Track plate enclosures: Box designs affecting attractiveness to riparian mammals
We examined the efficacy of four track plate enclosure designs for monitoring the abundance of small and medium-sized mammals along 10 streams in New York State. Box size and clarity of view through the box were evaluated as factors affecting visitation. We checked track plate stations weekly from September 1999 to March 2000. Eleven mammalian species or species groups visited the track plate stations. Raccoons (Procyon lotor) (P = 0.020) and feral cats (Felis catus) (P = 0.008) visited large enclosures significantly more than small enclosures. Feral cats visited clear-view enclosures significantly more than obstructed-view enclosures (P = 0.025). Enclosure size and view did not significantly affect visitation by other species; however, a large box with a clear view was the most effective design.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2003 |
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Title | Track plate enclosures: Box designs affecting attractiveness to riparian mammals |
DOI | 10.1674/0003-0031(2003)149[0219:TPEBDA]2.0.CO;2 |
Authors | J. J. Loukmas, D. T. Mayack, M. E. Richmond |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | American Midland Naturalist |
Index ID | 70026219 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |