POLECATS. 







iMG. 460. BADGEK. 

 DIGITIGRADE * CARNIVORA. 



The Digitigrades, as we have seen above, are distinguished 

 by walking on the ends of their toes. They may be divided into 

 several groups, as shown in the table on next page. 



Those that are provided with but a single blunt molar behind 

 the lacerator form a very natural assemblage, distinguished by 

 the name of Vermiform Carnivora, or in English Vermin ( Vermes, 

 a worm), on account of their long slender bodies and short legs. 

 They have five toes on all their feet, and exhale an odour more 

 or less strong, which proceeds from a liquid furnished by two 

 glands situated under the tail. Although of small dimensions, 

 these animals are very cruel, and live principally upon the blood 

 of their victims. To this group belong the Martens. Polecats, 

 Skunks, and Otters. 



The Polecats (Putorius) are the most sanguinary of all. Their head is 

 round, and their short muzzle extends beyond their mouth; their ears are 

 rounded, and much wider than long; their fur is thick and soft, their tail 

 long, and the glands beneath secrete a horribly stinking fluid. Their mode 

 of life is solitary and nocturnal. They are found both in the Old and New 

 World. 



* Digitus, the toe; gradior, I walk: walking on their toes. 



