Author: Pennant, Thomas
Title: BRITISH ZOOLOGY. VOL. IV. CRUSTACEA MOLLUSA TESTACEA
Publication: London, England: Printed for Benj. White, 1777
Description: Thomas Pennant. Leather-bound. Octavo. Dark brown full diced calf (russia), bordered by blind stamped interlocking device. Rebacked in matching calf, ruled in gilt. Contrasting spine label (gilt on black). Marbled edges. Crabs, Lobsters, Worms, Shells. 93 plates. Very tight, pages unmarred, very clean. Very Good Plus.
Fascinating little-before known notes about Lobsters, for instance: "Lobsters fear thunder; and are apt to cast their claws on a great clap. I am told they will do the same on firing a great gun; and that when men of war meet on a lobster boat, a jocular threat is used, That, if the master does not sell them good lobsters, they will salute him...Lobsters change their crust annually. Previous to their putting off their old one, they appear sick, languid, and restless; They totally acquire a new coat in a few days; but during the time that they remain defenceless they seem some very lonely place, for fear of being attacked and devoured by such of their brethren that are not in the same weak situation..."(pp. 40-41).
Seller ID: 85267
Subject: Natural History