Capture techniques for Rufous-eared Warblers Malcorus pectoralis during a ringing study in the Free State, South Africa

Abstract

The techniques for capturing Rufous-eared Warblers for ringing studies are described. The most successful strategy was to use call playbacks in conjunction with mistnets in open areas with the lowest shelf set close to the ground level, which sometimes needed pruning of shrubs at the net site. We used standard four- and five-shelf 12 m-mistnets as well as 2-shelf mistnets. Other methods such as possible use of baited spring traps should be investigated.