An evaluation of techniques used for the capture, immobilization and radio collaring of Saharan striped polecat

Abstract Capturing and handling are necessary for studying the ecological and behavioral characteristics of free‐ranging animals. However, capturing nocturnal, semi‐fossorial, and cryptic species like the Saharan striped polecat ( Poecilictis libyca ) presents challenges due to small size, elusive nature, and occurrence in difficult terrain. While protocols exist for the capture and handling of Mustelidae, there are no reports specifically on the Saharan striped polecat. Between November 2019 and October 2021, we used 2 trapping methods, one immobilization protocol, and 4 radio‐collar models for tracking Saharan striped polecats in central Tunisia's Metbasta region. Combining spotlighting with a hand‐net capture method proved advantageous in areas without tall grass, but drop‐door cage traps failed to trap a polecat after 96 trap nights. The handnet method yielded 49 captures, with 35 different individuals immobilized 42 times. For anesthesia, we used ketamine hydrochloride (4 mg for all individuals) with medetomidine at 2 dosages (0.034 mg for animals weighing 200–340 g and 0.068 mg for animals weighing 340–390 g). The dosages of anesthesia provided adequate handling time (15–20 min) for weighing, measurements, collaring, and ectoparasite collection. Radio collars were important for effectively tracking and observing polecats due to their extensive home ranges and semi‐fossorial tendencies, but variation in performance among different models highlighted the need for collars designed specifically for the Saharan striped polecat. We recommend collaboration with manufacturers, field testing, and careful design consideration to ensure the success of future radio‐tracking studies on Saharan striped polecat and other species.