Comparing live-capture methods for nutria: single- versus multiple-capture cage traps

Human-Wildlife Interactions
By: , and 

Links

Abstract

Herbivory and burrowing by nutria (Myocastor coypus) cause substantial ecological and economic damage. Trapping is a common, effective practice for reducing nutria damage; however, trapping approaches must continually be adapted to keep pace with evolving animal welfare and ethical issues and to more effectively target pest species of interest. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of 2 nonlethal trap types for nutria: single-capture (SCT) and multi-capture (MCT) cage traps. We established 3 MCTs and 3 SCTs at each of 7 sites on a 10,500-ha mixed-use island located 15 km northwest of Portland, Oregon, USA. We prebaited using carrots, apples, and sweet potatoes for ≥3 consecutive days before trapping. We checked traps daily, and an infrared motion camera was established near each MCT to document activity. We captured 26 nutria over 724 trap nights, and all captures occurred at 4 sites. Nutria captured by MCTs were larger (6.38 ± 1.68 [SD] kg, n = 10) than nutria captured by SCTs (4.21 ± 2.48 [SD] kg, n = 16; F1,25 = 5.51, P = 0.02). Camera surveillance showed multiple nutria present in an MCT on ≥2 occasions, although individuals <3.7 kg were able to escape. The MCTs were more expensive, larger, heavier, and more difficult to transport and deploy. However, MCTs were less likely to capture nontargets. Improvements to MCT door design would likely increase multiple catch opportunities and decrease escapes.

Study Area

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Comparing live-capture methods for nutria: single- versus multiple-capture cage traps
Series title Human-Wildlife Interactions
DOI 10.26077/4ssf-gp94
Volume 13
Issue 3
Year Published 2019
Language English
Publisher Utah State University
Contributing office(s) Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Description 9, 6 p.
First page 394
Last page 399
Country United States
State Oregon
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details