Passive, non-invasive mammal hair collection provides opportunities for research and outreach in urban areas

Abstract Urban expansion creates novel ecosystems which place large human populations and urban mammals in closer proximity than ever before. Mammalian ecology research is needed to better understand the relationships and effects this proximity creates. The collection and analysis of mammal hair can provide useful insight into aspects of urban mammalian ecology, yet many hair collection methods face barriers to use in urban areas. In this study, we validated the use of passive, non-invasive hair collection equipment in urban spaces for small mammals and medium-sized mesopredators. We also describe an opportunity for public outreach through QR codes, which were attached to our sampling equipment. We deployed small mammal hair tubes (SMHT) and predator hair snares (PHS) in greenspaces across the rural-urban gradient of Philadelphia, PA. We successfully collected hair samples across the gradient, indicating SMHT and PHS perform well in urban areas. Trail camera images revealed the highest sampling success for red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes ) followed by Virginia opossums ( Didelphis virginina ) and northern raccoons ( Procyon lotor ). These cameras also captured positive interactions between members of the public and QR codes included on our equipment, suggesting QR codes can connect the public with science occurring in local greenspaces. We describe methodology for the design and implementation of passive, non-invasive hair collection equipment for urban mammals and guidelines for using field equipment to foster connections between community members and research using QR codes. Overall, our methods provide tools to facilitate mammal ecology research in understudied urban areas and potentially engage underrepresented stakeholders in that research.