| ratel | <zoology> Any carnivore of the genus Mellivora, allied to the weasels and the skunks. Synonym: honey badger. Several species are known in Africa and India. The Cape ratel (M. Capensis) and the Indian ratel (M. Indica) are the best known. The back is gray; the lower parts, face, and tail are black. They are fond of honey, and rob the nests of wild bees. Origin: F. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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