Black-tailed Cynictis. 
Cynictis melanura, Martin, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1836, p. 56. 
This genus is intermediate, between the Ichneumons and Suricate. Nothing is known 
relative to the habits of the Cynictis melanura, but I have no doubt that this species, with its 
immediate allies, is characterized by the cunning and furtive wiles, the prying curiosity, the ferocity, 
and thirst for blood, which are features so conspicuous in the Ichneumons: all these animals may 
be readily reclaimed and domesticated (though not educated), nevertheless they exhibit great 
caprice in their attachment, and trifling causes rouse them to anger; often they attack suddenly, 
and with great resolution. 
Mr. Ogilby thinks it probable that this animal may be identical with the one noticed by 
Bosman under the name of Koheboe ; but the notice given of it by that traveller is not sufficiently 
precise to admit of its being determined with certainty. 
The present animal differs from the Cynictis Steedmanni, Ogilby, the species upon which 
the genus was founded, in the greater smoothness, shortness, and glossiness of the fur; in the 
less bushy character of the tail; in the dark tint of the head, back, and limbs; in the dusky 
colour of the throat; and in the black tip of the tail. 
The habitat of the Black-tailed Cynictis is Sierra-Leone. 
The general hue of the fur is rusty-brown, freckled with black, each hair being annulated 
with black and rust colour; on the under parts of the body, the fur is of a pale rust colour; 
the tail is black at the apex. 
Length of the head and body, thirteen inches : tail, ten inches. 
