Small Mammal Trapping at Swan Barn (National Trust)

Leader: Dee Durham (Area Ranger National Trust South Downs West)

Eleven members met with Dee for this walk.
She explained that 12 Longworth traps had been set in various habitats and it was hoped that mice and voles would be caught.
It was good weather for the walk, but unfortunately all the traps were empty. Dee said this was probably due to the heavy rain during the night, which meant the animals were probably less inclined to forage far.
The National Trust rangers do not regularly monitor the small mammals in this area, but are confident that the rodent population is thriving due to the presence of Tawny Owls.