136 THE RABBIT 



caught in the morning, especially if a bait be used. 

 It is as easy to set them in the dark, if visited at night, 

 as by daylight ; and for all-round use they are, in my 

 opinion, by far the best traps yet invented. I may 

 add, in conclusion, that they are made in different 

 sizes, the smallest being for mice, and from that up- 

 wards to any size ordered ; but I have found the size 

 for cats and rabbits the best for general use.' ^ 



It is very important when setting snares for rabbits 

 to have one's hands clean — that is to say, free from any 

 smell of powder, rabbits or dogs ; for, as already re- 

 marked, rabbits have a very keen sense of smell, and 

 will keep clear of any trap or snare that to their per- 

 ception is evidently tainted by human contact. Some 

 keepers when trapping will advocate the use of an old 

 pair of hedging gloves. A good plan, however, is first 

 of all to wash one's hands well in soap and water, and 

 then to rub them with mould scraped up near the 

 place where the snare is to be set. When it is time 

 to put the wire into shape, and smooth out any bends 

 or kinks in it, this should be done, not with the bare 

 finger and thumb, but with a bit of wash-leather be- 

 tween them. It is easily carried in the waistcoat 

 pocket, and a snare rubbed down with this will be 



' This trap may be obtained from Messrs. Artingstall & Co. , 

 manufacturers, Warrington, Lancashire. 



