Describe the appropriate capture technique for small mammals.

Humane live traps provide an effective and ethical method for capturing small mammals. These traps are designed to safely contain the animal without causing harm, allowing for its later relocation or rehabilitation. Baiting the traps with appropriate food to attract the animals increases the likelihood of a successful capture. Additionally, regularly monitoring these traps is crucial to minimize stress for the trapped animals and to allow for prompt release or transport to a rehabilitation facility.

Other techniques, such as attempting to catch small mammals by hand, can be dangerous for both the animal and the handler, as animals may bite or become stressed and injured. Lethal traps not only pose ethical concerns but also contradict the principles of wildlife rehabilitation, which prioritize the welfare and safe rehabilitation of animals. Following animals until they tire can be stressful and harmful, as it does not provide a humane approach to capture. Overall, using humane live traps strikes the right balance between effectiveness and ethical considerations in wildlife rehabilitation.