A REVIEW OF ELLIOTT TRAPPING METHODS FOR SMALL MAMMALS IN AUSTRALIA

Abstract

Much of the knowledge of small mammal ecology in Australia has come from Elliott trapping, however the results of these studies are influenced by the way in which trapping is carried out. We review some of the major factors affecting the results of Elliott trapping: trap spacing, local placement, presence of odours on the trap (from conspecifics, similar species, predators, and humans), and duration of trapping. Most factors clearly influence trapping results and should be routinely considered, and preferably controlled, in future studies which use Elliott traps