THE BUBALIS. 



Acrontus bubalis. SMITH. 



PLATE XVIII. 



THIS is a large animal, equalling the size of a Stag, 

 but of heavy proportions, and of comparatively infe- 

 rior speed. It is entirely of a yellowish dun colour, 

 whiter on the lower parts and insides of the legs, and 

 having the tail black, altogether resembling a cow in 

 form, and being in reality termed in the native lan- 

 guage of the Arabs, wild cow or ox. They inhabit 

 the north of Africa, live in small troops, and are said 

 to be easily tamed, a circumstance not, however, 

 reconcilable with Fred. Cuvier's specimen, which 

 served for our present figure, and was a mischievous 

 animal, while in the Menagerie of Versailles. The 

 horns are directed backwards, and all those animals 

 furnished with horns which point in this direction, use 

 them by placing the forehead parallel to the ground 

 between the fore legs, and in this position either 

 wait for the assailant, or rush upon the enemy, and 

 suddenly raising their head at the moment of contact 

 with immense force, inflict large and torn wounds 

 of the most dangerous description. 



