Comparing Capture Success of Eastern Gray Squirrels ( Sciurus carolinensis ) in Tomahawk vs. Sherman Traps
Marguerite Newell Wildlife Ecology and Management
Lily Soszynski Biology
Eastern Gray Squirrels ( Sciurus carolinensis ) are commonly trapped for research and animal damage issues throughout the United States. Students with the UWSP Student Chapter of the Wildlife Society have been trapping gray squirrels in Schmeeckle Reserve for research since 2020. Research projects have answered questions about population size, annual survival, and environmental conditions that explain trap success. The goal of this project is to test two trap types, Tomahawk live traps and Sherman traps, to determine if trap success would vary by trap type. Tomahawk traps are made of wire and do not provide any protection from low temperatures and wind, whereas Sherman traps are constructed from steel sheets and squirrels are not exposed to the elements. Previous studies have determined that gray squirrels prefer cavities over dreys in the winter because cavities provide protection from the elements. Therefore, we think that squirrels will enter Sherman traps more often when both trap types are set at the same location. In 2026, students set both trap types at 18 locations in Chilla woodlot in February and March. Both traps were baited with peanut butter and oats and set at 6:00 am on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Traps were checked at 9 am, 12 pm, and 3pm. Squirrels have been trapped in both Tomahawk and Sherman traps. Our results will help researchers and nuisance wildlife operators to know which type of trap is best to use for gray squirrels.
Advisors: Shelli Dubay, Ph.D. Ben Sedinger, Ph.D.
Subject Area: Wildlife
Type: Poster
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Jim and Katie Krause CNR Student Research Symposium
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