166 FAMILY SIMIADuE. BABOONS. 



and is remarkable for its look of wisdom and importance, and 

 for the gravity of its demeanour. The peculiarity of its aspect 

 is chiefly due to a kind of mane of greyish-dun hair, which 

 surrounds the face and neck, and bears some resemblance to a 

 judge's wig. Although most abundant in Asia, the genus 

 Papio extends also along Northern Africa ; and one species, the 

 Papio inuus, or Magot, is commonly known as the Barbary Ape. 

 This is remarkable as being the only Quadrumanous animal, 

 which is at present a regular inhabitant of Europe. A large 

 number tenant the Rock of Gibraltar ; where they seem to thrive 

 as well as on the opposite side of the strait. This species was 

 well known to the ancients, by whom many fables are related 

 respecting it ; and it has been the " showman's ape " from time 

 immemorial. To the appellation Ape it would seem to be entitled 

 by the complete absence of the tail ; but the presence of callosities 

 and cheek-pouches, independently of its general conformation, 

 prove its real position to be among the Baboons. When young, 

 it may be educated in some degree ; but as it advances towards 

 maturity, it becomes morose, sullen, and mischievous in confine- 

 ment. In its native haunts, however, it is represented as social, 

 active, and courageous ; and is particularly distinguished by its 

 attachment to its young. 



156. The genus Cynocephalus (dog-headed) receives its name 

 from the strong resemblance which the face, and especially the 

 muzzle, bear to that of the dog. The Baboons of this group are 

 of large stature and prodigious force, never voluntarily assuming 

 the erect attitude, and dwelling amongst craggy rocks and preci- 

 pices, which they climb with great agility. Their diet partly 

 consists of bulbous roots, berries, and grain ; and partly of eggs, 

 insects, and scorpions, which last they devour with great dex- 

 terity, nipping off the sting with an action so rapid, as to prevent 

 their being wounded by it. They are morose and daring in their 

 temper ; and their physical power renders them very formidable 

 opponents. They congregate in troops, and are bold and skilful 

 in their predatory excursions, maintaining their ground even 

 against large parties of men. The accompanying figure represents 

 the Cynocephalus hamadryas, or Grey Baboon, which is a native 



