106 
CARNIVORA. 
effect. It is related, that upon one of them being 
wounded, his companions instantly tear him to pieces 
and devour him ; but I have had no opportunity of 
ascertaining this fact. The people of the country 
dig pits for them ; and, lying in ambuscade, when 
one is entrapped stun him with clubs, or pierce him 
with their spears.” 
This species is commonly supposed to be the hyaena 
of the ancients ; but several distinguished naturalists 
have thought, that the common baboon was indicated 
by them under this name. 
Notwithstanding the natural ferocity of this ani- 
mal, and the extreme moroseness and sullenness of 
its disposition in general, travellers inform us, that it 
abounds greatly about the habitations of the north- 
eastern Africans, and, indeed, almost mixes with the 
busy hum of men ; as, during the night in particular, 
many may be seen and passed by without mischief 
ensuing, even in their towns. This is confirmed by 
several instances, which have occurred here, of the 
hyaena being partially tamed; and Mr. Cross has 
one at present, which is so much so as to allow 
itself to be handled, and even roughly used by the 
keeper. 
