Setting mist nets from platforms in the forest canopy
2000
We describe a technique for setting mist nets horizontally from canopy platforms, detailing materials needed, installation, and use of the net system. Using a control cord, the operator pulls the net outward from the platform along a cable, and rolls it inward around a manually-operated spindle to remove captured birds. Because nets are not raised from the ground, disturbance to vegetation is minimized. Set-up time averaged 5 min/net after climbing to the platform, and we used a maximum of two nets from a platform. High winds (>40 km/h) and light rain closed canopy nets more often than ground nets, and canopy nets were less effective before leaf-out in spring. In 1751 net-hours, 121 birds of 25 species were captured, and 44 birds (27%) were recorded escaping the nets. The method seeks to parallel conventional netting so as to allow comparisons between strata, making this technique useful for studies that require simultaneous mist-netting in forest canopy and understory levels.
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