140 RODENTS OF IOWA 



Cloth wrappings well fastened offer effective protection, but 

 should be removed in spring as they afford hiding places for de- 

 structive insects. Cornstalks are sometimes used for the protection 

 of trees. They are cut into two foot lengths, split, and tied with 

 the flat side towards the tree so that the trunk is completely sur- 

 rounded. Various forms of wood protectors also are employed; 

 and if pressed into the earth around the base. of the tree, offer 

 protection from field mice also. They should, however, be re- 

 moved in spring as they furnish retreats for hibernating insects. 



Clean cultivation, the removal of brush, grass heaps, etc., will 

 also be of considerable benefit, for this lessens the number of good 

 hiding places. 



