CXXVI. The Hydrus, or Natrix, an acquatic Serpent: The former word from ὑδορ Water, of which ’tis an Inhabitant; the other word denotes its Skill in the Art of Natation; it goes under various Denominations, as appears in Jonstonus; who, from Pliny observes, that this Serpent is superior to most in Beauty, and inferior to none in Poison[[294]].
[294]. Jonstoni Historia Nat. p. 28.
NICANDER, who calls the terrestrial Hydrus, a foul coloured Beast, vindicates the beautiful Character of the Marine; who yet is not very nice in its Choice of Water, for muddy and clear is equally the same to this beautiful Slut[[295]]. In its Nature ’tis very poisonous, says one; Cardan is in the Negative. The truth is, there are several sorts of them, some of which are harmless, and others hurtful, and their Wounds attended with very terrible Effects, described by the poetick Physician[[296]].
[295]. ’Tis sometimes called Lutra, ex Luto; because it delights most in foul Water; or the Word may signify, to wash and make clean.
Pessima quas fecit plagas hæc signa sequantur;
Arida tota cutis circum putret horribilemque
Elevat aspectum, magni ignitique dolores
Tandem hominem interimunt.——
Nicander.