62 

 the stick used as a spring. Pacas (Agouti paca [Agoutidae]) and agoutis (Dasyprocta punctata 

 [Dasyproctidae]) were captured using a deadfall trap constructed of rocks and boards at the entrance of 

 their burrows or caves where they sought refuge. Caves and burrows frequently were discovered by 

 dogs that accompanied hunters. Both types of traps often were set near work sites in the forest or 

 garden and along trails between the site and the village. Traps have the advantage of being able to 

 c^ture an animal in the absence of the hunter. Disadvantages with using traps are many and include a 

 tendency for the trap to be activated prematurely and the potential for ants, other hunters, and wild and 

 domestic animals to steal or damage the prey. 



Hunting Outings 



For purposes of this study, a hunting outing was defined as any activity that resulted in the 

 taking of a game animal for subsistence purposes. Unsuccessful outings were not recorded. Some 

 outings were exclusively for hunting, while others also included nonhunting activities such as logging, 

 chicle tapping, tending the garden, and gathering firewood. 



This definition of a hunting outing, based on the taking of a game animal, was necessary for 

 several reasons: One, hunters did not report unsuccessful hunts. Two, hunters often engaged in other 

 activities before or after a hunt. Three, hunters and nonhunters often carried firearms to the forest or 

 garden, even though their intent was not to hunt. Four, hunters did not necessarily have to depend on 

 firearms to take game as they could use dogs, traps, rocks, machetes, and heavy branches. Five, 

 hunters were open to changing their plans to work or hunt in response to changing events. For 

 example, strong winds or a rain storm could delay or terminate a hunt, while the accidental discovery 

 of game animals in the garden could convince hunters to initiate a hunt. For these reasons data were 

 taken only on successful hunts. 



The duration of a hunting outing was defined as the difference between the departure and 

 arrival times of the hunter to his home. Many hunters had watches and could accurately provide this 

 information. Other hunters would estimate their times of departure, kill, and return, or relate them to 



