Relative Efficiency of Different Small Mammal Traps

摘要: At some time in any study of small mammal populations the investigator is faced with problem whether particular kind trap used will adequately sample population. It common knowledge that exclusive use one type tend to bias estimate population density due varying amounts selectivity obtaining a sample, since different types traps vary efficiency respect numbers, genera and species caught. Trap size correlated mechanical sensitivity also are obviously selective specimen taken. An apparent avoidance certain kinds by may involve odor, appearance animal, or placement. However, anthropocentric concepts involved here which difficult evaluate. Painting camouflaging them various ways have been overcome real assumed behavior this sort without giving much quantitative evidence success. Successful fur-trappers apparently employ these methods considerable success reaction animal trap. There be individual variation response traps, as suggested Young et al. (1952), Tanaka (1952, 1956) Geis (1955), would, if present, introduce numbers trapped. The individuals thus an important factor consider sampling Although bait preferences (Fitch, 1954) play part seasonal response, they probably little importance determining same all compared at season would nullify factor. Cockrum (1947) found live-trapping provided …