THE ASSE. 



95 



largely of the vulpine form and characteristics. The date-palm is a 

 tree of a very lofty growth, and the rich clusters of the fruit are placed 

 at the very summit of the bare, branchless stem. Yet the Fennec is said 



Fennec and Octocyon. 



to possess the capability of climbing the trunk of the date-palm, and of 

 procuring for itself the coveted luxury. 



Like the veritable Foxes, the Fennec is accustomed to dwell in sub- 

 terranean abodes, which it scoops in the light sandy soil of its native 

 land. 



As is the case with the greater number of predaceous animals, the 

 Fennec is but seldom seen during the daytime, preferring to issue forth 

 upon its marauding expeditions under the friendly cover of night. Even 

 when it has spent some time in captivity, it retains its restless nocturnal 

 demeanor, and during the hours of daylight passes the greater portion 

 of its time in semi-somnolence or in actual sleep. 



The little animal which is known by the name of the Asse, or the 

 Caama, is an inhabitant of Southern Africa, and is in great request 

 for the sake of its skin, which furnishes a very valuable fur. 



It is a terrible enemy to ostriches and other birds which lay their 



