

rows; rest of under part of body with ten rows of four-sided plates, the

greatest length of each plate transversely. Tail rigid, and very hard, thick

at the base, from whence it tapers to a fine point ; above it is flat and rather

broad, below narrow and slightly rounded, hence its section exhibits some-

what of atriangular form, two angles being formed by the edges of the upper

surface, and the third by the under surface. The scales on this part of

the reptile are disposed in rings, towards the base each ring consists

of two circles of scales, and towards the apex only of one; all the scales of

the upper and lateral parts are carinated, and the carne are most

developed in those situated over the lateral angles, particularly towards the

base of the tail, where they terminate posteriorly in prominent sharp spines.

On the lower parts of the sides, and on the centre of the upper surface, the

keels are much less marked, and are not prolonged into acute spines ;

CORDYLUS MICROLEPIDOTUS.

towards the point of the tail the keels are acute, but do not end in spines.

Where the rings consist of two circles of scales, the scales of the circle

nearest to the body are always smallest, and the keels but scarcely visible.

The under-surface of the tail, towards its base, coated with two rows of flat

square scales, towards the point with keeled ones, like those of the sides and

upper surface. Meatus externus large, vertically ovate, and opening out-

wards and backwards, under the projecting edge of the temple. Nostrils

small, circular, and placed near to the apex of the muzzle. Eyes moderately

large, rather deeply set, and the eyelids, particularly the lower ones, covered

with small granular scales. Femoral pores in one, two, or three rows, each

of a circular shape, and its interior consisting of a sort of fungoid texture,

which generally protrudes beyond the investing membrane. Full-grown

specimens of this species vary from twelve to eighteen inches in length, and

the tail generally measures more than the other parts.

Each of the varieties figured appears to be restricted to its own localities ; and, as far as my

observations extend, no specimens of two varieties are ever found in the same districts. All

the varieties inhabit rocky situations, and where they have a choice they invariably prefer pre-

cipices, and the stoney walls of difficultly accessible ravines. In these situations they wander

carelessly in search of food and warmth, unless alarmed by what they may regard as enemies.

On being closely approached in their retreats they seek concealment under rocks, or in crevices;

and when they get into such positions they are with difficulty captured, as by aid of the

prominences on the hinder edge of each temple they hold on with a tenacity which is quite

surprising, and by them they occasionally offer such an effectual resistance to the force

applied from behind, that the tail breaks off from the body before the reptile is secured.

The variety represented in Plate XXIV., Fig 1, is found on Table Mountain, and the hills near

Cape Town; that on the same plate, and lettered 2, is an inhabitant of rocky precipices at

and around Algoa Bay. The variety represented in Plate XXV. occurs on the hills between

the principal branches of the Orange River, to the eastward of Phillopolis ; and that figured in

Plate X XVI. is found on the top of the high mountainous range, which extends behind Kaffer-

land and the country of Natal.

[rid ane Ww LAlatg

a. es ar

MA és

i i 4 , : ‘ ¥ reef AD ay ; a vay h

7 mt ivys h ait i SPH AUR RRR Fit? 8 rey tte Fal eee Oaths ah

+ y ” iz a ; a

ATTCV GS Ory BITS: Cie EAT ie SO ALOE Gr cia See

7 ; Pie ? Lon SS Oe

va i oe ae ' ae ad a a i ‘ a Wael iW Py Pa

we a Re OE TL AON, ROE be Dike POT

hi , T a ‘ " 7 vi i 7 yi J - fl ey ee

Nir oni Haat i Thee ad ty if ¢ i tiie, aA VAG, see a ;

Tee UG) i ad mh : WG 1) er i ae

at ad al FIPdiae se | § re Tavs Bish) ¥ yi ay at Ce ey 1 be i (Oye A ue ria Ad euyk van

\ ll ays , ae ' Wi rf } ' fi : a a

VIS eae (8 We ae fin Rae el cee Ahn ui abe vi Oe

Oia mee Lee oe RN AU Pa viy aE do aol OLE Pe hk aa ens

OE MAYE WD GME LG Of pers TPGe Fa Pe an ANY dg 13 Cay GTLABALBE Gh EAP LE avn Ys: yas

Soy in han re FRG Tbh ' j Ai een ii ; i Pd iis |

{ Pee tsa ss yi wide PARC G A i Pil iy, ibe cee Diller: ALR hs

Pipe Har Ge ae Ly nas site it ple WD iia

en) fe eth eat bites lira AREY Li TN i ce Fe ‘ % wy ‘t it Gj wa, a ,

page, TG, bi bey LE etn | i pe ey ae md His re eh Py i r

Gp HAT ny, RR tah) here g ae a he ify ity cle hak fii SU HS APICES Gnta B Ones

” mi ni y ¥ ———= itt at 4 p,’ yee :

oe lange DALE cath efit Ty ae r i ig ef i! , if yume Thee lia

PAR Naa hath Fick gen ootilo: hy J 7h) aoe Oe hil paris OR aah Te ee cones bil

, ; 4 : : ‘ | ¢

' t Up vt A ie ; i t t , ee as

AW Fed, Used 9) iM Neer met mm ya) cree

i bs C4

i i {

= J

ap -

2 ?

7 a ae

> > Ps

c : 7 { :

b d « = by te

»€ r

; ’ a es) o

if lz

” sf j 7 >

iba % -~

-”

a am

—s

J ae : z ap ~ os

si —

yas S

; : 7 5 : =!

5 HEA Ca Om: "2

S) MAACO SOS) II

Shi

‘

Veale ily " wv ‘

~~ 6 ;

Fei they ure EM piR Te!

af - 7 * ; dy

j .

f tix ,% pi

; 5

‘ *

‘

: mi

a ith dy

CORDYLUS FASCIATUS.—Snmira.

Reptiuia. Puate XXVIII. Fic. 1.

C. superne nigro-brunneus, dorso maculis flavis fere confluentis in ordinibus transversis variegato ; cauda

superne flavo-maculata ; gula livido-cerulea; gutture ventreque viridi-flavis; cauda inferne sub-

flava ; capitis lateribus postice squamis tribus tuberculosis armatis, super aurem externam porrectis.

Loncitupo e naso ad basin caudee 4 unc. 4 lin.; caudez 5 une. 2 lin.

Corpy us (PsEUDOcoRDYLUS) FAsctaTus, Smith, Mag. of Natural History, vol. ii. p. 32.

CorpDYLUS MICROLEPIDOTUS, Dum. et Bib., Erpet. Genéral, tom. v. p. 361.

Cotour, &c.—The upper and lateral parts of the head, the back, the sides

and the upper and lateral parts of the tail liver-brown, with ochreous or

cream-yellow variegations, the liver-brown lightest on the head. The yellow

variegations of the upper surface of the head consist of narrow, irregular,

broken stripes, principally on the sides towards the nose; on the neck and

back they are in the form of quadrangular spots, disposed in transverse

rows, varying in each from eight to ten in number; on the sides the yellow

occurs as a waved longitudinal line, and on the tail it is in large, irregular-

shaped, spots arranged in two rows, one row along each upper angle.

Form, &c.—Head rather large, neck narrower than the hind head, body

rather bulky and subcylindrical ; the tail depressed at the base, and cylindrical

near the point. The upper surface of the head flat and faintly rugose, the

shape of the plates represented in Plate XXX., Fig. 5. The sides of the head

before the angles of the mouth nearly perpendicular, and the temples convex and

bulging ; the posterior edge of each armed with three tubercular and somewhat

pointed scales (Plate XXX. fig. 5a), which project outwards and backwards over

the external ear; the other scales on the temples of two descriptions, those

towards the centre large, flat, and irregular, in form; those around the edges

small, granular, and somewhat keeled. Scales of the upper lip six in number,

not reckoning the rostral one; the hindermost somewhat keeled, those of the

CORDYLUS FASCIATUS.

lower lip also six, the last two strongly keeled. The scales on the back and

sides of the neck, and those along the middle of the back small and granular ;

those on the sides of the back and on the sides of the body considerably

larger, and each with a small horny tubercle near its centre, which also

exists on each of those of the neck and middle of the back ;—all the scales

are disposed in transverse rows, the rows on the neck less distinct than

those on the body. Scales covering the fore-legs, except beneath towards the

body, and those on the upper surface of hinder legs somewhat diamond-shaped,

each carinated, and the carina elongated posteriorly and forms an acute

raised spine; under surface of hinder legs coated with smooth, moderately-

large, somewhat quadrangular scales, and the hinder surface with granular

ones. ‘Tail covered with hard rugged scales, disposed in distinct rings,

and each ring composed of two rows of scales; the scales of the first, or

basal row, smallest, and but slightly carinated, those of the other strongly

carinated, and on the upper angles and sides of the tail particularly, the

keels are very prominent posteriorly, and form strong sharp spines. Scales

between rami of lower jaw small, flat, quadrangular, and disposed in longi-

tudinal rows; on the under surface of the neck subovate, imbricate, and

arranged in oblique rows. The plates covering the under surface of body

are placed in transverse rows, fourteen in each. Pre-anal space covered with

flat irregular-shaped scales, the hindermost ones the largest ; the base of the

tail on each side close to anus, armed with a pointed tubercular scale project-

ing outwards, and differing in character from those which follow it. Feet

moderately large; toes long and slender, and each armed with a short pointed

and curved nail; scales covering under surface of feet small and tubercular.

Femoral pores in two or more rows rather irregularly placed, and their sheathes

elevated and warty (Plate XXX. fig. 5 b). The largest specimen which I have

seen—the one described—measured nine inches and a half in length.

Doubts may be entertained of the propriety of regarding this as distinct from Cordylus

Microlepidotus ; yet, when the scales of the neck and centre of the back are examined, and

contrasted with those on the same parts of the species just named, sufficient differences are

observable to justify my regarding them at present as probably distinct. Dumeril and Bibron

regard them as identical,* and it is just possible they may have had an opportunity of examining

a greater number of specimens than I have had, and hence have arrived at a just conclusion.

Two of the three specimens I have examined were obtained on the rocky hills in the neighbour-

hood of Graham’s Town; and the third, which is in the Museum at Fort Pitt, was, I believe,

obtained from the same locality. Having never seen a specimen alive, I know nothing of its

habits,

* Erpetologie Général, tom. v. p. 363.

CORDYLUS (HEMICORDYLUS) CAPENSIS.—Smiru.

ReptitiaA. Pruatre XXVIII. Fie. 2.

C. capite, dorso, lateribus, extremitatibus caudaque superné profunde purpureo-brunneis ; gutture, pectore,

ventre caudaque inferne brunneo-rubris ; pedibus inferne-pallidiflavo-brunneis ; squamis dorsi mag-

nis quadrangularibus et carinatis, laterum parvis granulosis.

Loneitupo e naso ad basin caude 4 unc.; caude 5 unc. 9 lin.

Hemicorpytus Capensis, Smith, Magazine of Natural History, vol. 2. p. 32.

Zonvurvus Capensis, Dum. et Bib. Erpet. Général, tom. v. p. 360.

Cotour.—The head, back, sides, extremities, and upper and lateral parts

of tail purplish brown ; throat, breast, belly, and under surface of tail dull

brownish red; under surface of feet pale yellowish brown.

Form, &c.—Head subtriangular, the anterior half tapered to the nose,

which is slightly rounded or obtuse, its upper surface slightly convex, its

sides anteriorly perpendicular, posteriorly convex and bulged. Neck con-

siderably narrower than the hind-head with the skin covering it loose, and

forming a large longitudinal fold on each side, extending from the angle of

the jaws nearly to the fore-leg. Body subovate and depressed. Tail thick

at the base and depressed, towards the point cylindrical and tapering. The

plates covering the upper surface of the head smooth, and with well-defined

edges, the form of each represented in Plate XXX. Fig. 6,; labial scales

of upper jaw eight, of lower jaw six, exclusive of the rostral and mental

plates; angles of mouth margined with minute almost granular scales.

Scales of the temples rather large and in vertical rows, two or three in each

row, and the lower one of the hindermost row is formed differently to the rest,

being somewhat tubercular, and projected outwards and backwards over the

external ear, (vide Plate XXX. fig. 6a.) Scales of the back large, quadran-

gular, strongly carinated and disposed in transverse rows, generally ten

in each row, the keels forming continuous delicate ridges ; the lateral and

CORDYLUS (HEMICORDYLUS) CAPENSIS.

upper parts of the neck, and the lower portions of sides covered with small,

somewhat circular, prominent scales like small granulations, constituting a

strong diagnostic character. The upper and anterior surfaces of the extre-

mities coated with large somewhat diamond-shaped scales, each scale strongly

carinated, the anterior and under surfaces of the fore-legs towards the body

with small granular scales, and towards the toes with large and smooth

ones; the under surface of the hinder legs covered with large smooth scales,

excepting in front of the femoral pores, where they are small and somewhat

circular, hinder surface coated with minute granular scales. Tail surrounded

by circles of hard rugged quadrangular scales, each scale strongly keeled and

each keel, especially towards the base of the tail, elongated posteriorly into a

sharp prominent spine, most developed superiorly at the lateral angles ; the

keels of the scales on under surface of tail obtuse, only slightly indicated

and without the elongations which on the upper and lateral parts form spines.

Space between rami of lower jaws covered with scales of two kinds ; those on

the central portion quadrangular, rather large, and disposed in irregular

rows, those at the sides, and which edge the lower jaw, small, and granular.

Scales of the under surface of the neck moderately large, ovate, and irregu-

larly placed ; the plates on the under parts of the body arranged in regular

transverse rows, eight in each. Pre-anal space covered partly with small and

partly with large scales or plates ; the large ones, which are two in number,

lie immediately over the anus, and are four-sided. Femoral pores small,

prominent, circular, closely set, eighteen in number on each side, and

arranged in a single row, (Plate XXX. fig. 6b.) Feet moderately large; toes

long, slender, and armed with short curved and pointed claws ; the scales of

the under surface of the feet rather prominent, or subgranular. Nostrils small,

circular, and opening laterally in the centre of the naso-rostral plates. The

specimen described, the only one I have seen, measured nine inches and

three quarters.

This species is rarely met with in South Africa, and the only specimen I saw in that

country, and which is now in the museum of the Army Medical Department, at Fort Pitt,

Chatham, was captured on the Hottentot Holland Mountain, near Cape Town, and preserved by

Mr. Ford, surgeon of the 49th Regiment.

“ie ae

i 5 aus ely VA rr “ ,; 5

7 ee, : iy |

| TAA Rane yevtar's "Bh mo

ei |) Ma, # 7 ae P j A. 7

a! ( 0

» '

; bus —* ’ Fi ”\

a a) p onl: MP AT ie ater vhihy 1 } 4 , ; -

I ahs hi q i] J J

: : ] . j : ‘

1 BPVerree te A) : : : , a -

'F ' ’ s

Te. + li M ‘ ) : - ,

ae, ea i ‘ ‘ f :

a” - tt tl of} p\ * f e , 4 .

7 ‘

i ox ’ Yond i'l LP? Salis , y , : ;

wham hak Se ants

Le { 1 fa |

4 nya, i ‘ir ys 3 ’ [ é

v 2 ‘ j 4 (

i tall >] iy \ ' iv , 4 "

cay hk) gic br 4 wT ‘ : d on i“ : Pe

ae ie eee ' Bony india SE RI oS 2 ”

‘ sf 4 { e i 7 Fj ’ - is é iy 4s .

ee kh A a | 7 Anerciend Da

nvaings ots -. pil 2 \ { ; P.,

a 4. 4

ry, oe ¢ i na uf t iY , ha ’

‘a Cia yan) , pehsing 4: owe

slay it a ha) 4 x AAT " ane

een, Males" 77 J 7 17, Maas ; wy I P ; P ‘a ¢ : ;

Ba oy i: m0 bs. tb we. rae ‘Un bad a Eb ya th ‘ AF *" 7

i » : bi 1 § ¥ _

a para Ah brgreryseteni eal 1) bat ep: poets |

he ‘ wh

du Madge stab (hn ves i Hae eee artes '

a) Th lewd ee ' i

ii cine Jab avin spev si] Weare oe } » corge! ‘ : > es

} z int ao 7% wis ’

‘ eri < } fi« } , 7 t ‘ y

o a lithe ‘a

a] - aes a ( . “W

f a 4

) r] = pif er palta Bue,

*) 4

i i 4 i "hi he) Tht ire

i . j j

aA liu if) y a» “a \ J

SD U 4

3 a

i.r 4 Z

6 : { 4 tow Vin STOUR

» .

j : 4 on e nits

* Qe he Lua. é a , eae

* *

Pi . a. i twerti hp we etl: e+

f te 5" 4 i) jag | mn & aut] ‘&

- - . .

. 4

: ' earn

ues

‘ 7 s

> ; J ~ bey

* i

h Li

7 ir ;

j i

j a

( -

’ y « a . a oe

CORDYLUS POLYZONUS.—Smirtu.

Reprivia. Prate XXVIII. Fic. 1.

©. superne flavo-brunneus, dorso maculis brumneis in ordinibus duobus longitudinalibus variegato ; maculis

duabus nigro-brunneis pone aurem ; squamarum seriebus quadraginta inter nucham et basin caude.

Loneitupo e naso ad basin caude 4 unc. ; caude 5 unc.

Corpytus PoLyzonts, Smith, Mag. of Natural History, Vol. ii. p. 31.

Zonvrvs potyzonus, Dum. et Bib., Erpet. Général, tom. y. p. 357.

Cotour.—The upper surface of the head, the back, the sides, and the ex-

tremities intermediate between yellowish and chesnut-brown, the back varie-

gated with irregularly shaped umber-brown spots, the majority of them

arranged in two longitudinal rows; behind the ear on each side of the neck

two very deep liver-brown blotches. Tail dull yellowish brown, mottled spa-

ringly with small irregular umber-brown spots. Toes light greenish brown.

Belly and under surface of tail a rusty ochreous yellow; sides of head wood-

brown, shaded with yellowish and light umber-brown. Eyes deep reddish

brown.

Vur.—Above a uniform livid liver-brown without distinct variegations ; be-

neath light yellowish brown or livid yellowish brown.

Form, &c.—Head rather small, the temples convex and laterally very promi-

nent; the neck rather narrower than the hind head, and convex superiorly ; the

body depressed and subovate ; tail at the base, flat above, rounded below and

towards the point cylindrical ; the hinder extremities rather long. The upper

surface of the head irregular, the parietal shield rather concave ; the palpebral

plates project considerably, and form arched eyebrows ; naso-rostral plates

subhemispherical, and the nostril situated near their outer margin, so as to

open laterally ; the form of the other plates, as represented in Plate XXX.

fig. 7. Labial scales of upper jaw seven, the last two rather tubercular, those

of the lower six, the last two horizontally compressed, and projecting later-

CORDYLUS POLYZONUS.

ally like two keels ; the scales of the temples hard, rugged, indistinctly keeled,

and one over each external ear, somewhat triangular and prominent, so as to

form a strong spine, extending outwards and backwards. Vide Plate XXX.

fig. 7a. Scales of the neck superiorly, and those of the back and sides rather

large, quadrangular, and arranged in distinct transverse rows, about forty in

number, each scale with an obtuse and slightly developed keel ; scales of the

sides of the neck somewhat triangular, rather tubercular, and each with a

prolonged apex directed outwards and backwards. The fore-legs and the

upper and posterior surfaces of the hinder legs somewhat diamond-shaped

and strongly keeled, each keel behind terminating in an acute point; the

scales of the under and anterior surfaces of the hinder leg somewhat hemi-

spherical and smooth. Tail covered with rugged keeled scales disposed in

rings, the keels of the upper and lateral scales most developed, and each

posteriorly is prolonged and forms a spiny point, the latter most lengthened

on those of the sides near to the body ; towards the tip of the tail the keels are

distinct, but the spiny prolongations are hardly visible. Space between ramz

of lower jaw covered with small quadrangular scales arranged in longitudinal

rows ; scales of under surface of neck subovate and disposed in oblique rows,

those of under parts of body rather small, quadrangular, and in transverse

rows, eighteen in each. Pre-anal space covered with small flat irregular

scales, one on each side of the central scale of hindermost row larger than

the others and five-sided; immediately behind anus a transverse band of

small scales not so distinctly marked as in Cordylus griseus, and at each of

the anterior angles of this band there are two larger scales, one the innermost

flat, the other tubercular and pointed. Feet moderately large; toes rather strong

and armed with short, pointed, and curved nails; under surfaces of feet and

toes covered with rugged tubercular scales. Femoral pores very small—(see

Plate XXX. fig. 7 b)—about eighteen in number, and disposed in a single

row, none projecting beyond the circumjacent scales, which affords a charac-

ter by which this species is readily to be distinguished from Cordylus griseus.

Adult specimens usually measure from nine to ten inches.

This species is rarely found within the boundaries of the Cape Colony, but specimens are

readily procured to the north of the Orange River. In the districts it inhabits, it in some mea-

sure takes the place of Cordylus griseus, for though the latter is found in them also, it never

occurs so abundantly as more to the southward. Like the last-named species it chiefly in-

habits rocky hills, but it is also often found under solitary rocks or large stones.

The number of the transverse rows of scales on the back, the small size of the femoral pores,

and the greater size of this reptile, are leading characters by which it is to be distinguished

from the only other species with which it can be confounded.

CORDYLUS GRISEUS.—Cvv.

Reprivia. Puate XXVIII. Fics. 2 and 3.

E. superne flavo-brunneus, subtus viride flavus; dorso lateribusque maculis striisve brunneis variegatis ;

extremitatibus maculis brunneis variis; squamarum ordinibus viginti-septem inter nucham et basin

caude,

Lonaitupo e naso ad basin caude 2 unc. 8 lin.; caude 3 unc. 4 lin.

CorDYLUS GRISEUS, niger, et dorsalis, Cuy., Regne Animal, 2d ed. tom. ii. p. 33.

Zonurvs griseus, Dum. et Bib., Erpet. Général, tom. vy. fol. 351.

CoLour.—The upper and lateral parts of the head, body, and tail yellowish

brown deadened with brownish orange, the back and sides variegated with a

number of irregular umber-brown blotches or short bars ; tail slightly clouded

or shaded with umber-brown stripes, and the extremities, particularly the

hinder ones, variegated sparingly with umber-brown spots; under parts

greenish yellow. Eyes reddish brown.

Var. Fig. 3—The upper and lateral parts of the head, body, and tail, also

the extremities bright purplish brown ; the under parts pale buff orange.*

Form, &c.—Head rather small and subtriangular, the temples convex but

less prominent than in the other species ; neck as broad as the hind head ;

body subovate and superiorly slightly convex; tail depressed at the base

cylindrical towards the point, the latter acute; legs moderately long and

slender. The upper surface of the head flat and slightly granular, the

palpebral on the same plane with the other plates,the form of the plates repre-

sented in Plate XXX, fig. 8; the sides of the head anterior to the eyes nearly

perpendicular, the upper lip rather protuberant, the sides behind the eye (the

temples) slightly convex, and covered with irregular-shaped, rugose, and

* Besides this variety several others might be described, but as each is so easily to be recognized as ap-

proaching one of the two kinds noticed, it is not considered necessary to instance the many individual

differences which occur in this species.

CORDYLUS GRISEUS.

almost keeled scales ; the two lying over the external ear tubercular, com-

pressed (see Plate XXX, fig. 8 a,) and prominent. The scales of the upper

surface of neck, back, and sides disposed in transverse rows, about twenty-

seven in number, each scale quadrangular in shape, and slightly keeled, the

keel posteriorly slightly prolonged beyond the edge of the scale; scales of

the sides of the neck triangular, spinous, and pointed ; scales of the tail

arranged in circular rings and each scale strongly carinated, the carina on

the upper and lateral surfaces elongated posteriorly so as to form prominent

spiny points. The fore legs and the upper surface of the hinder ones covered

with triangular carinated scales, each of which terminates in a projecting

point; the lower surface of hinder legs coated with quadrangular smooth

scales, and the hinder surface with small granular ones. Scales between rame

of lower jaw subquadrangular, smooth, and arranged in transverse rows, those

of under surface of neck subovate, and arranged in slightly arched rows.

Plates of under surface of body in distinct transverse rows, twelve in each,

the middle ones larger than the lateral ones. Pre-anal space covered with sub-

quadrangular scales, the two centre ones of the hindermost row largest ; im-

mediately behind anus a band of small somewhat triangular scales, with two

larger ones at each anterior angle, the inner one flat, the outer one tubercular,

pointed, and projecting outwards. Feet small; toes long, slender, and armed

with short, pointed, and curved nails. Femoral pores (Plate XXX. fig. 8 b.)

eight, arranged in one line, and each situated in a prominent warty elevation.

Full grown specimens of this species usually measure from six to seven

inches.

This species is very widely distributed over Southern Africa, and there is scarcely a stony

knoll, a precipice, or an exposed rock which does not afford a habitat for one, two, or more in-

dividuals. In common with others of the genus, it seeks concealment under stones and rocks,

or in the chinks between them, and when once lodged in such positions it is not easily captured.

The colours of no two individuals are quite the same, therefore naturalists, who do not rest their

specific characters upon other details, will of necessity be forced to recognize mere varieties

as distinct species.

by « t 7 yy 7 -

. . 7 ’

> is 4, E

Dik . a

ry 7 Pan ,

5 7 q : an | s :

“e- =

sy ) sod 5 - J >. ae) ly =

<t 1 ays? & M < a, j % 7) a

: i a i

4 4 at ay ery) ‘i ¢ és OF @t, 4) ‘oi os ote , “i bd

’ ye 2 n :

‘ i mt) » Ae 7

L _—

£ T é ‘ Mi ol = :

io } z R he P . rit

’ s é

a. } y a y , { At

. 2

Se = x y he " 7

7 ), Teh aaniie. fies ‘ oe). wits ’ ‘ 7 ’

md _

_ , 7 Af 2 ‘ a

Bi Peagea Se 9° ar g 4 ae

al - Ed a

ay .

% 4 Ld

;

| - %

. : =

’ } ; is } 7

Pata

‘ < L :

7 s -

mart ct @ ‘i ;

e , .

ry °

ty « Ws leg ‘

4) o= > =

Ss hile = Tw Wit =" , é oR

- ri th ; i

manyer yh we ee) Ah < ) fre Gar — py J

: hd S

Oe ae en ee ak er

ee Sery’ dar ee Diy Bye Weng cut uve *.

ee ee aoe hb aun nt Soy oe ne

salt Yeeciternee atest wie tty ates ower Bee | : =

(64 °4¥ ld

SHLIOVIH IVI SMTA om

. -

7 -)

7 ee

a. 7

> s

CORDYLUS CATAPHRACTUS.—Gray.

Reptitia.—Puate XXIX.

C. superne pallide flavo-brunneus, dorsi medio leviter viridi-tincto; partibus inferioribus brunno-rubris

flavo nebulatis; gula guttureque profunde brunneis flavo maculatis ; extremitatibus caudaque flayo-

brunneis.

Lonaitupo e naso ad basin caudee 5 unc. ; caude 7 unc.

Corpytus caTapuractus, Gray.

CorpyLus macutosvs, Smith, Magazine of Natural History, vol. ii. p. 31.

Zonvrus caTarHRactus, Dum. and Bib. Erpetol. Général, vol. v. fol. 355.

Cotour.—The upper and lateral parts of the head and body interme-

diate between yellow and orange-coloured brown, darkest on the upper

surface of the head, particularly towards the nose, the middle of the back

faintly tinted with green. Tail and extremities clear yellowish brown. The

belly and under surface of tail dull brownish red, clouded with dirty light

yellow ; space between rami of lower jaw and also the throat umber-brown,

spotted with king’s-yellow.

Form, &c.—Head rather large and much depressed, its sides anteriorly

nearly perpendicular, posteriorly convex, and laterally very protuberant ;

neck narrower than the head; body depressed and subovate ; tail thick at

the base, acute at the point. The upper surface of the head is flat, the plates

covering it finely granular, and the shape of each will be best comprehended

from an examination of Plate XXX. figs. 9 and 9a. The scales of the

temples are large, irregular-shaped, and tubercular, some of them almost

keeled, and the hinder ones, which overlap the external ear, are prolonged so

as to form acute spiny points. Labial scales of upper jaw six, the last three

tubercular and carinated; those of lower jaw five, the last two horizontally

compressed, thin and highly keeled. Nostrils near the apex of the muzzle

each small, circular and opening in the centre of the naso-nostral plate, which

is prominent and hemispherical. The sides and upper surface of the neck

CORDYLUS CATAPHRACTUS.

and body covered with transverse zones of rugged scales, each scale more or

less distinctly carinated, and the carine of those of the lateral parts much

prolonged, so as to constitute prominent spines, which on the neck project

directly outwards, and on the sides of the body outwards and backwards. Tail

encircled with rows of rugged keeled scales, the hinder extremity of the keels

very strong, and produced so as to form high triangular spines. The scales of

the fore-legs are somewhat triangular in shape and strongly keeled, the keels

prolonged into spines ; those on the under surface smallest; the scales on the

upper surface of the hinder legs like those on the fore-legs, only larger ; those

on the anterior surface large, somewhat quadrangular, and quite smooth ; on

the under surface small and smooth; scales between rami of lower jaw small,

somewhat quadrangular, and arranged in incomplete transverse rows, the four

scales nearest to the mental plate much the largest ; the scales on the throat

rather large, somewhat quadrangular, and placed in arched rows, the convexity

backwards; the scales of the belly are arranged in transverse rows, fourteen

or sixteen in each, and are quadrangular in shape and perfectly smooth.

Pre-anal space covered with smooth scales, irregularly shaped and disposed ;

space immediately behind anus with a transverse band of small irregular

scales, and on each side the anterior angle of this band is bounded by a

large solitary prominent and spiny scale. Feet small; toes and claws short,

the latter much curved and pointed. Full grown specimens of this species

sometimes measure twelve inches in length, and the tail in those instances is

generally about seven inches long.

This species is rather rare in South Africa, and the only specimens which have come under

my notice were obtained on the western coast of the Colony, towards the Namaqua country.

It inhabits rocky precipices, and when disturbed in those localities, it endeavours to conceal

itself under masses of stone, or in crevices which may exist in the rock. The remarks which

will be found under Cordylus microlepidotus, will equally apply to this species; indeed it holds

so firmly by means of the prominent spinous scales of the temples and sides, that before it can

be extricated from its retreats, it is often necessary to displace the masses of stones between

which it may have insinuated itself.

‘aa T4

i ‘om

one a} ie ny

; eae

a Sih ’ Sobel ’

ig eee Le ab

i aay! 1 “3 f ® i

ra iA a Tai ay Sehr My) ae

; igier his SC Sect Ht vi

eT Tn i eee i)

GEN USe CORD Nal Wio

(Plate 30.)

> o1eT I eri dey )

oe}

Wisall, SONUNT FEE @)ja ots ata Ih IN

vinalenee a)

Prag rage ats ¥

a rie’

Liwaee Java tegiaits peels aopd! Why Ep = -

“oy ee Nemaeage syn treat St ae

a Lig. ate Uf or

A hol . . i~_ amp of Se pal

ae Lak soy i muir eer | Af, Se). Gr peed i- FST ae 2

i etna es a Wiest by Gare oir hae

Like «rn AY eee | A

Berges + Hs eS) CPS o:re- nha Padres > AP

Vege, Oy ny 4 oe Sie ert na ews

Ditteed -F Crebeyr he Bee 8 ee

ally tide: tis eee

DO ee eh

oe ate © ee ko ee ee

Sec eg ae ee

po aaa ended en ey & «a ae

goa}. nde ¢ TaN — lp AG the

Ce ats ee ee Oe ee ae

Ee Pa iciae Sam tes By eee whe 6 eR

The gti a Se oe

a ter

_ »

oa . a ao

e *

‘

‘ =

' :

F- 4

5 V4

7 an

J Coan

| ce 4 rn a

VIPERA CORNUTA.—Avct.

Reprtitia.—Puates XXXII anp XXXIII.

V. supra purpureo-grisea, flavo-griseo-tincta ; partibus superioribus ordinibus quatuor macularum cas-

tanearum variegatis ; infra subochrea, purpureo-brunneo-maculata.

Loneirupo e naso ad basin caude 12 une. ; caude 14 une.

Hornsman of the Cape Colonists.

Cotour.—The ground colour of the upper and lateral parts lavender-

purple, tinted with yellowish grey, and broken by four rows of somewhat

quadrangular chesnut-brown spots, each spot freckled or spotted with liver-

brown. The spots of the two central rows which extend along the back, are

the most regular in form; those of the two other rows are smaller, less

distinctly defined, and disposed irregularly, particularly towards the head

and tail. Each spot is narrowly edged with bluish white, and the space

between such of the spots of the central and lateral rows as are opposed to

each other, is bluish white, tinted with pale Dutch-orange. The sides of the

head are brownish red with an oval bluish white blotch on each temple, and

an oblique yellowish white bar between the under eyelid and the edge of the

upper lip. The under parts pale sienna-yellow, mottled with light liver-brown

spots and dots. Eyes clear brown.

Form, &c.—Figure rather robust, greatest thickness near middle of body.

Tail short, conical, and pointed. Head posteriorly considerably broader than

the neck, above it is slightly convex, between the eyes rather concave ; the

temples are much bulged and the muzzle broad and rounded ; the upper lip

is much more protuberant than the margin of the upper surface of the head.

The eyebrows are curved and armed with a clump of lengthened spinous

scales forming a sort of short horn. Fangs large and considerably curved.

The neck is rather slender, and like the body is somewhat cylindrical. Tail

flat below and subtriangular above. The skin covering the head and tail is

firmly attached to the parts under it, that of the neck and body rather loosely.

VIPERA CORNUTA.

The scales of the temples and posterior parts of head ovate and carinated,

of the upper and anterior parts, subcircular and carinated, and of the sides

of the head before the eye, small and without keels. The scales of the body

and tail ovate and all strongly carinated, except the row of each side of the

body which adjoins the abdominal plates. On the body the scales are

disposed in oblique transverse rows, twenty-five in each. The abdomen is

rather flat and of moderate width, the subcaudal scales six-sided, and are

replaced near to its tip by scales like to those on its upper surface ; the scales

between rami of lower jaw in front of abdominal plates small, somewhat

five-sided and imbricate. Abdominal plates of individual figured, 125 ;

subcaudal scales 25. Length from nose to tail 12 inches; length of the tail

13 inches.

VIPERA LOPHOPHRYS.—Cvv.

PuateE XXXII.

Cotour.—Rusty yellowish brown, variegated with four longitudinal rows of

irregular, lengthened, blackish brown spots or stripes. The spots of the two

middle rows are towards the posterior parts small and irregular and on the latter

are in some places confluent, so as to form short waved transverse bars; the

spots of the lateral rows towards the head are small, and on the tail, instead

of being distinct, each row fades into a sort of irregular serrated or zig-zag

dark line. Belly pale yellowish brown freckled with small somewhat qua-

drangular liver-brown spots. The sides of the head are faintly marked with

two brownish red bars, one running obliquely from the outer canthus of the

eye to the angle of the mouth, the other vertically from the inner canthus to

the edge of the upper lip. Many of the spots of the body have their disc

chesnut-brown, and several of them are edged more or less completely with

bluish white. Besides the spots already described, several irregular sienna-

yellow blotches exist principally between the central and lateral rows of dark

spots.

Form, &c.—Body lengthened, cylindrical, rather thicker at the middle than

at the back of the head, or base of the tail ; the latter is short and rather blunt

at the point. The scales are strongly carinated and disposed in oblique trans-

verse rows, 27in each. The spinous scales over the eyes are rather long and

he vat wih? <y séuik ats hina: gia ne Suillus rh nasa ae pst

ae i Wt ty Ad ar. mes , panel f ites mt ti Avian a) a

ee e bry Phishuil ee : fl ae

a ree mihi i

pra wit hae she aaa cae oat i ve elt te

es A ob Le Fil .

ian Hains ins ie y hi aig, ‘tn

e ieee hi MoeT porn wipe, va on a ee K

Pree void Ny ul \gey vine’ aan oy tae ea OLAd afi re hips W ‘) ia

a ss ae al by Kater pias | a ip LPN UO Chay e Liha pee ty ae

ihe Sinil * AL MP Aly iy o eal : Peer teas fer'f vey sty Tn Lh ’

1h 4

eG Piet ®, av ml ot vt wat al :

ballin dyed Ra, Ql hie site lage Hh

Wogahe behalf el ut ie pints pide sit adh rhs

ig Lanse leet od ane Doll ee! NAR IRN |

sik ai ugh su.| i) +14 heel aaptloraltalty, ein ttsbanayy

ay i aaa. gt its ee yogi ea aint Het

pra wal aalenny Pani es” pyre ae

VIPERA LOPHOPHRYS.

flexible. In the specimen described, the length from the nose to the tail is

17 inches, and the length of the tail 2 inches 2 lines. The abdominal plates

are 131; the subcaudal scales 28.

Vipera cornuta and V. lophophrys are, without doubt, identical; the latter is simply either

the reptile of a more advanced age, or a variety peculiar to certain localities. The result of

my experience inclines me to the latter conclusion, as I have never heard of specimens of

V. lophophrys having been procured beyond the limits of Namaqua-land, a district of the

western and southern division of the Colony. Even in that district examples are rarely to be

procured ; and though I was many months exploring in it, I only met with two individuals,

and those were in fellowship, of equal size, marked exactly alike, and proved to be male and

female. Those specimens I subsequently showed to the natives of other parts of South Africa,

and received for answer, that they were the Hornsman, but of a different kind to that known to

them, it being understood that the kind they spoke of, as that with which they were acquainted,

was the V. cornuta. Upon these grounds I regard it as a variety of the locality mentioned.

On close examination of the two kinds or varieties, some individual differences are discovered,

which, if they were permanent, might be regarded as indicating them to be of two species ; but

that not being the case, and as it appears the like variations occur even in the same variety,

they cannot be regarded as suited to furnish specific characters. In the Vipera cornuta which

is described, the rows of scales on the body consist of twenty-five, but in others I have

counted only twenty-three. Hence, nothing important can be attached to there being twenty-

seven in V. lophophrys.

‘ ius nat ne iM “il ie

bel AKA R .G Hip

re ee Ms iii ae

re sh si:

a TV At [ihiadngh cee) bi OR RN TYG EMM at Wy Nae Me ie mh ith * KE Ai a ih

LAE il matic Te if HN! Nault HAAt amy cy Choe

VF elin hb ttn | re fy Wet h,

r} i) Ade nik AY ee Paring ie, Gaye? i | iets goth:

rans fala) ee AIRE Lett bblgel AN

1" + al iid » mrt eMunL at ea iF a eaiTing ote | (Alene ait MWe ‘ if wi | ae

We wate iyi (Cante y th! Te a, i \ urs 'y ite at arity ty Me

RG ike tere Te age eal

Pe bs hits OR AAR Od eT A TPs eet figs i 5 ‘OL bi

ait Ty een ;

veh cob huneeeriy fe r. oh Ray Be |

PU my Oat i) Bg PURO © | a aa fin F oahiide

ty NN PID Bh ary). ay ie J : ;

<oeraii ae. wie ae

H al

VsGy Wi ( vi ne

; Dn ae, Pile NT)

* yey, ili HB glial Ye

Jad

Pah hiv i

~ |

ods ae ;

may - ,

yor ’ .

& ry

) a ’ 6

‘

i. b

PA }

4 ©

; Ve. Tr 4

we = ’ i

7 } P ha . * ' ¢ : \ wm

a Met

a Lean. 4 z

Tah EW WEIN 16) TREE BB 2)

( Reptiha = ellateroc)

INAS J) TBs

NAJA HASMACHATES.—Avcr.

Repriuia. Pruate XXXIV.

N. supra nigro-brunnea, fasciis rufo-flavis, irregularibus, variegatis; infra livido-nigra, anticé fasciis

duabus tribusve transversis, notatis ; squamis fortiter carinatis.

Lonaitupo e naso ad caudee apicem, inter 2 et 3 pedes.

VieerA Haemacuates, Daud. Seba. Latreil.

Serepon Hamacuares, Merr. Wagler.

Nasa Carensis, Smith.

RinG HAs Suane of the Cape Colonists.

Cotour.—The ground colour of the upper and lateral parts either blueish

brown or greyish brown, and variegated with a great number of narrow, jag-

ged, or serrated and waved transverse bands, varying in tint from ochre yellow

to light yellowish white. The space between the rami of the lower jaw, together

with the throat, livid black or dull brownish red ; the remainder of the under

parts livid greyish black, crossed anteriorly with two or three broad transverse

bars of a yellow or rusty white colour, and laterally variegated with irregular

white spots. On the body the dark colour predominates greatly, but on the

tail the two tints are almost in equal proportions, and disposed nearly in

complete rings. Eyes dark brown.

Variety—Ground colour dull blackish brown, crossed with numerous,

narrow, deep blueish brown bars, only distinctly visible when the surface of

the skin is cleared of impurities either with a moist cloth or a wet sponge.

Until such cleansing shall have been practised the snake appears of an

uniform dull blackish brown tint.

Form.—Figure rather robust. Head scarcely broader than the neck, above

flat, anteriorly rather narrow, and the upper lips protrude beyond the edge of

the upper surface of the head, hence the eyes appear rather sunk, giving

a malignant and savage expression. Nostrils large, and open backwards and

outwards; no frenal scale ; rostral plate triangular, its upper angle entering

deeply between the anterior frontal plates ; postocular scales three, anteocular

scale one ; temporal plates large and irregularly shaped. Neck depressed

NAJA HEMACHATES.

as broad as the head, and edged with a quantity of loose skin, which forms a

fold on each side when the reptile is quiet and free from excitement, but

when the case is otherwise, the fold is extended laterally, so as to form a

broad fringe on each side, which constitutes what in snakes of this genus is

denominated the hood. Body subcylindrical or subtriangular, and covered

with a skin only loosely attached to the parts within it; the scales covering

the skin are ovate, and all, excepting those of the two rows on each side

nearest to the abdominal plates, strongly carinated. Tail short, subcylin-

drical, and pointed, the skin closely connected to the internal parts, and

the scales towards its commencement slightly carinated, the rest smooth.

Abdomen broad. The scales of the body are disposed in oblique transverse

rows, nineteen in each. Length of specimen figured thirty-one inches, of

which the tail measures four and a half inches. Abdominal plates, 129;

subcaudal scales, 33. These were the numbers of the specimen figured ; the

following are those counted on others: 150—30; 143—43.

The range of this species is very considerable, and specimens of it have been found in almost

every district of South Africa which has yet been explored. It appears to prefer localities in

which the soil is loose, sandy, and coated with brush-wood: hence individuals are to be very

readily procured on the sandy flats near to Cape Town and the coasts of the colony. It is one

of the most vigilant of snakes, and its resting place can very rarely be approached before it is

all activity, either commencing to fly, preparing to maintain its ground, or make an attack.

When it flies it almost invariably seeks some subterranean retreat, which is in general discover-

able without difficulty, from its being usually a resident of situations where the burrows of

mice, moles, or other small quadrupeds exist in abundance. The aborigines, as well as the

colonists, reckon this to be the most courageous of all the South African snakes, and they highly

dread the power of its poison. When in confinement, and irritated, it evinces great ferocity,

it opens its mouth so as to be in readiness to seize on any object that may approach within its

reach, and while open the poisonous fluid is to be seen distilling in drops from the fangs, which

are on such occasions always raised to the proper position for performing their functions,

During such periods of excitement it often ejects, by some means, a portion of the fluid to a

distance from its mouth; and the inhabitants even affirm that it is able to cast it more than

several feet, and that in doing so it generally attempts to lodge it in the eyes of men or

animals. Elsewhere I shall take occasion to remark more at length upon this reputed power.

(G¢' avrg § Fdeyy)

SSO ene LS) Suir ae aon)

CORDYLUS GIGANTEUS.

Reptitia.—Puates XXXV., XXXVI.

C. flavo-brunneus inferne pallidior, dorso cauda superné extremitatibusque superné fusco-nebulatis ;

occipite, temporibusque postice spinis fortibus triangularibus in ordiné singula armatis; dorsi

squamis leviter carinatis, laterium fortiter spinosis ; cauda superné spinosissima ; extremitatibus

anterioribus inferne squamis tuberculosis ; poribus femoralibus decem.

Lonairupo e naso ad basin caude, 8 unc. Caude, 7 unc.

Cotour.—The upper surface of the head posterior to the eyes, deep

umber brown, anteriorly, towards nose, dark yellowish brown ; the temples,

posteriorly, of the former colour, anteriorly, yellowish brown ; the lips and

throat intermediate between sienna and straw-yellow ; the sides of the lower

jaw freckled yellowish brown. The back, sides of body, tail, and extremities,

intermediate between sienna and honey-yellow, the tint on the back and

upper surface of the tail darkest, and particularly towards and on the

line of the spine, irregularly clouded with umber brown ; the extremities are

also more or less shaded or clouded with the same colour. Belly wine

yellow; the scales in front of femoral pores, yellowish brown. Eyes

reddish brown. Claws, umber-brown.

Form, &c.— Figure robust, and aspect rugged and repulsive. Head

rather flat, broad, and posteriorly bulging ; the upper surface, behind eyes,

nearly even,-—before eyes, slightly convex, and in both places covered with

very hard rough plates, those towards nose subtubercular; superciliary

plates seven on each side, disposed in rows of threes, with the seventh

placed behind them; the plates of the internal row largest, and with the

exception of the seventh, are smooth and without strie ; nostrils cylindrical,

and situated towards the hinder extremity of the nasal plates; labial plates

small, eight above and five below, the last of the lower lip and the three last of

CORDYLUS GIGANTEUS.

upper sub-keeled, and unlike the ones before them, which are quadrangular

and flat. Hind head and temples posteriorly margined with a row of long

Striated somewhat triangular and pointed spines which extends from the base

of the lower jaw of one side to the same part on the other; the four

edging the hinder part of the head superiorly directed backwards and

very slightly outwards, the five edging each temple outwards and very

slightly backwards, and are considerably shorter than the former. The

scales, four, covering the lower jaw very large, the three first quad-

rangular, the last somewhat pointed behind. Scales of temples large,

imbricate, striated, triangular, and with the apex pointing backwards. The

scales on the neck and body superiorly, and on the sides arranged in regular

transverse rows, the base of each scale being flat, more or less quadrangular,

and with a keel proceeding along its middle; the scales of the sides of

the back, body, and neck terminate, is a strong triangular divergent spine ;

those on the sides of the neck longest, rather irregularly placed, and

extend nearly directly outwards: as compared with the sides, the back is

comparatively smooth, the scales being only rugose and faintly carinated.

The scales of the upper and lateral parts of the tail in whorls, very rugged

and hard, and each has a prolonged triangular spine directed outwards and

backwards ; the scales of the under surface long, narrow, five-sided, smooth,

and pointed behind. The scales of the extremities superiorly and anteriorly

flat at base, and each is surmounted by a divergent spine more or less

developed ; the spines of the fore legs towards the body prominent

towards the toes, only faint; on the hinder legs the spines generally are

strongly marked. The under and hinder surfaces of fore legs towards body

are covered with small irregular, somewhat granular scales which anteriorly

are edged near the body by a row of three very large tubercular scales

very different from the others described: and besides these there is,

towards the foot, on the opposite side of the under surface of the legs, a

cluster of conical tubercles generally arranged in three or four longitudinal

rows, and having their points inclined towards the toes. The feet and toes

covered with triangular flat scales, those below slightly rugose. The under

surface of hinder legs towards body is covered anteriorly with flat triangular

scales, posteriorly towards femoral pores with slightly tubercular ones. The

space between rami of lower jaw coated with small irregular roundish scales,

the middle ones smallest, and anterior to them are four large plates in two rows,

the two of the front row the largest. Scales of lower surface of neck trian-

2 S

i) i) in

: | *¢4 \ 1

ay La Sept ais oy : ‘ P

S pea bess a bi 4 a ‘ y ‘ J

jo’ ent lL » nite re mire ee ee a | iets

cot Tattaheptedaae beuaOP aay VET i, ie wy) hy ta eral MJ

me iy 3 ed Gadot oc} é xv Pa ae WEY) ity it ac i ee

ae ah ors 7 eT ; ; 7

b- * uve ue UTE GP Ke Oe es A haroot Sepped)

" * P P

F ishins Se Wyn hiybines ae otek MMe)

L a a ee ‘

7 re af ‘ olan. Ass Cag ti PT bovtolde sh) s “4 /é ' fers rg

mas’ eae =. P : ,

: ; “ye ale tapi ix mae Ais — hy » vw Pg a, a bi vet ied

: . r Pe

gee Ow’ ah 20000105, 0 Mi Do sete Ted es i

irl Wh eer eel te of ae "a

ata Bond “46. Sed fa 9) > piedG., og tal ote es buapirs

oe Py ce 7 g ; : | -)

7 »

y t

* ¥ 7

‘

, . " -

a Pa

i *

: @ > 7 : ~

a y) Dp

z FSS AOE AS NM yf

BE ZELSEID IN.

Lg. eis ws tie 00) 3 ia. i {5 a

Ci pesee en Dele, : NEA

aD, F

ie It 7g OFA

Bra? SS

SS Sh

a a

ne sl

—~

GIGANT EUS (young)

CORDY EUs

(Reptilia, Plate 36)

mea ote PN rifialer, '

istlariy «! : Unt. 6

os eb |: (Otrwbbgh ave

a Py re Hing 4 Of por na

ae oe WW tet Hvou ip mneiles

ie aie, al Aly wary ‘

: aie: yavi ah bio >t tine, tnate 4

ee Mies 2

are

ac The appr part ol

rs 4 7 <s ley om tM ik it it ty iA lf iii

oe OH Ww ty ww aL bac! 1 it sued Tih

o-) om ere ed run lad nie ‘

7 SrAsy Re, Aid MLD ap! git Live

7 Pax ;

* wenietnetida tei

en 5 aed

ie Aiae a ardnin 4a

oye 7 Loe) i “pans

' wey ie joey? & rein iAs @

=. a A

7, may. a

(%_"S = '

we me shite za)

ree > 4 e jietal

orally 4

CORDYLUS GIGANTEUS.

gular, flat and imbricate ; those of breast and belly are of the same form and

similarly disposed, but are more recumbent. Preanal space with a num-

ber of scales, three of which are very large and placed in the centre of the

smaller ones, two in one row and the third in front of them. Femoral pores

in one row ten or eleven in number, and each with an obtuse spongy point.

Claws short, slightly curved and pointed. The commencement of the neck

above and the sides of the body immediately in front of the hinder legs

without spines.

Length from nose to base of tail, 8 inches : of tail, 7 inches.

Youne.—Puate XXXVI.

Cotour.—The upper part of the head posterior to the eyes, and the back

and sides of the body intermediate between umber and liver-brown. The

colour of the back and sides broken, however, by four or five narrow irre-

gular bars of cream-yellow, the anterior part of the head light yellowish

brown clouded with liver-brown ; the temples liver-brown, irregularly spotted

with greenish-white ; tail above towards base deep umber brown, barred

with cream yellow, below cream yellow and towards tip both above and below,

pale orange red. Extremities barred alternately, cream yellow and liver-

brown.

Form.—Figure rather slender, and aspect not disagreeable from the scales

not being developed and surmounted with the strong rugged spines which

exist in the adult; the form of the scales and the peculiarities they exhibit

on different parts of the adult are also exhibited on the young, so that in

knowing the characters of the former there is no difficulty in recognising the

latter.

Inhabits the interior districts of Southern Africa, and is not unfrequently seen on the rocky

pinnacles of the Quathlamba mountains, which separate the country of the south-east coast,

from that of the interior. Another large lizard of this genus is said to exist among and on the

mountains of Great Namaqualand; but when specimens of this shall be obtained it will

probably prove to be of the species here described.

IY AVSOHMMAD

SnH eM

GERRHOSAURUS FLAVIGULARIS.—Wieem.

Reptitia.—PuateE XXXVII.

G. superne flavo-brunneus, lined flava pone oculos incipiente et linea nigra in utroque latere marginata,

illa versus apicem caude, his pone basin caudz desinentibus; dorsi partibus mediis nigro brunneo

variegatis et flavo-punctatis; corporis lateribus griseo-brunneis, nigro brunneo-maculatis et flavo-

fasciolatis ; mento gulaque flavis ; pectore abdomineque cceruleo-albis ; scuto occipitale rhombica.

Lonartupo é naso ad basin caudee, 3 unc. 6 lin. ; caude, 8 unc.

Cictena Seprrormis, Gray, Synops. Rept. Griff. Animal Kingdom of Cuvier, vol. 9.

Scincus Serirormis, Merrem, Versuch ein Syst. der Amphib, page 70.

Prevroreucnus Curysosproncuus et Desarpinu, Smith, Mag. of Zool. and Botany, vol. i. p. 143, et seq.

Gerruosaurus OceLtatus, Coct. Magaz. Zool. Guer, cl. 111, pl. 4, et pl. 6, fig. 1.

Cotour.—The upper surface of the head, the back, and the tail superi-

orily deep yellowish brown, the apical portion of the latter lightest; on the

back and tail the ground colour is broken by various variegations partly

yellow and partly liver-brown, on the middle of the back and base of the

tail these variegations consist of one, two, or more series of small square

yellow spots, each either placed upon a liver-brown bar or spot, or edged on

both its sides with that colour. On the edges of the back and tail the same

colours constitute the variegations, but instead of being in spots or bars they

are in narrow longitudinal lines commencing near the outer angle of the eye

and terminating beyond the last half of the tail; these lines are three in

number on each side, viz.:—the middle one yellow, and the outer and inner ones

liver-brown. On the tail these lines are rather indistinct and often broken.

The sides of the body from the eyes backwards are greyish brown, profusely

variegated with spots and irregular vertical stripes of yellow and liver-

brown. Outer surface of fore legs light yellowish brown freckled with

minute, umber-brown and yellowish white spots; the outer surface of hinder

legs purplish brown and freckled with the same colours and in the same

GERRHOSAURUS FLAVIGULARIS.

manner as the fore legs; feet and toes yellowish brown. Under parts and

inner surface of extremities livid cream-yellow, and the sides of the belly are

marked with an irregular row of pale purplish brown spots; upper and

under lips yellow, dotted with umber brown; chin and throat pale yellow.

Eyes reddish brown.

Form, &c.—Figure fusiform and the tail tapered to a fine point. Head

small and tapered anteriorly, the nose obtusely pointed. Body somewhat

quadrangular, the angles rounded and the back and sides slightly convex.

Tail towards base quadrangular, towards point cylindrical. Frontal plate

five sided, anteriorly triangular; vertibral plates four, the two middle ones

the largest and all externally edged with a row of oblong narrow plates

which form the upper margin of the orbit. Fronto-nasal plate large and

diamond-shaped ; the inner and hinder parts of the fronto-parietal and the

anterior and inner parts of the parietal plates separated from each other by

the intervention of a small diamond-shaped occipital plate. Temporal plates

small, many-sided, and generally seven in number,—one in the centre, and

six surrounding it. Labial scales six on upper jaw, and four on ower; the

fourth scale of the upper the longest, and situated directly below the

eye. Meatus auditorius externus narrow, vertical and in front partly con-

cealed by a triangular or somewhat semicircular scale, which extends

outwards and backwards from the hinder edge of temple. Lateral duplica-

ture of skin moderately developed. Scales of body and tail quadrangular

and arranged in transverse rows, each scale with a central carina. Mental

plates four, the two hinder ones the largest; the throat and breast covered

with somewhat six-sided scales, in shape like two triangles joined at their

bases. These scales are arranged in longitudinal rows, are slightly imbricate

and larger on the breast than the throat. Plates of the belly disposed in

transverse rows ten in each, of a quadragular form and perfectly smooth.

Preanal plates three in a single row, the middle one of a diamond-shape

excepting that anteriorly it is truncate. Scales covering the under surface

of tail at base quadrangular and smooth, towards tip triangular with their

apex rounded. The fore legs are coated with smooth subovate and imbri-

cated scales; the hinder ones anteriorly and inferiorly with large somewhat

six-sided scales; posteriorly with small triangular and carinated scales.

Femoral pores fifteen or sixteen, and protrude bui very little beyond the

scales lying anterior to them. Soles of the feet coated with small subgra-

nular scales.

GERRHOSAURUS FLAVIGULARIS.

DIMENSIONS.

Inches. Lines. Inches. Lines.

‘Length from the nose to the base of Length from nose to base of fore legs 1 2

they tail Woay. svc sesesseecees 3 6 between fore and hinder legs 2 2

Of theitall’ sca2tciscnsceecassses 8 0 of fore legs to toes ......... .. 0 73

from nose to meatus auditorius of hinder legs to toes ......... 1 2

OLLETMUS) . 0.602 .0- 000s ones ne 0 10

The colours of the male and female are nearly if not quite alike.

A variety of this species is occasionally procured in Southern Africa, on which only very few

if any of the yellow and liver brown spots exist, which are described as occurring on the back

and sides of the individuals more commonly obtained. This variety is represented by Wagler,*

and all the specimens of it which I have seen had the chin and throat coloured as represented

in his plate.

Both are found within the boundaries of the Cape Colony; but the one which is most

profusely variegated is by far the most common. The former I have only seen in damp

shady situations, abundantly coated with brushwood ; the latter sometimes in similar situations,

but more frequently in dry, arid plains, furnished with a considerable quantity of underwood.

In whatever situations they are discovered, they always immediately seek concealment, and

generally attempt it by burrowing under decayed leaves, or loose earth. The range of this

species is extensive, and specimens were obtained by the expedition party, even as far north as

the Tropic of Capricorn.

* Descriptiones et Icones Amphibiorum Auctor, Dr. J. Wagler, Plate xxxiy.

al NMG TOWA ALL by ji naive ys, -

tAGT ya ny, i,

ite ee Vy ae ‘* Neth fh Wie Tal

: bi if man Higim Y ef fal WAP * WM) sie We Lal it Waaay ii Jah ee

: } thr Lae SHY ah rho) iit irae vA

*ilae ie) 7 7 ‘ - :

bef 7 . WAL oneunas bt aa

henna ! ; Vieira AA :

| Lie fh ae aie [

ti ' : ; i Al, y (i Bil ne ia wil joy ah iY

nee ey -

Carnal ii) iy Moyilalete Gimreiany chin Ween ee re aah bt! ay b

nit alti iia aye Heigiinl fi ve A Wh

i ma RS inti vat van a Hal Wh Tite Bi

Mattias “te Te ae ce ie Alu aie

ns ai id 1 bo ad q fl it 5 | ii tay At

TA LORE AUT Me AA etal i ny ihe

t Pail t ,

; att) |

7 ; : ij a) i ‘i A ic a o sap yt i male’ darrediviar ih Vides Minoialy & ii

We , ' ei cy ell wal PTT TTY, ; iid God Tal in: ff i! Poe ry / jaa

i r spar riit Vib, BEL t h ' nF oa y

i.e ) ine th : | F ; iste | ria AT Avid lity lie alin Vil iliaet

‘i ; Ome Walt iste ARPT fea Lae : ol ’ , ‘ann a

fale vb bag) a@ sis eT) a a Bt ay ‘taney Vue Ley

PTT ae PPT tLby Puep este POPE A Nyse PF : AAR) RU AMARA BNR) at eral

| | , | | wisilig Ted” BA

arn ith, ena j ;

meh, At me : iat pia nin boi GP aA ui (in he

af} Vij wish ies ae ir ibs a! pt ‘Be 4,

ap amet A et Eo | A AUP EBay BEI, ua} ve My

Tarai ithe ue! oh: ¥

t pan

ns <

. se 1

S Wane

? "

* b hig

— i Mer

oF =

: ©

¢ ;

\ 7

‘ y

—-— ‘ Ff) 7 t Vi 2) a,

“gg aetg eI ndey

“en el kal SL ay SOS eG

INOWMGIGD SNHUAVSOHSMAEDS TI

GERRHOSAURUS BIBRONI.—Smiru.

ReptiniA.—Puate XXXVIII. Fic. 1. (Mate.)

G. superne rubro-brunneus, lineis duabus sublatis et duabus angustis variegatis, his ad basin caude,

illis versus apicem desinentibus; mento, gula, capitis lateribus, guttere, extremitatibusque anterioribus

interne minatis ; pectore abdomineque griseo-albis; scuto occipitale rhombica.

Lonaitupo é naso ad basin caudee 4 unc. 6 lin. ; caude 6 unc.

Cotour.—The upper surface of the head chesnut-brown ; the sides and

under surface of the head and the throat anteriorly vermillion-red ; the back,

the sides of the body, the upper parts of the tail, and the outer surface of the

extremities intermediate between brownish red and deep orange coloured

brown. The back is variegated with four yellow lines and the tail with two,

which are the continuations of the two external lines of the back, and which

commence above and over the eyes. These lines are wider than the other two

which extend along the middle of the back, have a greenish tinge, and are

very narrow and slightly broken ; the latter commence at the hind-head and

terminate at the base of the tail, and become less distinct as they recede from

the head. The throat posteriorly, the breast, belly, under surface of tail and

inner surface of extremities greyish white, the colour on the fore legs tinted

with vermillion-red. Eyes deep chesnut-brown.

Form, &c.—Figure moderately slender and fusiform; tail tapered to a

point. Head quadrangular and tapered towards the nose, which is obtusely

pointed. Body and base of tail quadrangular, the angles rounded, and the

back and sides, but especially the latter slightly convex; tail towards the

point cylindrical ; internasal plate large, triangular, and diamond shaped.

Naso-rostral plates small roundish, and the nostrils towards their lower

margin. Fronto-parietal plates five-sided, sides unequal; parietal plates

three-sided, the inner side arched with a small diamond shaped occipital

plate situated partly between them and partly between the inner and hinder

angles of the fronto-parietal. Palpebral plates four, the two middle ones the

largest, and the whole margined externally by a row of narrow oblong plates

which form the upper edge of the orbit. Temporal plates small, subcircular,

and placed like stones in a pavement; scales of upper lip six, exclusive of

the rostral plate, the fourth, reckoning from before backwards, the longest ;

Meatus externus small and vertical, broadest below, and anteriorly edged with

a slightly projecting scaly plate. Lateral duplicature of skin, which extends

GERRHOSAURUS BIBRONI.

between angle of jaw and base of hinder leg, well developed. The scales of

the back and sides quadrangular, and disposed in transverse rows, each with a

strong keel along its centre, and others less developed towards the sides.

Scales of the upper and lateral portions of the tail similarly shaped to those of

the body, but have only the central keel, which forms a projecting point be-

hind; mental plate large and semicircular behind ; to this plate succeed

four other plates, the two hinder ones the largest; the throat and breast

are coated with large imbricate somewhat six-sided scales, broadest trans-

versely, and arranged in longitudinal rows. The plates of the belly are dis-

posed in transverse rows, eight in each, are of a quadrangular form and _ per-

fectly smooth. Scales of the lower surface of the tail rather long, narrow, and

slightly rounded at the point. Fore legs slender and covered with smooth,

imbricate, somewhat six-sided scales; hinder legs anteriorly and inferiorly

with scales of a like description only larger, posteriorly, with small triangular

ones strongly carinated, the carina forming the apex of each; scales on soles

of feet small and slightly granular. Femoral pores twelve, and nearly quite

concealed by the row of plates immediately in front of them. Preanal plates

three in a row, the central one triangular with its apex pointing backwards.

Toes of fore feet short and slender, the inner, that which corresponds to what

is called the great toe, shortest, the second considerably longer, the third the

longest, the fourth a little shorter than the third, and the outermost rather

longer than the innermost. The third and fourth toes of the hinder feet are

much longer than those of the fore feet, and the third exceeds considerably in

length the fourth; the outer and second toes are also much longer than the

corresponding ones of the fore feet.

DIMENSIONS.

Inches. Lines. Inches, Lines.

Length from the nose to the base of Length from nose to base of fore legs 0 1i

ihewballeerteeenaccceeen secs 4 6 Distance between fore and hinder legs 3 0

Ofsthevtarlk) <peeckese coeekitentes 6 6 Length of fore legs to toes ............ 0 9

from nose to meatus externus 0 9 of hinder legs to toes ......... 1 2

Female.— As regards the colouring the two sexes are nearly alike, but the

female is more robust than the male, and the tail proportionally shorter.

The only specimens of this Lizard which I have seen, were obtained towards the sources of

the Caledon, one of the principal branches of the Orange River. They were all discovered in

the dark and shaded ravines which form breaks in the Quathlamba mountains, and when

they were pursued they sought concealment under the dead leaves and decaying wood which

abounded in the ravines in question.

GERRHOSAURUS TYPICUS.

Reprtitia.—Puate XXXVIII. Fic. 2.

G. superne aurantio-brunneus, inferne griseo-albus, lined flava pone oculos incipiente et lined nigro in

utroque latere marginata, illa versus apicem, his pone basin caude desinentibus ; corporis lateribus

nigro brunneo-umbratis et labeculis triangularibus variegatis, scuto occipitale quinquelaterale.

Loneitupo é naso ad basin caude 4 une. 6 lin. ; caude 6 une. 6 lin.

PievRotucuts tyeicus, Smith, Mag. Zool. and Botany, vol. i. p. 143.

GeERRHOsAURUS TyPICcUS, Dum. et Bib. Erpet, Général, tom. vy. p. 383.

Corour.—The upper and lateral parts of the head, the back, and the upper

and lateral parts of the tail deep orange-coloured brown, the two latter with

two contiguous longitudinal stripes on each side, the external stripe the

narrowest and pale cream-yellow, the internal deep liver-brown, fading at its

inner edge into the tint of the centre of the back; the light stripe commences

immediately over and above the eye, and terminates near the point of the

tail, though on the latter it is not so defined as on the former; the dark one

commences at the hind head, and is lost about the middle of the tail. The

sides are variegated with several series of irregular light yellow spots, which

are most distinctly defined between the fore and hinder legs, and in addition

to these spots there are also others of a liver-coloured brown. The variegations

on the sides of the tail are confusedly disposed, and in many places run

into each other. The under parts and the inner surface of the extremities

dull cream-yellow, inclined to greyish yellow. Eyes orange coloured brown.

Form, &c.—Figure fusiform, the tail very long and slender towards the

point. Head small, short, and tapered towards the nose, which is obtusely

pointed. Body quadrangular, the angles rounded, and the back and sides

but more especially the latter convex. Tail quadrangular towards its base,

cylindrical towards the point. The naso-rostral plates sub-hemispherical,

and the nostrils towards their centre; superciliary plates four in number,

the two central ones the largest, and externally all are edged with a row of

narrow, oblong plates, which form the upper edge of the orbit ; fronto-parietal

plates subcordate, the apical portion directed outwards; parietal plates four-

sided, the inner side of each much shorter than the outer, and is as well as the

hinder angle of the fronto-parietal separated from its fellow of the opposite side

by the intervention of a small five-sided occipital plate; internasal plate

large and diamond-shaped. Temporal plates seven or eight, each many-

sided, and of various sizes, the smallest ones towards the centre. Scales of

upper lip six in number, the fourth, from rostral plate ; the longest, those of

GERRHOSAURUS TYPICUS.

lower lip four, the last but one much the largest. Scales of back and sides

quadrangular, arranged in transverse rows, and each strongly carinated ;

the scales of the upper and lateral portions of the tail are of the same

form as those of the back, similarly arranged and carinated. Lateral dupli-

cature slightly developed, space between rami of lower jaw anteriorly with

four large plates, the two first the smallest; throat behind these and the

breast coated with six-sided smooth imbricate scales, their greatest width

transversely, and all arranged in longitudinal rows. Plates of the belly

arranged in transverse rows, ten in each, of a quadrangular form, and

each row lying over the base of the one behind it. Preanal plates,

three in a single row, the middle one triangular, and its apex directed

backwards. Scales of under surface of tail smooth, broadest at base

tapered towards point, which is slightly rounded. Fore legs coated

with smooth imbricate scales more or less six-sided; hinder legs anteriorly

and inferiorly covered with scales of the same description but larger;

posteriorly the scales are triangular and strongly keeled. Femoral pores

sixteen, large, and prominent. Soles of the feet covered with very small

somewhat oval scales. The toes of the fore feet short and slender, the

innermost one very short, the second considerably longer, the third the

longest, the fourth a little shorter than the third, and the outermost rather

Jonger than the innermost. The third and fourth toes of the hinder feet,

reckoning the great or inner toe one, are much longer than those of the fore

feet, and the third exceeds considerably in length the fourth; the second and

outermost toes are also much longer than the corresponding ones of the

fore feet.

DIMENSIONS.

Inches. Lines. Inches. Lines.

Length from the nose to the base of Length from nose to base of fore legs 0 11

they tail! Gerace pantera es ee 4 6 Distance between fore and hinder legs 3 0

ofithestaill Moesssen ane cet ot 6 6 Length of fore legs to base of toes ... 0 9

from nose to meatus externus 0 9 hinder legs to base of toes ... 1 2

The colours of the two sexes nearly the same.

The only specimens of this species which I possess were procured on the sandy plains

which occur immediately to the south of the mouth of the Orange River. Over the sand of these

plains they run with such extraordinary rapidity, that it is almost impossible for the eye to

follow them in their flight. The instant they are discovered they seek a place of concealment,

and that they generally find in the loose sand which is commonly found accumulated under the

shrubs with which the district is furnished. In this sand they burrow with amazing rapidity,

and it requires an experienced eye to trace their course in it, though that is seldom far below the

surface.

or.

— eo

ein

aera ae

z ‘

eerie af! ote hae

; a° var

' f 4

Ye : OF ine

ie vie

a fs

i a <i 5

. at

: ‘a vig

4 ‘.

‘ I

iste Pa

LC is OSS a

Copan: cf |

oo i

i Ah

’ Ais ey

ahi |

Age,

KCANTHODACTY LUSe GA Noi

Reptiha._ Plate. 39. A.Male. B Female.)

- '

iy) i’ ‘ 4a i

% : a, * .

LD St Peel ae ee | + ‘7 i

rt ar.

Rt ieee ae. uaedes vie il reer iiiwbvas weal as Agalvge ‘ ,

iW 2 drailbealitine Pre te Qe ; er ; be ae(bas — saa ' ius

aut. “zi ; - 7

pos Smee pes Oe F 5 Veeuy cr: i

a , fea 24 A y

sets Geile. eM, het uw? flix df bhod. tia ral & want

=" “at ai hae ti tye Vals bis a

nell Ne wea” ilee ‘iid

p> WAc. Mf Zz Lim) Wit! di bo 5 ns ny. ' t arith he PS

a re ig fer Qe ‘5 rt” liemadke: Wad tint ole

e 4 pt fis 455) “a 14 vy ati \ 2 Levri - r e '

64 beat \ t? 4 it. iT af I , genie ”

’ ihe le PEAY 7 ape ea Fai : ij i li ==) _

ann t\séut >

me *pe0'@ (Vee) yw OL eer * ot

Rate hiniden hak: one he Canal de,

rant “ nye at ahity. On Ci om bem a f

L Amisdity' al ne, i Mmyoe Carepoehite apd, Thowrii-

pg doden cet > Airy (iPr \bd etdag) ey ye fle wis i

Ga ifs, tbe ee agility oon! { 40th «jae

mays eran ed, vere CE Vie * Hawa

_— ap" 3 el mage Le. Divi mii! iF eine ches ¢

own Se Tie WY Rew bo f.peein the tipy as itu and yar 6

pe - ; ‘

oy i ene . wh ir jralee Him th peal Saf é i : i oo us

= as ‘ > - if ive ne ioe i Pm TT? 2 r yA ; , knee cates ;

os lake it Sipe Tete) ie “le tre a) oaks To aap per bliants ’ x

(he she Rada Wi dhigae ie mew. ie Seemed batweynt ; -~

ys «f, op-8 theese bore Sinise fem heploapane fate ewe

diy e breiiedinal «liane Sigil ¢ wiigt

ind and ferme tiee Bet the qian chen | a Uy

; - way:

Vee ei Fee ey oN ee

ACANTHODACTYLUS CAPENSIS.—Smiru.

Reptitia.—Piate XXXIX. a, Mare; b, Femate.

Mas. A. superne flavo-brunneus, lateribus nigro-brunneis, et macularum albarum seriebus duabus

et lineis duabus longitudinalibus ejusdem coloris variegatis; partibus inferioribus ochraceis; digitis

externe dentatis.

Fem. Superne pallide aurantius, lateribus rubro-aurantiis superne inferneque lined subalbida marginatis ;

partibus inferioribus ochraceis, versus latera nigro brunneo-tessellatis,

Loneitupbo e naso ad basin caude mas; 4 unc. 6 lin; caude 6 unc.

Cotour, (Mate.)—The upper surface of the head, the middle of the back,

and the upper surface of the tail intermediate between yellowish brown and

reddish orange, the first irregularly mottled with dashes of umber-brown and

the back is freckled with small liver-brown dots, and marked with a short line

of the same colour from centre of hind head. The sides of the body and of the

tail at its base liver-brown, variegated with two longitudinal white bands, the

uppermost commencing at the hind head and ending a little way beyond the

base of the tail; the lowermost begins below, and behind the eye is broken

by the intervention of the meatus auditorius externus, and terminates in front

of base of hinder leg: over the first of these bands there is a stripe of small

roundish spots of the colour of the back, only lighter, and between them a

longitudinal row of round rusty white ones. The sides of the belly below

the lowermost white line the same colour as the sides, the remainder of the

belly, throat, under surface of legs, and tail, pale ochre-yellow. Upper

surface of extremities liver-brown freely speckled with irregular yellowish

white spots; toes transparent yellowish brown above freckled with umber-

brown. Sides of head umber-brown, the lips, a line under the eye, and the

edges of some of the scales towards hinder parts of lower jaw straw-yellow.

Femate.—The upper surface of the head brownish yellow; the back and

centre of the tail above intermediate between Dutch and deep reddish

orange; the sides of body and tail near its base intermediate between

orpiment-orange and tile-red, and these two tints are kept separate from each

other by the intervention of a narrow longitudinal whitish band, which

commences at the hind head and terminates about the commencement of the

ACANTHODACTYLUS CAPENSIS.

second third of the tail, being edged both above and below by a distinct

shade of liver-brown, which is most distinct on the tail, and extends much

beyond the end of the light line. Below the red of the sides there is a

second longitudinal yellowish white line which extends between the meatus

auditorius externus and the base of hinder leg. Belly, throat, and under

surface of legs ochre-yellow; the sides of the belly below the second light

line closely mottled with liver-brown. Upper surface of extremities liver-

brown with many spots of the colour of the back ; toes and claws transparent

brownish yellow, the former above, speckled with umber-brown. Temples

the same colour as the sides of the body; the remainder of the sides of the

head umber-brown.

Form, &c.—Figure of male rather slender, the body and base of tail

slightly depressed, and the latter moderately long and tapered to a very fine

voint: the female is rather robust, and each individual part is on a larger

scale than in the male. Head quadrangular, superiorly, towards the nose

gently sloped, towards the nape level. Frontal plate narrow and widest

anteriorly ; fronto-parietal plates five-sided, the side which joins frontal

plate very short. Inter-parietal plate somewhat quadrangular and widest

behind; interfronto-parietal plate diamond-shaped, and a portion of it

between the anterio-internal angles of the parietal plates. Naso-rostral

plate large and behind pointed, the point lying between the fronto-nasal

plates. Palpebral plates two, forming an oval disc which anteriorly and

posteriorly is edged with scales, one of which, over and in front of the eye is

rather large. Temples slightly convex, and covered with small granular

scales. Meatus auditorius externus semilunar and margined anteriorly with a

few small spinous scales. Skin of body rather loosely connected to the

subjacent parts, and often forms a longitudinal fold on each side of the body,

extending from the ears to the hinder leg, also occasionally a circular one

behind the head, the loose edge of which is directed forwards. Scales

covering back and sides small, circular, closely set, and slightly convex ;

those on base of tail superiorly the same, on sides of tail towards its base

triangular and keeled, each keel prolonged and ending in a spinous point.

About an inch beyond the commencement of the tail the small scales give

place to oblong and quadrangular ones, which are arranged in whorls, and

each has a distinct keel, which in some parts is prolonged beyond the scale

in the form of a spinous point. Scales of the extremities partly rather large,

triangular, and keeled, partly very small and granular. Abdominal plates

quadrangular and disposed in transverse rows, about twenty-eight in each.

Gular collar immediately in front of sternum distinctly indicated, the

ACANTHODACTYLUS CAPENSIS.

posterior loose edge of the scales forming it, triangular or slightly semilunar.

Preanal plates in two or three rows, the middle one of the two hindermost

rows much the largest and somewhat six-sided. Femoral pores twenty-eight.

Toes long, slender, and each externally edged with a serrated fringe consisting

of slender pointed scales. Length of adult specimens generally about ten

inches, of which the tail forms about six.

This lizard is found on the sandy districts of Great Namaqualand, and where the surface of

the country is irregular it is generally met on the highest spots. Where small sand-hills

occur, it resorts to them in preference to the other localities, and, from the peculiar assistance

it derives from the serrated fringe which edge its toes, it runs over the loose sand on the steep

surfaces of those slopes, with great rapidity. It feeds upon small insects.

\ i W O)

P ein

D Ap) Oa TAOS wiint

f vii fy; nate ig ni

(ovoid Under )

‘CITSONUdGVO SOUNVSALVIG

; wifi @ Cee ey

ie wy UA!

e“ a

; i

the

oe atite

"i =

ili i dé

: At id

ul 1, ot)

L, vi

: » 7

P jal te

4 ‘ wa

efit Rid ms

be -

(be we alite

Me TAAL

‘ cy

y Se

ba Le ¢\"46

’

Thai Tra Cle

ew ~

ae nary

PLATYSAURUS CAPENSIS.—Smiru.*

Reprtitia.—Puate XL.

P. superne griseo-brunneus, dorso fascis tribus subalbidis notato; capite corporeque fortiter depressis ;

corporis squamis parvis; poris femoralibus 18; cauda versus basin depressa versus apicem

eylindracea; partibus inferioribus, viridi flavis.

Lonerrupo é naso ad basin caude 3 unc. ; caude 4 une. 8 lin.

Cotour.—The upper portion of the head anteriorly, the centre of the

hind head and its outer edges so far as the anterior extremity of each eyebrow

greenish yellow; the other parts of the hind head light blackish green.

Back and sides of body intermediate between hair and broccoli brown, the

skin which is visible between the scales is darkest. Back varied with three

longitudinal cream-yellow lines, faintly tinted with green, the two outer

ones towards hinder legs slightly arched outwards. The central line com-

mences exactly at the middle of the posterior edge of the hind head, and

one of the others at each outer angle,—from these situations they proceed

separately till they reach close to the base of the tail, where they coalesce

and form a continuous light band which occupies the entire of its upper

surface to the very point. Under surface of head, neck, body, and extremities

wine-yellow, the two first tinted with flesh-red ; under surface of tail the

same colour, tinged with yellowish brown. The upper and lower lips, as

also the under surface of the edges of the lower jaw wood-brown.

Form.—Figure slender, with the belly bulging laterally ; head small, and

like the body and tail, is much depressed, posteriorly square, and anteriorly

much tapered ; the nose is narrow and rounded ; nasal plate small, with the

* Char. Gen. Platysauri.—Teeth short, numerous, closely set, slender, conical and rather blunt ;

tongue fleshy and rather pointed ; nostrils circular and situated near to the posterior and inferior edge of

the naso-rostral plate ; frontal plate single,t fronto-parietal plates, four, the two hinder ones and the

parietals forming a square shield, like what is observed in Cordylus. Palpebral plates edged externally

with a row of narrow plates as in Gerrhosaurus. Body much depressed, scales very small, abdominal

plates quadrangular and arranged in transverse rows; femoral pores small but distinct. Gular collar

rudimentary.

+ By mistake rendered double in the Plate.

PLATYSAURUS CAPENSIS.

nostril situated towards its middle; frenal plates two, the anterior one

small and irregularly shaped. Naso-rostral plate large and diamond shaped.*

Frontal plate single, oblong, and four sided, the anterior considerably longer

than the posterior side; fronto-parietal plates four, two anterior and two

posterior, the latter with the parietal plates forming a distinct square shield

which laterally is edged on each side with two narrow plates ; the hinder and

inner angles of posterior fronto-parietal and anterior and inner angles of

parietal plates are kept apart by the intervention of a small diamond shaped

plate. Palpebral plates four, externally edged with a row of narrow plates

which form the edge of the eyebrow. Temples convex and coated with plates,

which anteriorly and inferiorly are surrounded with small scales. Body

and sides covered with very small scales, which along the middle of

the back are many sided and very closely set, elsewhere they are less

closely set and rather ovate. Anterior and outer surface of fore legs

covered with rather large six sided scales, hinder and inner portions with

small multiangular scales. The last joint covered with rather large and

irregularly five or six sided scales. Outer, posterior, and inner surface of

hinder legs towards body covered with small subovate scales, and their

anterior surface with quadrangular ones. Toes long and slender, nails short,

very crooked, and sharp pointed. Femoral pores small and eighteen in

number. Space between rami of lower jaw coated with lengthened narrow

scales arranged in longitudinal rows, those of the row along the mesial line

largest. Scales of under surface of neck small, and transversely subovate

Gular collar rudimentary, the scales composing it very small; abdominal

plates quadrangular and disposed in transverse rows, about twenty plates in

each ; preanal plates many sided, eight in the last row, the two middle of

which are the largest. Tail towards base, above, flat, beneath two sided,

elsewhere subcylindrical, its scales narrow, quadrangular, lengthened and

arranged in whorls. Meatus auditorius externus large, subovate, opening

obliquely outwards and backwards. Tongue solid and obtusely pointed ; its

upper surface villous and its edges towards point, thin and sharp. Length

from nose to base of tail, 3 inches ; length of tail, 4 inches, 8 lines.

Inhabits Great Namaqualand, and is always found on rocky precipices. When pursued, it

seeks concealment under. flat stones or in the crevices which intervene between the rocky

masses, and, from its claws being much hooked, it is not without difficulty removed from the

chinks into which it may have retreated. It lives upon small insects. ;

* In the figures there appears a small scale before and another behind the naso-rostral plate, but these,

however, are to be viewed only as small portions of the plate accidently separated.

i> Cae we a er = i ' me

ak Wor vans aS ty fe, ag , ty 9) ’ 8, pont mh yiiea wer Souris sin . a

ahd Svea bo rigit tds pike: neh jal hi $13 lve kt + aad iby iis i bane ‘vee Veer, es

pital Ki shaded yebiatifes Hidde hile ien4 th gctitelln om tia eas dottie'l

meena: owen ved} ‘gh aie if Nui tae S “ah raat" feiainly

ihe ie ‘ hid ihe hy Be Wide Ny a ey os , nd a Vag

i rien Ms Cinta if EY, ee ‘eae Wed Yay bili 1, nike

yefe

Bets Niny ny ee Ah ORT » hess ha ru ay i) Aeris iat fue cay fe

\ f if ‘ i" My “ a

a ay Wrrip . Ah er LE mh id Akt A ood | ot Bee an J @ eh (i | Ny ibe 7 8 d a | as *

> , Nie, beg ‘ ‘ , | ‘ » gain we

Ba Nic ie get, Pug ssh lhe AVR pale on hk ai a

ha cy 1, es (y i PA erp ie iy sh pity otienyt APO EL ai shies

pan 43! Fyfe Facade wink rebl saeplieriat | Shab areal t iy glee ae Ae

Hi) ‘ F A:

sh pate it iB Thy oe gy(. 2 by by) ty ‘ MPT AY .

py Ye ye dys i iy vant e ae oa ! rye ia ' ai

fe ee p ehradbien a wir,

tio ’ \ : I

PUGET y pane a) i a A) i iy

ies ¢ Fa Nani a {WESIO opm Ue Se. tasers Chali pe

OL ae, } ’ ‘ f ha, vd fl At

ae, aot! hihi sOTHS Eee! Meas as (ee ate A

ta ; he. a oe sy! ne : {i ‘ ] al) ‘ - j i

ew vie q Mins ta aU re We fie Mn Lee) ot ir; 1 ee

“¥ arnt | : ne t f ay: ,

ha iM | Tio t ; r ay a " wy th Ty 1s “J P

i] : ; i 1a be i:

ota ey ar yt ii aye Le 4 dela 4 ife Ay a ee : aus

‘ ‘ :.4 us i 7 ] * we

J moe ea’ | 2 : ai 4 wali Hidige UP ah: di Pei i. J j

j f vf

OPS As Wires

OS AWW iS

( Reptilna — Pl

hg ae’ €e ra @

7 =>

7 L4G ae 1

Po Tim On 4 ;

4 ~ Piura weintes Aust) i

3 ees

a kw bis? Vir é

he Trane Aa Cilia whi

Hpensact eh

fitowin, ap? cir weir

an .

cy OM

baad t i) Rw. Lite!

i, Wit ‘ i

yO’ th ney?

GERRHOSAURUS SUBTESSELLATUS.—Smitu.

Reprinia.—Piate XLI. Fic. 1.

G. dorso flavo-brunneo, lined alba brunneaque tassellata in utroque latere marginato; partibus inferioribus

carneis cupreo-viride-tinctis ; corpore fortiter depresso ; squamis levibus.

Lonarrupo e naso ad basin caude 1 une. 11 lin. ; caude 4 unc.

Co.tour.—Top of the head umber-brown, variegated with three deep

orange coloured brown spots, one between the eyes, and the other two on the

hind head. Eyebrows and lips greenish white, the former connected by a

narrow white line which edges the anterior part of the head. The middle of

the back dull yellowish brown, variegated towards the head with two and

towards the tail with three rows of small, somewhat square, brownish red

spots, very little darker than the ground colour, and only distinct in fresh

specimens or in those observed in spirits. The sides of the back chequered

white and liver-brown, the latter rather the predominant colour, and disposed

in the form of small irregular quadrangular spots, arranged in two rows,

each of which, as well as each individual spot, being parted by the interven-

tion of a narrow streak of white. Sides of body similarly coloured as the

back, only the different tints are darker. Tail above coloured like the back,

but the chequered lines diminish in width and regularity as they distance its

base, and almost disappear towards the tip. Throat and belly pale aurora-

red tinged with coppery green, the plates towards the sides of the belly

strongly clouded with brownish red, and the central portion of each of the

scales of the throat also of that colour; under surface of tail greenish white

or pale broccoli-brown, and variegated with small irregular spots of light

brownish red, the centre of each scale being of the latter colour. Legs and

toes aurora-red, freckled towards body with irregular spots of umber-brown.

Form, &c.—Figure fusiform, the tail tapered to a point. Head, body, and

base of tail depressed, and the upper aspect of the two latter slightly arched.

Head small, muzzle rather lengthened, and its point obtuse and rounded.

Frontal plate oblong, five-sided, the anterior side arched. Fronto-nasal

plate large, and its hinder edge slightly concave ; no distinct inter-fronto-

GERRHOSAURUS SUBTESSELLATUS.

parietal or inter-parietal plates (Vide Plate XLII. Fig. 5.) Temporal plates

six, the hindermost one the largest. Meatus auditorius externus edged ante-

riorly by a narrow projecting plate. Scales of body slightly imbricate, and

arranged in transverse rows ; they are quadrangular in form, and in propor-

tion to the size of the species are larger than in any other species of the genus

yet described ; they are all quite smooth, and destitute even of the rudiments

of a keel. Lateral duplicature well developed. Plates of belly quadran-

gular, and disposed in transverse rows, eight scales in each, their greatest

width transversely. Femoral pores eight. Preanal plates three in a row, the

middle one diamond-shaped. Length from nose to base of tail, 1 inch

11 lines ; length of tail, 4 inches.

So far as I know, only a very few specimens of this species have yet been obtained, and the

only two I myself procured were caught among short grass in the vicinity of a low rocky

knowl, in Great Namaqualand.

The uniformly smooth surface of the scales of this species distinguish it at once from the

others of the genus. The small depth of the body is also another diagnostic character, and a

third is the great size of the scales, when compared with the size of the Lizard.

GERRHOSAURUS SEPIFORMIS.—Dwuo. er Br.

Reprtitia.—Puate XLI. Fie. 2.

G. dorso lateribusque lineis angustis alterne fuscis et flavo-brunneis variegato ; labio superiore brunneo,

flavo-albo-fasciato ; corporis squamis multiliratis, caude carinatis.

Lonerrupo e naso ad basin caude 2 une. 3 lin. ; caude 5 unc.

Scincus sEprrormis, Schneid, Hist. Amp. fase. ii. p. 191, Merr. Tent. Syst. Amp. p. 70.

Cotour.—Back and sides variegated with from twenty to twenty-four

narrow longitudinal lines, half of which are of a tint intermediate between

umber and deep reddish brown, the other half between yellowish and deep

reddish brown, and they vary in depth in different specimens. The dark

lines are of unequal width, and the one which extends along the edge of the

back on each side is invariably the narrowest, being seldom more than a

simple line, from which circumstance the light coloured lines on each side

of it are broader than those elsewhere. In some specimens the sides, instead

of being marked with distinct lines, are dark brown sprinkled with small

white spots, both irregular in regard of size and distribution. Upper parts of

tail coloured like the back, only the lines are less distinct, and scarcely if at

all visible towards its point, sides of tail umber-brown more or less profusely

variegated with small white spots or longitudinal streaks. The lateral fold

of skin, the throat, the belly, and the under surface of extremities inter-

mediate between yellowish and greenish grey,—the scales of the former

edged with brownish red. Under surface of tail intermediate between

broccoli and hair-brown. Legs and toes orange-coloured brown, freely

shaded or deadened with umber-brown, the hinder ones darkest. Upper lip

transversely barred yellowish white and liver-brown, anterior portion of

lateral fold variegated with transverse bars alternately white and light reddish

brown.

Form, &c.—Figure fusiform, the tail very long,* and tapered to a fine

point. Head small, and the muzzle slightly pointed. Body subquadrangu-

lar, as is also the tail at its base, elsewhere the latter is cylindrical. Frontal

plate oblong, six-sided, the two anterior and posterior sides much shorter

* The specimen represented in the Plate had the tail unusually short.

GERRHOSAURUS SEPIFORMIS.

than the lateral ones. Fronto-nasal plate large and heart-shaped, the emar-

gination in the hinder edge ; inter fronto-parietal plate long, narrow, and

subdiamond-shaped ; inter parietal short and regularly diamond-shaped.

Temporal plates four, the two upper the largest. Meatus auditorius externus

subtriangular, and in front edged with a narrow projecting plate. Lateral

duplicature well developed. Scales of body quadrangular, slightly imbricate,

disposed in transverse rows, and each with a number of rudimentary keels

or slightly elevated striz ; scales of the tail in circles, and each of those of the

upper and lateral parts with a strongly developed keel, which behind termi-

nates in a prominent spine, those of the under surface with several keels,

but no spines. Abdominal plates quadrangular, smooth, and arranged in

transverse rows, eight in each, those of the four middle rows largest.

Femoral pores 10. Preanal plates three in a row, the middle one triangular,

and its apex rather blunt. Length from nose to base of tail 2 inches 3 lines ;

length of tail of a perfect specimen 5 inches.

Inhabits grassy flats in the Eastern districts of the Cape Colony, and when disturbed in its

retreat, seeks concealment under loose stones or among decayed vegetable matter.

(Glo lee latins: NIUE law al

(Reptilia. Plate 4-2)

12.3.4 Gerrhosaurus flavigularis. — 5.6.7.8. G Typicus —9.10.1L12 G.Bibrom..

4.15.16. G sepiformis— 17. 18.19.20. G.tessellatus._ 2.1. 22. 23. 24. G. himeatus.

25. 26.27. G.bifasciatus

figs

Pil ns iy) hy a

RAS

; UA Lan ‘ re.

v etna Ty

if By LNG

Pimsia i ;

DLO Wwe Js)

uae Nh ae |

Wigl : > ‘ye

ra OP Ts Diag Fy

AE oe Aro: eNO Ir

can eS EINE OO] OCEL baa.

(Reptha Plate. 43)

wee iy “a wo

as }

ss F .

‘hor jetjuertid Mamae

i L } 3 = . 4

> oe 4 1}

on | j

i oe ea fi a ley ih ~~

Chet Dow « ni - i@ ‘

zr ej few hy ~

ears 4 ee yl “ent ~~ =

as re “

7 iat bad fag 4 See se-shuys ;

2 ae “Ge wipe: eae 1 teeny! hos aii '

eh crcee- yi! low ite" lie ty

ule ae a“ we 7 iA te / Vf if it q tj

Pc Ihe oe Dew carlo ied, fi ; ;

L% bine 1hAy "s

: | “or oo 5

al gt oe bee A fr p Ay Ni

Mad ¥ :

Jeon “ct “hi inal i! pes) ‘ a %

Le ’

SA jee, 1) 5,687 ert feu 6) - Iw “\

_ » 7 ae | * his i)

7 : ben =? we Sali ty bo o pit '

ithe, we ii mu ' Zo at We i

‘= a -

: ne oa] wa eu yee Ti vi) Tt

i @tairgsnni' ! s a iF Trriy ae ecw

= Sel a ferwieridy(y Csice itt bai)

' ‘Waoeye HY) Airy <9 lie? Of licaul eed! ah

a afni ein 7) “fs , ;

‘ str. yi} ry Wes, = Wal of ’ +

he’ 8 : Sul) A sil iia? ai § i

4 af i host Tt me § i.“ +4

« ‘ - ’

j if i wt jee? burt) r hes

PAA: | hig ii ee) ee ‘wii . a } ’

ye" 1 sated ew

a) > Kite hay ¥ am) aah) imays

es Orlarte sontl Sure) albter e. en: corddle,

? +

J y ’

6 =

t i

Re’

{ :

ae ey : i 2 ‘

! : "1h S @

¥ nh a

‘

\ e.;

}

’

f yy

: ~ it :

i fist

Lira

‘ . 4a '

fied . .

4 ‘ ye ai

ct i= at

i Ve

ite Aad Lytid, ' tera

Le, why rij ihn! =

) ime, Sia

’ ar.

‘ ei i

itul eo rod OY

TO |

tale tg wees

252

EREMIAS KNOXII.

Reprinia.—Puate XLIII. Fic. 1.

E, superne rufo-flava lineis longitudinalibus quatuor nigro-brunneis variegata ; lineis, maculis circularibus

subflayis signatis; palpebra inferiore squamis parvis tunicata; scutis ventralibus duodecim aut

quatuordecim in ordine transversa.

Lonatrupo e nasi apice ad basin caudw 2 unc; caude 3} unc.

Cotour.—The head superiorly, the back, the upper parts of the sides,

and the upper and lateral parts of the tail intermediate, between honey

and ochre-yellow :—the head variegated with small liver-brown spots, and

the back and sides with four longitudinal liver-brown stripes, each of which

incloses, more or less completely, a series of small round lemon-yellow spots.

The two dorsal stripes commence at the occiput, and are gradually lost

a little beyond the base of the tail; the others, one on each side, originate

immediately behind the outer angle of the eye, and towards their commence-

ment, consist of short longitudinal streaks, posteriorly they terminate at the

base of the hinder legs. In some specimens there exists in addition to these

lines, another on each side, but without any light coloured spots; these

where they occur, extend simply from the fore to the hinder legs. The

extremities are light yellowish brown, with a greenish tinge, and are

superiorly and posteriorly variegated with small yellow spots, surrounded

by narrow liver-brown rings. Sides of head yellowish brown, finely speckled

with umber-brown. The under parts of neck, body, extremities, and tail,

yellowish white; eyes deep orange red; claws brownish red.

Form, &c.—Body rather robust; tail moderately long and very delicate at

the point. Head quadrangular and tapered to the snout, which is obtusely

pointed. Plates of the upper surface of the head uneven and rather rugose ;

nasal plates contiguous, naso-rostral plate anteriorly arched, posteriorly pro-

longed backwards between fronto-nasal plates, the latter separated from

each other by the intervention of an oblong quadrangular plate; frontal

plate widest anteriorly and groved along the middle, the edge on each side

EREMIAS KNOXII.

of grove elevated ; interparietal plates rhomboidal, the two anterior sides

much the shortest; parietal plates, five sided ; palpebral plates, two, with an

irregular scale immediately in front of them, behind they are edged with a

congeries of small scales, partly quadrangular, partly circular ; freno-nasal

very small and quadrangular ; freno-ocular much larger, quadrangular, and

widest behind; ante-ocular plates two, the lowermost very small, the upper-

most ovate, and placed obliquely ; plates of upper lip nine, no part of it

formed by the suborbital plate ; those of lower lip seven, all very narrow; meatus

auditorius externus narrow, vertical, and with three small scales projecting

backwards from its anterior edge. Scales of back and upper parts of sides

small, subquadrangular, carinated, imbricate, and disposed in transverse

rows, each of which present a slight angle at the middle of the back ; scales

of lower parts of sides smooth; scales of back and sides of tail carinated,

of under surface plain; preanal scales seven, one forming the centre, and

six surrounding it in the form of aring. The scales of the lower surface of

the neck are small, flat, somewhat ovate, and the largest are towards the

breast. Antepectoral fold formed of seven scales, the middle one the largest ;

ventral plates in transverse rows, twelve or fourteen in each, some small

scales between the last row and the preanal plates. Scales of fore legs

anteriorly large, subtriangular, and imbricate, externally small, imbricate,

and keeled; under eyelids closely coated with minute granular scales.

Femoral pores ten or twelve, not very distinct. When the anterior extre-

mities are applied along the sides of the neck, the longest toe reaches to the

nostril, and when the hinder ones are applied along the sides, the longest

toe reaches to the opening of the ear.

Length from point of nose to anus, 2 inches; length of tail, 33 inches.

Inhabits arid Karoo county, and is very common within the boundaries of the Cape Colony,

EREMIAS LINEO-OCELLATA.—Smiru.

Repritia.—Puate XLII. Fie. 2.

E. superne rubro-aurantia lineis longitudinalibus quatuor nigro-brunneis notata; lineis, maculis

circularibus albis signatis; portione ovale palpebrx inferioris semipellucida; scutis ventralibus

duodecim in ordine transversa.

Lonaitupo e nasi apicé ad basin caude 2 unc; caude 4 unc.

Cotour.—The head, superiorly, the back, and the upper parts of the

sides, reddish orange, variegated with four longitudinal liver-brown lines, in

each of which is enclosed, more or less completely, a series or row of small

white spots. The two dorsal lines are generally the darkest and best

defined; the lateral ones in some individuals are continuous, but in the

majority consist only of a congeries of irregular spots or dark freckles, which

form a dark mottled line in which the light spots are more or less imbedded.

The two middle lines commence close to the hinder angle of the eyes, and

terminate a little beyond the base of the tail, the lower arises from the

angle of the mouth, passes across the upper extremity of the meatus auditorius

externus, and terminates at the base of the hinder extremity; below this

dark line is margined with a narrow one of a clear white colour. The head

above is sparingly dotted with liver-brown; the legs superiorly are of the

same colour as the back, and freckled with liver-brown ; the under parts of

the neck, body, extremities, and tail, yellowish white. Tail above, light

reddish orange, with a few liver-brown dots towards its base disposed in

two rows.

Form, &c.—Body moderately robust, tail slender and finely tapered to the

point. Head, anteriorly, tapered, the snout slightly obtuse; the plates of

upper surface of head uneven and slightly rugose ; nasal plates small and

contiguous, naso-rostral plate somewhat rhomboidal or subtriangular ; fronto-

nasal five-sided, inner sides in contact ; frontal plate club-shaped and furrowed

longitudinally along its centre from nearly the base to the apex ; fronto-

parietal plates five-sided and contiguous; interparietal plate subrhomboidal,

the two anterior sides short, and the greatest width of the plate is towards

EREMIAS LINEO-OCELLATA.

its anterior extremity ; parietal plates somewhat quadrangular; palpebral

plates two, margined anteriorly, externally, and posteriorly with small

granular scales; lower eyelids with an oval transparent disc, surrounded

by small granular scales; freno-nasal plate small, somewhat five-sided ;

freno-ocular plate large and four-sided, the posterior side longer than the

anterior; anti-ocular scales sublinear, keeled, and oblique in relation to the

eye. The subocular plate forms part of the upper lip, and the rest of it is

composed of seven scales, four before the plate just named, and three behind

it; scales of lower lip six or seven, rather narrow. The external opening

of the ear vertical and subovate, without any distinctly projecting scales.

The scales of the body and sides superiorly small, imbricate, somewhat

triangular, carinated, and disposed in transverse rows. Those of the sides

towards belly plain. Scales of the upper and lateral parts of the tail carinated,

of the under parts, smooth. Scales of the under surface of the neck,

towards the chin, small, ovate, and arranged in oblique rows; towards the

breast, small, somewhat triangular, and slightly imbricate. Antipectoral

fold edged with thirteen somewhat quadrangular scales; plates on chest and

belly subquadrangular, and disposed in transverse rows, about twelve in

each row, the rows about thirty-three in number; preanal plates in four rows,

the plates of the hindermost row the largest. Scales of upper and outer

surface of fore-legs triangular, imbricate, and keeled, below, rhomboidal

and plain; front of legs above toes, covered with rather large plates.

Hinder legs, superiorly, coated with small triangular keeled scales, inferiorly,

towards toes, with large plates. Femoral pores, thirteen. The longest toe

of the fore-feet, when they are placed along the sides of the neck, reaches

to the anterior angle of the eye; the longest of the hinder ones, when

applied along the sides, approaches to within a line of the external opening

of the ear.

Length from nose to anus, 2 inches; length of tail, 4 inches.

This is not quite so common as the species last described, yet is met with in several parts

of the colony. In various respects it resembles Eremias Knozit, but is without difficulty to

be distinguished from it by having a semitransparent disc in the lower eyelid, and also by

its preanal plates being very differently arranged.

, " i x f 7? yo’ a ao s

7 4 rT Ve al co a Naa 1 chy | pia

ig - as L. ve" cy ya Ney ek! a Na. ‘-

a oe PA ae ee eS | at ven

LA us erne ¥ ie a ys ‘i » eld, AP

‘ i fe’, a =. . Se

Pt us sets Me rae _ - aes gee TY el 7

; ere LD ’ " We a % care ee we.

yr hs r ts i YY 2 Mii. Remy) , t

oe be bey F. py! - ! h

; ; a

vm uA eee 2

x ‘eS : _

Ap re, c' 7 eG ; ; tom

a te deaoiiny | praca ‘ top: we ie , rat oa pit mf > i) eee Ss

“Nee a : A . it

S ; ul fiw ~ alpby wi ra nino i HOw Pay Kat sfirs ine ig mts

7" ‘ P 4 ‘a } eye”

a . yk | ey ree

J he SHobwok Noe bi ie sg” ‘oageth ie i j

ee silence re, b 7 |

on fol se ald. wy ee a Palins aie MA CWEL ciy iyi wtih sake bb a

Te Dee! itn Brn. we dade bom Pe tbe se cassis) or ny erie

—_ mk Oeat, ait} bine nit Agi che ‘ter Hicig asirs a ‘ead

G .

omy my A oi Toitiain: NM nt RC erOen Cat cen ies alte Me

id at as es

yal ees ci Aah ih - mii TAM. ual

na we - 4 4 cae a er J - a

‘ 7) une 4 in erdiret ony Ap “aul. Palicy ‘ n

caret i) ite ve ia Dh Le wit Lak, ' var ’ 3

ei pe il ue are re oe f ay A

Biba dehy ce the é \y i Fey ¥\9 apy Nea y yn : Ae

jit inne nay vii § rar 1 if

Bera mis » Crake '* isjvns Swit bi nail if anes! vai ars

ace ‘hip sat ate ak Tupyane i

aww gi otha : fx oe fia th

eu a” SCIP Oh i th ‘ j ahaa

a pares | ner

tee Pale’ Dake, Antik eta vice

ane fine ‘a nt A are Deer ad), Ane avinl i “) hs tit a

pi wirvstat vat) 4x i Pelons arene sii a ll ti ye. CEG td

i z Ki armen ol an 4 lopt i . betes ¢ & Sees atl qhtvw

| . : ( 1) aie i (Act

‘ . at ‘oil tal wa we as y Gia) Bn ie eae | I he ti

& ke) napa” ii vont ve 4 vA “ i? j HS» A Al Thal y aa oa

foi We

? bei qui si “buy a oe oo) 4 thal aad ro oh Mae . j?

’ sl : |

i Q

ie ; oe

te aS: 4) . ‘ y @ a ey ¥ hae |

vi an b

ae Mea i vet Ai rg! bd fy it

pets: at diige W TM eee ly pre yam pe vals oh i‘

‘ ageh tig bea vir iy et ir eat * ‘ webs re bak =| elit

‘ i : 7

» ” ‘ ow

j i be I o*

r A ; ? =

hl ‘ :

rt é

i an |

‘ ‘ ive

« <, 7

> 41.

‘d ais

- y4 ie

yt a

j ul ey

A » < { By _

ag “4 P f ea -

mek) ats

- . {aa Viva oe)

r A _ bes ‘ S.A , i) _

Aa %) ' oe ie yay | Rs a

¥ 4 —we- 4. : _

‘ pray. = re. ie an

PAS

WIND AST iA

NAMAQUENSIS

1a Plate, “4)

EREMIAS UNDATA.—Dvum er Bis.

ReEPTILIA.—PiateE XLIV. Fic. 1.

E. superné rufo-flava, lineis quatuor longitudinalibus variegata, subtus flavo-alba ; portione ovale

palpebre inferioris subpellucida ; scutis ventralibus duodecim in ordine transversa.

LonGITUDO e nasi apice ad basin caudz 2 unc. ; caude 3 unc.

Cotour.—The back and upper parts of sides intermediate between pale

buff-orange and ochre-yellow; the upper surface of the head freely varie-

gated with small liver-brown spots, and the back with four longitudinal liver-

brown bands, one of the latter proceeds from the hinder extremity of each

eyebrow, and on the back, immediately between the hinder legs, they unite, and

either terminate at once or extend, as one, for a few lines along the upper sur-

face of the tail; the other stripes commence one at each angle of the mouth,

pass along the side of the neck, immediately over the meatus auditorius externus,

and terminate at the base of the hinder leg. Towards the head these lines

are continuous, and variegated with small spots of the same colour as the

back, posteriorly, they are serrated or otherwise irregular. The extremities,

superiorly, are nearly of the same colour as the back, each variegated with an

interrupted zigzag or serrated line along its hinder aspect, in which lines

are observed several cream-yellow spots. Tail, superiorly, the same colour

as the back, or wine-yellow, and there are indications of a row of small dark

spots along its centre. The lower portions of the sides cream-yellow; the

under surface of the neck, body, extremities, and tail, yellowish white. Toes

and claws, light sienna-yellow.

Form, &c.—Body, moderately robust ; tail, slender, and tapered to a fine

point; scales of the upper and lateral parts of neck, and of the back and

sides, small, subovate, closely set, and slightly convex ; scales of tail, quad-

rangular, and arranged in circles, those of the upper and lateral parts strongly

carinated. Head, small; the snout, tapered, and almost pointed ; nasal,

fronto-nasal, and fronto-parietal plates, each contiguous with its fellow;

naso-rostral plate, large, subtriangular, and from its base a slender point

projects between the nasal plates; frontal plate narrow posteriorly, rather

EREMIAS UNDATA.

broad anteriorly, and somewhat club-shaped; interparietal plate rounded

anteriorly, truncated posteriorly, and much wider before than behind; _pal-

pebral plates two, sometimes three, the middle one then rudimentary, the shield

formed by the whole is edged anteriorly, posteriorly, and externally, with a

band of small subgranular scales ; occipital plate small, and of an irregular

shape ; frenal plate, quadrangular ; anti-ocular plate large, quadrangular, and

deeper behind than in front; upper labial plates six ; the hindermost irre-

gular, lengthened, and forms a part of the angle of the mouth. Lower eyelid

with two transparent plates, forming a disc near its centre, the hinder-

most smallest, elsewhere it is coated with small granular scales. Opening

to ear, vertical, subovate, and, anteriorly, margined with four or five small

projecting scales ; antepectoral fold distinct, its hinder edge throughout free

and margined with about fourteen small plates. Breast and belly with

oblique rows of subquadrangular plates, from ten to twelve in each row ;

guttural plates small, ovate, and disposed in oblique rows; preanal plates

in four transverse rows, five or six in the last and two in the first row. Fore

legs, anteriorly, superiorly, and posteriorly, coated with irregularly triangular

imbricate scales, a few near the toes carinated ; inferiorly with small granu-

lar ones ; hinder legs superiorly and posteriorly covered with small granular

scales; anteriorly and inferiorly with rather large, subtriangular, imbricate

scales ; the tarsi superiorly also with small similarly shaped scales, all of

which are strongly keeled. Toes, very slender; claws, slightly curved and

pointed. The longest toe, when the fore legs are placed along the side of the

head, reaches exactly to the point of the nose, and the longest of the hinder

feet, when the legs are placed along the side, touches the angle of the mouth.

Femoral pores about thirteen.

Length from point of nose to anus, 2 inches ; length of tail, 3 inches.

Inhabits the arid sandy flats between Cape Town and Little Namaqualand.

EREMIAS NAMAQUENSIS.—Dwn er Bre.

REpTILIA.—PuatTE XLIV. Fie. 2.

E. superne lineis nigro-brunneis quinque et rubro-aurantiis quatuor notata ; capite parvo antice gracile ;

squamis ventralibus in linea transversa duodecim ; cauda gracile longissima.

Loneirupo capitis corporis que 2 unc. ; caude 53 une,

Coiour.—Back and upper parts of sides marked with nine narrow longitu-

dinal lines, five of which are liver-brown, and the other four light reddish

orange. Of the five, one extends along the middle of the back, from the hind

head to the base of the tail, is bifid anteriorly, and has usually, within the

fork, a short rudimentary streak of the same colour, from two to three lines in

length; the two lines on each side commence near to the hinder angle of the

eye, the lowermost, the widest, crosses the external ear, and both terminate

at the commencement of the tail. In adult specimens, generally, these lines

are finely freckled with light reddish orange. The light lines are narrower

than the dark ones, which lie immediately on each side of them. Below the

black lines the sides are an uniform cream-yellow ; the extremities superiorly

and posteriorly clove-brown, speckled with cream-yellow ; head, superiorly,

clove-brown, with a coppery gloss ; lips cream-yellow ; tail, above, light red-

dish orange, or wine-yellow. The under parts of the neck, body, extremities,

and tail, yellowish white.

In young specimens the dark lines are without variegations, of a very deep

colour, and contrast strongly with the light ones, which are nearly white.

Form, &c.—Figure slender ; tail very long, and extremely delicate towards

the point ; head, posteriorly, four-sided ; anteriorly, slender and subcylindri-

cal; the snout slightly obtuse ; nasal plates contiguous, naso-rostral six-sided,

anteriorly pointed ; fronto-nasal six-sided, and separated from each other by

a small five-sided plate, palpebral plates two, margined anteriorly, externally

and posteriorly, with small granular scales, interparietal plate five-sided,

broadest anteriorly, occipital plate four-sided, the hinder side the longest,

and slightly arched; superior labial plates of left side, three in front of

EREMIAS NAMAQUENSIS.

the suborbital plate, which forms a portion of the lip, and three behind it ; on

the right side there are four in front of suborbital plate, and two behind it ;

scales of lower lip six ; freno-nasal plate quadrangular, anterior and posterior

sides nearly of equal length ; freno-ocular plates four-sided, the hinder side

much the longest ; anti-ocular plates small, the uppermost quadrangular, the

lowermost linear ; ear opening vertical, slightly oviform, and both edges even.

Scales of back and upper parts of sides minute, ovate, granular, and disposed

in rather waved transverse lines ; the scales of the lower parts of the sides

rather larger, flat, and subtriangular ; scales of under surface of neck small,

ovate, and arranged in transverse bands, those towards chin slightly arched

or angular, those towards breast oblique ; ante-pectoral fold margined behind

with eight subquadrangular scales, and between these and the scales of the

neck, already described, there are three or four transverse rows of subquad-

rangular scales, larger than those in front of them. The plates of the first

pectoral row are four-sided, long, and transversely narrow; the rest are,

like those of the belly, much smaller, subquadrangular, and disposed in trans-

verse rows. The plates about half way between anterior and posterior

extremities, generally twelve in each row ; preanal plates in three rows, those

of the two hinder rows largest, four in the last, and two in the one before it,

also some smaller ones on each side of both, and also behind the last.

The fore-legs, inferiorly, towards toes, coated with a longitudinal row of small

plates; anteriorly, with a row of a larger size; toes slender, the third and

fourth equal and longest; the hinder legs inferiorly towards toes, with a lon-

gitudinal row of large plates ; thighs anteriorly coated with plates ; scales of

upper and lateral parts of tail carinated, of under parts smooth. Femoral

pores, fourteen. The point of the fourth toe, when the fore-legs are carried

along the sides of the neck, reaches the anterior angle of the eye, and the

point of the fourth toe of the hinder extremities, when they are stretched along

the sides, reaches the angle of the mouth.

Length from point of nose to anus, 2 inches ; length of tail, 53 inches.

The only specimens of this lizard which I have seen were obtained in Great Namaqualand

Ly ERE VIVANS: BuiXGEvEy iin

Ze EVLA Sy (GiAveaR IN ouleore

(Reptilia Plate. 45)

! ' MW

wed

4 ‘ 9 Ato

i ly OMe

‘>

j oe)

Th i - rp

q - a: s .

Pe er ee ee

EREMIAS BURCHELLII.—Dvwm. er Bip.

Reptitia.—Puate XLV. Fie. 1.

E. supeme flavo-brunnea, lineis longitudinalibus brunneis, irregularibus aut interruptis sex, notatis ; scutis

nasalibus contiguis; scuto parvo quadrangulari inter scuta fronto-nasalia ; dorsi squamis parvis

subcircularibus ; scutis ventralibus in ordine transverso quatuordecim ; poris femoralibus duodecim.

Lonaitupo e nasi apice ad anum 2 unc. 3 lin; caude 4 unc. 9 lin.

Cotour.—The colour of the upper and lateral parts of the head, of the

sides of the neck, of the back, and of the upper surface of the tail, yellowish

brown, the colour of the tail lightest towards the point. The upper surface

of the head is variegated with small umber-brown dots, and the back and

sides with six longitudinal liver-brown stripes, not equally distinct in every

specimen, yet, nevertheless, their course, with a little care, is easily to be

traced in all, though, on a slight examination, an assemblage only of short

narrow stripes, varying from half a line to a line in length, appear to exist on

the back and upper parts of the sides. The two middle stripes, which extend

along the back from the hindhead to the base of the tail, are very slender,

and generally consist of a succession of short lines; the uppermost lateral

stripe running along the sides is strongly marked, and variegated by having

imbedded in it a line of white or yellowish brown spots ; each of these lines is

continued for a short distance along the side of the tail, getting fainter and

fainter as it proceeds; the lowermost line of the side is sometimes more dis-

tinct than the one above it, and separated from it by a stripe of rusty white ;

at other times, it is not separated by any light colour, but, instead of being

liver-brown, is brownish red, and speckled with small yellowish brown spots ;

when it is a distinct liver-brown stripe it is marked, like the line above it,

with white spots. The outer surface of extremities brownish red, freckled

with small yellowish brown spots ; the upper surface of the tail towards the

base variegated with a row of small quadrangular liver-brown spots, largest

near their commencement. The under surface of the head, the body, the

tail, and the inner surface of the extremities, yellowish white. Eyes, dark

chestnut-brown.

Form, &c.—Body, moderately robust, slightly depressed, with the sides

bulging; head, viewed above, triangular, the nose slightly obtuse ; sides of

head, in front of eyes, nearly perpendicular ; temples convex and slightly

projecting ; distance between eye and nose nearly as great as between eye

and ear opening. Nasal plates contiguous; naso-rostral rhomboidal, the an-

EREMIAS BURCHELLII.

terior angle acute, the others slightly truncated; fronto-nasal separated

from each other by the intervention of a small subquadrangular plate ;

frontal lengthened, and broadest at its anterior extremity, its margin ante-

riorly truncated ; fronto-parietal plates contiguous, and irregularly four-sided ;

inter-parietal large, four-sided, anteriorly triangular, posteriorly truncated.

Occipital plate, small and subovate ; palpebral plates, two, forming an oval

disc, which exteriorly, anteriorly, and posteriorly, is edged with small gra-

nular scales; freno-nasal, small and quadrangular; freno-ocular, larger,

somewhat triangular, the anterior angle slightly truncated ; ante-ocular scales

very small, the anteriormost the largest ; plates of upper lip, in front of large

infra-orbital plate, four, posterior to it three ; of lower lip, seven or eight,

exclusive of the chin plate, vide Plate XLVIII. Figs. 4 and 4a. Ear-open-

ing large, vertically subovate, its edges are smooth, and two scales larger

than the others are observed anteriorly, close to its upper extremity.

Scales of back and upper parts of sides small, nearly circular, and placed

like stones in a pavement; scales of under surface of neck, small, subovate,

or subcircular, flat and slightly imbricate ; plates edging, ante-pectoral fold

quadrangular, and about ten in number. The first and second rows of pec-

toral plates are oblong and quadrangular, the remainder smaller, less

lengthened, and not disposed in such regular rows; plates of belly, in

rows which extend almost directly across, fourteen plates in each of the

longest rows ; pre-anal plates in several rows, five plates in each of the two

middle ones; femoral pores, twelve or thirteen. Scales of the upper and

lateral parts of the tail carinated, of the under parts smooth, quadrangular,

and those towards its base narrowest posteriorly ; scales of fore legs, towards

body, small, smooth, and imbricate, anteriorly, towards toes, large and

quadrangular ; scales of hinder legs small, and somewhat circular, and, an-

teriorly towards body, and inferiorly towards toes, a covering of rather large

plates, which, in the first-mentioned position, are disposed in a regular and

longitudinal row. Under eyelid coated externally with a number of small

semi-pellucid plates. When the anterior extremities are extended along the

sides of the neck, the point of the longest toe reaches exactly to the point of

the nose, and when the hinder ones are applied along the sides, the point of

the longest toe reaches to the base of the fore leg.

Length from the point of the nose to the vent 2 inches 8 lines, length of the tail 4 inches 3 lines.

Inhabits the Karoo flats, on the south-west coast of Africa, particularly Little Namaqualand,

towards the Great Orange River. Itis wild, extremely watchful, and moves from place to place

with great rapidity.

EREMIAS CAPENSIS.—Dvum. er Bis.

RepriuiA.—Puate XLV. Fie. 2.

E. superne subgrisea, lineis quinque longitudinalibus, nigro-brunneis variegatis, lined media antice furcata ;

scutis nasalibus disjunctis ; scuto parvo quadrangulari inter scuta fronto-nasalia ; dorsi squamis parvis

subcircularibus in ordinibus transversis dispositis, et inter ordines squamis minutissimis; scutis ven-

tralibus ordine transverso sexdecim ; poris femoralibus novem, aliquando undecim.

Loneirupo e nasi apice ad anum 2 ure. 3 lin. ; caude 4 une. 3 lin.

Lacerta Capensis, Smith, Mag. of Zool. and Bot. (New Series) vol. ii. p. 93.

Cotour.—The colour of the upper and lateral parts of the head, and of the

outer surface of the extremities, a brownish purple-red, the latter parts varie-

gated with a few scattered, small, whitish spots. The back and the upper

parts of the sides bluish grey variegated with five more or less defined longi-

tudinal liver-brown lines, which terminate on the base of the tail ; one of these

lines, the narrowest, extends along the middle of the back, is forked towards

the head, and posteriorly consistsin general of onlya series of fine short streaks,

the others, two on each side, are rather broader, and consist of irregularly

shaped spots, in some specimens like the letter X, and more or less con-

nected. The upper surface of the tail pale yellowish grey, towards the base

tinted with asparagus-green. The under surface of the head, the body, and

the tail, and the inner surfaces of the extremities, yellowish white. Toes and

claws light yellowish brown, with a semi-transparent appearance. Eyes dark

chestnut-brown.

Form, &c.—Body moderately robust, sides rather bulging ; head lengthened,

posteriorly rather broad and four sided, anteriorly narrow and tapered ; nose

slightly obtuse and rounded. Temples slightly protuberant. Nasal plates sepa-

rated from each other by the intervention of the anterior and lengthened angle

of the rhomboidal naso-rostral plate ; fronto-nasal plates apart, with a small sub-

quadrangular plate connecting them; frontal plate lengthened, club-shaped, and

its anterior and posterior edges arched ; fronto-parietal plates contiguous ; in-

terparietal rhomboidal, broadest anteriorly, and with a small granular elevation

EREMIAS CAPENSIS.

on its surface near its centre; occipital plate hemispherical, the convexity

forwards ; parietal plates indistinctly five sided, the sides very unequal in

length, and the two forming the outline anteriorly meet in front at an acute

angle ; palpebral plates in some specimens almost completely surrounded with

small granular scales; freno-nasal plate oblong and quadrangular; freno-ocular

irregularly triangular, the anterior angle truncated ; lower eyelid externally

covered with small semi-pellucid plates, vide Plate XLVIII. Figs. 7 and 7a;

upper lip anterior to large suborbital plate with seven plates, behind it five,

small and scale-like ; of lower lip eight or nine besides the chin plate. Ear-

opening large, vertically subovate, and its edges even and covered with small

granular scales. Scales of back and upper part of sides small, subcircular,

regularly arranged in transverse rows, and the rows separated from each

other by the invervention of minute granular scales; the under surface of the

neck coated with small flat subovate scales, imbricate, and arranged in irre-

gular transverse rows ; hinder edge of antepectoral fold formed of eight

quadrangular plates, the two middle ones the largest ; pectoral and ventral

plates quadrangular in transverse rows, sixteen plates in the longest ventral

row ; preanal plates in several transverse rows, two in the hindermost row,

and about five in each of the two in front of it; femoral pores nine to eleven,

their openings small, directed outwards and backwards ; scales of upper and

lateral parts of tail carinated; plates of under parts of tail short and

quadrangular. The fore legs towards body covered anteriorly with a row of

large plates, elsewhere with small subtriangular flat imbricate scales ; hinder

legs anteriorly towards body, and inferiorly towards toes, with plates, else-

where with small scales. When the anterior extremities are extended along

the side of the neck, the longest toe reaches to about a line beyond the point

of the nose; and when the hinder are laid along the sides, the longest toe

reaches exactly to the opening of the ear.

Length from point of nose to vent 2 inches 3 lines; length of the tail 4 inches 9 lines.

Inhabits the arid Karoo flats within the Cape Colony, as well as those of the districts imme-

diately beyond it. It is very agile, extremely watchful, and, when frightened, conceals itself

under loose stones, decayed wood, or any other material beneath which it can creep. This

species is readily to be distinguished from Eremias Burchellii, by its having the interstices

between the rows of the larger scales of the back studded with minute granular scales; by the

nasal plates having the anterior extremity of the naso-rostral introduced between them, and by

the palpebral plates being, to a greater extent, encircled by small granular scales. The plates

of the lower eyelid are also much less numerous, and, instead of being irregularly scattered, are

arranged in two longitudinal rows.

Se eet ,

qe 7 F ¢ a

a » 7 . :

we fe 7

A ee | ing P, a

. alla y tat

Ne Sol ont ae vO.

, ;

P if rs

= A «igs . bd .

. a e , = ae

- - : yes ce eter

i i es ® -

ens ae ae

; " oe Pate ‘-t yz : E :

Pal q LDA Aw ssh ¢} ant a ai } Y ors hoe,

af % ey oy a oe { pas 7 7 +r watt ae i * -* = 4 a

2 a 7 a ; No - Wines

: } papers ‘pie 1 oe vices) he J pes shea wh

sien ws ne é ee tye ches y

. APkegene thus arene a il ; oy Mae os ff

a ae ieee = ay lyk yer hee i the te lain

ap e 1 ks lo ery OR, ry - fy ae ? “

° « ie ‘

NANA | ‘i fv. ated + , Ader’, —_ ah 4.9 . 2 rae : Nay . -

= 7 Bis," sgh VA ot Me, gee Ag (peeerity sae Sea Aad 0 yo ;

i —_— q yi « , 4 - ‘

pt iud Seana seins ath wets APA? BAK a8 ST been et era

ale RO aR eat oihinte. esei QA WHE Te, Bere 0 mea

4 " pan rut wore. 5 iin hom etedne 4 pth nes ere aS

mito eet? ores mje! dye 7aed TE eR ae

Be TerbanR ee, al Tote: Na Se pay At TERY

sé

ie gmetad a ae ali wet at agile Yar LIRR a

: ud De

image mAs hie) cee vie Jah ee a“

; 7 nea

ny Penge AN AIREY Snel eS a i

ae A ieasht! Sat PN oh fe ; MY) CA, YOM e

hae ong Peele) Mar aire ethet Ae Une ERS

ahah a+ oN Oe) a hie TY vy ary

ek i? j vit ah

a get tel has CE alias roy “s

eit a lta attiad ads 4 Pi ots; amen 7, ee

wijavreyeatyue 0 oo a te eet BBN vp’

j AA ¥ Huy ae tiamirt ele Grager,| wie

eit Sayin! tee) Oey) area ae i

2 “ Xe fed ay gli Hates aaa

Var > . i wilt Kk Aaa ae

Pood ray ’@¢ re see a 2.

A i ay; ; ow

e418 { ' Pe.

a a / i) ~~ es ¢°

9 .

1a ge Ga”

vf an >

an &

ah |

"eT ; oe,

b . ..

re :

er carey =

ormie

Wiebe |

Gee Awl NMIWANS), LE IUNES AUN IES WEIS)

EREMIAS LATICEPS.—Smiru.

Repripia.—Priate XLVI. Fie. 1:

E. superne flavo-brunnea, lineis quinque, longitudinalibus, subflavis, variegatis, lined media antice bifur-

cata; scutis nasalibus disjunctis ; scutis ventralibus in ordine transverso sexdecim ; poris femoralibus

tredecim.

Lonerrupo e nasi apice ad anum 2 unc. ; caude 3 unc. 3 lin.

Cotour.—The upper and lateral surfaces of the head intermediate between

reddish orange and yellowish brown. The ground colour of the back, the sides

of the body, and the outer surface of the extremities intermediate between

brownish red and chestnut-brown, and variegated with light yellowish brown,

either as longitudinal stripes or small spots. The stripes, when they exist,

are three distinct, and two indistinct, the latter low on the sides, and extend-

ing between the fore and hinder legs, the others are, one along the centre of

the back, and one towards the middle of each side. These three commence

close to the hindhead, and terminate a little beyond the origin of the tail ; the

middle stripe is forked towards its anterior extremity, and between its limbs

there exists a short stripe of the colour of the more lengthened ones. The

bands of spots exist only on the body towards the head, and are one between

every two of the longitudinal stripes, the spots are very small, and not dis-

posed in any regular order. The outer surface of each extremity is also

variegated with a band of spots of a similar character. The belly, the

inner surface of the extremities, and the under surfaces of the head and

the tail, yellowish white ; the upper surface of the tail and the feet yellowish

brown.

Form, &c.—Figure rather slender; tail moderately long and very slender

at the point. Head rather depressed, broad posteriorly, narrow and tapered

in front of the eyes; the snout rather short; supra-orbital space prominent

and convex ; sides of the head anteriorly nearly vertical, posteriorly slightly

convex ; ear-opening narrow and vertically subovate ; membrana tympani close

to orifice ; nasal plates separated by the intervention of the anterior portion

of the naso-rostral plate, the latter rather large, nearly pointed anteriorly,

broad and arched posteriorly ; fronto-nasal separated from each other by a

small quadrangular plate; frontal plate long and broadest anteriorly, where

it is of a triangular shape; fronto-parietals contiguous ; inter-parietal large

and somewhat rhomboidal; occipital narrow, anteriorly broad, posteriorly

arched ; palpebral plates rather small and margined anteriorly, posteriorly,

and externally with small granular scales. Plates of upper lip, in front of

large suborbital plate five, behind it four; plates of lower lip seven; freno-

nasal plate small, quadrangular, rather longer than deep; freno-ocular plate

large and subtriangular; anteocular plates two, the anteriormost much the

EREMIAS LATICEPS.

largest but nevertheless small. Vide Plate XLVIII. figs. 3and 3a. Scales

of the back and sides small, subrhomboidal, and the centre of each slightly

elevated, they are disposed in oblique transverse bands, and are slightly imbri-

cated: scales of the under surface of the neck disposed in transverse angular

lines; they are imbricate, irregularly quadrangular, and flat towards the ante-

pectoral fold, the largest, posteriorly lengthened into short points ; the antepec-

toral fold edged posteriorly with twelve small squarish scales. The pectoral

plates of the first row longer and narrower than those which succeed it; the ven-

tral plates in transverse rows, about sixteen or eighteen in each ; the pectoral

and ventral rows together thirty. Femoral pores thirteen, the innermost of the

one side nearly in contact with that of the other, the opening of each directed

obliquely outwards and backwards. Pre-anal plates numerous, and disposed

in six rows, the hinder plates largest. Scales of the upper and lateral parts

of tail keeled, of the lower parts smooth; the hinder edge of each scale

narrower than the anterior edge. Scales of the fore-legs partly small, flat, and

imbricate, partly large, the largest anteriorly, in a longitudinal row, extending

to the toes. The scales of the hinder legs, posteriorly and externally, small,

somewhat ovate and subimbricate; below larger, triangular and imbricate, a

row of large shield-like plates in front; the soles of the feet rough from small

granular scales; toes below with narrow, transverse, convex plates. In the

fore-feet, the middle toe and the one external to it longest and nearly equal,

the anterior one considerably the shortest, the remaining two nearly of equal

length. Two of the toes of each hinder foot very long; a small tubercle at

base of hinder toe, which is considerably removed from the other four. The

longest toe of the fore-foot, when the leg, &c. is placed along the side of the

neck, reaches to the anterior angle of the eye; the longest of the hinder foot,

when the leg is placed along the side, nearly to the opening of the ear.

Length from the point of the nose to the anus 2 unc., length of the tail 3 une. 3 lin.

The only three specimens of this species which I possess, were obtained towards the mouth

of the Orange River. At first sight this lizard might be considered as an example of Evemias

Namaquensis, but when closely examined the points of difference are very evident. In E. Na-

maquensis the lower eyelid externally is coated with rather large plates, arranged in two rows, in

E. laticeps with numerous small scales ; in the former the nasal plates are contiguous, in the

latter they are rather widely separated; in E. Namaquensis the scales of the body are more

lengthened, of an ovate form, separated from each other, and with minute scales scattered

between them; in E. laticeps they are imbricate, subrhomboidal, and without the small

intermediate scales. Besides these differences, many others are to be discovered on close exami-

nation.

The only other species of the genus with which it may be confounded is E. dugubris, when

that species exhibits little if any of the black colour; but it may at once be distinguished from

it by having, in each ventral row, sixteen or eighteen instead of eight plates, as is the case in

E. lugubris.

EREMIAS LUGUBRIS.—Dwm. er Bis.

Reprinid.—Prare XLVI. Fie: 2:

E. superne nigro brunnea, lineis flavis continuis interruptisve tribus variegatis ; scutis nasalibus contiguis ;

scutis magnis supra oculos squamis parvis granulosis circumdatis; scutis ventralibus in ordine

transverso sex; poris femoralibus sexdecim.

Lonairuvo e nasi apice ad anum 2 unc. ; caude 5 unc.

Lacerta Lucusris, Smith, Mag. of Zool. and Bot. (New Series) vol. ii. p. 93.

Cotour.—The upper surface of the head yellowish brown shaded with

brownish red, the sides cream-yellow. The back and sides of the body liver-

brown, variegated with longitudinal stripes and spots of gamboge-yellow.

The stripes, three or five in number, commence at the posterior part of the

head, and three of them extend some distance beyond the origin of the tail ;

the remaining two, which are generally very indistinct, exist one on each side

near to the abdominal plates, and are only visible between the anterior and

posterior extremities. The spots, near to the head, are disposed in the form of

bands, one between each two longitudinal stripes. Between the ear and the

base of each anterior extremity, a waved yellow line exists, and a similar one

extends between the eye and the hindhead, its termination being immediately

over the commencement of the upper line of the side. The outer surface of

the extremities brownish red, clouded with liver-brown, and finely freckled

with lemon-yellow. The under surface of the head, the body, the tail, and

the inner surface of the extremities, yellowish white ; upper surface of tail,

yellowish brown. Eyes, deep chestnut-brown.

The above are the colours of the specimen figured, but it may not fall to

the lot of another person to obtain one exactly like it. Iam not acquainted

with any lizard which varies so greatly in regard of colour ; some specimens

are obtained almost entirely black, with three yellow lines, others with the

lines broken into linear spots, and others again with the sides and back, yel-

lowish brown, variegated with lines either yellow or light buff-orange.

Form, &c.—Body moderately robust, and subcylindrical, tail much length-

ened, and very slender towards and at the point ; head somewhat four-sided,

only slightly depressed, the sides posteriorly slightly convex ; nose narrow

and rounded. Nasal plates contiguous; naso-rostral somewhat rhomboidal,

and more pointed behind than before; fronto-nasal contiguous ; frontal long,

broadest anteriorly, and arched where it is in contact with the fronto-nasal

plates ; fronto-parietal, rather small, rhomboidal, and with a granule on its

EREMIAS LUGUBRIS.

centre ; no occipital plate ; parietal plates large, irregularly four-sided, and in

contact behind the fronto-parietal. Palpebral plates form a large oval disc,

which is surrounded entirely with small granular scales; freno-rostral plate

small and quadrangular; freno-ocular large, and irregularly four-sided, with a

small quadrangular one between it and super-orbital plates ; ante-ocular scales

narrow and indistinct ; the central portion of the lower eyelid formed of small

semi-pellucid plates ; plates of upper lip, anterior to infra-orbital plate, five ;

behind two rather large, and somewhat irregular in shape; scales of lower

lip, six or seven, vide Plate XLVIII. Figs. 5 and 5a. Opening of ear rather

large and vertically ovate; membrana tympani, a little below the surface.

Scales of the back and lower parts of the sides, small, inclined to circular,

placed close to each other like the stones of a pavement, and disposed in

regular transverse rows; scales of under surface of neck anteriorly small,

oblong, and subovate, posteriorly somewhat triangular and imbricate ; ante-

pectoral fold formed of eight irregular shaped scales, the two middle ones

the largest. The first and second row of pectoral plates, quadrangular and

lengthened, the others smaller, somewhat triangular, and not arranged in

very regular transverse rows ; plates of belly, quadrangular, and disposed in

transverse rows, each consisting of six plates ; pre-anal plates, towards edge

of vent, very small, more in front considerably larger, and irregularly shaped.

Femoral pores, sixteen. Scales of the upper and lateral parts of the tail

carinated ; plates of the under surface, quadrangular and smooth. Fore legs

towards toes, anteriorly, covered with large plates, elsewhere, with small,

subtriangular, imbricate, scales; toes and claws strongly compressed.

Hinder legs, anteriorly and inferiorly, covered with plates, posteriorly with

minute granular scales, and superiorly with rather small subtriangular ones.

When the fore leg is placed along the side of the neck, the longest toe

reaches to about the extremity of the nose, and when the hinder is directed

parallel to the side, the longest toe reaches nearly to the hinder angle of the

eye.

Length from the nose to the vent 2 inches, of the tail 5 inches.

Inhabits the arid districts immediately beyond the northern boundary of the Colony, and is

often found on level stony surfaces devoid of soil. In these situations it may be seen during

the day enjoying the heat of the sun, and occasionally darting upon insects, which form its food.

The having only six longitudinal rows of ventral scales prevents its being confounded with

any of the yet known species. It differs also from all in having the palpebral plates forming

the disc entirely encircled by small granular scales ; the species nearest it, in this respect, is

Lremias capensis, in which a distinct interruption is to be observed at the inner and hinder

portion of the disc.

4 7 Pigs st ita KV akbh eA eto! ry? ‘ 4 | apie dteani | .

», nN |

ieee

PPS ecemnd Voie tie he hal tyra iD;

6 \ vy : Me

in ARe Che by 4S MOAN ui} ob ai ect ive wr ,

, ye) ae phe tte Uitte . f |

ese ad :

(‘Ze oe iy i |

f Ra es waik gras A waka , i ag “

ay a 6 . ,

We GPa erst) Aaa) ee .

Cor le De 1

dun wer Ae | \ ual + i ih : ie ;

oT une yD iwi ’ ‘ ; |

Aa “ ‘

tf | r | ; te

. ja be Mabie Vihar Ode .

Oe is Ls s igh A pI a 1, f.

x mais ae Mela ir ¥ ieee pve pee

rs y

WT oe Sea p i>, ‘ ; Uo, ,

wes Ah Rati. o 2 ys seta

uF my whe ed =

aut) . “4

(ep atae , : 7 7

he .. or ae ee

* fn ei an

6 e hve ak

l,EREMIAS ANNULIFERA..2,EREMIAS PULCHRA.

6, EREMIAS FORMOSA.

( Reptilia. Plate 4-7.)

ot ;

2. “~ -

nial a ‘

j -*

, b

: 7 7) ds e

ee © 3

La tio a) A% Lt ia @

‘ * : ‘

¥ ity Ue ,e Pu i i i ‘

* ’

Too Podewi (if. ghles, Chew, was) s i 717 ' i“ ret ey Uae |

i = )-o02 qevele 4 a bie iy i i : aye yiPait -

ee eireste jenap fie fi falliae g=atu p

hie sere an tym oA ser bt S

178 a thé Lapse 7 t ne

3 Aeeraniie *. bivtdvmnetiate . i fruit) hii a Pil ‘ 1, : i fac h

; a var yen rd! 4 ih mA 7 “es ' ' tyes rowi

wm. oe SO imal ro) a prof swt va ioe fi haves 4

Ms if) titer woed4 ' ' ni? alia it é net * q

a Deiter: ree hat aw £1 at? pie ' j rt i i y ye if

\ re ¢

buigivieorly Ubiie ites i? 1 ‘ ’ 4 Wi ‘ so. (ay

i any fA HGR, Ph tetty ciel 1 PITH. | Th lint

7 : ; -

BORA, ' 7 inv p dal ih 4 ne nner. a! ite} rurale

rs i * 0 ‘ by ‘

yates eetse BHC Ligh Psctielin) Be, frit ey, eos

anh eubertanteidal fi iyiow nd ‘vedd f writ fics 7

+ wher they jer. abot ry i ples Ubeaht, Sant isi, ui Hod a!

i‘ ce h@ ehe phy elie rate ils Prejats Ay iy 1 nite f "1? ce chert,

AL) * 4 won mein casket tice eet ehh ne) OD a | i" si\lee i Many ee

rae fare rites pry al piney (ted orvadinvgel a) j yictis lata atic ‘ ~

“wae -, 7 wiparat (ri te q ainalt anc’ eit es isp iw in j Aw OP? woh a

tie erga 1 y! ie Pah frei uly ionifieveretly oriin (i

plete 18 seeprietnin wh with, oul) peciteiuis ch tbe @® Os

mult anltyg it Whe yoy alive pla Gh u's (iva iy

*y bea fr Liyreiye maik apni) uf te~s had) paver

: ‘

ai WHAG UD py YF frente aay. h Fe Pie re vgurettne i

‘Malin ‘wotonielt 9 ariteheniag p ites “eirrali, iiew > appre Teh. at

EREMIAS ANNULIFERA.—Smirz.

Reptitia.—Puate XLVII. Fie. 1.

E. superne viridi-grisea, dorso seriebus quatuor macularum aut annulorum nigro-brunneorum variegatis ;

dorso squamis parvis quadrangularibus in lineis transversis dispositis ; scutis ventralibus in ordine

transverso decim ; poris femoralibus quatuordecim.

Lonerrupo e nasi apice ad anum 1 unc. 9 lin.; caudex 3 unc. 6 lin.

Cotour.—The upper parts of the head, the back, the sides, and the ex-

tremities, intermediate between bluish grey and greenish grey, the back

being variegated with four rows of small, somewhat circular, liver-brown

spots. Some of the spots of the lowermost row of each side have their centre

white, or, in other words, they resemble dark rings, and some of those of

the upper rows have a clear white spot immediately under their lower edge.

Tail superiorly intermediate between bluish grey and oil-green. The under

surface of the neck, the belly, and the under parts of the tail pale greenish

grey.

Form, &c.—Figure delicate. Tail long, slender, and very delicate towards

the point. Head small and rather narrow, its sides, anterior to eyes, vertical ;

nose narrow and slightly rounded. Nasal plates contiguous; naso-rostral large

and sub-rhomboidal, the angles rounded ; fronto-nasal contiguous, the sides,

where they join, short; frontal plate rather short, narrow behind, widened

before, its anterior edge semicircular ; fronto-parietal plates narrow, six-sided,

and with an indistinct angle about midway between the anterior and posterior

extremities ; inter-parietal plate large, rhnomboidal ; parietal plates large and

subovate ; occipital plate small, and situated close to the hinder extremity of

the inter-parietal plate. Palpebral plates transversely ovate, and almost com-

pletely surrounded with small granular scales, only a few wanting at the inner

extremity of the posterior plate (Vide Plate XLVIII. figs. 14 and 14 a.)

Nostril prominent, each formed of three scales; freno-nasal plate small,

somewhat quadrangular; freno-ocular large, somewhat triangular, and trun-

cated anteriorly; anteocular plates small. Scales of upper lip, anterior to

EREMIAS ANNULIFERA.

large infra-orbital plate, five, behind it four, all small and unlike those in

front; plates of lower lip, not including that of chin, six; the disc of the

lower eyelid consists of two pellucid plates. Ear-opening ovate, with the

membrana tympani visible close to its orifice. Scales of back and sides small,

subquadrangular, and disposed in regular transverse rows, slightly bending

at the centre of the back; scales of the under surface of the neck small,

subovate, and imbricate ; antepectoral fold slender, and with ten small

quadrangular plates, the centre one much the largest, those at the extremities

very small. Pectoral plates small, quadrangular, and arranged in broken

rows, those of belly larger, quadrangular, and ten in the longest rows. Pre-

anal plates about twelve in number, three large in the last row, and a very

small one at each extremity; femoral pores fourteen. Scales of upper and

lateral parts of tail slightly carinated, of under parts smooth. When the

fore-leg is placed along the side of the neck, the longest toe reaches to the

point of the nose, and when the hinder leg is stretched along the side, the

longest toe reaches to the external ear.

Length from the tip of the nose to the anus 1 inch, of the tail 33 inches.

Inhabits the interior of Southern Africa towards the tropic of Capricorn. The only two spe-

cies to which it bears, from certain details in its colouring, some faint resemblance, are cer-

tain varieties of E. Knott and lineo-ocellata. Its having a transparent disc to the lower

eyelid, forms a character which at once bespeaks it as different from the first, and having flat

instead of carinated scales, establishes it as different from the latter.

EREMIAS PULCHRA.—Smiru.

Reprinia.—Puate XLVII. Fic. 2.

E. superne flavo-grisea carneo-tincta, dorso lateribusque maculis parvis fasciisque brunneo-rufis variegatis ;

squamis dorsalibus parvis subovalibus in seriebus transyersis dispositis ; scutis pre-analibus nume-

rosis ; scutis ventralibus in ordine singulo octo ve decim ; poris femoralibus 11 or 12.

Lonerrupo e nasi apice ad anum 2 une. ; caude 45.

Cotour.—The upper parts of the head, the back, the sides superiorly, and

the outer surface of the extremities, light broccoli-brown, brightened with

flesh-red, and the back and sides variegated with small brownish red spots,

and broken brownish red bands. The spots are arranged in two rows along

the centre of the back and upper surface of the tail near to its base, many of

them being partly brownish red, partly pure white. The bands are two, one

on each side, commencing behind each ear-opening, and terminating at the

base of the hinder leg, portions of these bands consist of freckles, other por-

tions of somewhat circular rings, or quadrangular links, either separate or

connected ; the outer surface of the hinder extremities towards body with a

few minute brownish red spots. The sides of the head and the under

surface of the neck, body, and tail, dead-white.

Form, &c.—Figure slender, tail much lengthened, and very delicate towards

the point; head slender and lengthened, posteriorly of equal width, anterior

to eyes tapered; the nose narrow and slightly rounded ; the sides of head,

anterior to eyes, vertical, posterior to eyes, slightly convex. Nasal plates

separated by the intervention of a small quadrangular plate ; naso-rostral

rhomboidal, the anterior angle rather lengthened, and more acute than either

of the other three; fronto-nasal contiguous; frontal moderately long,

broadest before, and both its anterior and posterior edges semicircular ; fronto-

parietal plates contiguous ; parietals subcircular; interparietal large, five-

sided, the two anterior sides meeting anteriorly, and forming an acute angle ;

occipital plate small, and placed immediately behind the interparietal ; pal-

pebral plates, transversely, subovate, and anteriorly, posteriorly, and exte-

EREMIAS PULCHRA.

riorly, edged with minute granular scales ; freno-nasal plate small, quadran-

gular; freno-ocular quadrangular, much broader behind than before ; ante-

ocular plates small and compressed ; labial plates, anterior to large infra-

orbital plate, four, behind it three, horizontally compressed and projecting ;

plates of lower jaw, exclusive of chin plate, five or six (Vide Plate XLVIII.

figs. 13, 13 a, and 13b). Ear-opening vertically subovate, and the membrana

tympani visible, being immediately within the orifice. Scales of the back

and sides small, ovate, disposed in more or less regular transverse rows, each

row slightly removed from the other; scales of the under surface of the neck,

anteriorly, small and subquadrangular, posteriorly, rhomboidal and in both

situations imbricate; antepectoral fold very narrow, and formed of twelve

small irregular plates; pectoral and ventral plates quadrangular, and arranged

in transverse rows, twelve in the most lengthened of the ventral rows ; pre-

anal plates rather numerous in four transverse rows. Femoral pores eleven

or twelve. Scales of the tail, superiorly, carinated, inferiorly, quadrangular

and smooth. Forelegs, when directed forwards along the sides of the neck,

have the longest toe of the foot extending slightly in advance of the eye ;

hinder legs, when directed along the sides, have the longest toe reaching to

the ear-opening.

Length from nose to anus 2 inches; of tail 43 inches.

Found on dry flats in the interior of Southern Africa. In several respects this species re-

sembles Eremias pardalis, but is at once to be distinguished from it by its having fourteen or

more pre-anal plates, whilst E. pardalis has only three.

EREMIAS FORMOSA.—Sm1rz.

Reptitia.—Puate XLVII. Fic. 3.

E. superne flavo-brunnea fasciis quatuor longitudinalibus variegatis, quarum duabus nigro-brunneis, duabus

pallide flavis; corporis lateribus flavo-brunneis nigro-brunneo umbratis et annulis nigro-brunneis

maculisque subflavis notatis; dorsi squamis parvis, subrhomboidalibus, imbricatis ; palpebra inferiore

pellucida ; cauda inferne versus apicem bicarinata.

Lonarrupo e nasi apice ad anum J unc. 9 lin.; caude 3 unc.

Cotour.—The upper surface of the head and the middle of the back inter-

mediate between yellowish brown and buff-orange, which colour is bounded

on each side by two longitudinal bands extending between the hindhead and

the base of the tail, the outer band narrow, of a light straw-yellow colour and in

some specimens interrupted, the inner band considerably wider, continuous,

and of a deep liver-brown hue. Sides of the body dull yellowish brown,

freckled with liver-brown, and variegated with a few dark liver-brown rings

surrounding light straw-yellow spots. Legs, anteriorly and superiorly, yel-

lowish brown, tinged with purple, and variegated with a few small oblong

straw-yellow and liver-brown spots. Tail, superiorly, the same colour as the

legs, and variegated for some distance from its base, on each side, with a

row of small, quadrangular, straw-yellow spots, all of which, but more espe-

cially those nearest to the back, margined more or less with liver-brown.

The under parts of the head, body, tail, and extremities, dull bluish white.

Form, &c.—Body rather robust; tail long and tapered to a fine point;

head rather short, broad posteriorly, rather narrow and tapered anterior to

the eyes ; nose slightly rounded ; sides of head before the eyes perpendicular,

behind them rather convex. Nasal plates contiguous ; naso-rostral plate

large and subrhomboidal, anteriorly, nearly truncated; fronto-nasal plates

contiguous, six-sided, the anterior and outer side very short; frontal plate

lengthened, five-sided, widest anteriorly, and in front terminates in an ob-

tuse angle; fronto-parietals contiguous ; occipital four-sided, the posterior

side more lengthened than the anterior and slightly arched ; palpebral plates

somewhat pyriform, and surrounded externally, anteriorly, and posteriorly,

EREMIAS FORMOSA.

with minute granular scales ; the shape of the other plates uncertain, from the

specimen having been injured by shot. Vide Plate XLVIII. Fig 15 and 15a.

Plates of upper lip, in front of large infra-orbital plate, five, behind it two, the

hindermost much the smallest; plates of lower lip, not including that of chin,

six; freno-nasal plate quadrangular, freno-ocular large, and considerably

wider behind than before ; disc of lower eyelid consists of two large pellucid

plates. Scales of the back small, subrhomboidal, and arranged in regular

transverse rows, each row forming an obtuse angle at the centre of the back,

and each scale slightly overlapping the one immediately external to it, as

well as the one directly behind it. Scales of the upper surface of the tail

strongly carinated, of the under surface near to the vent, thin, quadrangular,

and flat, towards the point laterally compressed, and forming two obtuse

keels, between which is a deep longitudinal furrow. Scales of the under sur-

face of the neck, towards the chin, small, oblong, and subovate, of the poste-

rior part, towards the breast, larger, somewhat triangular, and imbricate ;

antepectoral fold distinct, and formed of twelve small, somewhat quadrangular

plates, the middle ones the largest ; plates of the breast quadrangular, and

arranged in irregular waved transverse rows; plates of the belly in nearly

straight transverse rows, ten in the longest, the middle plate smallest and

triangular, the others quadrangular. Preanal plates about fourteen, four in

the hindermost row ; femoral pores eleven or twelve. On the fore leg being

stretched along the side of the neck, the longest toe reaches a little beyond

the point of the nose ; and on the hinder one being extended along the side,

the longest toe touches the angle of the mouth.

Length from the point of the nose to the vent, 1 inch 9 lines; length of the tail, 3 inches.

Inhabits the arid districts on the western coast of Southern Africa, more especially in the

neighbourhood of the Orange River. It is extremely active and very shy, consequently speci-

mens are procured with difficulty, and I only succeeded, even with the aid of a gun, in obtaining

two, both of which were much injured by the shot.

So far as colours are concerned, this species bears considerable resemblance to Eremias

Knoxit and lineo-ocellata, but the scales of its back being flat and without keels, and its tail

below toward the point being bicarinate, furnish characters by which it is readily to be

distinguished from both.

| Ly

| Se ed |

Reptilia _ Plate 48.

Figs &la Eremias Knoxii. — Fig*2&2a Eremias variabilisFig'3&4a Bremias laticeps.

Fig4&k4a Eremias Burchellii.— Fig’ &5a Eremias lugubris — Fig?6 &6a Eremias Namaquensis.

Hie7&7a Eremias Capensis.__ Fie.6%8a Eremias guttulata — FigS 9k 9a. Eremias rubro-punctato.

Fig? 10 &10a Eremias lineo ocellata. Fig] Xia Eremias undata fig? 12-1a&l2b.Eremias puichra _Fig*13_13a.&13b. Eremias pardalis -

Fig® 4S ida Eremias Annulitera Fig*15 &16a Rremias formosa. .

OF Mg

( Sumo, “g ynpy ~» )

SOSUddSadvy SNMIVHAAOIXAd

on x

4 2

; *

= eS

‘ , :

® : ,

= ‘ ~~

Ps _ - alia

Belen gusty. ut) < : ee

one | a we ati -

ee, Th geek Piia ‘ J

2 TT : — : : :

a eal > M. ae 7

| BAN? j y

as *e™ Ss AAT hi , if .

~ ih Pe, #7 j L

; Vete in s} :

¢2 ye ¢@

“heey iy ; TTT ‘

af) a v% pal

y Bp peti i al

i \ wee Th , “ 7

a Ame j fad is ,

, Jv + :

. . sé Vi is

, @ ‘Ti , 1 Ry! ef

’

PYXICEPHALUS ADSPERSUS.—Dvo. er Bris.

Repritia.—Puiate XLIX. (Mae anp Younc.)

P. superne, pallide brunneo-viridis rubro-brunneo-umbratus ; dorso lateribusque maculis et lineis, viride-

flavis notatis ; subtus, sulphureus rubro-auranteo-tinctus. Capite, corpore superne, extremitatibusque

externe e granulis et rugis longitudinalibus rugosis ; sacculorum vocalium aperturis prope ad oris

angulas ; lingua grande ovale postice fortiter emarginata ; extremitatibus fortibus et brevibus.

Loncirupo e nasi apice ad anum 5 une. 6 lin.

Pyxicernatus apspersus, Z'schud. Class Batrach. Mem. Societ. Scienc. Nat. Neuch, tom. ii. page 84.

Cotour.—The upper parts of the head, the back, and the upper parts of the

sides rusty oil-green, shaded with reddish brown, and variegated with small

spots and short longitudinal stripes of wine-yellow. Sides of head and outer

and hinder surfaces of extremities light sap-green, the lower portion of the

sides, the inner surface of the extremities, the toes, and all the under parts

wine-yellow, shaded with brownish orange; and the under surface of the

head blotched with irregular spots and stripes of a clove-brown colour. Eyes

deep chestnut-brown, highly variegated with yellowish white dots having a

strong metallic lustre. In young specimens the variegations in respect of

colour are more defined, and consist of vertical bars on the upper lip and

lower parts of the sides, of longitudinal waved stripes on the back and upper

parts of the sides, and of transverse bars on the outer surface of the

extremities.

Form, &c.—Figure robust. Head depressed, posteriorly very broad,

anteriorly narrow and rounded ; its upper surface is rather concave, having a

broad longitudinal depression extending from the hindhead nearly to the

nose. The nostrils are situated at the upper and anterior part of the head,

each about midway between the edge of the upper lip and the anterior canthus

of the eye, are small, ovate, and with their opening directed outwards and

backwards. Eyes moderately large, the upper eyelid broad and granular

externally, except at its ciliary margin. Mouth large, and its angles about

the same distance behind the eyes that the eyes are behind the nostrils.

PYXICEPHALUS ADSPERSUS.

Teeth rather strong, closely set, and slightly curved inwards; the lower jaw

anteriorly has three prominent triangular processes, the intermediate one the

shortest, and all three, when the jaws are closed, are received into depressions

in the upper formed to admit them. Palatal teeth in two small clusters, one

in front of the inner extremity of the internal opening of each nostril. The

anterior extremities are short and nearly cylindrical, the toes four, strong,

conical, and very short, the outermost the longest, and the innermost but one

the shortest. The hinder extremities are powerful, but short when compared

with the size of the frog; toes five, cylindrical and tapered to a point, the

second, reckoning from the outside of the foot, very long, the first and third

of equal length and much shorter, the other two very short ; all connected at

their base by a rudimentary web. Immediately posterior to the inner toe,

particularly of the hinder feet, there is a large and hard compressed tubercle

with the edge directed towards the middle of the foot rather sharp, somewhat

keeled, and the under surface of each of the joints of the toes are cushioned

with a pulpy granule or tubercle more or less developed. Tympanum nearly

circular, about four lines in diameter, and situated directly over the angle of

the mouth. The surface of the head, back, sides, and outer parts of the

hinder extremities is rough and granular, and between the granulations of the

hindhead, back, and sides, the skin is in various places puckered, so as to form

prominent longitudinal rugz, as represented in plate. The granulations on the

hinder portion of the back and on the posterior extremities, especially towards

the body, are larger and less numerous than on the other parts where they

occur. The fore legs, the inner surface of the hinder legs, and the under

parts of the head and body smooth. Tongue large, ovate, and deeply emar-

ginate behind. Length of hinder legs 6, of fore legs 3 inches. Length of

head and body 55 inches; width of head posteriorly 3, of body 43 inches

This frog is far from being generally diffused in South Africa, although it exists in localities

very distant from each other. The only individuals I found within the colony were towards the

eastern boundary, where it was familiarly spoken of by the inhabitants under the name

of “ Bull Frog,” so called from the strength and hoarseness of the sounds it emits, parti-

cularly during the night. It lives generally in water, and is only seen in it, or at least in its

immediate vicinity. The inhabitants report it to appear only during the rainy season, and

at other times, from there being no water, in the localities where they observe it existing

during the period mentioned, they are of opinion that it conceals itself in the mud which

remains after the water disappears, and that it continues in it till called forth afresh by a renewed

supply of water. No opportunity occurred to me of testing the accuracy of the conclusion,

therefore I would only observe, I have seen probably fifty in a temporary pool of water, and at

a great distance from any spot where water existed during the entire of the year.

“A iy v

Edited and Superintended by CE

Comprising highly-finished represe

the voyage of the “ Beagle,” with descriptive Letterpress.

Figures are given of many species of animals hitherto unknown or but imperfectly described, together with an account

of their habits, ranges, and places of habitation.

PARS 1832 10 1836. he <e: wi0 aie

R LES DARWIN, Esq., M.A. F.R.S. V.P.G.S., Naturalist to the Expedition. 4H oi

ntations of the most novel and interesting objects in Natural History, collected during aR

moe H.M.S. BEAGLE,

BAPT. FITZROY, R.N. a;

The collections were chiefly made in the provinces bordering on the Rio Plata, in Patagonia, the Falkland Islands, Tierr

del Fuego, Chili, and the Galapagos Archipelago in the Pacific. i

THE WORK IS NOW COMPLETE, ee

And may be had in sewed parts, price £8 15s.—or in half russia or cloth binding, at a small addition to the price. a

Nos. 1, 7, 8, and 13.

FOSSIL MAMMALIA.

By Ricsarp Owen, Esq., F.B.S.,

Professor of Anatomy and Physiology to the Royal College

of Surgeons, London.

With a Geological Introduction,

By Cuartes Darwin, Esq., M.A.,, F.R.S.

This Division of the Work complete, Price 1/. 10s. in

sewed Parts, or 1/. 14s. in cloth lettered.

Nos, 2, 4, 5, and 10.

MAMMALIA.

By Grorce R. Warteruouse, Esq.,

Curator of the Zoological Society of London, &e.

This Division of the Work complete, Price 1/. 18s. in

sewed Parts, or 2/. 2s. in cloth lettered.

Nos. 3, 6, 9, 11, and 15.

BIRDS.

By Joun Govtp, Esq., F.L.S.

With a Notice of their Habits and Ranges,

By Cuartes Darwin, Esq., M.A., F.R.S.

This Division of the Work complete, Price 2/. 15s. in

sewed Parts, or 3/, in cloth lettered.

Nos. 12, 14, 16, and 17.

FISH.

By the Rev. Leonarp Jenyns, M.A. F.R.S.

This Division of the Wo.k complete, Price 1/. 14s. in

sewed Parts, or 1/. 18s. in cloth lettered. ;

Nos. 18, and 19.

REPTILES.

By Txomas Bett, Esq., F.R.S. F.LS., &e.

This Division of the Work complete, Price 18s. in sewed _

Parts, or 1/. 2s. in cloth lettered.

Uniform with the preceding,

BY THE AUTHORITY OF THE LORDS COMMISSIONERS OF THE ADMIRALTY,

Now Publishing, in Royal Quarto Parts, Price 10s. each, with beautifully Coloured Plates.

THE ZOOLOGY OF THE VOYAGE OF H.M.S. SULPHUR. —

Unper THE commanp or Carr. SIR EDWARD BELCHER, R.N. C.B. F.R.GS., &, ee

Edited and Superintended by RICHARD BRINSLEY HINDS, Esq., Surg., R.N., Attached to the Expedition. <3

Among the countries visited by the Sutpsur, and which in the present state of Science are invested with more particular

interest, may be mentioned the Californias, Columbia River, the North-west coast of America, the Feejee Group (a portion

of the Friendly Islands), New Hebrides, New Ireland, New Guinea, China, and Madagascar.

PLAN OF PUBLICATION.

I. The Work will be completed in Ten Parés, one of which appears regularly on the 1st of every Third Month.

II. The Parts are published at the uniform price of Ten Shillings, and it is intended that each department shall, as |

far as possible, be complete in itself. a

Parts 1 and 2, MAMMALIA, by J. E. Gray, Esq., F.R.S., Parts 3 and 4, BIRDS, by J. Gouxn, Esq., F.R.S., oe

Part 5, FISH, by J. Ricuarnson, M.D., F.R.S., and Parts 6, 7 and 8, containmg SHELLS, by R.B. Hinns, Esq., are — :

now published; and Part 9, containing the Second Part of FISH, by Dr. Ricuarpson, will be published on the

1st of April. :

THE BOTANY OF THE VOYAGE OF H.M.S, SULPHUR.

By GEORGE BENTHAM, Esq, F.LS,, &c.

Durine the widely extended voyage of Her Majesty’s Ship Sunpnur, the subject of Botany was pursued

with much diligence, many hitherto unexplored localities were visited, and the collections brought home

afford a number of plants of very considerable interest to science, and which are conveniently divided into the

following geographical heads. These different departments are preceded by notices of the climate and seasons,

and of the general features of the localities and vegetation, by Mr. Hinds; and the New Species are determined

and described by Mr. Bentham.

I. Norru-west America, embracing Kikhtak in Alashka, Port Etches in King William’s Sound, Rose

Island, Port Mulgrave, Sitka, Nootka Sound, and the Columbia River. .

If. Caurrornia, embracing Bodegas, San Francisco, and the Rio Sacramento in Upper California ; and

San Pedro, San Diego, San Quentin, San Bartolomé, Bay of Magdelena, aud Cape San Lucas in Lower

California.

III. Western Trorican America, embracing the island of Puna in the Bay of Guayaquil, Salango, San

Pedro in Columbia, Atacames, Tumaco, island of Gorgona, Pariama and the adjacent island of Taboga, Bay of

Honda, Realejo, Gulfs of Nicoya and Fonseca, Acapulco, Manzanilla, San Blas, and the country about Tepic.

IV. Paciric Ocean, embracing the Sandwich Islands, Marquesas Islands, Bow Island in the Pomotou or

low coral islands, and Society Islands. ,

VY. New Irevanp anp New GuineA, embracing also the Feejee Islands, and Tannain the New Hebrides,

presenting a transition vegetation of considerable interest, between the Asiatic and Pacific. ;

VI. Curna, embracing Hong-Kong, and the neighbouring islands, with the banks of the Canton River,

and such other situations as circumstances permitted the Naturalists to examine.

Parts 1 to 5, are now ready, and Part 6, will be published on the 1st of April.

PLAN OF PUBLICATION. 3

I.—It is calculated upon a careful estimate, that the whole will be comprised in Srx Parts, each contain-

ing Three Sheets of Letter-press and Ten Plates.

II.—The Parts will appear Quarterly—Price 10s. each.

ae |

SMITH, ELDER,

vik

, i

sarey

is ie

Vow

» An , wr YY VV AAA SD oe 4a ey

Amel I aADaANAann Bo BaeeeeRe Pe

__ 2S = ~ a ane *

a 2 SS ONAN AP eS ze

pre. SANNA aA\—-

BN a ie - Pia: Ya g ™ ea a —

LAA a a ~s > RAL AIOE RE occ

~ toa Pt i ee

VN GAR

_ mo

LARA ARZASBARAA

) »

DDL

yy)

P) > 29

>> »

» PS

a? JD 2 p»p2)»)

) »

22.» BP.

>») |

)

D> IDy»y

rwwyvwetY

»)

7 » by)

>» WPL Bory)»

>»?

pv)

>»

)

2. »

> DD Lp v)

»>D WY 7

>>»

)

»»D

PU?

‘eo

p> py

)»> wy

>> FD)

)> yp y

J? DJ

») yp ve

“~~

a ~ AA

nae Ra/RARAARAAN

RA AARA SAM ppRrAar RAN AR

ana =

hi =i a fi ao D> a” N

2 a

yi i)

yD D> Www»)

wy 2» >» ),

i»

> Y

bit by

BZN CaN | aml oe lain | [alga “a a!

a o- ‘ ~s y ~ xy 3 _ ~<a a

RASA IN NAIA RGN»

To) wy eo

sg as. | PNAAN Q» | Bx! ‘a : Rd |

No, Pag - Sie 24K NR

Ope amePea mala). Meme

Pp’ es yy \ >

y. O/T POS IR im arr ®

P mp!

_” >) »

)

yy) ip

yy)

»)

BD’,

Py) w.

WD)» yw WI

»)

>» By)

2.)

’ ») »)

»D »

2»

J py

pI» D.

;

> J

>»

wo)

>»

‘ D>

YY))>

DP)

»)

WY?

Wy )

»)>

»y

>» >

> ya» v»

Aa¢

y fw,

YY).

y .) y» »»)

ARIA

»)

Yop)

)

))

»)

)

»)

yy)

BS Pav

~ DARA

~ ~

» }

)

~ aad

Reals

y \ $

= tN, 4 am 5 pa - > e

= at Vn AD RZ oD@ Rez Ree . en aA WAN . \

VNR am nm VY Y ARRAS NN naam:

Da= yy Pe aman aagssasa@atanatheane em S

a a: DMR A eA ~~ = | = = aN Se

Sa a am = 2s nye RAR RRRARAPP oan | ay =

IN ap NN NN NEO Nn RR RAP’

PAE Ay ‘Pla NR RAIA

») » DD

), DIDI

yy)

> J

>»)

ep.

)

2) )

j 4 y)») 7 “y))

I Le)

pra An

2-26 3 - nga

Rein ana,

P a

t™~

A Pragr \amAramr ABaan,

»)

)

»»>

)

ae mm yd P»> » wl ' DPT? » >) Tosi oe ) 2 > yD ) wy Dd yop y 2.2. B))»

>: yD)” >.) DY )) DWwR >») >») WWpD ) rp) 2 »

2. »,) D » pu 3-H Dy Yue DPD >? & D> BY blz >» J

Pm koe > 2» mD?) > Www?) ow» » WP» Wy Y 20 2» ae Bere

a) YD \y yp a i ) ») »»wy yY LY). a — We 2 » ry? . > P

»i om ty 2 To» »») mee? p») ae > ¥) >») ~¥ yo 2d. os:

= . " y : Db a >®w »v? » wb Wes i) » » a ’PR

< = 2 iss > Ws» Dd py >B YD ‘Rm yd > 3 Tao) }) tate » 2

he >» B ’ »yD ' >> i> hy) ) Dv): > ) > Yo) > ‘ > a =)

> D)pyPBw »)» 2D WD. DB >») >a Pe) +4 » ) De wu » PD)» 2

>» > a> » >) DD D > y Ww wy» >>) PD Pip * Dom » ) > D2 »>

> D>ye»> ») Md WD > WY) > DP 22 » i Taw ® p DP)?

» SYPwW) wD) WD vp) YDWYP)D»” 0! 2IWD 2» ~ > vy» BS P»y»?

» ww» Dy Wm: 5 i PP >? 22D >» YW > » WD» 1

> 2) ye Dy I ‘a De 5 E> 2 > DD > > 2 a > as ) + y .

> SYdID>> Dy PED BS > ami p> > 5 —4 DY DP PY> Ip)

b> ») Iw) > >I WMD 22) =P)» =) Dp Iw 2 D> PB 2 pee

122 YY wy wy ) OD Ww) Py WP) DB Pw IWED >> WS WY

2s - D » + ” 4 & >») 2 I<, >) >: a DI 2} yp) ‘ > es

) 2) » % v7) y) ’) : ia y ) » ‘3 >) 2 ee 7 p22. Z , y)

E382 ine B wrap ys venered > 3}

$ ) . , . 3 b: y i jy NS

i 292 » e 2 i ep » D2 2 yp 2wy —~ & i) » WD) >

) pra 2 r) pr > D> > YEED)> D» )D ) Dee) “é é Ee

Ye > v2 wp DY) iD DD IED. P)) WEP » PrP !

> » DI) 02S DOP PY Vp) > wD WY Y BvwYY)

we > ?w WP EeDb>? Ve», > Ep >») ban =

») Wy >) May ) > in DP D2)» Dd Dy» 2 Ie > yp.

IP D> VPWD DID DD Yy )» TR 2 2 a » Ih +4 ee Dp)

Dh D>? FS FIM) Vy PRP YY »/»Y a» Yop» 2) IJ.» »» a

,? 22> oy $4. ap» | ? > P ¢ aE ) So + x :

DIOP wR P2m~ >> 22 Db a 2e2

D))> WP PDyY 2” wae > wy? Sy IP Wd 2), DPD)

»~ maze p »»» )) SYED? 30) me DPD Wp)

we yw IVP ;

. 2

) E ead

DD 2 wy QP tT Wap? P dB ws

>> DD”) PD? we? D>) P 2m

, 2 f

ELM

=o¥

> te RB Dery» me )2)

>> 2») Yep» Rm PWD >

Ww maf ie

“ne

ley ¥'N'S sw

eg ~

ms Xx

y “a

he Ss

}

w bd o. 4

a oe w,

A hd M4

z S

sid | he

“ag

oN we

en!

wae:

at |

Yo >» ys 7

Y “

oe) Te

r \

)

SAS X Pus A

oy 3 :

—

“

—,

naga!

Ad»

se bh

A teeth eoy

ee Ce syd hae teas Daa Be

we 4 w RAR ~ I~ df)

X a oS

_ dint

www”

vues

~ ow

f i)

oud

“*

Dot in ~wwwe ~~

) ds p :

—

Nos

pes

AS,

— ~~)