FUR FACTS 181 



How to Trap Weasel 



For trapping weasel most trappers recommend the smallest size 

 steel trap, the No. or No. 1. The pan of the trap should be set 

 very lightly as the weasel is lightning fast and its light weight will 

 not spring the trap unless it is set very fine. Some trappers recommend 

 the larger size or No. lj^ trap, as this usually kills instantly and does 

 not damage the fur in any way. 



The habits of the weasel are very similar to those of the mink and 

 the same general rules for trapping mink will apply for the weasel. 

 One should be familiar with their signs and tracks and wherever 

 there is evidence of weasel playing around several traps should be 

 set in a circle in order to make sure of catching them. Some trappers 

 recommend killing a rabbit and making a trail of the blood to the 

 trap and hanging the rabbit up over the point where traps are set around 

 in a circle and sprinkling a few drops of Funsten Animal Bait for ermine 

 over the ground. Hang the rabbit up high enough so that the weasel 

 will have to leap to get to it and drag it down. This together with 

 the suggestions on trapping mink will help the beginner, and the 

 professional trapper will study the lay of the land in his section for 

 weasel and set his traps accordingly. 



How to Prepare for Market 



In skinning ermine for market the pelt should be taken off cased 

 with either the fur or the pelt side out, although it is best to have it 

 with the pelt side out as this prevents the fur from becoming soiled 

 in handling. As the pelt is light great care must be taken not to tear 

 the skin. Stains of blood or other stains on the fur take away from 

 its value and the fur should therefore be kept as white and clean as 

 possible in the process of skinning. Stretch on a board of the correct 

 size and shape, but be careful not to overstretch the skin. The skin 

 dries very quickly and if hung in a cool dry place will be ready for 

 shipment within two or three days. 



