CLASSIFICATION OF THE MUSTELIDiE. 837 



soles naked, two carpal pads, and metatarsal pad ; pads of 3rd 

 and 4th digits of hind foot basal ly united. Ear with orifice 

 not concealed behind tragal ridge. No pouches associated with 

 anus. 



Genera iSpUogale, Mejjhitis, Conejxttus. 



Although the Skunks constitute a well-develo^oed subfamily, 

 they seem to be linked in a measure with the Melinse through 

 Mydaus. The three genera show considerable range in structure, 

 S'pilogale being the least, and Conepatus the most, specialised 

 form, the former standing nearest to the more typical members 

 of the Mustelidse, such as Ictonyx, and Conepatus^ in its feet, ears, 

 and rhina,rium, foreshadowing the peculiarities of Mydaus. 



