CARNIVORA. 
87 
THE CHINESE, OR TORTOISESHELL TIGER. 
Felis nehulosa. 
The opposite figure is from a very curious and 
unique specimen, which was for several months in 
the possession of Mr. Cross, at Exeter ^Change. 
In the bulk of his body, and the size of his head, 
he was equal to the Bengal tiger ; but his legs were 
shorter, and appeared still stronger; his tail was also 
much thicker, and his colour somewhat browner 
and duller. He was fierce in disposition, but was 
less active and lively than the Bengal species ; nor 
did his eye convey that treacherous watchfulness of 
glance observed in the latter animal. He was said 
to have been brought from Canton ; and Major Smith 
thinks he has seen the same species figured in some 
original Chinese drawings. 
It is to be regretted, that this animal was not de- 
scribed during its life, as there scarcely seems a 
doubt of its being a distinct species, or an hereditary 
variety; and I am not aware that there is any ori- 
ginal memorial extant, except the drawing whence 
the plate was taken, and another in the possession of 
Major Smith. 
