The impact of live trapping and trap model on the stress profiles of North American red squirrels

摘要: Live-capture is a necessary component for the scientific study and management of most mammals, but it may negatively affect their health physiology. We compared blood parameters related to stress response (nominal base levels) from red squirrels Tamiasciurus hudsonicus after capture up 4.5 h in five different live trap models (Hava-hart, Sherman, Tomahawk 102, 103 ‘Special Squirrel’ trap) with true levels (obtained less than three minutes). In addition, we evaluated rate models. found that (1) prolonged time traps altered hormone concentrations levels, maximum corticosteroid-binding capacity was unaffected; (2) captured model reduced visibility (a roof cover – Hava-hart) had significantly lower (c. 50%) mean free cortisol those full (Tomahawk 102), all other were similar; (3) white cell counts (mainly neutrophil counts) positively duration capture; (4) non-covered 102) effective fully covered (Sherman) least at capturing squirrels. discuss use effective, yet stress-inducing mitigate caused by live-capture on these animals. conclude such as Hava-hart reduce trap-induced squirrels, same also reduces rates.