Buffon's Natural History. Volume 07 (of 10): Containing a Theory of the Earth, a General History of Man, of the Brute Creation, and of Vegetables, Minerals, &c. &c

"Buffon's Natural History. Volume 07 (of 10)" by Buffon is a scientific publication written in the early 18th century. This volume primarily focuses on the detailed classification and description of carnivorous animals, including various species such as tigers, leopards, and panthers, as well as a comparative analysis of animals from the Old and New Worlds. The work aims to clarify the often confusing nomenclature surrounding different species within the animal kingdom. The opening of this volume delves into the distinctions between tigers and other similar animals, addressing historical misconceptions about their classifications. Buffon emphasizes the importance of accurate naming and categorization, illustrating the confusion that arises from mislabeling animals across continents. The text further explains the geographical distribution and characteristics of various carnivorous species, setting the groundwork for in-depth discussions on animal classification in subsequent sections. Overall, the beginning of the book serves as a prelude to a careful examination of the animal kingdom, illustrating Buffon's commitment to clarity in natural history.