l84 WILD TRAITS IN TAME ANIMALS. 



is a more sure - footed animal than the sheep, 

 and, moreover, adopts different methods of pro- 

 cfression when amono- its native haunts ; for 

 where sheep prefer to jump, goats usually pre- 

 fer to clamber. One can see by merely ob- 

 serving the outline of a goat that it is not so 

 well adapted for jumping, and is better adapted 

 for climbing, than a sheep. It is altogether 

 more alert in its movements, and evidently be- 

 stows more thought on the process of locomo- 

 tion. Its hinder quarters have not the swelling 

 muscles which propel the wild sheep from rock 

 to rock, but are rather lean and light. Hence 

 the wide distinction (at times overlooked in 

 Wales) between a leg of goat and a leg of mut- 

 ton. The great difference shown between the 

 two animals in character is probably owing to 

 the fact that, where the wild goats feed, it is 

 necessary for the herd to become scattered and 

 for each individual to find its own way. Hence, 

 doubtless, the remarkable independence of the 

 goat. Like his fellow-mountaineer, the ass, he 

 has unshakable nerves, and will keep his presence 

 of mind even when exposed to sudden and un- 

 accustomed danger. How great a contrast is 

 he in this respect to the sheep, which is always 



