158 Tue Aroostook Woops. 

wire tied in the ring is useful often to wire a stake to some- 
thing or to fasten to an outgrowing bush, placing the trap 
in their path if possible; if not, bait should be used. It is 
about the same as useless, and a cruel way, to set a trap where 
they will not be drowned. It should be placed close by the 
water’s edge, bearing firm and level so as not to tip over if 
the edge is stepped upon. An inch or two under the water 
is best always; if not, a light covering of grass or leaves. 
His first act is to take to the water but if caught and confined 
on the land he will twist off a leg or be eaten, which is hard 
for him and the trapper’s loss. A hatchet is useful, as often a 
place can be cut out at the edge of the bank allowing the 
water to flow in just right for him, when a few small bushes 
at each side will guide him over the trap. 
Parsnips, carrot or sweet apple is good bait, parsnips the 
best of these; but the most attractive bait for them is the 
musk of the older males. This is found when taking off the 
pelt, just beneath the skin, in two egg shaped sacks. Place 
these directly in the sun and in a few hours it is a free oil of 
musk. Carry this in a small, thick vial, with good sized 
mouth. Break a dry stick (which will absorb it best) about 
ten or twelve inches long, press the end in the oil a moment 
and stick down beside the trap, or beyond it six or eight 
inches. In the spring this is the drawing bait; in fact you 
can see one when in the act of swimming by, slow down, 
raise his nose, snuff the air and swim direct for the trap. 
Now and then a bait for a mink sticking up a little higher 
over the trap may add to your catch, or coming to a grassy 
point of the shore, free from bushes, perhaps it shows an otter 
has called lately, has clawed up the grass and earth in small 
heaps, and has left remnants of his food or other signs. Here 
