290 ANIMAL COMPETITORS 



should be remembered, however, that in most 

 states laws exist relative to the putting out of 

 poisons ; and every man should inform himself 

 as to these laws in his locality before beginning 

 operations. 



Phosphorus and arsenic. The poisons most 

 commonly used to destroy mammal pests in 

 America are phosphorus, arsenic, and strych- 

 nine. 



Yellow phosphorus seems to be the one 

 most in use for the destruction of rats and 

 other rodents, but there are several serious ob- 

 jections to it. First, a fourth of a grain is a 

 dangerous and sometimes fatal dose for a 

 human being. 1 Second, its slow, irritant ac- 

 tion causes needless torture to the animals 

 killed something we have no right to do. 

 Third, it is very likely to cause disastrous fires. 

 This substance is kept and cut under water and 

 should not be touched with the hands. Its 

 efficiency depends upon the fineness of its divi- 

 sion, which is accomplished by first dissolving 



i Essence of turpentine is said to be a positive antidote for 

 phosphorus poison, and a cure for external burns by this 

 element. 



