CHAPTER X. 



MUSK-EATS AND SQUIRRELS AS WEATHER-PROPHETS. 



THE musk-rat is too well known to require any par- 

 ticular account of its daily habits ; although there is al- 

 ways something to be learned about any and all animals. 



Having successfully withstood the encroachments of 

 man, and indeed having often been benefited by its abil- 

 ity to utilize the constructions of man, such as the banks 

 of canals and ditches, the musk-rat is now about as abun- 

 dant as ever, and thrives in spite of constant persecution, 

 not alone in retired situations, but often within the very 

 limits of our cities. 



As to their numbers now, when compared with a 

 century ago, there is probably some slight decrease, but 

 it is not much. Kami (174:9) says, " The Swedes asserted 

 that they could never observe a diminution in their num- 

 ber, but believed that they were as numerous at present 

 as formerly." They were hunted then quite as persist- 

 ently as at present ; and possibly even more so, as their 

 fur was more in demand. 



But well and accurately known as the musk-rat is to 

 many, there is still a very prevalent misconception in the 

 minds of people generally with reference to certain of its 

 habits, and particularly to those referring to its winter life. 

 In calling attention, then, to its winter haunts and habits, 

 there will occur a fitting opportunity of correcting certain 

 distorted facts and curious fancies, not only about this 

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