Dual Captures of Colorado Rodents and Hantavirus Transmission
Author Information
Author(s): Charles H. Calisher, James E. Childs, William P. Sweeney, K. Max Canestorp, Barry J. Beaty
Primary Institution: Colorado State University
Hypothesis
Are dual captures of rodents indicative of social behavior rather than random encounters?
Conclusion
The study found that dual captures of rodents are not random and suggest underlying social behavior among certain species.
Supporting Evidence
- Most dual captures involved the same species, indicating nonrandom social behavior.
- Male rodents were more frequently captured in pairs than females.
- Dual captures were observed more often than expected by random chance.
Takeaway
When two mice are caught in the same trap, it might mean they like to hang out together instead of just bumping into each other by chance.
Methodology
Longitudinal studies were conducted at three Colorado sites, capturing rodents in traps to analyze dual capture events.
Limitations
The study may not account for all species interactions and behaviors in different environments.
Participant Demographics
Rodents captured included species such as Peromyscus maniculatus, Reithrodontomys megalotis, and others.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI for observed values
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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