118 TRINIDAD. 



shelter, where it makes a formidable and often a successful 

 defence with its tusks frequently wounding, maiming, or killing 

 such as venture within its reach. When in force, and very 

 numerous, they even give chase to the dogs, and the hunters 

 themselves may be compelled to seek refuge in the branches of 

 some tree. This animal, notwithstanding, is easily domesticated, 

 and becomes much attached to its master. When young, and in 

 good season and condition, the Cuenco is most delicate eating. 



Ruminantia. Deer (Oervus simplicicornis) . The Deer is 

 very common in all parts of the island, but particularly in the 

 neighbourhood of plantations, where it browses on pease, young 

 maize, the steins and leaves of the manioc, sweet-potato, and 

 yam, as also of young cacao plants. The Deer bears in appearance, 

 size, and habits, the greatest resemblance to the roebuck. When 

 captured young it is easily domesticated, and may be seen tamely 

 following those persons who have the care of it. The flesh of 

 this animal very much resembles that of the European deer. It 

 is either shot from an ambuscade, or hunted down by hounds. 



Lamantin, or Manati (Trichecus Manatus) is scarce, and 

 found only in the rivers of the east and south coasts ; it grows 

 to a very large size, and may be regarded as excellent eating. 



(fetacea. Whale or Rorqual (Balcenoptera Boops). The 

 Razor-back is not scarce in the gulf from February to May, and 

 is eagerly pursued for the sake of its blubber. 



Birds. The feathered tribes are very numerous in Trinidad, 

 and many birds of different sizes and varied plumage, from the 

 minute crested Humming-bird to the Kamichi and the King of 

 the Vultures, inhabit the forests and swamps of the island ; a few 

 only will be mentioned. 



Rapaces. Vultures (Vultur). The King of the Corbeaux 

 ( Vultur Papa) is a noble and most beautiful specimen ; it is met 

 with in the high woods, and does not approach towns or villages. . 



The Turkey Buzzard (Oathartes aura), called by the natives 

 the " Governor" of the corbeaux, is black, with a red head and 

 a strong beak. It inhabits the high woods, and is particularly 

 fond of snakes ; it may be said to be always on the wing, though 

 seldom flying very high, but rather skimming along with a gliding 

 movement over the tops of the forest-trees. 



Carrion-crow, or Corbeau (Oathartes Sota, Urulu). Colour 

 and head black, bill less strong than that of the former; gre- 



