312 ANIMAL COMPETITORS 



natural and undisturbed condition as pos- 

 sible. 



Any kind of fresh meat will do for bait rab- 

 bits and other small rodents are often used, but 

 larger baits seem to be more attractive. It 

 is also of advantage after setting the trap to 

 make a "drag" of the bait for a quarter to a 

 half mile, at the end of a rope from the saddle 

 horn, and finally to fasten it to a bush or stake 

 close to the trap, or cut it in bits and scatter 

 all around the trap, so that not all can be 

 reached by the coyote without walking over 

 the trap. The skill of the trapper and the 

 situation of the trap will determine the best 

 arrangement. The suspicion of the coyote is 

 lessened apparently after following the bloody 

 trail of a well-planned drag. 



Before setting the traps many trappers rub 

 their feet and hands on a skin or some strong- 

 smelling meat or carcass to conceal the human 

 odor. Oil of anise or rhodium is sometimes 

 used for the same purpose. Any strong 

 odor is likely to attract the attention of the 

 coyote and allay suspicion. Care must be taken 

 not to spit on the ground or kneel or throw 



