SWIM- 

 MING 



854 Life-histories of Northern Animals 



much more so than a Chipmunk, and almost as much so as a 

 Red-squirrel. 



Bachman writes'" thus of one: "To avoid a dog that was 

 in close pursuit, it mounted a tree and laid itself flat on a 

 limb about 20 feet from the ground, from which it was finally 

 shot." 



In the water it is a good swimmer. The following was 

 observed by J. W. Curran, of Montreal, while camped at Lake 

 Couchiching, Ont., in July, 1899:'' 



"About 50 yards away from us a Chipmunk jumped off 

 a tree overhanging the water and plunged boldly in, followed 

 at a distance of not more than 3 feet by a Weasel. It was a 

 great jumping contest, and our hearts were with the little 

 fellow in front. However, we remained neutral. For 25 

 yards things looked black for the Chipmunk. The Weasel 

 pulled up slightly, probably a foot — and we prepared to go out 

 and give a hand. It was a fast race, too, the pair easily beating 

 the best swimming I ever saw a dog do. The Weasel, I think, 

 showed more of his body and seemed to exert himself more. 

 After the first spurt the Chipmunk managed to hold the lead, 

 and at the end of one hundred yards or less the Weasel, com- 

 pletely blown, suddenly threw up the sponge and wheeled 

 around for the shore, his successful competitor keeping right 

 on for another island a quarter of a mile away. 



"I think a Chipmunk and probably a Black-squirrel can 

 beat a Weasel swimming, and also that Weasels do not depend 

 entirely on smell when after a meal." 



If Weasels were to be greatly multiplied they would quickly 

 destroy every small bird, beast, and reptile in the country. 

 Fortunately, they are nowhere abundant. Although prolific, 

 and comparatively safe from the attacks of bird and beast of 

 prey, they never become numerous. The reason lies, partly, 

 I believe, in their own ferocity. More Weasels are killed by 



'• Quad. N. A., 1849, Vol. II, p. 58. 

 " Forest and Stream, June 2, 1900. 



