Great Plains Natural Science Society
Date of this Version
2022
Document Type
Article
Citation
Prairie Naturalist, Vol. 54 (2022), B3-B5.
Abstract
Small mammals are used in ecological studies throughout the world, yet the subject has lacked a clear reference that included upto- date methods pertaining to passive detection, molecular, and statistical approaches. In Methods for Ecological Research on Terrestrial Small Mammals, McCleery and his coauthors build on previous research references (Braun 2005, Sutherland 2006, Krebs 2014, Silvy 2020) and present methodologies specific to the study of small mammals that are applicable globally. Written as an asset for novice and experienced small mammal researchers alike, Methods for Ecological Research on Terrestrial Small Mammals is organized in a logical format, providing readers with an overview of available detection and capture methods before introducing study design. Beginning with detection techniques, the authors first describe benefits and challenges of passive-detection methods, such as hair sampling tubes or owl pellets, and then move into an analysis of active detection methods, including live box traps and snap traps. Additionally, the authors discuss the types of data that can be collected from these methods. Pictures and descriptions of trap types, placement, and drift fences used to funnel small mammals to traps help clarify methods that can be used. Readers will appreciate the succinct table outlining each trap type, the environments in which the traps are commonly used, and the strengths and challenges of the methods.
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