CHAPTER XXII 



The Civet Family 



THE Civet family occupies a position between the true cats and 

 the hyenas. They have long, thin bodies, short limbs, a long* 

 tail, and a sharp-pointed snout ; and are clothed with stilT, harsh 

 fur. There are usually five digits or fingers on each limb, but those 



THE CIVET CAT 

 Feeds upon birds and small quadrupeds 



corresponding to our thumb and great toe may be wanting; and in 

 walking the wrist and ankle are brought much nearer the ground 

 than is the case with the cats. The claws in most species can be but 

 partially drawn back. The skull is longer than that of the cats, and 



(238) 



