THE SOUTHERN LYNX. 



with which its ruddy chestnut fur is covered, it derives the name of Pardine Lynx. 



Spanish title is Gato-clavo. 



213 

 Its 



THE New World possesses its examples of the Lyncine group as well as the Old 

 World, and even in the cold regions of Northern America a representative of these 

 animals may be found. This is the CANADA LYNX, commonly termed the " Peeshoo " 

 by the French colonists, or even dignified with the title of " Le Chat." 



The hair of this animal is longer than that of its southern relatives, and is generally of 

 a dark gray, flecked or besprinkled with black. Large and indistinct patches of the fur 

 are of a sensibly darker tint than the generality of its coat. Most of the hairs are white 

 at their extremities, which will account for the apparent changes in color which will be 

 seen even in the same species at different times. Along the back and upon the elbow 

 joint these dark mottlings become more apparent. In some specimens the fur takes a 

 slight tinge of ruddy chestnut, the limbs are darker than the rest of the body, and the ears 



i'V. 



SOUTHERN LVNX.Lyaous Pardlaus. 



are slightly edged with white. It is probable that the same individual undergoes consid- 

 erable changes, both in the color and the length of its fur, according to the time of year. 



The limbs of this Lynx are very powerful, and the thick heavily made feet are 

 furnished with strong white claws that are not seen unless the fur be put aside. It is 

 not a dangerous animal, and, as far as is known, feeds on the smaller quadrupeds, the 

 American hare being its favorite article of diet. 



While running at speed it presents a singular appearance, owing to its peculiar mode 

 of leaping in successive bounds, with its back slightly arched, and all the feet coming 

 to the ground nearly at the same time. It is a good swimmer, being able to cross the water 

 for a distance of two miles or more. Powerful though it be, it is easily killed by a 

 blow on the back, a slight stick being sufficient weapon wherewith to destroy the 

 animal. The flesh of the Peeshoo is eaten by the natives, and is said, though devoid of 

 flavor, to be agreeably tender. It is not so prolific as the generality of the feline tribe, as 

 the number of its young seldom exceeds two, and it only breeds once in the year. The 



