The Passing Of The Kangaroo

In a land noted for its strange freakish creatures, we flnd the kangaroo; and that curlous, awkward, useful and harmless animal is one of the most interesting in the world. As sensitive and timid as a deer, it is not easily captured. The least sound startles it as it browses among the tall ferns and shrubs, and it flees in long leaps, not at all ungraceful; though its position when feeding seems curiously awkward. The short fore-limbs with their queer flngers and claws contrast strangely with the long legs and feet in the rear. The pcvre'-ful tail provides a necessary balancing when it raises itself for a view of the surrounding country. The skin of the kangaroo makes a serviceable leather, which is in great demand; the flesh is considered a delicacy; and kangaroo tails for soup are now shipped to London by the ton. In Queensland alone, over 500,000 were killed last year; and very soon the entire kangaroo family will have been exterminated. Like the conflding seal, it can be converted into cash and men cannot be moderate in their haste to slaughter and prepare for market anything which. promises a money return.