CARNIVORES OR FLESH-EATING 

 ANIMALS 



(Carnivora) 



Next to the rodents the carnivorous animals are probably the 

 most numerous order of mammals, and occur in all parts of the 

 world except Australia.* 



These animals, as their name implies, are typically flesh- 

 eaters, and most of them live on animals which they kill them- 

 selves. We therefore fmd them usually ferocious, strong and 

 agile, though many species become quite tame and gentle when 

 domesticated, and exhibit great intelligence. 



The carnivora are divisible into two suborders — the peculiar seals 

 {Pinnipedia)\ , which are adapted to an aquatic life, and the terres- 

 trial carnivora {Fissipedia). The latter, which are the typical repre- 

 sentatives of the order, may be more minutely considered. Their 

 most distinguishing characters are, as usual, to be found in the 

 si<ull and teeth. Of the latter the canines are very large and 



Skull of Weasel 



S S Carnassial Teeth 



easily distinguished, while the back teeth, or molars, are always 

 tuberculate and generally more or less sharp and pointed, and 

 suited for cutting and tearing flesh. 



* The Dingo or Australian dog was probably introduced, 

 t See under Phocidce, p. 314. 



