THE PRONG-HORN ANTELOPE. 555 
mammal of its size, being nearly that of the elephant. It has a gentle expression, rivalling the 
gazelle in its winning aspect. 
Long before the truth was known to Science, hunters had observed that the horns of this 
animal were dropped, like those of the deer; yet no definite information was elicited or 
recorded. 
In 1848, Dr. Canfield, of California, sent the information to the Smithsonian Institute, 
but the circumstance was so contrary to the usual or known examples, that no special interest 
was awakened. . 
In 1855, Mr. Bartlett, of the London Zoological Gardens, attested the fact by actual 
observation in the gardens. In February following Dr. Canfield’s paper was published. The 
ROCKY MOUNTAIN GOAT.—Aplocerus americanus. 
creature has a hollow, deciduous horn, which envelops a persistent core, a process of the skull. 
This shell is true horn, and has the same general system of growth as other horns, although it 
is cast annually, like antlers of deer. 
It thus reveals an intermediate link between the two principal groups of hollow-horned 
and solid-horned ruminants. The lower portion of the horn only is hollow—this is quite flat, 
but the point is round and becomes polished by wear. A singular characteristic is seen in the 
presence of numerous cutaneous glands—eleven in number—which secrete a pungent odor. 
Those below the ears, particularly, are potent. 
The flesh is much prized, having the reputation of being superior to either beef or venison. 
In fleetness it is said to excel all other animals of the plains, but soon loses ‘‘ wind,”’ and is easily 
captured. It is particularly gregarious. Canfield says it is remarkably salacious, exceeding 
even the goat in this respect. 
The Prong-horn is easily tamed, and soon loses its shyness and timid action. In leaping 
it makes enormous horizontal distances. In common with all the hollow-horned ruminants, 
it has a gall bladder, which is wanting in the deer family. The hair is quite unique in its 
structure ; it is very light, each hair being a tube, flexible, and soft as velvet. 
