422 SOME FOUR-FOOTED PESTS OF THE FARM 



produced. There are evidently two litters. During the winter 

 these animals hibernate, emerging lean and hungry from their 

 burrows in the spring. 



Control Measures Against Ground Squirrels. Poisoning is 

 most effective, and of all the poisons sulfate of strychnia dissolved 

 in water is the one most often recommended. For evident reasons, 

 the best time to poison these animals is in early spring, before the 

 first litter of young is produced. Various recipes for preparing 

 the poison are published. The following one gives good results: 



Dissolve one and one-half ounces of sulfate of strychnia in 

 two quarts of water, adding a quantity of molasses, syrup, or 



FIG. 408. Thirteen-lined ground squirrel, or "striped gopher," Citellus tridecim-lineatus. 



sugar and about one tablespoonful of oil of anise. This last is 

 not absolutely necessary, but makes the bait more attractive. 

 While this solution is hot, mix it thoroughly with one bushel of 

 wheat and let it stand over night. Place the grain in the squirrel's 

 burrow. This is best done in the morning. Use a tablespoonful 

 for each hole. A bushel of this poisoned grain is sufficient for at 

 least one thousand holes. Less of the poisoned bait may be pre- 

 pared by using the ingredients in less amounts. It should be 

 remembered that strychnine is a deadly poison, and every precau- 

 tion should be taken to avoid danger to other animals or to human 

 beings. 



