Staff surveyed small mammals using Sherman live traps, track stations, and direct observation. Small mammals are lured to the Sherman live trap by baiting using rolled oats and anise extract. Workers set traps in transects of 22 traps in groups of two approximately 10 meters apart resulting in 11 stations. We surveyed each 40-acre sample unit using two to four transects. We checked traps daily for three overnight periods but later we only trapped for one overnight period. Monitoring took place in the morning hours, and we recorded species, sex, if it was a lactating female, and the presence of obvious parasites (see [Mammal Trapping Datasheet] tab, [Photos] tab).

Workers surveyed medium/large sized carnivorous or omnivorous mammals using track stations (see [Photos] tab). A track station is a 1 meter² piece of sheet metal placed on the ground surface with a wooden stake driven into the center. We attempted to place the stations within areas of ideal habitat on used animal trails. Workers spread powdered chalk over the surface of the sheet metal and placed a dab of cat food on the wooden stake. Animals visit the station, leave their tracks, and then workers identify the tracks to species.

Direct observation of mammals was also an important component of mammal surveys. This was especially important for larger mammals such as White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) with large ranges and the ability to run off a sample unit.

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