THE LEOPARD. 65 



the American Felidse, not to mention the numerous examples of mis- 

 called animals that are insulted by false titles in almost every part of 

 the globe. For in America the Puma is popularly known by the name 

 of the Lion or the Panther — or " Painter," as the American forester 

 prefers to call it — while the Jaguar is termed the " Tiger." 



The Leopard {Leopardus varius). 



In Africa the Leopard is well known and much dreaded, for it pos- 

 sesses a most crafty brain, as well as an agile body and sharp teeth and 

 claws. It commits sad depredations on flocks and herds, and has suf- 

 ficient foresight to lay up a little stock of provisions for a future day. 



When attacked it will generally endeavor to slink away, and to es- 

 cape the observation of its pursuers ; but if it is wounded, and finds 

 no means of eluding its foes, it becomes furious, and charges at them 

 with such determinate rage that, unless it falls a victim to a well-aimed 

 shot, it may do fearful damage before it yields up its life. In conse- 

 quence of the ferocity and courage of the Leopard, the native African 

 races make much of those warriors who have been fortunate enough to 

 kill one of these beasts. 



In its own country the Leopard is as crafty an animal as the British 

 fox, and, being aided by its active limbs and stealthy tread, gains quiet 

 admission into many spots where no less cautious a creature could plant 



