Information for the Guidance of Field Men and Cooperators of the Bureau of Biological Survey Engaged in the Control of Injurious Rodents and Predatory Animals

In the early 1930s American farmers and ranchers faced a relentless tide of wolves, coyotes, prairie dogs and a host of gnaw‑gnaw rodents that threatened crops, livestock and livelihoods. This practical guide, born from a federal effort to protect cultivated land, explains why the government stepped in and how local cooperators could join the fight against these wild‑animal pests.

Written by the Bureau of Biological Survey, the text blends scientific insight with on‑the‑ground experience. It outlines the agency’s dual mission of wildlife conservation and targeted control, describes the legal authority granted by Congress, and shares decades of research on animal habits, distribution and impact. Readers learn the basic principles that shaped early pest‑management policies and the careful balance between protecting ecosystems and safeguarding agriculture.

The manual also offers concrete field instructions—how to handle poisons safely, organize rodent‑control operations, and coordinate with state partners. Though rooted in a bygone era, its clear, methodical approach still resonates for anyone curious about the origins of modern wildlife management.