THE BOAR FAMILY.
The members of this extensive family are distinguished by having four hoofs upon each foot; but of these the two middle ones are much the largest, giving the foot much the appearance of being cloven. The lower incisors slant forward, and the canines project in the shape of long and formidable tusks. Their muzzle is prolonged into a snout of peculiar conformation—its margin being dilated and highly sensitive. Its use is to turn up the earth in search of roots, in which operation these animals seem guided by their sense of smell. They eat nearly all sorts of vegetable matter, and may be said to be omnivorous; even flesh not being rejected by their accommodating appetite.
To this family belong the Hogs Proper, the Peccaries, the Wart Hog and the Babiroussas.
WILD BOARS.
WILD BOARS.
WILD BOARS.
The Wild Boar, supposed to be the stock from which all our domesticated Pigs take their origin, is very different in its habits from the swinish multitudes with which it is looked upon as nearly related; his long prismatic tusks, curving outwards and slightly upwards on each side of his mouth, are weapons which he knows full well how to wield; and from the strength of his neck and the activity of his movements, by their assistance he is enabled to repel the attacks of all ordinary foes.
The chase of the wild Boar has been from remote antiquity one of the most dangerous of field-sports, for when once at bay, the furious creature attacks indiscriminately Men, Dogs and Horses, ripping them with his tusks, and often inflicting frightful wounds upon his assailants.
In India, Boar-hunting is a favorite amusement. The hunters are always armed with javelins, which they throw at the animal as he runs away or rushes to the charge. His assaults are frequently so furious that the Horses will not stand the shock, or if they do are often thrown down and severely injured.
WART HOGS.
WART HOGS.
WART HOGS.
The Wart Hogs, which resemble the true Hogs, are distinguished from them by the structure of their molar teeth. A fleshy excrescence hangs down on each side of their cheeks, which gives them a repulsive appearance. There are several species to be found in Africa, of which country they are natives. They are very courageous, and possessed of immense strength. Their habits are similar to those of the Wild Boar. The Cape Wart Hog, found at the Cape of Good Hope, is probably the best known.
The Peccaries are animals which are peculiar to America. They resemble thecommon Pig in their general shape and in their teeth, but their canine tusks do not project from the mouth, and they have no tail.
The Collared Peccary is eaten in South America, and is considered a wholesome article of food. The White-lipped Peccary, which is found in Guiana, is larger and more strongly built than the others.