THE PIT TRAP.
This method of catching game and fur bearing animals is not much
used, as the labor in connection with making a pit trap is
considerable. The method, however, is an excellent one for taking
some of the larger animals, especially when they are wanted for
parks, menageries, etc., uninjured.
The pit should be several feet deep and bait placed as shown. Another
way is to cover the top with rotten limbs, leaves, etc., and place
the bait on this. The animal in trying to secure the bait breaks
thru.
The dirt from the pit should be removed in baskets. Catches are made
by digging a pit across animal runways or trails. When the ground is
not frozen or during rainy weather it is well to place a board
several inches wide at top. The animal in going over its usual trail
steps upon the frail covering and falls thru.
While the pit trap is mostly used for capturing large game, it can be
used to advantage for taking many of the smaller fur bearers.
Where muskrat are numerous, instead of digging a pit, secure a box
about three feet deep. The width and length make no difference. Place
a few flat rocks in the bottom and place in the water where rats
frequent. Make the box solid. The box must be water tight. The weight
should bring the top of box to within a few inches of water. A couple
of boards or chunks should be so placed that the rats will climb up
them and to the box along the edge of which the bait is placed.
[Illustration: THE PIT TRAP.]
The pit trap can be used where skunk and other animals frequent. Bait
the place for some days before the pit is dug.
If the pit is to be used without bait, then find the runways of the
animal and dig the pit. While some animals may not be shy, if a
little fresh dirt is lying around, yet it is best to be very careful
and carry all earth taken out of pit a few rods to one side. Pits of
this kind should be several feet deep.
The success the hunter or trapper has in using this method will
depend largely upon his knowledge of the game he is after. Unless the
animal or animals are wanted alive, the work to make a pit is too
great and the chances of a catch never certain. This way is not
practicable under ordinary circumstances, yet where the game is
wanted alive and sound, is worth trying.