Frontier Tanzania Environmental Research REPORT 110 ...

Kazimzumbwi Forest Reserve
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Figure 16. Location of zoological trapsites (TS) in Kazimzumbwi FR.
6.3 METHODS
The target groups of fauna within Kazimzumbwi FR were surveyed using a combination of
standardised, repeatable methods at ‘zoological trapsites’, surveys of dung and other animal signs
along specific trans ects and opportunistic collection and observation on a casual basis. For
detailed research aims, objectives and methods see Methodology Report (SEE 1997).
6.3.1 ZOOLOGICAL TRAPSITES.
Seven trapsites were established in habitats representative of those found within the reserve. All
but one trapsite were of 8 night duration. At each trapsite the following methods were employed:
Bucket pitfall traps
Small mammals and ground-dwelling amphibians and reptiles were sampled using three linear
transects, each consisting of buckets and a ‘drift fence’. Eleven 20 litre plastic buckets were
placed 5m apart and sunk flush to the ground to form each line. A piece of plastic sheeting
approximately 0.5m high was erected perpendicular to the bucket line to act as the drift fence,
channelling animals moving into the area from either side towards the buckets. Each line was
placed no more than 50m apart but was located in order to encompass as great a diversity of
micro-habitats as possible. Detailed habitat notes were taken for each pitfall trap. Traps were
checked early each morning for the duration of the trapsite and data recorded on standardised data
sheets regarding the identification of each animal captured.
Frontier-TanzaniaCoastal Forest Research Programme