Black-tailed Cynictts. 



Cynictis melamira, Martin, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1836, p. 56. 



This genus is intermediate, between the Ichneumons and Suricate. Nothing is known 

 relative to the habits of the Cynictis melanura, but I have no doubt that this species, with its 

 immediate allies, is characterized by the cunning and furtive wiles, the prying curiosity, the ferocity, 

 and thirst for blood, which are features so conspicuous in the Ichneumons : all these animals may 

 be readily reclaimed and domesticated (though not educated), nevertheless they exhibit great 

 caprice in their attachment, and trifling causes rouse them to anger ; often they attack suddenly, 

 and with great resolution. 



Mr. Ogilby thinks it probable that this animal may be identical with the one noticed by 

 Bosnian under the name of Kokeboe ; but the notice given of it by that traveller is not sufficiently 

 precise to admit of its being determined with certainty. 



The present animal differs from the Cynictis Steedmanni, Ogilby, the species upon which 

 the genus was founded, in the greater smoothness, shortness, and glossiness of the fur; in the 

 less bushy character of the tail; in the dark tint of the head, back, and limbs; in the dusky 

 colour of the throat; and in the black tip of the tail. 



The habitat of the Black-tailed Cynictis is Sierra-Leone. 



The general hue of the fur is rusty-brown, freckled with black, each hair being annulated 

 with black and rust colour; on the under parts of the body, the fur is of a pale rust colour; 

 the tail is black at the apex. 



Length of the head and body, thirteen inches : tail, ten inches. 



