202 



BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SUEVEY. 



PUTOEIUS ERMINEA, {Linn.) Cuv. 



The White Weasel, or Ermine, is found here in small numbers. Speci- 

 mens in winter dress show considerable sulphur-yellow on the tail and 

 hind feet. 



PUTORIUS LONGICAUDA, BicJl. 



The Long- tailed Ermine is not common in this vicinity. Two spe- 

 cimens only have been secured, the measurements of which are as fol- 

 lows : — 



PUTORTUS VISON, Eicll. 



The Mink is common, as is attested by the number of skins offered for 

 trade by the Indians, in this vicinity. 



Taxidea AMERICANA, {Bodd.) Baird. 



The American Badger is found here in small numbers. Like other fur- 

 bearing animals, it is hunted by the Indians for purposes of trade, and 

 the flesh is often used by them as food. 



Mephitis mephitica, (Shaic) Baird. 



The generally abused American Skunk is common on the "Coteau des 

 Prairies". The fact is that the Skunk is not nearly as bad an animal as 

 most people would have us believe. In his way, which may be humble, 

 he is capable of, and does, much good. He is insectivorous to a remark- 

 able degree, consuming vast quantities of insects that are injurious to 

 vegetation. Instances of his kindness might be cited in proof of his 

 often genial disposition, and he only follows the coarser instincts of his 

 nature when molested, and for this surely the animal is not to blame; 

 but under such circumstances, I must confess I prefer to admire him at 

 that safe distance which " lends enchantment to the view". 



UESID^E. 



Ursus americanus, Pall 



The Black Bear was once of very common occurrence in this vicinity. 

 None have been seen of late years within flftj- or sixty miles of this post. 

 It has disappeared probably in consequence of being persistently pur- 

 sued by the Indians. 



PROCYONID^. 



Procyon LOTOR, {Linn.) Storr. 



The Common Raccoon is not now found in this vicinity. A few years 

 ago it was not uncommon to find it on the slopes of the Coteau. 



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