Cage it or drop it: comparison of methods for capturing wild goats (Capra aegagrus)

Conservation of large mammals inhabiting steep and rugged terrain in high elevations presents unique challenges for collection of demographic and ecological information to serve the conservation efforts. Studies that utilize capturing of wildlife provide valuable information on the biology of the species, including otherwise inaccessible information on the relation of the species with its habitat. However, capturing wildlife also presents unique challenges in terms of effort and budget allocation and animal welfare. In this study, capturing of nine individuals of the near threatened (NT) wild goat (Capra aegagrus) was done using two methods: clover trap and drop net. These methods were compared by evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of each method. According to the results of the study, clover trap method prevailed, when animal welfare, field effort, ease of capture area selection, budget, and technological constraints were taken into account. On the other hand, drop net method was found as the better alternative, considering multiple captures and ease of habituation to trap site. The findings of this study offer valuable insights to guide researchers and to prepare them for challenges that they may encounter in their studies involving capturing of large herbivores such as wild goat.