FERRETS AND RABBITS. 107 



last week my female ferret ran 7 rabbits from 

 under one hay stack. They all came out within 

 a minute I think, but I got four of them. I 

 tracked two of the others to a hole and got them, 

 making six out of the seven. 



''Yes, I will be out tomorrow over round the 

 briar patch and in the John Collier orchard 

 where there are always rabbits. Same price as 

 toda}^ but don't know how many will have — some 

 though I spec." 



In using a young ferret there is not much 

 danger of the rabbit being caught under ground 

 and even if such should happen the rabbit is 

 almost certain to come out with the ferret cling- 

 ing to it. An old ferret or one that is extra 

 quick and large, having had much experience, 

 may sometimes kill in the den. When using a 

 ferret of this description it probably' is advisable 

 to use muzzle (see explanation in chapter on 

 Ferret Contrivances) as they are apt to remain 

 in den until eating their fill. 



When ferrets "lie-up" it is up to the hunter 

 to do one of several things. 1st. Wait awhile for 

 the ferret to eat his fill with the hope it will 

 then come out. 2d. Paunch a warm or recently 

 killed rabbit, if you have one, and if more 

 than one entrance place to windward side. 3d. 

 Pound or stamp on ground immediately over 



