11 



the top and sides of the trap. Fig. 7 shows how all the i:)arts of a trap 

 having the above dimensions may be cut from a piece of netting 4 feet 

 wide and 6 feet long. The full lines in this figure indicate where the 

 netting is to be cut and the broken lines where it is to be bent. The 

 numbers at the angles in Figs. 5, 6 and 7 correspond with those in Fig. 4, 

 which shows in outHne the relation of the different parts as they appear 

 when assembled. A trap of the above dimensions is as small as can be 

 used satisfactorily. Where sparrows are very numerous a larger size is 

 recommended. Fig. 8 shows how a trap 4 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 

 15 inches high may be made from a piece of netting 4 by 10 feet. This 

 is a very good size for parks and large private grounds. 



T 



/ / 



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Fig. 6. — Pattern for second funnel of a trap to be 36 by 18 by 12 inches. 

 (After Biological Survey.) 



In setting a funnel trap a place should be selected where sparrows are 

 accustomed to assemble. Often there are several such places in a neighbor- 

 hood, in which case it is advisable to move the trap daily from one of 

 them to another, because the birds appear to associate the locality rather 

 than the trap with the distress of their imprisoned comrades. Canary 

 seed, hemp seed, wheat, oats and bread crumbs are excellent baits. The 

 bait should be scattered in the antechamber and first funnel, and also, 

 sparingly, outside about the entrance. A live sparrow kept in the trap 

 as a decoy will facihtate a catch. In case native birds enter a trap they 

 may be released without harm. Trapping may begin at any time after 

 young sparrows are able to take care of themselves, which is usually by 

 July 1. Each day's catch should be removed from the trap at nightfall, 

 and if a decoy is used it should be comfortably housed and otherwise 

 cared for when off dutv. 



