The trapper's guide and manual of instructions for capturing all kinds of fur-bearing animals, and curing their skins; with observations on the . narratives of trapping and hunting excursions

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1894 edition. Excerpt: ...as skunk-cabbage, &c., for all animals. For the bear, the Indians say, the best bait is skunk-cabbage. They are said to. be very fond of it. I cannot verify this, for I have never had an opportunity to try it. It would take as sturdy a pinebender as him that Theseus slew, to make a spring-pole that would raise a bear beyond wolf reach--for wolves will attack ind devour even a bear, wounded and hampered. The raccoon may frequently be taken during a hard frost,. by cutting a hole in the ice on any stream which may be near his habitation. A trap set in this, will be almost sure of him. He will rise at midnight to paddle in the water, though the temperature stands at zero. Hence his Latin generic name of " Lotor." I think that a live chicken is the best bait possible for the wild cat, and also for all feline animals. Fresh, bloody meat, however, of any description, is very enticing. Till lately I have strongly adhered to the opinion that a " Black Lynx " was " dyed in the wool"--after death. Recent researches have almost made me doubt. I have received assurances from men whom I think reliable, that there is, or has lately been, such an animal in existence. How it could have escaped the sharp eyes of our naturalists, I cannot imagine. It is represented as being of large size, almost as large as the black bear; in form and general habits resembling the ordinary Canada lynx; but is said to be as ferocious as the Canada lynx is timid. The hair is said to be thick, long and shaggy, and as black as Erebus. It is also said to have great local attachments, never leaving the impenetrable wilderness of swamp which it inhabits. The Indians have many wild and curious legends or traditions which perhaps refer to this animal. He is doubtless--if he exists--the "...