J32 



NATURAL HISTORY. 



Oviuos. (Lat. Shccp-Ox.) 



Moschatus (Lat. musky), the Musk Ox. 



are very dangerous enemies. Both this animal and the Yak 

 are small, scarcely equalling in size the small Highland cattle, 

 but the thick hair which covers them makes them look larger 

 than they really are. 



THE GNOO. 



The GNOO, or WILDEBEEST, inhabits Southern Africa. At 

 first sight it is difficult to say whether the horse, buffalo, or 

 antelope predominates in its form. The horns cover the top 

 of the forehead, and then sweeping downwards over the face, 

 turn boldly upwards with a sharp curve. The neck is fur- 

 nished with a mane like that of the horse, and the legs are 

 formed like those of the stag, It is a very swift animal, and 

 when provoked, very dangerous. When it attacks an oppo- 

 nent it drops on its knees, and then springs forward with such 

 force that, unless he is extremely wary and active, he cannot 

 avoid its shock. When first alarmed, its movements are very 

 grotesque. 



