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5.2.2 Sherman and mesh trapping
Rodents, large insectivores and mouse lemurs were captured using either Sherman or
mesh traps. The Sherman traps were of the standard size, 225 mm x 87 mm x 75 mm.
The mesh traps measured 400 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm. The traps were placed in
suitable habitats at each trapsite, typically with two of each type of trap near each pitfall
line. A total of six Sherman traps and six mesh traps were used at each trapsite apart
from trapsites 13-16, when 80 Sherman traps and 20 mesh traps were used. Suitable
locations for placing the traps were in areas with a dense understorey, along fallen and
rotting logs, or near obvious food sources such as fruiting trees. Traps were situated as
far away from the pitfall lines as possible, with a minimal distance of 10 metres. They
were typically positioned at least 50 m apart. For the capture of arboreal species, traps
were fastened with tape to a suitable branch or vine.
5.2.3 Observations, tracks and calls
Diurnal and nocturnal observations, tracks, dung and vocalisations were used to identify
mammal species that could not be trapped. Specimens were photographed wherever
possible to provide confirmation of species identification. Identifications of species
through photographs, tracks and calls were made using the book ‘Mammals of
Madagascar’ (Garbutt, 1999).
5.2.4 Mist nets and harp traps
Microchiroptera were captured using mist nets and harp traps. The traps were set in
suitable locations along flight-paths and around roosts or feeding sites. Ideal places were
across forest clearings, forest edges, paths, roads, streams and ponds. Mist nets were
placed in enclosed areas with overhanging and surrounding vegetation whenever
possible, increasing the capture rate by channelling the bats into the nets. The mist net
composition depended on the location and habitat. The number of mist nets used varied
depending on the habitat, but typically consisted of three or four nets. Short nets were
suitable in dense forest and on narrow paths and roads, whereas long nets were suitable
for open spaces and over water. Harp traps were ideal for trapping around roosts where
there were a large number of bats, as it was much easier and more efficient to collect
large numbers of individuals in a harp trap than to untangle them from a mist net. Harp
traps used in conjunction with mist nets ensured a high probability of capturing the
majority of species that were present. Some bats learn to avoid the mist nets and harp
traps, so trapping was undertaken for no more than 2-3 days at each location.
5.2.5 Owl pellets
Owl pellets were collected. Most owls feed partly on small mammals. They usually
swallow their prey whole, and after digesting the flesh, the indigestible fur and bones are
regurgitated as compact pellets. Owl pellets can be broken apart and analysed for prey
species. Small mammals can be readily identified from their skulls, which are fairly
intact in the pellets. The analysis of owl pellets can contribute to identifying the small
mammal species present within a locality. Owl pellet analysis is particularly useful for
detecting the presence of species that are rare or not readily collected with the used
methods. Useful owl species include the Madagascar long-eared owl, Asio
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