Rhinoceros, Hyrax, and Hippopotamus. 153 



The INDIAN RHINOCEROS (Rhinoceros tmicornis} is 

 chiefly remarkable for the comparatively small size of 

 the horn, the height of which sometimes little exceeds 

 the diameter. It nevertheless forms a most effectual 

 weapon, a well-known traveller stating that this animal is 

 able to hold its own against an adult male elephant. 



Another o' the Asiatic species is the Sumatran Rhi- 

 noceros, which is provided with two horns upon the 

 head instead of one. It does not appear, however, 

 to make use of its formidable weapons, for its dis- 

 position is very quiet and timid, the animal flying 

 from the presence of danger, and seldom facing even a 

 single dog. 



FOUR distinct species of rhinoceros are at present 

 known to inhabit Africa, and it is yet uncertain whether 

 still others do not exist. 



The best known of these is the Rhinaster, Borele, 

 or Little Black Rhinoceros of Southern Africa (Rhi- 

 noceros bicornis\ which may be known by the shape 

 of the horns and the upper lip. 



The anterior horn is long, pointed, and curved 

 backwards towards the head, while the posterior one is 

 small and conical, closely resembling the weapon of the 

 Indian rhinoceros. The upper lip, which is sharply 

 pointed, overlaps the lower to a considerable extent. 



The Borele is usually considered to be by far the 

 most savage of all the species of rhinoceros, and the 

 natives are said to fear the animal far more than they 

 do the most infuriated lion. When wounded it is a 

 truly dangerous opponent, and will attack its foe with 

 a ferocity and determination which render escape o 

 matter of considerable difficulty. 



During the day-time the animal is seldom to be 

 seen, selecting some secluded retreat in the thickest 

 part of the forest, and there passing the hours of day- 

 light. When night sets in, however, he awakes, and 



