CARNIVORA. 
183 
Notwithstanding the present improved state of 
zoology, much obscurity still prevails in regard to 
this numerous race of animals. The divisions of the 
genera, particularly where the digitigrades pass into 
plantigrades, are still unsatisfactory ; and several are 
so constructed, that they are nearly both heel and toe 
walkers ; and, as they frequent trees, the climbing 
occupation seems, in some degree, to require both 
modes of locomotion. When the skins alone are 
regarded, it is probable some misconception may 
ensue as to the mode of walking, in consequence of 
the fur being partly injured by climbing; hence 
dissection of the heels alone can firmly and satisfac- 
torily determine the question. In regard to the 
mephitic family in general, some of which are called 
digitigrades, and others plantigrades, by different 
writers, their respective accuracy is, perhaps, only 
to be ascertained by anatomical experiment. There 
remains much to be learnt in regard to the genera, 
as well as to the species, of the weasel race. 
All the preceding animals of this order maybe called 
purely carnivorous ; it is their most distinguishing 
and determinate character; generally speaking, and 
except from necessity, they feed on animal substances, 
and on them alone. Most of them may also be 
called sanguinivorous, delighting in sucking the blood 
of their prey while fluent. The cruelty and ferocity 
of their nature is not the result of their necessities, 
for they frequently appear to delight in butchery 
beyond the reach of their appetites. Their subsist- 
