Overview

We will estimate the density and behavior of mongoose in an area that is frequented by humans and compare that to an area that has restricted human access. The high-use area could be Big Beard's private beach if we get permission to use the site. The low-use area will be the refuge.

Methods

Trapping and Marking

As always animals will be live-trapped using chicken feet as bait. However, to facilitate behavioral observations, we will affix a bright-colored tyvek wristband )(I have 15 different colors) around the neck of each mongoose. We might also consider painting them lots of different bright colors (see below). It doesn't make sense to inject PIT tags into animals in the high-use area. PIT tag use will be restricted to the refuge.

We can trap for 3-4 days in succession at the high-use area and then 3-4 days at the refuge using 20-30 traps adjacent to the beach. The layout of the traps will be determined by the topography and the vegetation. The goal will be to mark as many animals as possible.

Behavioral Observations

Alyssa and Krissy will sit in the shade at both locations for 2-3 days simultaneously from early morning to late in the afternoon and record mongoose movement onto the beach. I have no idea how to analyze this behavioral data, but I know it is done and we can figure out how to do that.

Coloring Mongoose Fur

• Hair Dye for Dogs
• Liquid Body Paint
• Blow Pens
• Sidewalk Chalk