We have been doing small mammal surveys on campus since 2023 with the help of the Warwickshire Mammal GroupLink opens in a new window. Small mammals are not only excellent indicators of habitat quality and connectivity, but they are also essential building blocks of the food web, contributing to a varied and resilient ecosystem.
Each time we survey a different area of campus, which enables us to gain a better understanding of what species of small mammals use the different green spaces.
Join us on Tuesday 22nd September at 9:00 to see what we discover at a brand new location! (Meeting place TBC.) The session will most likely last at least 1-1.5 hrs but participants can leave earlier, please just let the activity lead know on the day.
How we survey for small mammals
We conduct a variety of species surveys on campus to gain a better understanding of the wildlife around us, and as part of this we want to know which small mammals are present.
We will use Longworth traps, which allow the humane live capture of small mammals. All animals we find (if we find any) will be released safely after the survey.
Longworth traps have a nest box area that is filled with hay and food suitable for a variety of species. When a small mammal enters the tunnel, it triggers the door to close and the animal will be kept in there until we open the trap in the following morning. We ensure there is enough food and bedding so that the animal is warm and fed through the night.
Only the highly experienced members of the Warwickshire Mammal Group who have the necessary licences will handle the small mammals we find during the survey, while all attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the survey method and how to ID small mammals.
Please dress according to the weather as it is an outdoor activity. We will work on uneven and sometimes muddy ground, hence please wear suitable footwear.
Please note, due to the terrain at this survey location, unfortunately this event would not be suitable for wheelchair users.
Please ensure you read pages the Risk Assessment Link opens in a new windowprior to attending the event.
This event is open to students and staff.
No prior surveying experience is required for this activity as the animals will only be handled by the experienced members of the Warwickshire Mammal Group.
Places are limited so sign-up is essential.
This activity contributes to the Warwick Award!
Please note: If it is cold or rains heavily, we will not be able to run the survey as this would pose a risk to the small mammals in the traps. Please keep an eye on your inbox for updates on this event.
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