510 



KUMINANTS. 



The genus Sheep (Oi-is) is composed of animals whose horns are 

 directed at first backwards, and then incline spirally more or less 



Fig. 436.— sheep of Palestine. 



forwards. They have no beard, and their forehead is convex. They 

 are so well known as to require no description. 



The genus Ox (Bos) has the honis directed sideways, and then 

 twining upwards or forwards in form of a crescent. They are all large 

 animals, with a broad muzzle, low stature, and stout legs. They are 

 also distinguished by a fold of skin that hangs beneath the neck, 

 which is called the dewlap. They delight in moist and marshy 

 localities, and are slow and heavy in their movements. 



The Common Ox (Bos Taurus) is too well known to need descrip- 

 tion. As powerful as he is docile, the Ox is of great use in domestic 

 economy. He draws waggons and jDloughs ; liis flesh is eaten both 

 fresh and salted. By boiling, his skin becomes glue ; by tanning, 

 it is converted into leather, which is chiefly manufactured into 

 shoes ; tlie ban- is mixed with mortar, and the horns are converted 

 into combs, spoons, drinking-cups, and various other utensils. His 

 fat makes candles ; from his blood is obtained Prussian blue, and 

 from his intestines goldbeaters'-skin ; while the milk of the cow 

 yields us cream, butter, and cheese. 



The Auroch (Bos Urus) is the largest quadruped belonging to 

 Europe. It is distinguished from the domestic ox by its arched pro- 

 minent forehead, rather broad than high, by the height of its legs, 

 and by an additional pair of ribs. It is evident, therefore, that it 



