410 



MUSK OX. 



tween the horns, as well as that on the back, are, 

 on the contrary, of a round form, and far finer 

 than any human hair ; that of the white patch has 

 also somewhat of a woolly constitution. Beneath 

 every part of the long hair grows, as in the bull, 

 a most exquisitely fine ash-coloured wool, supe- 

 rior perhaps to that of any other animal. 



These creatures delight most in rocky and barren 

 mountains, and seldom frequent the wooded parts 

 of the country. They run nimbly, and are very 

 active in climbing the rocks. Their flesh tastes 

 very strongly of musk ; and the heart in particular 

 is said to be so thoroughly impregnated with the 

 flavour as to be scarce eatable. The flesh, how- 

 ever, is supposed to be very wholesome, and has 

 been found a speedy restorative to sickly crews, 

 who have made it their food. 



These animals are shot by the Indians for the 

 sake of the meat and skins, which, from their 

 superior warmth, make the most excellent co- 

 verings. 



Dr. Pallas informs us, that a skull of this spe- 

 cies has been found in Siberia, on the arctic mossy 

 flats near the mouth of the Oby. 



Of the tail of this animal, says Mr. Pennant, 

 the Eskimauj^, of the north-west side of the bay, 

 make a cap of the most horrible appearance ; for 

 the hairs fall all round their head, and cover their 

 faces ; yet it is of singular service in keeping off 

 the musquitoes, which would otherwise be into-^ 

 lerable, 



