THE BOAR FAMILY.
The members of this extensive family are distinguished by having four hoofs upon each foot; but of these the two middle ones are much the largest, giving the foot much the appearance of being cloven. The lower incisors slant forward, and the canines project in the shape of long and formidable tusks. Their muzzle is prolonged into a snout of peculiar conformation—its margin being dilated and highly sensitive. Its use is to turn up the earth in search of roots, in which operation these animals seem guided by their sense of smell. They eat nearly all sorts of vegetable matter, and may be said to be omnivorous; even flesh not being rejected by their accommodating appetite.
To this family belong the Hogs Proper, the Peccaries, the Wart Hog and the Babiroussas.