Monitoring data from small mammal trapping in forest habitats in Kenya, 2021-2022

This dataset contains information on the trap-setting operations and the number and species of animals captured during systematic sampling surveys in natural habitats of Kenya between 2021 and 2022. The trapping data include dates of setting, checking and removal at multiple locations. Trapping at each location typically involved 3-5 nights per trap line, but this could vary. The trap lines typically comprised 12 pairs of traps each set 10 metres apart along a transect line, with geographical coordinates for the centre of a pair of traps along the trap line. Animals were primarily captured for tissue collection for genetic analysis (not included in this dataset) to investigate the effectiveness of habitat corridors for promoting movement. Animals were captured during standardized trapping surveys with Sherman traps, and Tomahawk traps in systematic arrays. Trapping targeted small-medium sized rodents, carnivores and opossums. Captured animals were identified to species, marked individually, biometrics were recorded (ear size, hind foot and tail length), and tissue samples were collected, generally from the ear. The animals were then released alive. Trap and capture data are linked via a primary key field. At each trap check, data from captured animals were recorded in the field on data sheets, and then later computerized by entering into spreadsheets. Data were checked against original field records for quality assurance and validation.