1S2 
CARNIVORA. 
The next species is separated, by methodical 
writers, into a distinct subdivision ; because it has 
but four toes, and the claws are calculated for dig- 
ging ; in all other respects it corresponds with the 
common ichneumons. 
THE SURIKATE. LE SURICATE. 
Viverra Tetradactyla, Gm. 
This is a South African species, and resembles the 
ichneumons as to make and colour ; but the upper 
jaw is said to be longer than the lower ; and the 
claws of the fore feet are longer than those behind. 
It seldom exceeds eighteen inches in length, in- 
cluding the tail ; and lives on small quadrupeds. It 
is named by the Dutch surikate, from a slight subacid 
odour it emits. 
The surikate differs from all other weasels in 
having but four toes on each foot. Major Smith 
thinks, also, that the character of the animal differs 
considerably from that of the true viverrae. It be- 
comes very tame and playful ; the expression of the 
countenance is mild ; and the habit of having the 
fore feet standing and those behind resting on the 
heels, gives it an appearance of shortness of body. 
Although the toes and nails are not much crooked, 
it ascends and descends trees with freedom. 
