464 CARNIVORES. 
The cheek-teeth of the binturong, although of the same general type, are even 
proportionately smaller than in the small-toothed palm-civets, with which they 
agree In number. The last molar tooth in the upper, and the first premolar in the 
lower jaw may, however, be wanting in some individuals. These peculiarities in 
the teeth, coupled with the other structural characteristics of the animal, lead to 
the conclusion that the binturong is a highly modified and specialised member of 
the palm-civet group, of which the nearest relatives are the small-toothed palm- 
civets. Writing of the habits of the binturong, Mr. Blanford observes that it “is 
omnivorous, living on small mammals, birds, fishes, earth-worms, insects, and fruits ; 
it is also nocturnal and arboreal, its power of climbing about trees being much 
aided by its prehensile tail. It is rather slow in its movements. Its ability to 
suspend itself by its tail has been questioned, but Blyth has shown that the young, 
at all events, can support itself by the extremity of the tail alone. Blyth also 
remarks that it is the only known placental mammal with a truly prehensile tail 
in the Old World. This species inhabits wild forests, and, owing to its nocturnal 
and retiring habits, is seldom seen ; it is said, however, to have a loud howl. It is 
naturally fierce, but when taken young is easily tamed, and becomes very gentle 
and playful. Of its breeding, nothing appears to be known.” It has been stated 
that in the young state the binturong is spotted. 
THE CYNOGALE. 
Genus Cynogale. 
As the palm-civets and the binturong represent the arboreal type of the family 
THE CYNOGALE (} nat. size). 
