MAMMALS 



185 



Fig. 333. — Wild Cat of Africa {Felts maniculata), x %. 



eyes have the same parts as the eyes of other mammals. 

 Which part of its eye is most peculiar? (Fig. 333.) What 

 part is lacking that is present in birds ? How are the eyes 

 especially adapted for seeing at night ? Does the pupil in 

 the light extend up or down or across the iris ? Does it 

 ever become round ? 



What is the shape and position of the ears ? Are they 

 large or small compared with those of most mammals ? 

 They are fitted best for catching sound from what direc- 

 tion ? What is thus indicated in regard to the cat's habits ? 

 (Compare with ears of rabbit.) Touch the whiskers of the 

 cat. What result ? Was it voluntary or involuntary mo- 

 tion ? Are the nostrils relatively large or small compared 

 with those of a cow ? Of man ? 



Is the neck long or short? Animals that have long fore 

 legs usually have what kind of a neck ? Those with short 

 legs? Why? How many toes on a fore foot ? Hind foot? 

 Why is this arrangement better than the reverse ? Some 

 mammals are sole walkers {plantigrade}, some are toe 

 walkers (digitigrade). To which kind does the cat 



