106 COMMON HOG. 



and convey the food to its mouth. It usually resides 

 near the sides of hills ; and occasionally visits the swamps 

 and marshes, in search of food. When at rest, it gene- 

 rally sits in an upright posture, somewhat in the manner 

 of a dog. Such is the mildness and gentleness of its 

 nature, that it is easily tamed ; and in Guiana and other 

 parts of South America, where it is found, it is sometimes 

 kept in the farm-yards, and fed along with the cattle. It 

 is timid, sluggish, and slow-footed, but swims with great 

 agility. 



The Tapir has a general resemblance to the hog ; but 

 is, in size, nearly equal to a small cow. In the male the 

 nose is lengthened into a kind of trunk, or proboscis, 

 capable of being extended and contracted at pleasure. 

 The eyes are very small, the ears rounded, and the neck 

 thick. The legs are short and thick, with small, black 

 hoofs. The hair is short, and of a dusky colour ; and on 

 the neck there is a bristly kind of mane. 



43. HOG TRIBE. 



The mode in which these quadrupeds feed, is by 

 rooting up the ground with their strong and cartila- 

 ginous snout. They are partial to muddy and morassy 

 places ; and in their habits are extremely filthy and dis- 

 gusting. 



Common Hog. Indolent, lazy, and stupid, as we in 

 general see these animals, still they are by no means 

 destitute either of activity or intelligence. In a wild state 

 they live in herds, and are very active and courageous. 

 When attacked, they will boldly come forward and defend 

 themselves both against men and dogs. The hunting of 

 wild boars is a favourite amusement in several parts of the 



