240 APPENDIX. 



correct to wait for additional observations, before 

 we admit the existence of so many species as have 

 been proposed. 



The common wild-cat stands very high upon its 

 legs, and has a short tail, which is curved upwards 

 at its extremity; which circumstances tend to give 

 the animal an appearance of being somewhat dis- 

 proportioned. In other respects, its physiognomy 

 reminds one strongly of the domestic cat, to which 

 its general aspect and movements are very similar. 

 The residence of the wild-cat, is usually in wooded 

 districts, where it preys upon birds, squirrels, and 

 other small animals, which are taken by surprise, 

 according to the manner of all the animals belong- 

 ing to the genus Felis. 



The common wild-cat is about two feet long, and 

 twelve or thirteen inches in circumference. The 

 tail but little surpasses three inches in length. 



The general colour of the pelage, is a deep red- 

 dish, mingled with small spots of blackish brown; 

 the inferior parts of the body and throat, as well as 

 the inferior surface of the tail are white, or whitish. 

 Numerous small, nearly vertical streaks of black, 

 are to be observed on the front between the ears, 

 and down to the space surrounding the orbits, which 

 are encircled by a clear pale, red, or whitish fur. 

 There are small pencils of hairs to the tips of the 

 ears. 



