45 Practical Game Preserving. 



which the other lures are employed calls for no special 

 remark. 



When setting traps for winged vermin, it is necessary 

 to observe that care and neatness are no less requisite in 

 connection with such operations than they were in the case 

 of ground vermin, and although we are quite aware that 

 any covering is considered sufficient to deceive either of 

 the birds under discussion, still the idea is erroneous, as 

 we have had ample experience that unless the same amount 

 of attention is given to the tilling for winged as for other 

 varmints, they will easily steer clear of any uncommon 

 appearance of a suspicious kind. The setting should 

 be made in every way identical with that recommended 

 as most easily effected and most efficacious for stoats or 

 weasels, it being best to set in the ordinary manner with 

 the chain extended to its full length, and not curled up 

 under the spring. To set the chainless trap, an important 

 matter is to be careful to choose a place where the spike 

 holds not only well but is considered perfectly reliable. 

 If the soil be clayey, then the stake may be pushed in by 

 firm and steady pressure ; but in soils containing small 

 stones, or of a nature to prevent the trap being fastened 

 down securely in this way, it becomes necessary to 

 hammer it ; then, in order that the spring may not 

 unduly suffer, it is necessary to secure a small suitably 

 sized piece of wood which can be placed between the 

 head of the stake and the spring, fitting so closely that 

 the striking acts directly on to this, and thus prevents any 

 damage to the most easily spoiled portion of a gin. Before 

 placing the trap in position, the site for its reception 



