831 Ratal Family: Mustelidae Genus Species: Mellivora Capensis 52 The ratal travels around singly or in pairs. They are continually roaming around so are seldom seen except by Chance. They are omnivorous, having a Great variety of food. Their hide is so thick that the stinging of bees does not bother them. Their eyes are small thus not meant for spallant vision. However, they are such a formidable fighter that four animals will attack them. In Southwest Africa, I have heard of incidents where Ratala were hit by Cars. This treatment did not seem to harm them in the least. Have also heard of incidents where packs of Dogs have attacked them. Several of the Dogs were killed and badly wounded. But the ratal was apparently uninjured. They will not attack a man unless they have been shalated. This specimen was shot thru the neck with a 22 bullet. This did not seem to have any affect until several more shots were fired into the neck. The body is very solid and compact which makes it very difficult to injure the animal. They seem to be quite common in the Ornatable region of Southwest Africa.