"corners." The Pagets' remark still holds good: "Occasionally seen in the town." On two occasions I have observed it drop from hay-waggons passing along the streets. Have seen it on the marshes assiduously hunting for Field Mice. Local, "Mousehunter."
Stoat (M. erminea). F.—Still fairly frequent on Rabbit-warrens and in game-preserves. White and blotched examples are occasionally found in winter.
Polecat (M. putorius). R.—"Not uncommon about farmyards" (Pagets). This remark does not hold good to-day. Rapidly verging on extinction in Norfolk, it is seldom if ever seen now within the ten-mile radius.
Otter (Lutra vulgaris). F.C.—In the Pagets' list this species is referred to as "now seldom seen on any of the Broads where it was once not uncommon." Scarcely a winter passes but one or more are killed; it is astonishing that any remain considering the relentless persecution it is subjected to. Is undoubtedly less rare than is generally supposed; its cautious movements and secretive disposition, combined with the great range of its habitat, enabling the species to defy speedy extirpation. I have kept as pets several from the Broad district; one was a huge savage animal that came to grief through its love for duck-flesh. Another example became so tame as to run loose about the house, and play on the hearthrug with the children. Two, over which I had supervision when in Ireland, were keen on Barcelona nuts thrown to them by the public. The Tench is a favourite prey of the local race.
Badger (Meles taxus). E.—Writing in 1834, the Pagets remark:—"Thirty years ago these were common, especially about Bradwell and Browston, but they are entirely exterminated." Is undoubtedly extinct in East Norfolk. One or two "escapes" have been killed in my recollection. I have kept several in confinement, finding them generally very untractable, differing greatly in this respect from Vulpes vulgaris and Lutra vulgaris, which in my possession have even exhibited traits of strong affection.
Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris). F.C.—In Fritton Woods, and neighbouring woody districts. A few dead specimens brought to market every winter.
Dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius). E.—The only evidence
