236 NEW ZEALAND NATURE-STUDY BOOK 
food. Its back is straight, and its small head, which is 
usually furnished with horns, is carried at the end of a 
short horizontal neck; contrast with Horse. Its legs are 
short, thick, and strong, ending in stout hoofs divided 
by a deep cleft down the middle, and are well fitted to 
support its bulky body. Under its body is a large bag, or 
udder, to hold milk. Its tail is long, and carries at 
the end a thick tuft of hair; contrast with the Horse and 
Sheep. The thick skin of the body is covered with Short 
coarse hair. 
The head is small for the size of the body, with a 
broad flattened forehead and a square muzzle, and 
Fig. 137.—The Cow. 
surmounts a short thick neck. The position of the head 
should be specially noted. Unlike that of the Horse, it is 
carried low. 
The ears are large, and can be quickly raised to catch 
the slightest sound. They are placed at the sides of the 
head, just below the horns. 
The eyes are large and round, and situated well up 
on the side of the head, so that by raising its neck the 
animal can see well in all directions. The Cow is a timid 
gentle creature, and is furnished with ears and eyes so 
_placed as best to detect the approach of danger. 
