A stranger, on first arriving in Texas,
is struck with the large size and spreading horns of the
cattle. Their large and superior forms are probably owing to
the mild climate and the abundance of grass which yields a
rich supply of food at all seasons of the year. They require
no other care than occasional herding to keep them gentle and
prevent their straying, and to mark the calves.
Hogs thrive admirably in Texas on grass,
roots, mast and fruits. Pork is easily converted into bacon
and preserved without difficulty, owing greatly to the
peculiar dryness of the air.
Herds of wild horses feed on the
prairies, and increase in numbers as you proceed West. They
are easily subdued to the saddle. The catching of a wild horse
by a Mexican is a display of skill and valor which is truly
wonderful. The ranchero on horseback dashes among the herd as
they rush over the prairie, and swinging about his head his
lariat--a platted rawhide with a running noose at the end--he
throws it with great accuracy over the neck of the wild
animal, and in a few minutes he is run down and captured.
Mules are also raised in great numbers, though perhaps not so
good as those of Kentucky.
No country surpasses Texas in abundance
of game. Immense herds of buffalo were still found, within a
few years past, in the northwestern settlements. Deer flock
over every prairie. Wild turkeys, the prairie hen, partridges,
the delicate rice-bird, with numerous others, are found in
great numbers. During the winter, the bays are alive with
thousands of wild geese and ducks. The flamingo is
occasionally seen to display its brilliant plumage. The
stately swan frequents the waters of the bays; and around the
houses of the plantations the mocking bird sings its melodious
notes.
In all the waters, fish, of the choicest
kind, abound. Along the coast are oysters of the largest size
and finest flavor.
The fiercest wild animal in Texas is
probably the panther, though it is rarely met with. There are
also bears, wolves and a few wild cats. Among the lesser
animals are the opossum, rabbit and gray squirrel.
