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 



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TASMANIAN WOLF.— Thylacinus cijiiocephalus. 



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 light 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. 



