[Illustration: WILD BOARS.]
The Wild Boar, supposed to be the stock from which all our domesticated
Pigs take their origin, is very different in its habits from the swinish
multitudes with which it is looked upon as nearly related; his long
prismatic tusks, curving outwards and slightly upwards on each side of
his mouth, are weapons which he knows full well how to wield; and from
the strength of his neck and the activity of his movements, by their
assistance he is enabled to repel the attacks of all ordinary foes.
The chase of the wild Boar has been from remote antiquity one of the
most dangerous of field-sports, for when once at bay, the furious
creature attacks indiscriminately Men, Dogs and Horses, ripping them
with his tusks, and often inflicting frightful wounds upon his
assailants.
In India, Boar-hunting is a favorite amusement. The hunters are always
armed with javelins, which they throw at the animal as he runs away or
rushes to the charge. His assaults are frequently so furious that the
Horses will not stand the shock, or if they do are often thrown down and
severely injured.