386 THE TASMANIAN WOLF. 
These animals are found in considerable numbers on the summits of the western mountains, at 
an elevation of nearly four thousand feet above the level of the sea, and there thrive, even 
though their lofty domains are plentifully covered with snow. 
The home of the Tasmanian Wolf is always made in some deep recess of the rocks, away 
from the reach of ordinary foes, and so deeply buried in the rocky crevices that it is impene- 
trable to the light of day. In this murky recess the female produces her young, which are 
TASMANIAN WOLF.—7Znylacinus cynocephalus. 
generally three or four in number, and in its dark cavern the animal spends the whole of its 
day, only venturing from home at night, except under the pressure of some extraordinary cir- 
cumstances. 
As may be seen from the engraving, the feet of the Tasmanian Wolf are so dog-like in 
their nature that they cannot enable the animal to ascend trees, and as the tail is not in the 
least degree prehensile, it is evident that the creature is not capable of chasing its prey among 
the branches, as is the case with many of the allied animals. 
In size it is about equal to the jackal, being generally about four feet in total length, of 
which measurement the tail occupies some sixteen inches. Some few specimens, however, are 
said to attain a very great size, and to measure nearly six feet in total length. Its height at 
the shoulders is about eighteen or nineteen inches. It is a fierce and most determined animal, 
and if attacked will fight in the most desperate manner. One of these animals has been seen 
standing at bay, surrounded by a number of dogs, and bidding them all defiance. Not a single 
dog dared venture within reach of the teeth of so redoubtable a foe. 
As it is a nocturnal animal, it seems little at its ease when in the uncongenial glare of day- 
light, and, probably on account of its eyes being formed for the purpose of nocturnal light, is 
very slow in its movements by day. It always seems to be greatly annoyed by too strong a 
light, and constantly endeavors to relieve itself from the unwelcome glare by drawing the nic- 
titating membrane over its eyeballs, after the manner of owls when they venture forth by 
daylight. 
