92 



SCENT OF THE FOX. 



this decision they have come for several reasons, among which may be 

 noted the shape of the pupil of the eye, which in the Foxes is elonga- 

 ted, but in the animals which compose the genus Canis is circular. 

 The ears of the Foxes are triangular in shape and pointed, and the 

 tail is always exceedingly bushy. 



A very powerful scent is poured forth from the Fox in consequence 

 of some glands which are placed near the root of the tail, and furnish 

 the odorous secretion. Glands of a similar nature, but not so well de- 

 veloped, are found in the wolves. 



It is by this scent that the hounds are able to follow the footsteps 

 of a flying Fox, and to run it down by their superior speed and endur- 

 auce. The Fox, indeed, seems to be aware that its pursuers are guided 



The Fox {Vulpes vulgaris). 



in their chase by this odor, and puts in practice every expedient that 

 its fertile brain can produce in order to break the continuity of the 

 scent or to overpower it by the presence of other odors which are more 

 powerful, though not more agreeable. 



Even when tamed it preserves its singular cunning. A tame Fox 

 that was kept in a stable-yard had managed to strike up a friendship 

 with several of the dogs, and would play with them, but could never 

 mduce the cats to approach him. Cats are very sensitive in their nos- 

 trils, and could not endure the odor. They would not even walk upon 

 any spot where the Fox had been standing, and kept as far aloof as 

 possible from him. 



The crafty animal soon perceived that the cats would not come near 



