1a.Objectives (from AD-416)
The objective of this cooperative research project is to test the ARS-developed deer trapping and handling system under field conditions with particular emphasis on determining suitability of the system for trapping exotic ungulates, especially axis deer.

1b.Approach (from AD-416)
The trapping-handling system will be installed in a pasture mutually agreed upon by the cooperators. The system will be evaluated periodically as to effectiveness, safety, and practicality of trapping and handling both native white-tailed and the much larger exotic axis deer. The reliability of construction and durability will be assessed as well.

3.Progress Report
Field trials of the deer capturing and handling system, including a rotunda, working boxes, entrance/exit cumulative enumeration system, remote release system, and the ARS-patented 'Lift-Chute', continued during FY 2008. An ARS designed and fabricated video-trailer capable of 24-hour infrared time-lapse recording continued to be used to monitor animal activity around and within the rotunda, and a variety of exotic ungulates including mouflon sheep, axis deer, fallow deer, and blackbuck antelope were observed to enter and feed on corn dispensed into the rotunda by an air-forced deer feeder. The 40-foot diameter rotunda where deer are captured and held prior to entering the system of working boxes and eventually the Lift-Chute is constructed of inexpensive PVC piping and connectors with sheet polyethylene side walls in contrast to the original steel and plywood sheeting construction. The plastic structure has been exposed to direct sunlight for over 6 years, and is only now beginning to show stress fractures and crystallization from the weathering process. Even though minor cosmetic and minimal structural damage is apparent, the system remains sufficiently sound to permit the safe capture and handling of wild ungulates. The project began July 1, 2003 and terminated June 30, 2008. The ADODR monitored progress of the project through numerous site visits and conversations with the collaborator.