CARNIVORES OR FLESH-EATING 

 ANIMALS 



(Carnivora) 



NEXT to the . rodents the carnivorous animals are probably the 

 most numerous order of mammals, and occur in all parts of the 

 world except Australia.* 



These animals, as their name implies, are typically flesh- 

 eaters, and most of them live on animals which they kill them- 

 selves. We therefore find them usually ferocious, strong and 

 agile, though many species become quite . tame and gentle when 

 domesticated, and exhibit great intelligence. 



The carnivora are divisible into two suborders the peculiar seals 

 (Pinnipedia}\, which are adapted to an aquatic life, and the terres- 

 trial carnivora (Fissipedia) . The latter, which are the typical repre- 

 sentatives of the order, may be more minutely considered. Their 

 most distinguishing characters are, as usual, to be found in the 

 skull and teeth. Of the latter the canines are very large and 



Skull of Weasel 

 S S Carnassial Teeth 



easily distinguished, while the back teeth, or molars, are always 

 tuberculate and generally more or less sharp and pointed, and 

 suited for cutting and tearing flesh. 



* The Dingo or Australian dog was probably introduced, 

 f See under Phocidce, p. 214. 



207 



