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Summary
256 CURIOUS CREATURES.
THE SEA DRAGON.
Of the Ray tribe of fishes, the Sea Dragon is the
most frightful-looking, but we know next to nothing
about it. Pliny only cursorily mentions it thus : " The
Sea Dragon again, if caught, and thrown on the sand,
works out a hole for itself with its muzzle, with the
most wonderful celerity." Olaus Magnus simply copies
Pliny almost word for word. Gesner, from whom I
have taken this illustration, merely classes it among the
Rays, and gives no further information about it ; neither
does Aldrovandus, from whom I have taken another
picture.
THE STING RAY.
Pliny mentions the Sting Ray, and ascribes to it
marvellous powers, which it does not possess : " There
is nothing more to be dreaded than the sting which
protrudes from the tail of the Trygon, by our people
known as the Pastinaca, a weapon five inches~in length.
Fixing this in the root of a tree, the fish is able to kill
it ; it can pierce armour, too, just as though with an
arrow, and to the strength of iron it adds all the corro-
sive qualities of poison."
"Curious Creatures in Zoology" by John Ashton is an enthralling journey into the animal kingdom's quirks and marvels. Ashton, with a keen eye for the extraordinary, introduces readers to a menagerie of peculiar creatures that defy conventional expectations. Through captivating narratives and vivid descriptions, the book unveils the unique behaviors, adaptations, and anatomical peculiarities of various species. Ashton's storytelling prowess transforms zoological facts into a delightful tapestry of curiosities, catering to both casual readers and animal enthusiasts. From the bizarre to the astonishing, "Curious Creatures in Zoology" offers an engaging exploration of the diversity and wonders found in the natural world. This book is a captivating blend of scientific insight and storytelling, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking an accessible and entertaining foray into the fascinating realm of zoology.