52 THE BOOK OF THE ANIMAL KINGDOM 



than the incisors situate in the lower jaw, and those claiming kinship 

 with the Long-tusked section, or Tamarins, as they are called, have 

 tusks, or canine teeth, in the lower jaw much longer than the front, 

 or incisor teeth. Thus the lower teeth of the animals in the second 

 group do not present that regularity so characteristic of the Short- 

 tusked group, and may thus be distinguished. 



From the foregoing it will be observed what interesting tenants 

 of the South American forests these Marmosets are, and those who 

 keep them as pets will find that they are fully entitled to claim 

 a prominent place among the more favourite kinds of animal 

 pets. 



SURICATE, OR MEERKAT. The Suricate, or Meerkat, next 

 claims attention ; it is a near relative of the Mongoose next to be 

 described. Whilst a general resemblance is discernible, it differs 

 from the Mongoose in possessing only four toes on each foot. It 

 has not the groove below the nose, but is the owner of thirty-six 

 teeth. This South African beast has a long and soft fur, grizzled- 

 grey in colour, and, as our photograph shows (Fig. 44), black 

 transverse stripes across the hinder part of the back. The under 

 parts are rufous, the white head has a black mark round the eyes, 

 the ears are black, and the yellowish tail has a black tip. 



The long nose and black ears at once distinguish this African 

 mammal from any others related to it, and that it has a distinct 

 characteristic appearance those who have a knowledge of animals 

 and will examine the photograph must at once agree. 



The Meerkat makes a desirable pet, becoming very tame and 

 companionable. One word of warning, however, is necessary : it is 

 an inveterate thief ! 



In its natural condition it resembles the Rabbit by living in 

 colonies. It constructs deep burrows in the sandy soil, and is very 

 fond of the sun, coming out from its underground home at the 

 rising of King Sol and basking in the warm sunlight. It evinces 

 little fear of mankind, inquisitive creature that it is, but to catch 

 one is easier said than done, for it scuttles off when approached too 

 closely, and disappears into its fastness below ground. 



Bulbs seem to be the chief food, and these the animal dislodges 

 by means of the long, curved black claws on the fore-feet. 



In captivity, too, this delightful pet if its thieving propensities 

 are overlooked evinces considerable impudence and curiosity. Its 

 whole little body seems full of fun and mischief, and its bravado is 



