THE HYRAX. 215 
ONE of the most curious little animals in existence is the HYRAX, interest- 
ing not so much from its imposing external appearance, as for its importance 
in filling up a link in the chain of creation. 
About as large as a tolerably-sized rabbit, covered with thick soft fur, in- 
habiting holes in the banks, possessing incisor-like teeth, and, in fine, being 
a very rabbit in habits, manners, and appearance, it was long classed among © 
the rodents, and placed among the rabbits and hares, It has, however, been 
discovered in later years that this little rabbit-like animal is no rodent at all, 
but is one of the pachydermata, and that it forms a natural transition from 
the rhinoceros to the hippopotamus. Ona close examination of the teeth, 
they are seen to be wonderfully like those of the hippopotamus, their edges 
being bevelled off in a similar manner, and therefore bearing some resem- 
blance to the chisel-edged incisors of the rodents. ‘There are several species 
of Hyrax, one of which inhabits Northern Africa and Syria, while the other 
two are found in Abyssinia and South Africa. 
The South African Hyrax is terrned by the colonists KLIP Das, or RocK 
RasBit, and is found in considerable plenty among the mountainous districts 
of its native land, being especially common on the sides of the Table Moun- 
tain. It is largely eaten by the natives, who succeed in killing it in spite of 
its extreme wariness and activity. Among the crevices and fissures in the 
rock the Hyrax takes up its abode, and may often be seen sitting in the warm 
HYRAX, OR KLIP DAS.—(Ayrax Capensis.) 
rays of the sun, or feeding with apparent carelessness on the aromatic 
herbage of the mountain side. It is, however, perfectly secure, in spite of its 
apparent negligence, for a sentinel is always on guard, ready by a peculiar 
shrill cry to warn his companions of the approach of danger. Sometimes 
the Hyrax is seen at a considerable height, but is often observed near the 
sea-shore, seated on rocks which are barely above high-water mark. 
Besides mankind, the Hyrax has many foes, such as the birds of prey and 
carnivorous quadrupeds, and is destroyed in considerable numbers. The 
fore-feet of this animal are apparently furnished with claws like those of the 
