A technique for precisely timing captures of Peromyscus maniculatus

An electrical system is described which precisely times the captures of wild deermice in Longworth traps. This enables the immediate handling of trapped animals and permits more accurate determinations to be made of activity, body weights, and rate of fecal production. Subsequent release of deermice allows multiple recaptures in a single night, providing a better indication of movement patterns. Some results collected over a 12-month period indicate the value of the technique.