METHOD-1 - Pitfall Trap Requirements

This protocol establishes minimum standards for pitfall trap deployment and monitoring to minimize trap-related mortality. Permit holders who cannot maintain this schedule must deactivate all traps until consistent monitoring resumes.

Current Version: 1.0 - Effective: October 13, 2025

Previous Versions: none

Version 1.0

Protocol Requirements

Trap Specifications and Installation

  • Condition METHOD-1.1
    Pitfall traps shall be installed with the rim flush with the ground surface to ensure proper capture effectiveness.
  • Condition METHOD-1.2
    All pitfall traps shall be equipped with a protective cover positioned no less than 10 centimeters above the trap opening to prevent precipitation accumulation and minimize temperature extremes within the trap.

Trap Monitoring and Animal Welfare

  • Condition METHOD-1.3
    All pitfall traps shall be checked and emptied at least once every 24 hours from the time of initial activation.
  • Condition METHOD-1.4
    Trapped animals shall be removed from pitfall traps immediately upon discovery and processed according to the approved research methodology specified in the permit.
  • Condition METHOD-1.5
    Any deceased animals found in pitfall traps shall be recorded with the date, time of discovery, species identification and apparent cause of mortality, and this information shall be included in all required permit reports.

Operational Requirements

  • Condition METHOD-1.6
    The permit holder shall ensure all active pitfall traps are checked within every 24-hour period. If this 24-hour monitoring schedule cannot be maintained, all pitfall traps shall be deactivated by covering or removing them prior to any monitoring interruption.
  • Condition METHOD-1.7
    All pitfall traps shall be completely deactivated by covering or removing them when research activities are suspended for more than 24 hours.
  • Condition METHOD-1.8
    The permit holder shall ensure that all pitfall traps are permanently removed from the field site upon completion of the authorized research activities.